Palermo: Norman Palace & Palatine Chapel – Small Group or Private
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Visit two absolute must-sees in the Sicilian capital with this guided tour of the Palazzo dei Normanni and Cappella Palatina, including entrance tickets. With more than 800 years of history, it’s perfect for culture vultures! Of all the incredible attractions in Palermo, the Palazzo dei Normanni is one that you can’t miss off your itinerary. Once the seat of the King of Sicily, it is the oldest royal residence in Europe and you can learn the history of all the dynasties who had their thrones here - as well as visiting a stunning and sublime channel.
You’ll get exclusive entrance into the palace and its gardens
Though not as well known as Rome’s Sistine Chapel or Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, the Cappella Palatina (or Palatine Chapel) is one of the most spectacular in all of Italy.
Not only do your tickets allow you entrance to the palace and chapel, but you can explore the gardens too with your expert guide!
Available options
Private Royal Palace Tour
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes<br/>Full Attention, Richer Insight: Enjoy your own expert guide for an intimate, in-depth visit. Exclusive access, no solitude but total focus on you.
Small Group Royal Palermo Tour
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes<br/>Palace, Chapel & Garden Walk: Discover Palermo’s royal past with a licensed guide in a small group. Entrance tickets and gardens included.
What's included
See the remains of a melting pot of eastern and western history in the Cappella Palatina
Tickets and guided visit of Palace, Gardens and Cappella Palatina
Be ready to visit one of the most ancient palaces in Europe
Marvel at the Byzantine mosaics on the walls
Licensed English or Spanish Speaking Guide
Private Tour Guide (if Private option purchased)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The Norman Palace. Construction on the palace started in the 9th century when Sicily was under Islamic rule, though it was renovated by the Normans in 1072 when their empire spread across Europe. Now, it’s the home of the Sicilian Regional assembly. You’ll get exclusive entrance into the palace and its gardens. Though not as well known as Rome’s Sistine Chapel or Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, the Cappella Palatina (or Palatine Chapel) is one of the most spectacular in all of Italy. The chapel, on the second-floor of the palace, was built in 1140 and gives an insight into the arts, science and philosophy of the dominant Western and Middle Eastern cultures at that time.
See traditional Islamic designs, Byzantine mosaics, and golden decorations in one of the best examples of the Arab - Norman - Byzantine style. Not only do your tickets allow you entrance to the palace and chapel, but you can explore the gardens too with your expert guide
2
The Palatine Chapel (Italian: Cappella Palatina) is the royal chapel of the Norman Palace in Palermo, Sicily. This building is a mixture of Byzantine, Norman and Fatimid architectural styles, showing the tricultural state of Sicily during the 12th century after Roger I and Robert Guiscard conquered the island.
What's not included
Gratuities
Hotel pick up and drop off
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
ES
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
33 reviews
5★
28
4★
3
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.6
39 reviews
5★
31
4★
3
3★
3
2★
1
1★
1
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please note: Palazzo dei Normani is a government venue. In case of official events or meeting the tour could be subject to cancellation
The tour runs rain or shine
We are sorry to inform you that pets are not permitted on our tours
Meeting point
Piazza del Parlamento, Palermo. Look for our tour guide in front of Palazzo dei Normanni main entrance.
TIME: CLIENTS ARE REQUIRED TO BE AT THE MEETING POINT 15 MINUTES PRIOR TO THE SCHEDULED DEPARTURE TIME
About Palermo
Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily, is a city of rich history, stunning architecture, and a unique cultural blend. Known for its Norman-Arab-Byzantine influences, Palermo offers a mix of grand palaces, bustling markets, and delicious street food that will captivate any traveler.
Top Attractions
Palermo Cathedral
A stunning example of Norman-Arab-Byzantine architecture, Palermo Cathedral is a must-visit for its historical significance and beautiful interior.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
€7 for the cathedral and cloister
Palermo Cathedral
This grand palace was the seat of the Norman kings of Sicily. It houses the Palatine Chapel, known for its stunning mosaics and Arabic-Norman architecture.
Historical/Architectural
1.5-2 hours
€12 for the palace and chapel
Ballarò Market
One of Palermo's most famous street markets, Ballarò offers a vibrant atmosphere with fresh produce, street food, and local crafts.
Cultural/Shopping
1-2 hours
Free to explore
Monreale Cathedral
Located just outside Palermo, Monreale Cathedral is famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Historical/Religious
2-3 hours including travel
€6 for the cathedral and cloister
Teatro Massimo
The largest opera house in Italy and one of the most famous in the world, Teatro Massimo is a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture.
Architectural/Entertainment
1 hour for a tour
€7 for a guided tour
Must-Try Local Dishes
Arancini
Fried rice balls stuffed with ragù, mozzarella, and peas.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Panelle
Chickpea fritters, a popular street food in Palermo.
Snack
Vegan
Pasta alla Norma
Pasta with tomato sauce, fried eggplant, ricotta salata, and basil.
Main Course
Vegetarian
Cannoli
Crispy pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in the nearby mountains
Swimming and snorkeling at Mondello Beach
Beach lounging at Mondello Beach
Enjoying a leisurely meal at a seaside restaurant
Visiting museums and historical sites
Attending local festivals and events
Boat tours to the nearby islands
Swimming and water sports at the beach
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. It's ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: Sicilian, English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time), GMT+2 during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Palermo is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you
Getting there
By air
- Palermo Falcone-Borsellino Airport • 32 km from city center
By train
Palermo Centrale
By bus
Palermo Centrale Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is the primary mode of public transport in Palermo. It's affordable but can be crowded during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: FreeNow, ItTaxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Kalsa
Vigàta
Mondello
Day trips
Monreale
7 km • Half day
Monreale is famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics and the Benedictine Abbey.
Cefalù
70 km • Full day
A charming coastal town known for its beautiful beach and medieval cathedral.
Erice
120 km • Full day
A medieval hilltop town with stunning views and well-preserved architecture.
Festivals
Festa di Santa Rosalia • July 10-15
Sagra del Mandarino • January to February
Palermo Pride • June
Pro tips
- Visit the markets early in the morning for the best selection and freshest produce
- Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
- Take a food tour to discover the best street food and local specialties
- Explore the city on foot to discover hidden gems and charming streets
- Visit the cathedral and other religious sites early in the morning to avoid crowds
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
