Private Monreale, Cefalù & Castelbuono Tour, from Palermo area

Palermo , Italy

Private Monreale, Cefalù & Castelbuono Tour, from Palermo area

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(50 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Visit of Arab-Norman town Monreale, with its amazing view panoramic overlooking the famous Conca d Oro and entire city of Palermo. In this town the art and architecture reached the pinnacle of its glory with the Dome launched in 1174 by William II and represent the scene from the Old and New Testaments all in golden mosaics.
Visit of Cefalù, the town is one of the major tourist attractions in the region and every year it attracts thousands of tourists from all parts of the world, in summer the population can triple, making the main streets in the country crowded. So there is then a youthful atmosphere and a lively nightlife.
Visit of Castelbuono, the construction of its Castle began in 1316, by order of Count Francesco I of Ventimiglia, over the ruins of the ancient Byzantine town of Ypsigro, Hence its original name, Castello del buon aere (Castle of good air). No tour guide is included - only the driver who speaks a basic English to notice you about the places included in itinerary.

Available options

Private Monreale, Cefalù & Castelbuono Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

WiFi on board

Hotel/port drop-off

Landing and facility fees

Air-conditioned vehicle

Fuel surcharge

Hotel/port pickup and drop-off

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

visit of Arab-Norman town Monreale, with its amazing view panoramic overlooking the famous Conca d Oro and entire city of Palermo. In this town the art and architecture reached the pinnacle of its glory with the Dome launched in 1174 by William II and represent the scene from the Old and New Testaments all in golden mosaics.

The town is one of the major tourist attractions in the region and every year it attracts thousands of tourists from all parts of the world, in summer the population can triple, making the main streets in the country crowded. So there is then a youthful atmosphere and a lively nightlife. Of Greek foundation, the city evidently derived its name from its position on a lofty and precipitous rock, forming a headland which projecting into the sea and stunning beaches of fine sand. The ancient main site is its Cathedral, begun in 1131, in a style of Norman architecture which would be more accurately called Sicilian Romanesque, moreover you can visit so many Churches and old Palaces.

he construction of the Castle began in 1316, by order of Count Francesco I of Ventimiglia, over the ruins of the ancient Byzantine town of Ypsigro, Hence its original name, Castello del buon aere (Castle of good air). The Castle mixes Arab-Norman features with others typical of the built during the Hohenstaufen rule of southern Italy the cube shape recalls Arabic architecture. In the second floor rises the sumptuous Cappella Palatina (Palace Chapel) was built in 1683 by the brothers Giuseppe and Giacomo Serpotta, with a great profusion of precious marble, stuccowork, putti, and friezes that commemorate the most resplendent moments in the history of the House of Ventimiglia and you can find around the town.

What's not included

Tour Guide

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.3

36 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

14 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A minimum of 2 people per booking is required

Important notes

Hop-on hop-off tour with stops near cruise port

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

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