Palermo
⭐ Ranked #20 in the Italy Review Top 100 – My Most Recommended Destinations
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Latest page update: 19 August 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Palermo
Palermo has a wide range of established hotels, with well-reviewed properties in the historic centre and along the seafront. Many occupy elegant period buildings or modern waterfront settings, offering convenient access to the city’s theatres, markets and main architectural landmarks.
Grand Hotel Wagner is one of the leading choices in the centre, appreciated for its refined interiors, classic style and consistently strong guest feedback (€€€). Hotel Porta Felice offers a comfortable stay near the seafront and the historic districts, known for its spa facilities, rooftop areas and welcoming service (€€€). Hotel Politeama provides a modern option overlooking Piazza Politeama, regularly noted for its contemporary rooms, professional standards and convenient location for exploring on foot (€€).
Grand Hotel Wagner is one of the leading choices in the centre, appreciated for its refined interiors, classic style and consistently strong guest feedback (€€€). Hotel Porta Felice offers a comfortable stay near the seafront and the historic districts, known for its spa facilities, rooftop areas and welcoming service (€€€). Hotel Politeama provides a modern option overlooking Piazza Politeama, regularly noted for its contemporary rooms, professional standards and convenient location for exploring on foot (€€).
Where is
Where is Palermo?
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Situated on Sicily's north-west coast, Palermo is at once the island's capital, its most populous city with around 675,000 inhabitants, an important maritime port and a UNESCO World Heritage site with an enviable collection of treasures from the Arab-Norman period.
As with so many cities throughout Italy, Palermo was founded by the Phoenicians, in the year 734 BC. The Carthaginians then came in the 5th century BC before falling into the hands of the Romans for over a thousand years. |
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Palermo is located on the northern coast of Sicily, along the Tyrrhenian Sea. It is positioned at the foot of Mount Pellegrino, with the city spread across a natural harbour that opens into the Gulf of Palermo. The city's geographical setting is characterised by a mix of coastal terrain and surrounding mountainous regions.
Comune di Palermo
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Province: Metropolitan City of Palermo
Region: capital of Sicily Population: 628,894 (in 2024 - source) Size: 159 km² Top sights: Palatine Chapel, Palermo Cathedral, Royal Palace Close by: Sferracavallo, Mondello, Santa Flavia, Caccamo |
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalù and Monreale
Year: 2015
Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalù and Monreale
Year: 2015
What People Ask About Palermo
What is Palermo known for?
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Does Palermo have beaches?
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Discover
Discover Palermo
Palermo's Glory Days
Palermo's most glorious period started with the Arab conquest in 831 AD, leading to the city establishing itself as an important Islamic centre of culture and trade. The city continued to flourish on all fronts after the Norman conquest in 1072, eventually becoming the capital of the Kingdom of Sicily.
More recent history saw a period of decline for Palermo with much of the city devastated by Allied bombing raids during world war two while the intervening years saw the dark shadow of the Mafia cast its negative influence on development and progress.
Palermo's most glorious period started with the Arab conquest in 831 AD, leading to the city establishing itself as an important Islamic centre of culture and trade. The city continued to flourish on all fronts after the Norman conquest in 1072, eventually becoming the capital of the Kingdom of Sicily.
More recent history saw a period of decline for Palermo with much of the city devastated by Allied bombing raids during world war two while the intervening years saw the dark shadow of the Mafia cast its negative influence on development and progress.
Palermo today: Sicily's bustling capital
Modern-day Palermo is a bustling port city, stunningly beautiful in places while poverty-stricken in others yet never dull. Perhaps the best place to truly understand the city is its Ballarò market where you'll find sounds, smells and tastes to awaken the senses.
Palermo is famous throughout the world for its street-food, the most famous being the "arancini", balls of rice coated in breadcrumbs and typically filled with meat, cheese and vegetables.
Modern-day Palermo is a bustling port city, stunningly beautiful in places while poverty-stricken in others yet never dull. Perhaps the best place to truly understand the city is its Ballarò market where you'll find sounds, smells and tastes to awaken the senses.
Palermo is famous throughout the world for its street-food, the most famous being the "arancini", balls of rice coated in breadcrumbs and typically filled with meat, cheese and vegetables.
The dazzling hidden treasures of Palermo
Palermo is also home to one of Italy's greatest treasures and in my opinion, one of the most underrated sights in Italy. Housed in the Palazzo Reale (otherwise known as the Palazzo dei Normanni), the Palatine Chapel contains an extraordinary display of mosaics, predominantly gold in colour that positively glows.
The artwork in the chapel is a combination of Arab, Norman, Greek and Byzantine work whose overall effect is truly remarkable and worthy of a visit to Palermo by itself. In fact, Palermo partly owes its UNESCO inscription to the chapel along with similarly-styled work at Monreale Cathedral on the outskirts of Palermo and the Cathedral of Cefalù, further to the east of Palermo along the same stretch of coastline.
The inscription is fully-entitled "Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalu and Monreale", and also includes Castello della Zisa, Palermo Cathedral, Chiesa San Giovanni degli Eremiti, Chiesa di Santa Maria dell'Ammiraglio (also known simply as "La Marmorata"), Chiesa di San Cataldo and the Ponte dell'Ammiraglio bridge, all of which are worthy of a visit in their own right.
Palermo is also home to one of Italy's greatest treasures and in my opinion, one of the most underrated sights in Italy. Housed in the Palazzo Reale (otherwise known as the Palazzo dei Normanni), the Palatine Chapel contains an extraordinary display of mosaics, predominantly gold in colour that positively glows.
The artwork in the chapel is a combination of Arab, Norman, Greek and Byzantine work whose overall effect is truly remarkable and worthy of a visit to Palermo by itself. In fact, Palermo partly owes its UNESCO inscription to the chapel along with similarly-styled work at Monreale Cathedral on the outskirts of Palermo and the Cathedral of Cefalù, further to the east of Palermo along the same stretch of coastline.
The inscription is fully-entitled "Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalu and Monreale", and also includes Castello della Zisa, Palermo Cathedral, Chiesa San Giovanni degli Eremiti, Chiesa di Santa Maria dell'Ammiraglio (also known simply as "La Marmorata"), Chiesa di San Cataldo and the Ponte dell'Ammiraglio bridge, all of which are worthy of a visit in their own right.
Sightseeing in Palermo away from the Arab-Norman treasures
Another of Palermo's most famous sights is the Catacombe dei Cappuccini, a unique, if rather macabre location; a burial ground used by monks where the dead bodies have been preserved using various methods. The result is at once fascinating but perhaps terrifying to the faint-hearted so caution is advised before undertaking such a visit.
Away from the grisly catacombs, Palermo itself is a vibrant, bright city where you'll find palm-tree-lined pavements, beautiful Neo-classical theatres such as Teatro Massimo (the steps of which are of particular interest to fans of the Godfather Part 3) and Teatro Politeama. There are also some grand piazzas including the historic Piazza Pretoria with its famous fountain (Fontana Pretoria).
Away from the grisly catacombs, Palermo itself is a vibrant, bright city where you'll find palm-tree-lined pavements, beautiful Neo-classical theatres such as Teatro Massimo (the steps of which are of particular interest to fans of the Godfather Part 3) and Teatro Politeama. There are also some grand piazzas including the historic Piazza Pretoria with its famous fountain (Fontana Pretoria).
Things to Do
Things to Do in Palermo
- Palermo Cathedral is a vast structure reflecting centuries of architectural changes, with Norman, Gothic and Baroque elements. Inside are royal tombs and a crypt, while the rooftop walk offers views across the city. The cathedral stands on Corso Vittorio Emanuele.
- Palazzo dei Normanni and Cappella Palatina showcase Arab-Norman art and architecture unique to Sicily. The palace houses the Sicilian Regional Assembly, while the chapel features golden mosaics, carved wooden ceilings and detailed Islamic-style patterns.
- Teatro Massimo is Italy’s largest opera house and one of the most acoustically perfect in Europe. Guided tours offer a look behind the scenes, including the grand staircase and royal box. It sits at the top of Via Maqueda, near other cultural landmarks.
- Markets such as Ballarò and Vucciria provide an immersive experience of Palermo’s food culture. Stalls offer fresh produce, street food and local specialities like arancine and panelle. The markets are lively throughout the day and often spill into the evening.
- Excursions to Monreale or Mondello Beach show two sides of Palermo’s surroundings. Monreale’s cathedral is famous for its mosaics and cloister, located on a hill overlooking the city. Mondello is a popular beach suburb with clear waters and Liberty-style villas.
Tours and Activities
Palermo Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Palermo
- Antica Focacceria San Francesco: A historic Palermo institution, Antica Focacceria San Francesco has been serving traditional Sicilian street food since 1834. Located in the heart of the city, it’s famous for its arancini (fried rice balls), panelle (chickpea fritters), and sfincione (Sicilian pizza). The vibrant atmosphere and classic dishes make it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience authentic Palermo cuisine. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
- Osteria dei Vespri: Situated near the picturesque Piazza Croce dei Vespri, Osteria dei Vespri offers a refined yet relaxed atmosphere and a menu that blends traditional Sicilian flavours with a modern touch. The restaurant specialises in fresh seafood, pasta, and locally sourced produce, with dishes like spaghetti with sea urchins and fish couscous. It’s a great choice for an elegant dining experience in a charming setting. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria Al Cancelletto Verde: Known for its traditional Sicilian cuisine and welcoming atmosphere, Trattoria Al Cancelletto Verde offers a variety of local dishes, including pasta alla Norma, caponata, and grilled fish. Located near the Teatro Massimo, it’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors. The restaurant’s friendly service and focus on fresh, local ingredients make it an ideal place for a casual, authentic meal. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
- Ristorante Bye Bye Blues: For a more contemporary dining experience, Ristorante Bye Bye Blues combines fine dining with a focus on Sicilian ingredients. The restaurant’s elegant interior and innovative menu showcase dishes like tuna tartare and pistachio-crusted lamb. Located in the Mondello district, it offers a sophisticated setting with exceptional service, making it perfect for special occasions. Price Guide: €€€€ (High-end)
- La Galleria: Located near Palermo’s Teatro Politeama, La Galleria offers a modern take on Sicilian cuisine, with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and creative presentations. The menu includes dishes like risotto with local seafood and traditional Sicilian desserts like cannoli. With a sleek, contemporary atmosphere and a focus on quality, La Galleria is a great spot for a memorable meal in the city. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Palermo Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Palermo
Palermitani (residents of Palermo) are lucky enough to live in an area of particular natural beauty with the beach of Mondello a favourite weekend spot and just a 20 minute drive from the city centre, while slightly further away in the opposite direction is the beautiful seaside town of Santa Flavia with its famous Porticello fish market and beaches.
Palermo's port can be used to take a hydrofoil to the remote island of Ustica, renowned for its clear blue water and popular amongst divers, while a 2 hour drive will take you to the stunning beach location of La Tonnara di Scopello, the seaside resort of San Vito Lo Capo and the Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro where you'll find some of Sicily's prettiest beaches.
Palermo's port can be used to take a hydrofoil to the remote island of Ustica, renowned for its clear blue water and popular amongst divers, while a 2 hour drive will take you to the stunning beach location of La Tonnara di Scopello, the seaside resort of San Vito Lo Capo and the Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro where you'll find some of Sicily's prettiest beaches.
Sicily Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Sicily
1. Taormina
2. Mount Etna
3. Syracuse
4. Aeolian Islands
5. Palermo
6. Valley of the Temples (Agrigento)
7. Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro
8. Aegadian Islands
9. Noto
10. Ragusa
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Sicily
1. Taormina
2. Mount Etna
3. Syracuse
4. Aeolian Islands
5. Palermo
6. Valley of the Temples (Agrigento)
7. Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro
8. Aegadian Islands
9. Noto
10. Ragusa
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Sicily
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Palermo
From Palermo's Falcone Borsellino Airport you can easily make your way to the city from numerous international destinations while the city's port is connected to Naples, Civitavecchia, Genoa and Salerno on the Italian mainland. Aside from the aforementioned day-trips to Ustica you can also visit the the tiny Aeolian Islands of Alicudi and Filicudi.
Getting around Palermo itself is easy enough on foot as it doesn't cover a huge area but there are buses and trams available as well if you need to reach further-out locations around the city.
Getting around Palermo itself is easy enough on foot as it doesn't cover a huge area but there are buses and trams available as well if you need to reach further-out locations around the city.
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Fly to: Palermo Airport - 34 minutes by car (33 km)
By train: Catania - 3 hours 4 minutes Main train station: Palermo Centrale |
Private Transfers
Palermo Private Transfers
A private transfer is a straightforward and efficient way to travel to or from Palermo, whether you're flying into the city, arriving at the port, or connecting to other destinations in Sicily. You’ll be picked up from your chosen location and driven directly by a local driver—no waiting, no train connections, and no need to rent a car.
From central Palermo, the drive to Palermo Falcone–Borsellino Airport takes around 40 minutes (approx. 30 kilometres). Transfers to Cefalù take about 1 hour, while Castellammare del Golfo is also around 1 hour away. For longer journeys, Trapani is about 1 hour 30 minutes by car, and Agrigento takes roughly 2 hours depending on the traffic.
To check availability or request a personalised quote, simply fill out the short form below.
From central Palermo, the drive to Palermo Falcone–Borsellino Airport takes around 40 minutes (approx. 30 kilometres). Transfers to Cefalù take about 1 hour, while Castellammare del Golfo is also around 1 hour away. For longer journeys, Trapani is about 1 hour 30 minutes by car, and Agrigento takes roughly 2 hours depending on the traffic.
To check availability or request a personalised quote, simply fill out the short form below.
