Due to its strategic position, Palermo has been an important commercial and cultural crossroads between East and West for centuries.
Palermo is a city rich in history and culture, founded by the Phoenicians between the 7th and 6th centuries BC, under the name of Zyz. In the centuries that followed, the city underwent various forms of domination: first by the Romans, then by the Arabs, the Norman conquest, Spanish rule and finally the Bourbons. The city still preserves traces of this past, from Byzantine and Arab-Norman churches to Baroque architecture and Art Nouveau monuments.
As well as discovering the capital of Sicily, a visit to Palermo means exploring one of the most beautiful cities in southern Italy. The Cathedral, the symbol of the city, is the main place of worship on the Arab-Norman itinerary, along with other monuments such as the Cappella Palatina, theChurch of the Martorana and the Church of San Giovanni degli Eremiti.
The most emblematic Baroque building is the Chiesa del Gesù, known to Palermitans as the Casa Professa. The church was partially destroyed in the bombings of 1943, but has now been restored to its original splendour.
Still in the centre, you can't miss a visit to the city's most emblematic theatres: the Politeama Theatre and the Teatro Massimo.
The Politeama Theatre was originally built as an open-air amphitheatre, but in 1868, while work was still in progress, it was transformed into a theatre, while the Teatro Massimo, reflecting the Art Nouveau style, is the largest opera house in Italy and the third largest in Europe after the Paris Opera and the Vienna Staatsoper.
Another attraction of the city of Palermo, and of the Sicilian region in general, is its world-famous gastronomy. Thousands of tourists flock here every year to sample typical Sicilian specialities. Palermo is particularly famous for its street food.
A visit to the city's most famous markets, such as Ballarò, Vucciria or Capo, is a must. The markets are also marked by the Arab influence: they resemble souks.
You can't leave the city without trying panelle or panino con la milza (pani ca meusa in Sicilian) or other typical local specialities.
A visit to the city will certainly make you want to go to the sea, given its proximity. Despite the enchanting beaches along the coast of the province of Palermo, such as the beach at Cefalù or Cala Gallo, we recommend that you experience the city like a true Palermitan, with a relaxing afternoon on Mondello beach, the best-known and closest to the centre. The crystal-clear water has nothing to envy of other exotic spots!
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How to get there?
Palermo can be reached by sea, rail or air. The port of Palermo links the city to other Italian cities and also serves as a port of call for cruise ships.
Palermo's central station is well connected to many Italian capitals, and the ticket price also includes the ferry linking Messina to Calabria.
The fastest and most efficient means of transport is by air. Palermo's Falcone e Borsellino - Punta Raisi airport is 35 km from the city and is linked to the main Italian and European cities by daily flights. Although a bus runs from the station to the airport every 30 minutes at a cost of €6.10 per person, we recommend that you hire a car as soon as you arrive to make the most of the surrounding area. Sicily is not known for its efficient public transport!
✈️Fly to Palermo
Airplane tickets to PalermoWhere to stay?
Most hotels and B&Bs are located in the centre of Palermo, where all the sites of interest are within easy walking distance. There is accommodation to suit all budgets, so you can make the most of the city to suit your needs.
Practical information
👉 When should you go to Palermo?
Palermo can be visited all year round, but is particularly popular in summer due to its proximity to the sea. We advise you to opt for the months of May, June or September, especially if you suffer from the heat. During these months, you'll avoid the big tourist influx of the summer season and be able to fully enjoy the attractions and monuments of the city and Sicily. What's more, the temperature is pleasant and makes it possible to swim in the water and lie on the beach enjoying the sun all year round.
☀️ Climate:
The Mediterranean climate is characterised by mild winters and very hot, dry summers. The average temperature in winter is 10°, while in summer it can exceed 40°.
👛 What should I buy?
If you are interested in clothes and accessories, go to the shops concentrated around Via Libertà, Via Ruggero Settimo and Via Maqueda, known as the shopping streets. If, on the other hand, you are looking for something typical, opt for ceramics such as vases, plates and other decorated objects that are part of Sicilian craftsmanship. Vegetables, fruit or spices can be bought at the markets.
🚌 Public transport:
The centre of Palermo is easily accessible on foot, but it is still possible to visit the city by taking advantage of the bus routes that make it easy to get from one district to another. Tickets can be bought at tobacconists, newsagents and certain shops for €1.40, or directly on board the bus for €1.80. It is also possible to buy a day ticket for €3.50 or tickets valid for 2 to 7 days.
The city also has three metro lines and four tram lines. Metro tickets cost €1.50, while tram tickets cost €1.40. All tickets are valid for 90 minutes.
If you're travelling in summer, don't forget that temperatures can rise above 40°C. We therefore advise you to bring sun cream and a hat, not forgetting mosquito repellent. If you hire a car, avoid the city centre, which is particularly busy throughout the year, and leave the driving to an experienced driver: driving in Palermo is not easy!
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