Palermo

Experience Palermo with us

Welcome to Palermo, the Sicilian capital that sits on the edge of Europe. A city with a rich and diverse historical past, waiting to the explored. Booking Palermo tours and tickets will open up this city, and you'll be ready to enjoy the heady mix of Byzantine mosaics, Arabesque domes and even an English garden! Walk around town, take a Palermo hop-on hop-off bus tour and indulge in Sicilian cuisine. And book a tour with a local guide. You'll be sure to hear exclusive local stories that will help uncover the mysteries of this historical city. There's no doubt this city has a rich and diverse cultural identity. Time to discover it!
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Our tips for Palermo

  • Plan ahead. It's always worth planning a little before you go. If you take a Palermo hop-on hop-off bus tour, then research which places you'd like to see. The opera house and Cathedral are good examples. Take your hop-on bus tour, get your bearings and then head back to the places that are of genuine interest. It's a great way to make the most of your trip. Look left and right. It goes without saying that the roads in and around Palermo can be chaotic. Make sure you look both ways when you cross the road.
  • Learn a bit of the lingo. It's always good to learn a few words on your travels. Pick up a few Italian words and a bit of body language, and you'll be surprised. People will love you for trying.

Good to know

With a history that spans over 2,700 years, Palermo is considered one of Europe's oldest cities. Throughout the centuries, it has been ruled by various civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, and Spanish.
Palermo's architecture is renowned for its stunning beauty, reflecting the diverse cultural influences that have shaped the city. Some of its most notable landmarks include the Palermo Cathedral, the Norman Palace, and the Teatro Massimo opera house.
The city's cuisine is also highly esteemed for its rich blend of Italian, Arab, and African flavors. Some of the signature dishes of Palermo include pasta con le sarde (pasta with sardines), panelle (chickpea fritters), and arancini (fried rice balls).
Palermo boasts numerous museums and art galleries, such as the Regional Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Palazzo Abatellis.
Visitors to Palermo should not miss the city's vibrant street markets, such as the renowned Ballarò Market, where a wide variety of fresh produce, seafood, and other local products can be found.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q: What is the best time to visit Palermo?
    A:

    Palermo gets hot in the summer, so to visit when the temperature is more favourable, you need to head there in late spring or early autumn. Palermo, remember, has a Mediterranean climate, and the Sirocco winds often raise the temperature a few degrees! Stick to spring.

  • Q: How do I get around?
    A:

    Walking around Palermo is a joy. You'll obviously get to see the sights better, but don't forget the hop-on hop-off bus tour. It's a great way to get around. There is also a local bus service, which connects all parts of the city. Although the further out of town you are, the harder it is to get around. Taxi is another option if public transport is not your thing.

  • Q: Any tips for staying safe in Palermo?
    A:

    Is Palermo safe? Contrary to the many stereotypes, Palermo is relatively safe with low crime rates. Of course, as with most cities, there are pickpockets, so just make sure your belongings are close by.

  • Q: What are the top attractions in Palermo?
    A:

    Palermo offers a range of top attractions, such as the Palermo Cathedral, the Norman Palace, the Teatro Massimo opera house, the Regional Archaeological Museum, and the Ballarò Market.

  • Q: What types of festivals and events take place in Palermo?
    A:

    Throughout the year, Palermo hosts various cultural events, including the June Festival della Cultura Mediterranea (Mediterranean Culture Festival), and the Festa di Santa Rosalia (Feast of Saint Rosalia) in July, which is one of the most significant festivals in the city.

Things to do in Palermo

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