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Activities and tours in Palermo

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Monreale day trip from Palermo
Excursions & day trips

Monreale day trip from Palermo

Book a comfortable day trip to Monreale from Palermo. Admire one of the most beautiful locations near Palermo.

free cancellation
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en, it, fr, es, ar, +1  de

Day-trip to Agrigento and Piazza Armerina from Palermo
Activities

Day-trip to Agrigento and Piazza Armerina from Palermo

Enjoy a full-day trip to Agrigento and Piazza Armerina to visit the outstanding archaeological sites of the Valley of Temples and Villa of Casale!

free cancellation
Available in:

en, it, es 

Segesta, Erice and salt pans day-trip from Palermo
Activities

Segesta, Erice and salt pans day-trip from Palermo

Visit Erice, Trapani's salt pans, and Segesta on a full-day trip from Palermo to retrace the ancient history of Sicily!

free cancellation
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en, it, es 

Evening transfer from Cefalù to Palermo with free time to explore
Transfers

Evening transfer from Cefalù to Palermo with free time to explore

Book this evening transfer from Cefalù to Palermo. Explore the city's nightlife, landmarks, and cuisine at your own pace.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Sicilian Dinner with a Local Chef in Palermo
Activities

Sicilian Dinner with a Local Chef in Palermo

Explore Palermo's rich culture and cuisine on a 4-hour culinary journey with a local chef. Savour authentic Sicilian delicacies and fine wine!

free cancellation
Available in:

en, it 

Pasta and Gelato Cooking Class in Palermo
Activities

Pasta and Gelato Cooking Class in Palermo

Enjoy a pasta and gelato cooking class in Palermo and learn all the secrets of these ancient recipes.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class in Palermo
Excursions & day trips

Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class in Palermo

Discover the art of making pasta and Tiramisu in an authentic Italian cooking class. Join local home cooks for a culinary adventure across Italy.

free cancellation
Available in:

en, it 

Palermo and Monreale Tour from Cefalù
Monuments

Palermo and Monreale Tour from Cefalù

Have the chance to discover the hidden artistic gems of Palermo and Monreale on a full-day tour from Cefalù.

free cancellation
Available in:

en, fr 

Afternoon Tour to Cefalù from Palermo
Transfers

Afternoon Tour to Cefalù from Palermo

Visit one of the most beautiful villages close to Palermo, stroll through the streets of Cefalù, rich in culture and traditions and travel in a comfortable van.

free cancellation
Available in:

en, it 

Segesta Afternoon Tour from Palermo
Culture & history

Segesta Afternoon Tour from Palermo

Explore archaeological sites of ancient Greece in Sicily, walk through history and admire one of the most beautiful Greek temples.

free cancellation
Available in:

en, it 

Corleone Tour from Palermo
Transfers

Corleone Tour from Palermo

Visit the beautiful town of Corleone, travel in a comfortable van in the Sicilian hinterland and get to know the Anti-Mafia movements in the city of Corleone.

free cancellation
Available in:

en, it 

Mondello and Sanctuary in Monte Pellegrino Tour
Transfers

Mondello and Sanctuary in Monte Pellegrino Tour

Visit Monte Pellegrino, the promontory overlooking Palermo, discover the magic of the Sanctuary di S. Rosalia, and relax in Mondello.

free cancellation
Available in:

en, it 

Things to do in Palermo

With its fascinating blend of cultures and authentic spirit, Palermo is a city that captures the heart. The Sicilian capital offers an incredible variety of attractions and experiences, from its historic markets and stunning Arab-Norman architecture to its world-famous culinary traditions. Whether you’re planning a trip to Palermo or visiting as part of a Sicilian getaway, read on to discover some of the must-see sights and activities in this vibrant city.

The 6 Best Things to Do in Palermo

1. Marvel at the Splendor of the Palazzo dei Normanni and the Cappella Palatina

A symbol of Norman power in Sicily, the Palazzo dei Normanni is a breathtaking masterpiece of architecture. Its most famous treasure is the Cappella Palatina, where Byzantine mosaics, intricately carved wooden ceilings, and Norman design come together in perfect harmony. The golden mosaics covering the walls depict biblical stories with a vividness that has stood the test of time, creating a truly mystical atmosphere.

2. Discover the Magnificence of Monreale Cathedral

Just a few kilometers from Palermo’s city center, Monreale Cathedral is one of the most important examples of Norman architecture in the world. Its interior is simply awe-inspiring—over 6,000 square meters of golden mosaics depict stories from the Old and New Testaments, illuminating the space with their brilliance. The adjoining cloister, with its 228 intricately decorated twin columns, is a place of peace and contemplation.

3. Wander Through the Historic City Center

Palermo’s historic center is like an open-air museum. The iconic Quattro Canti, an elegant octagonal square, and the striking Pretoria Fountain—nicknamed the "Fountain of Shame" due to its nude statues—are just a glimpse of what the city has to offer. As you stroll through the streets, you'll encounter stunning Baroque churches, grand noble palaces, and architectural remnants of the many civilizations that have left their mark on the city.

4. Relax on Mondello Beach

Just a 20-minute drive from the city, Mondello Beach is a favorite summer retreat for locals. This lively seaside spot is perfect for a relaxing break after a busy day of sightseeing. Its Liberty-style beach clubs, especially the historic Charleston, add a touch of retro elegance to this beloved stretch of coastline. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun or enjoy a refreshing swim, Mondello is the perfect place to unwind.

5. Experience the City's Historic Markets

Palermo’s historic markets are an unforgettable sensory experience. Ballarò, La Vucciria, and Il Capo are bustling hubs of daily life, where you can sample the best of Sicilian street food—from crispy arancine and hearty pane con la milza to delicious cannoli and refreshing granita. The vibrant colors of fresh produce, the calls of market vendors, and the intoxicating aromas of local spices create an atmosphere that transports you back in time.

6. Take a Day Trip to Corleone

For those looking to explore beyond Palermo, Corleone is an excellent day trip offering natural beauty and cultural insight. Known for its historical significance, the town is home to the CIDMA (International Center for Documentation on the Mafia and the Anti-Mafia Movement). This powerful museum tells the story of Sicily’s fight against organized crime.

Get ready to visit Palermo

How much time do you need to visit Palermo?

To fully appreciate Palermo’s main attractions, it’s recommended to spend at least 3–4 days in the city. This will allow you to explore its historic landmarks, vibrant markets, and stunning architecture without feeling rushed. If you have extra time, you can dedicate a day to relaxing at Mondello Beach or even take a few day trips to nearby destinations. Keep in mind that during the high season, queues for major monuments can be quite long, so plan accordingly.

What day trips can you take from Palermo?

Palermo is an excellent base for various excursions. In addition to Monreale and Corleone, you can visit the beautiful coastal town of Cefalù, famous for its Norman cathedral and charming medieval streets. Another stunning destination is the Zingaro Nature Reserve, a paradise for nature lovers with hidden coves and scenic hiking trails. If you're interested in ancient history, the Temple of Segesta and the Archaeological Park of Selinunte are both easily accessible for a day trip.

What are some Alternative Activities in Palermo?

If you’re looking to go beyond the usual tourist spots, Palermo offers plenty of unique experiences. You can take a Sicilian cooking class to learn how to make traditional dishes like pasta alla norma or cannoli, explore the Capuchin Catacombs, a fascinating yet eerie underground museum, or go on a guided tour of noble palaces still inhabited by Palermo’s aristocratic families. If you love opera, don’t miss a visit to the Teatro Massimo, where you can admire its stunning Liberty-style interiors and enjoy world-class performances.

Frequently asked questions about Palermo

What places can I explore near Palermo?

Here are some of our favorite places to visit near Palermo:

Nearby destinations

Nearby attractions