Best Things To Do in Palermo, Sicily
Finding things to do in Palermo is definitely not a challenge! Palermo is the vibrant capital of Sicily – a city with an incredibly rich and diverse history. Over the years it has been influenced by the Greeks, Arabs and Romans and all have left their mark. Palermo is a must-visit city on any Sicily itinerary and can make a great starting point to a longer holiday on the island. Its international airport has fast and frequent rail links directly in to the city centre. So it’s also a perfect stand alone city break. We think this is the most comprehensive list of things to do in Palermo that you will find online. Hopefully we’ve included something for everyone to enjoy in one of our favourite Italian cities.
Things to do in Palermo: History
Visit the 12th century Cathedral of Palermo
The cathedral was built on a site that was once home to a Christian church and then a mosque. Since its construction, a number of renovations have been made. Most of which date back to the 1700s. These days, it’s a spectacular site and a fascinating blend of architectural styles that span centuries. It’s also filled with incredibly ornate details to admire. These include a gold tiara that once belonged to Queen Constance of Aragon. Head to the roof to enjoy views over the surrounding city. Book a guided toured of Palermo Cathedral and Palermo’s UNESCO World Heritage sites to learn more about the building’s history.
Check out the Museum of Zoology Doderlein
A museum with a vast array of preserved creatures from the sea and their skeletons displayed in glass-fronted cabinets. Originally founded in the 19th century by Professor Doderlein, the museum still remains int he original structure. It even houses some of the original furniture. Along with still standing at the cutting edge of modern zoology there are also interactive workshops and exhibitions for children too.
Admire the beautiful tiles at the Majolica Museum
Perhaps one of the most visually pleasing and historically interesting things to do in Palermo. Here, you’ll find the walls covered in over 5000 stunning majolica tiles dating from between the 15th and 20th centuries. This makes it one of Europe’s largest private collections.
Visit the Catacombs of Palermo
This rather macabre and eerie site is home to the mummified bodies of 8000 adults and children that lived here between the 17th and 19th centuries. This includes the mummy Rosalia, who it is claimed is the most beautiful in the world. Just be prepared for what you’re about to see. Some may find it rather gruesome to see mummified bodies hanging from the walls, even if some are dressed in their finest clothes!
Visit the Palazzo Abatellis
Tucked in the city’s vibrant Kalsa district this stunning building is now home to an art museum – the Galleria Regionale della Sicilia. The building’s impressive 15th century gothic architecture sustained significant damage during the second world war. But it has since been carefully restored, retaining many of its medieval characteristics.
Step inside the Chiesa della Martorana (Church of Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio)
This iconic Palermo church exquisitely blends Norman, Byzantine, and Arab architecture. Step inside to discover the incredible beauty that lies within this church which is in stark contrasts to its slightly worn and shabby exterior. Inside you can’t help to be amazed at the 17th century frescoes and golden Byzantine mosaics.
Pay a visit to the Museum of Engines and Mechanisms (Museo Storico dei Motori e dei Meccanismi)
A love of mechanics and motor sport runs through the veins of Italy and Palermo is certainly no exception when it comes to celebrating this passion. There’s plenty to discover about machines from the 19th and 20th centuries. Transport lovers will adore the exhibits which include some rare motor cars and small aeroplanes.
Marvel at the Greek ruins at Segesta
Less than an hour from the heart of city, this is certainly worth including in your things to do in Palermo. The Doric temple here dates back to 430 BC and is incredibly well preserved. Once one of the major cities of the Elymians, the site at Segesta stand on the peaks of Mount Barbaro. Due to the site’s rural setting, you will often find fewer tourists here than at some of the more popular archaeological and historical sites in Sicily. Dominated by two acropolises, these sit alongside an equally stunning temple. Additionally the park has a carefully preserved theatre dating back to the middle of the second century BC. Read more about Segesta and all of Sicily’s top historical sites here.
Visit the Baroque Church of San Domenico
One of many churches to visit in Palermo, this and the piazza of the same name in which it sits is well worth a visit. The convent of San Domenico is now home to the Museo del Risorgimento Vittorio Emanuele Orlando. This adds another interesting historical angle to this church visit.
Visit the Church with No Roof
Quite uniquely, the Gothic Church of Santa Maria dello Spasimo has had plenty of incarnations. Amongst them an asylum, plague hospital, granary and a general hospital too. However, its most interesting features that this church still stands unfinished. Despite construction beginning in the early 1500s, various invasions resulted in the building’s vaulted roof never actually being added. However, far from being a ruin, today the space has been transformed into a dynamic community space. It hosts exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year. We would always recommend checking out the program before any trip to Palermo.
Visit the Chapel of San Lorenzo (Oratorio di San Lorenzo)
Perhaps a more traditional church visit. Yet, we still recommend visiting to admire the intricate stucco decoration and artwork that it contains. A highlight is a magnificent altarpiece by Caravaggio.
Relax in the Gardens of the Church of San Giovanni degli Eremiti.
While this is another church – Palermo has plenty – we actually recommend this one for its beautiful gardens. With the backdrop of the 12th century red-domed Arab-Norman church, spending some time in the gardens is always on our list of things to do in Palermo. With well established greenery, punctuated with vibrant bougainvillea and roses – its stunning show of colour in the city.
Admire the Baroque style Jesuit Chiesa del Gesu
One more church….this one is a real treat for the eyes and its highly colourful frescoes along with its marble and stucco ornaments. Although the structure was damaged quicte significantly during WW2, once again thanks to care restoration work it is one of the most magnificent sights in the city
Learn about the Holy Inquisition at the Museo dell’Inquisizione
These events took placein the 15th century in Palazzo Steri. Once the residence of Manfredi III Chiaramonte, it was also used as a prison for the Holy Inquisition. The latter kept thousands of prisoners here across a 200 year period, all accused of being heretics by the Roman Catholic church. Visitors can enjoy a tour of the former cells, where it is possible to see the writings and drawings of prisoners on the cell walls.
See the City from Different Perspectives
Stand in the middle of the intersection between the Via Maqueda and the Corso Vittorio Emanuele, Palermo’s two main roads. This intersection is known as the Quattro Canti and features four impressively identical facades on four opposing buildings. The structures date back to the early 17th century and the Baroque style architecture features reliefs depicting the four seasons, the four Spanish kings of Sicily and the four female patron saints of Palermo – Christina, Ninfa, Olivia and Agata.
Take a Guided Tour of the Historic Palazzo Mirto
Having been very well preserved this is a wonderful opportunity to to learn what life would have been like for a noble family in Palermo. Often referred to as a museum-mansion, the decadent architecture and decoration of this stunning 17th century Palazzo must be seen. A highlight is terrace with a fountain decorated with real shells.
Visit the Castello a Mare
Tucked in the city’s La Loggio district – close to the main port – this is a fortress which has stood watch over Palermo for generations. Learn about Palermo’s maritime history and how the itself has played in the city’s defences for more than 1000 years. The structures weathered walls are steeped in tales of defence conquest and it is often overlooked by travellers beyond the most keen historians.
Find Fossils at Museo Geologico G.G. Gemmellaro
Discover the huge collection of fossils in Palermo’s museum of geology and palaeontology. This museum is home to over 60,000 artefacts covering nearly 3 million years of history. These include the 12,500 year old remains of the skeleton of a prehistoric elephant, the giant jaws of prehistoric sharks and much more. It’s one of the perfect things to do in Palermo if you’re travelling with curious kids or happen upon (unusual!) bad weather.
Discover Ancient Treasures at the Archaeological Museum
Its artefacts chronicle the history of not just Palermo, but the wider island of Sicily from as far back as the Phoenician period through to the Greeks and then to the time of the Roman empire. It’s easy to spend a few hours here. Sep back in time and discover the fascinating history which has made Sicily one of the most vibrant melting pots of culture in Europe.
Head Outside Palermo to the Capaci Monument
This monument was built to mark one of the most brutal events in Sicily’s history – the Capaci Massacre. On 23 May 1992, a bomb blew up part of the motorway killing anti-mafia prosecutor Giovanni Falcone and his wife along with three agents. On this bike tour of Palermo, you can learn more about the impact that the mafia has had on Sicilian life and culture and how the island is healing from the wounds inflicted by Mafia violence that peaked in the early 1990s. Hear about the work of anti-mafia movements like Libera and Addiopizzo and learn about some key figures within it.
Things to do in Palermo: Art & Culture
Discover Palermo’s Puppet Theatre
Learn about Sicily’s puppet tradition at the Puppet Theatre (Opera dei Pupi) and the Antonio Pasqualino International Puppet Museum (Museo delle Marionette). The tradition dates back as long ago as the 13th century and the puppetry skills have been passed from generation to generation. Puppets in Sicily are not just for kids and it’s fascinating to learn about how this tradition has been passed through generations.
Visit Italy’s Largest Opera House
An iconic beacon in the stunning Piazza Verdi this this opera house has long since been a symbol of resurgence and a symbol of Italians long lasting love of Opera. The building was finished in 1897 and was famously opened with Verdi’s Falstaff. We almost insist that you visit Massimo Theatre – either for a guided tour or, if you’re lucky enough, to attend a performance here. You may recognise the interior from the film, The Godfather III.
Go Shopping at Vucciria Market
Steeped in history, and tucked in the Castellammare quarter, this is much more than just another market. By all means spend a couple of hours shopping for souvenirs at the Vucciria market, however our top tip is to arrive hungry! As you make your way down the myriad of alleys, you’ll soon discover piles of vibrant fresh fruits and vegetables along with plenty of local specialities to try. By night, the market comes alive with lives music providing accompaniment ice cold aperitivo and fresh fish grilled to perfection.
Check out Palermo’s Modern Art Gallery – Sant Anna
GAM as it’s commonly known by the locals is in the Kalsa district of the city. Over 200 works of art are displayed here. We love the combination of traditional architecture juxtaposed with the modern art on display. Housed in a restored Franciscan convent and the adjacent Palazzo Bonet the gallery is a real treat for fanss of contemporary art.
Check out the Cruise Ships in Palermo’s Port
Palermo has been a major trading port for thousands of years and the port is always a lively place for a stroll. The cruise ships will be moored alongside impressive yachts, cargo ships and traditional fishing boats. Although there has been much controversy in Europe about the effect huge cruise liners are having on its cities – they rea still quite a sight to marvel at even if from a distance.
Visit the Baroque Church of Sant’Agostino
Strictly speaking this is another church, however it can also easily pass as an art gallery. Discover the unique structure of the Church of Santa Maria della Catena in the Piazza Dogana. It’s rather different from the other churches in Palermo and is an excellent example of late Renaissance and Gothic-Catalan architecture. But what’s more, there is some really stunning artwork to admire in this church. P
Check out the art at the Regional Contemporary Art Museum (RISO)
If you have room for more modern art, then we always recommend adding this to your list of things to do in Palermo. This gallery can be found at the Palazzo Belmonte Riso. Whilst small, it displays a superb collection of art by Sicilian artists from many different periods.
Explore the Villino Florio
A striking art nouveau villa in the Zisa district of Palermo that was designed by Palermo architect, Ernesto Basile. Following a fire in the 1960s it has now been fully restored to its former glory. Open to the public the magnificent villa now holds tours where you can learn all about the history of the building alongside the story of the prominent Florio family on the island.
Marvel at the Palatine Chapel (Cappella Palatina)
Standing proudly in the Palazzo dei Normanni, this truly is a spectacular sight. It was originally built in 1132 on the orders of Roger II of Sicily, to serve as a royal chapel. What’s more, this is one of the buildings in Palermo which most clearly shows Palermo’s melting pot of cultures: Greek, Arabic and Latin inscriptions are obvious to see. Take note of the extensive mosaic work and look up to admire its wooden carved ceiling depicting scenes from everyday life. Just remember that as this is a religious building, you will need to dress appropriately in order to be given admittance. The Royal Palace itself is one of the oldest royal residences anywhere in Europe. From 1071, it was the seat of the King of Sicily. Enjoy a guided tour of the Norman Palace and Palatine Chapel to learn more about its history.
Check out the Fountain – Fontana Pretoria
You’ll find this beautiful fountain at the Piazza Pretoria – which is affectionately named the ‘Square of Shame’. The name exists because of the fountain which was purchased by the city in 1574. It features 16 statues of nude mermaids, nymphs and humans which at the time were considered rather gratuitous by the strict Roman Catholic community. This wasn’t the only reason for the name though. It was also a rather appropriate name since the fountain was erected among rumours of corruption. A number of buildings had to be demolished for it to be built.
Take a Tour of the 15th century Palazzo Pretorio
Whilst in the Piazza Pretoria, we also recommend visiting one of Palermo’s most important municipal buildings. Today, it is used as the city’s town hall. It’s worth visiting even just to see the building’s beautiful renaissance architecture. However, it’s also possible to take a guided tour or if you’re lucky you may even be able to catch a concert or performance.
Go shopping for food at the Mercato del Capo.
As part of the Seralcadio district, this market is often described as being more like a souk. Having thrived during the time when the cities was home to a big Muslim community, much this culture has remained in this vibrant street market. Often described as a tapestry of colours and cultures, it is a wonderful experience. This guided tour of Palermo’s markets and street food scene will really bring the experience to life.
Take the Palermo Hop on Hop off Bus
While we have a tendency to steer away from traditional tourist experience, there are some that can prove to be very useful. Especially if you’re short on time. The city’s open top tour buses are a great way to find your bearings and they’re also extremely convenient. See something you like en-route? Then just hop-off and climb back on when you’re ready to continue exploring.
Enjoy a Vintage Fiat 500 sightseeing tour of Palermo
Could there be a more Italian way to see a city? Not only that but this is a great way to see the city in style, without wearing yourself out by exploring on foot. Not only that, but this is certainly one of the most Insta-worthy things to do in Palermo and is often a real hit with teenagers. Book you tour in advance here.
Discover our full guide to travelling in Italy with teenagers here.
Watch a Performance at the Teatro Politeama
This is Palermo’s second biggest theatre and is also home to the Sicilian Symphonic Orchestra. It’s easy to spot the building – just watch out for its neo-classical façade topped with a statue of Apollo aboard his chariot. If you can’t time your visit to coincide with a show, then you can still enjoy a guided tour.
Enjoy a Day Trip
There are a whole host of day trips to be enjoyed from Palermo. One of our favourites is a trip to the picturesque island of Ustica which can be reached in under an hour. Alternatively, stay on the mainland and head to the nearby town of Monreale. Or to the coastal fishing village of Cefalu. The latter is just 30 minutes by car and the former an hour away. This half day trip from Palermo will take you to both Monreale ands Cefalu.
Cefalu is home to two monuments that make up the nine monuments of Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalù and Monreale. Seven of these are in the city of Palermo itself: the Royal Palace with the Palatine Chapel, the church of San Giovanni degli Eremiti, the church of Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio, the church of San Cataldo, the Palazzo della Zisa, the Admiral’s Bridge and Palermo Cathedral. However, Cefalu Cathedral and Monreale cathedral are outside. They are easy to visit from Palermo though.
Things to do in Palermo: Sports & Nature
Take a Walk through the Porta Nuova.
The gate dates back to the 17th century but replaces an earlier gate that had stood in its place since at least the 15th century. On the other side of it, you will discover the Via Vittorio Emanuele II. This is one of Sicily’s oldest streets. Lined with plenty of shops, restaurants, cafes and historic buildings – it’s there’s something for everyone here.
Discover Europe’s largest tree in the gardens of Villa Garibaldi
The villa was built in 1863 by Giovan Battista Filippo Basile to celebrate the unification of Italy and the gardens were named after the national hero, Garibaldi. There is a bust of Garibaldi himself in the garden as well as busts of many other famous Sicilians. The monumental Ficus Macrophylla tree here is said to be the largest in Europe.
Head to the Beach
As Italy’s largest island, it will come as no surprise that Sicily has a host of stunning beaches. From crystalline white-pebble coves to wide sandy crescents – there is a beach for everybody in Sicily. Just 20 minutes drive outside Palermo is Mondello Beach, a stunning stretch of white sand perfect for a day in the sun. Just be aware that it can get very busy in peak Summer so either arrive early or plan to come to watch the sun set.
Relax in the Botanical Gardens (Orto Botanico)
There is something quite magical about finding a natural sanctuary in the centre of a working city. The botanical gardens in Palermo are home to an eclectic mix of plant species from all over the world. The large leafy plants and trees also provide some welcome shade during the very hot summer months. It’s the perfect place to go for a stroll or bring along a book and sit back and reax in the natural shade.
Head next door to the ornate gardens of Villa Giulia
For yet more natural refreshment, we also recommend visiting the Orto Botanico’s neighbour. This garden is more about the beautiful ornaments. The area is dotted with impressive sculptures and ponds where you can spot both fish and turtles. It’s anothe ovely place to enjoy the cool of the shade and find some peace in the city.
Take a walk across the Arab-Norman Admiral’s Bridge (Ponte dell’Ammiraglio)
Another opportunity for a walk. However, this one is more of a historical experience that touching base with nature. The bridge links the historic centre of Palermo with the Royal Gardens that sit on the other side of the Oreto River. But, these days the river is dry so the bridge is almost more a free-standing monument. It’s about a 20 minute walk from the historic centre of Palermo but it’s part of the UNESCO World Heritage sites in the city.
Take to the sea on a boat trip from Palermo
There are countless opportunities to take to the sea while in Palermo. There are private tours, group adventures and you can even hire a boat yourself to explore the coastline. It’s even possible to catch a boat all the way to Sicily’s second largest city, Catania. This half day boat trip from Palermo will take you from Capo Gallo to Capo Zafferano and includes lunch on board. Or opt for a full day boat trip from Palermo if you need a longer break from the heat of the city.
Relax in the beautiful gardens of Villa Bonanno
Another of natures sanctuaries in the centre of Palermo. Filled with palm trees, it’s vibrant green canopies paint a beautiful tropical scene. Named after Pietro Bonanno, who was once mayor of Palermo, it’s a very well looked after green space. And, it’s a lovely place to find some shade along with some peace and quiet in the Summer months. Again, feel free to bring a book and find a corner to sit back and relax.
Visit the Zisa Castle and its Gardens
This castle and its adjoining gardens are just a 30 minute stroll from the centre of the city. Once the Summer residence of King Guglielmo I in the mid 12th century, this is one of the finest examples of an Arabesque building in Palermo. Amongst other stunning features visitors always admire the ornate muqarnas. The castle itself is still being renovated but is definitely worth adding to your list of things to do in Palermo.
Enjoy a passeggiata along the Foro Italico.
This is a charming stretch of coastline that runs from Villa Giulia to Felice Gate. If you just fancy stretching your legs then it can be ejoyed by itself. However, if you’re after a more sporty endeavour then from here, it’s possible to continue your walk around the marina at La Cala.
Discover Capo Gallo Nature Reserve
If you need to escape the heat of the city, then a great option is to drive 30 minutes outside Palermo to the beautiful Capo Gallo nature reserve. It’s a haven for wildlife and offers some of the most beautiful walks and hikes anywhere on the island. If you’re visiting Sicily in the summer, remember to plan for walking in some potentially very high temperatures. We also recommend bringing your swimming kit. The water here is irresistibly clear and even more so after a walk up the mountain. Like most nature reserves in Italy, there is a small entrance fee to be paid next to the car park.
Take to the sky with a paragliding experience in Palermo.
Probably not the first thing you had in mind when visiting Palermo but seeing the city from above is a unique experience! Obviously this requires some planning. Book your experience in advance here. And while the experience itself might not be for everyone – watching humans in flight in the skies above Palermo is also a great spectator sport.
Adventure at Mount Etna
Another day trip from Palermo is to Mount Etna. This active volcano is a 3 hour drive from the city. But the views from the top are certainly worth the time taken to get there! Take this day trip from Palermo to Mount Etna and it will also include a trip to the bustling town of Taormina. This is a real hit if you’re travelling with adventurous teens. Read more about our top tips for travelling in Italy with teenagers here.
Go Snorkelling
The waters in the area around Palermo are perfect for snorkelling enthusiasts. In fact, some of the water is so clear you arguably don’t even need a snorkel and mask to see some of the sea life. While you can of course head to pretty much any beach with your own snorkel, if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous we recommend joining a guide such as this one. Here you can not only explore Sicily’s underwater-life but also discover some more hidden spots away form the typical tourists.
Relax in the Giardino Inglese (English Garden)
This central park has recently been re-named, Parco Piersanti Mattarella. While it’s a fairly small park, it remains popular with locals. The park is home to several sculptures along with some beautiful plants and flowers. The bosco (woodland) area is lovely to explore with winding paths finding their way between ancient trees. Their are If you’re visiting in the Winter months, you’ll find an ice rink here.
Enjoy the views from the Santa Rosalia Sanctuary
Perched on the Monte Pellegrino, this 17th century church is carved into the rock. It is dedicated to Santa Rosalia, Sicily’s patron saint who it is believed died in the cave in the 1100s. Whilst its exterior may appear to be a typical Italian church, head inside to discover a beautiful natural cave. It is possible to walk both up and down the mountain side. However, for those that may find this a little strenuous, you can catch a bus up to it and opt to just walk back down. Alternatively, opt for a bike tour of Monte Pellegrino . This incorporates a visit to the sanctuary as well as the opportunity to cycle some of the best trails on the mountain.
Things to do in Palermo: Food & Drink
Enjoy a cooking class in Palermo
Learn how to make some Sicilian specialities such as cannoli, Pasta alla Norma or arancini. Get Your Guide have a whole host of Palermo cooking classes to choose from. Wherever we are in Italy, we love to join a cooking class. More often in a local’s home, we’re not sure there is a more authentic experience than being welcomed into an Italian family’s home to share a meal together.
Devour Palermo’s street food scene on a Palermo street food tour.
There is no better way than a food tour of Palermo to find out the best places to eat and the local delicacies to try. It’s also the best way of avoiding the tourist traps! Get You Guide have lots of Palermo street food tours to choose from including this Palermo street food tour at night. We’ve tried street food tours of rickshaws, bikes and even segways – they never disappoint.
Fill up at Palermo’s Ballarò Market
Often referred to as a mosaic of cuisine, colour and culture, this is Palermo’s oldest market. Dating back to the time of Arab rule in Sicily, this market is part of the rhythm of every day life in Palermo. As with everything authentically Sicilian, it’s noisy, bursting with energy and bursting with some of the finest flavours in Europe.
Go Wine Tasting
If you have time, you could take a trip out of the city to a countryside winery. However, if you’re short on time, then there are plenty of places to enjoy a wine tasting in the heart of Palermo itself. This wine bar in Palermo offers great wine tastings. This day trip from Palermo takes you to both Erice and Marsala and, among other things, includes both a wine and olive oil tasting.
We hope this list of things to do in Palermo is enough to keep you busy for more than a few days! You may also like our guide to Sicily’s top historical sites or to discover the best beaches in Sicily. Looking for somewhere to stay in Sicily? Visit Bookingsforyou.com and discover our stunning collection of villas in Sicily.
