W E L C O M E TO TH E
G O O D L I F E
I N
P A L E R M O
P L A N N I N G
Palermo’s historic core offers many of its treasures within easy walking distance.
That said, the sometimes-chaotic nature of its traffic and narrow streets can make private transport a game-changer, especially if you’re planning day trips to places like Monreale or Cefalù.
The best times to visit are spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October), when the weather is warm but not stifling, and the streets buzz with local life rather than peak-season tourists.
For accommodation, staying in the historic center, near areas like Piazza Marina or Teatro Massimo, puts you close to Palermo’s most iconic sites.
Alternatively, the Mondello district offers a quieter retreat by the sea, ideal if you’re planning for some relaxation after a day of exploration.
M U S E U M & S I T E B O O K I N G
Palatine Chapel & Palazzo dei Normanni: Tickets can sell out, especially in peak season, so book online well in advance. Morning visits are ideal to avoid crowds and catch the mosaics bathed in natural light.
Monreale Cathedral: Arrive early to enjoy the mosaics in peace and take in the cloisters. Private transport is recommended for the 30-minute journey from central Palermo.
Teatro Massimo: One of Europe’s largest opera houses, it offers guided tours and frequent performances. Booking ahead is essential for both.
Street Market Walks: While markets like Ballarò and Vucciria don’t require tickets, going with a private guide ensures you discover the best stalls and hear the stories behind the produce and vendors.
Cefalù Day Trip: If your itinerary includes a visit to this picturesque coastal town, consider pre-booking tickets for the Cathedral of Cefalù, another Norman gem.
S U G G E S T E D I T I N E R A R Y P O I N T S
DAY I
Norman Wonders & Market Rhythms
Morning: Begin your journey at the Palazzo dei Normanni, exploring its Palatine Chapel with its dazzling Byzantine mosaics. From there, stroll to the Cathedral of Palermo, and get thee up upon the rooftops to enjoy the view.
Lunch: Head to a trattoria near Ballarò Market for traditional Sicilian fare. See if you can find panelle and arancini, now, and if not, or something else captures your attention (like fried fish in a cone, for example) we'd not begrudge you in the slightest.
Afternoon: Dive into the vibrant chaos of Ballarò Market itself, sampling fresh produce and mingling with the locals.
Let your guide regale you with stories of Palermo as you walk through the Quattro Canti, the four corners, and hear the naughty history of the Praetorian Fountain.
Evening: Enjoy a performance at Teatro Massimo, or simply admire its grandeur from the piazza with a pre-dinner aperitivo.
DAY II
Monreale & the Sea
Morning: Take a short drive to Monreale to visit its Cathedral. Marvel at the mosaics and wander the serene cloisters.
Lunch: Return to Palermo early afternoon and enjoy seafood specialties at a restaurant near the port or Mondello Beach.
Afterwards: Visit the Zisa Palace, a lesser-known but fascinating example of Arab-Norman architecture, or take a leisurely walk along the Foro Italico.
Evening: Dine at a rooftop restaurant in the historic center, savoring views of the illuminated cityscape.
DAY III
Coastal Charm & Final Flourishes
Morning: Take a day trip to Cefalù, where the Cathedral offers another breathtaking mosaic masterpiece. Stroll through the charming streets and enjoy a seaside coffee or gelato.
Lunch: Indulge in freshly caught fish at a local trattoria.
Afternoon: Return to Palermo for some last-minute shopping at the Vucciria Market or artisanal boutiques.
Evening: Conclude your visit with a traditional Sicilian feast. Or revisit something else you loved. Have a whole roast sea bass. Go for a workman's pasta in a tiny dive of a café. Ultimately, there are no wrong answers here, and it is difficult to insist on one thing or another.
DAY IV PLUS
You might wish to stay longer, and here's why we think you should:
Palermo acts as a gateway to Sicily’s rich tapestry.
Extend your stay to explore the ancient ruins of Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples, or head even further on to the dramatic landscapes of Mount Etna, or the baroque towns of Noto and Ragusa.
Whether it’s wine tasting in Marsala or wandering through Syracuse’s historic streets, Sicily is emphatically its own continent, let alone country.
M E E T Y O U R G U I D E
All of our guides can offer you a spectacular experience. As each person has a slightly different look at the world, due to their own unique interests and specialties, we'd encourage you to read a few profiles.
