What to See in Palermo. Our Favourite Places
Find out the best sights in Palermo and plan your holiday in north Sicily.
Why Palermo Should Not be Missed
Sicily’s capital city, Palermo, has to be seen to be believed. It’s a vibrant city with a rich history that has an international and modern feel, whilst maintaining its authentic atmosphere. With an international airport close by, it is the ideal gateway for exploring north and west Sicily.
There is so much to see in the city itself – including UNESCO-recognised monuments, world-class museums, colourful markets, and wonderful architecture – but the area around Palermo also has fantastic beaches to explore and traditional small towns to visit. What are the best things to see in and around Palermo? Here’s a short guide about our favourite places.
What to See in Palermo
You should spend at least a day in Palermo during your holiday in Palermo. With one of the largest historic town centres in Europe, there’s so much to see. Just strolling around the town, marvelling at the architecture and the bustling atmosphere, is a joy. But there are also some unmissable sights to visit. Plan your trip to Palermo by reading all about the best places to visit in this ancient towns.
Palermo Cathedral
Dating from the 12th Century, Palermo’s cathedral has a unique mix of architectural styles. With Norman, Arab, and Gothic elements – as well as more modern aspects from the 18th and 19th Century, the façade of the cathedral is deeply impressive. The cathedral’s distinctive style caused UNESCO to recognise it as a World Heritage Site, together with the other examples of Arab-Norman architecture in the area. From the outside you can admire porticos, turrets, towers, cupolas, and arcades, as well as the bell tower. Inside it is more somber. There are the tombs of several Emperors of the Holy Roman Empire, as well as a beautiful chapel dedicated to Santa Rosalia, the patron saint of Palermo. A trip up to the roof is a must; from there you can enjoy some spectacular views of the whole city.
Historic Markets
Palermo has three historic markets: Vucciria, Capo, and Ballarò. Found in the city centre, these markets could be considered the beating heart of the city. Ballarò’s daily market has taken place for over 1000 years. Walking through the market is a loud and colourful experience; vendors sell their wares whilst shouting the day’s deal in local dialect, crowds throng through the narrow streets, locals and tourists alike pick up their fruit and veg for the day. There are also some authentic bars and restaurants selling Palermo’s world-famous street food. Capo market also has small stalls selling local products, as well as some restaurants and bars. Vucciria has lost some of its traditional market stalls, but it still worth visiting for seeing local life.
Palazzo dei Normanni & Capella Palatina
The Palazzo dei Normanni is Palermo’s royal palace where the Sicilian kings ruled for centuries. Today it is the Region’s House of Parliament. Found on the highest point of Palermo, it is an impressive building that demonstrates Sicily’s rulers’ power and wealth. There are regular exhibtiions held in the palace that are well worth seeing. The highlight, however, is the exquisite Capella Palatina that is inside. This small chapel has some of the most beautiful mosaics in Sicily, that even rival those in Monreale’s cathedral. The shimmering mosaics in the chapel, combined with the Byzantine arches, create a unique sight. Visit and be wowed by the 12th Century artistry on show.
Teatro Massimo & Teatro Politeama
Palermo is home to two impressive theatres that still today hold a wide holds a wide variety of theatre, opera, ballet, and concerts. Teatro Massimo is the cultural centre of Palermo. Built in impressive Liberty style in the late 19th Century, Teatro Massimo was opened in 1897. It is Europe’s third largest opera house (after Paris and Vienna). You can also book a tour of the theatre where you can see the best sights and learn about the secrets of the theatre. You’ll feel like you have stepped back in time, getting a glimpse of backstage theatrical life, in gorgeous settings. Teatro Politeama was opened in 1874 and is a fantastic example of Neoclassical architecture. It’s an impressive sight, set in a large piazza with its large set of bronze statues atop the entrance. Home of the Sicilian Symphonic Orchestra, it is a haven for classical music. If you have the chance to catch a show at Teatro Massimo or Teatro Politeama during your holiday near Palermo, grab it with both hands! Seeing a performance on the theatre’s stage is an unforgettable experience.
Piazza Pretoria
Piazza Pretoria is home to Palazzo Pretoria, the city’s municipality with the mayor’s main office. However, it is the fountain that mainly captures visitors’ attention. The Fontana Pretoria arrived in Palermo in 1574. It was originally commissioned for a garden in Florence, but was then purchased by the city of Palermo. The fountains have depictions of river creatures, as well as male and female nude figures that represent the twelve Olympian and other mythological characters. Due to the nudity on show, the piazza became known as the Piazza della Vergogna (the piazza of shame). However, today it is a much-loved symbol of the city.
Museums & Churches
Palermo’s cultural importance can be seen in the many museums and churches found in the city. If you want ancient artefacts, visit the Antonino Salinas Museum with its collection of Punic and Ancient Greek works of art. For classical paintings, Palazzo Abatellis in the Kalsa neighbourhood. GAM (the Galleria di Arte Moderna) has a wonderful collection of contemporary Italian Art. Palazzo Butera is a recently renovated palace by the seafront with an incredible private collection of art and furniture that spans centuries. As for churches, they say there are 365 churches in Palermo, one for each day of the year. Don’t miss Casa Professa if you want to see ornate Baroque decoration, La Martorana for Byzantine mosaics, San Cataldo for peaceful contemplation, or the Santa Rosalia sanctuary on Monte Pellegrino where local devotion is clear to see.
Beaches to Visit near Palermo
Palermo has an incredible seafront location. Make sure you visit Foro Italico to get a breath of fresh air whilst you are in the city. However, there are also some amazing beaches close to Palermo that make for brilliant days by the sea. Get to know the best beaches in north Sicily and plan your holiday around these paradisical beaches in the area.
Mondello
Mondello is a suburb of Palermo with a Caribbean-like beach. The white sand and the turquoise sea mean this small seaside town has drawn visitors for centuries. With a series of Liberty villas along the coast, a main piazza with great bars and restaurants, and a wide sandy bay with free area and lidos and beach bars, a day at Mondello is a a must on any holiday in north Sicily. Stroll along the beach. Go swimming in the water. Book a SUP lesson and learn a new skill. Eat an arancina on the sand, or indulge in some seafood at a local restaurant. The options are limitless!
Capo Gallo
Capo Gallo is a nature reserve just around the bay from sandy Mondello. Park in Mondello, walk into the nature reserve (there is a small cost), and then enjoy the cliffs, wild nature, and clear water. You can walk along the path where there are several small bays where you can swim in. These rocky coves are especially perfect for anyone who prefers pebbles to sand. The azure waters are also a perfect spot for snorkelling. There are also remains of ancient cultures in the caves along the coast that are still being studied by the local universities. Capo Gallo is a wonderful place for a quiet day by the beach away from the crowds.
Cefalù
The sandy beach at Cefalù is world famous thanks to its location right in the pretty town’s centre. Visiting Cefalù is a joy as you can combine culture and time by the beach, alternating strolling though the town’s characteristic streets and then swimming in the warm waters. The sandy beach has free areas where you can set up shop with your own towels and umbrellas, or you can treat yourself and rent sunloungers and umbrellas at a local lido. The charm of Cefalù’s beach is only highlighted thanks to the amazing views of the pretty town under the shade of La Rocca mountina. It’s magical in the evening too; make sure you stroll along the waterfront at sunset for a romantic moment.
Where to Stay: Our Villas near Palermo
We have many villas to rent near Palermo that are the perfect choice for a relaxed holiday in the area. North Sicily is yours to explore whilst staying at any of these beautiful properties. If you are yearning for a holiday near Palermo, here are a few of our prestigious villas near Palermo to book.
Disia
Sleeps – 10 | Bedrooms – 5 | Bathrooms – 3
Disia is an oasis where you will feel your cares disappear. Found in Mondello (and only a few minutes’ away from the town’s famous beach), this villa perfectly blends modern comforts, a large garden, and Mediterranean style. The mature garden surrounds the villa, creating shady spots and a feel of privacy, but you are still close to Mondello’s centre, as well as Palermo and all its sights to see. It’s a perfect villa for families with its play area, and fenced-off pool too. Ten guests can enjoy a holiday at this villa in Sicily, making it ideal for a fun-filled family holiday with all the kids. What’s stopping you from booking this villa in Mondello today?
Sospesa
Sleeps – 10 | Bedrooms – 5 | Bathrooms – 5
The views from Sospesa will leave you breathless. This villa in north Sicily near Cefalù is perched on a hill and looks out over the countryside and the sea. Sospesa is so spacious, with room for up to 10 guests. You can swim in the pool taking in the views, cook delicious meals on the barbecue, or relax in complete privacy with all the modern comforts you could dream of for your holiday. Sospesa is a dream come true for any holiday in north Sicily.
Pellegrina
Sleeps – 8 | Bedrooms – 4 | Bathrooms – 4
If you are looking for a villa with a peaceful, countryside feel, that is still close to north Sicily’s beaches, then Pellegrina is for you! This countryside estate near Cefalù has a large pool, a lovely garden, and a traditional atmosphere. There’s even a small, private chapel! Eight guests can stretch out and relax at this charming villa where outdoor living is a must. Enjoy al fresco meals. Feel the cool mountain breeze mix with the bright Sicilian sun, and then head out to explore Cefalù’s marvellous beaches and great restaurants and bars. What more could you want?
Enjoy a Holiday near Palermo
Inspired by Palermo and its surroundings? Take a look at our entire collection of villas near Palermo and pick your favourite. A holiday in Sicily full of days by the sea, great food and wine, and impressive culture awaits! All of our villas are handpicked by our team of experts, and have fantastic locations, luxurious touches, and authentic Sicilian style. What are you waiting for? Look through our villas and make your dream holiday in Sicily a reality today.
Featured Villas
Perfect Experiences for You!
Feeling inspired? Here are some great experiences in Sicily that we think you’ll love!
For fun, authentic experiences, you can’t beat these. Make unforgettable memories on holiday in Sicily with one (or two) of these experiences!