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PalermoCulture & history

Our most recommended Palermo Culture & history

Segesta, Erice and Salt Pans Full-Day Excursion from Palermo

1. Segesta, Erice and Salt Pans Full-Day Excursion from Palermo

This popular 8-hour itinerary takes you to see the most interesting sites of western Sicily. With your guide you’ll visit and explore Segesta, a Greek archaeological site. Travel to Nubia and the Salt Pans in Trapani, and admire the Sicilian coast and natural landscapes en route. You’ll also stop at Erice, a medieval hilltop town. Enjoy spectacular views throughout the day. All of the sites are relatively near Palermo, meaning that you’ll have plenty of time to explore each of them. This itinerary is also known as the Elimians's Road, named for the Elimians who were among the first inhabitants of this part of Sicily.

From Palermo: Monreale and Cefalù Half-Day Trip

2. From Palermo: Monreale and Cefalù Half-Day Trip

Escape the hustle and bustle of Palermo city center on a half-day tour to Monreale and Cefalù. Marvel at a Norman cathedral on the slopes of Monte Caputo, and learn the Greek and Medieval history of one of Sicily’s most beautiful towns. Following a pick-up from your hotel or the port of Palermo, transfer to Monreale where you will have approximately 1-hour to tour the Duomo. An official audio guide is included to learn the history of the 12th-century building, considered one of the greatest landmarks of medieval ecclesiastical architecture in the south of Italy. Then, drive along the north coast of Sicily, on route to the beautiful town of Cefalù. Sit back and relax on the 1.5-hour journey, and on arrival go to the 12th-century Duomo. See traces of the Middle Ages at the Osterio Magno. Get panoramic views from the Porta Terra. Discover Greek and Arabic pottery in the Mandralisca Museum, and walk down some curving stone steps to a picturesque cluster of 16th-century wash basins at the Lavatoio.

Palermo: UNESCO World Heritage Sites Guided Walking Tour

3. Palermo: UNESCO World Heritage Sites Guided Walking Tour

By choosing this small group tour, you will have the opportunity to admire the best attractions, with a tasty local break! This three hours small group tour will take you to the must-see spots of the city centre, crossing the Baroque and Normann-Arab style architecture, including attractions such as the Piazza Pretoria (Praetorian Square), called by the locals Square of Shame. The huge marble fountain you can admire in this square is amazing, and it is also the reason of the square's name, due to the nudity of its statues. The Praetorian Palace is located in this plaza, too, and it hosts the Town Hall, which is usually open to the public so that you may spot the mayor of Palermo. This impressive building was built in the 14th century, and it was renovated in the 19th century. Your cultural and historical experience will be enriched by admiring the Royal Palace, which now hosts the Regional Parliament of Sicily. After the Normans conquered Sicily in 1072, the palace was the main residence of the kings. In 1132, King Roger II added the magnificent Palatine Chapel, which is decorated with unique golden mosaics. When visiting Palermo, we cannot ignore its religious significance, so that they will be part of our small group itinerary, such as the Martorana Church, famous around the world for its beauty and majestic appearance. In fact, an Arabic traveller who visited the Martorana in 1184 called this Christian church "the most beautiful monument in the world", which perfectly resumes all we could have said about this site. One more unmissable stop will be the Cathedral of Palermo, a brilliant and unique example of stratification of styles, from Muslim to Normans to the Christian reconversion. If you are wondering if this culture discovering and walking will make you hungry, don’t worry…we will have another substantial stop included for our small group: a tasty Sicilian cannolo or granita, in a typical local shop.

Palermo: Street Food and History Walking Tour

4. Palermo: Street Food and History Walking Tour

Embark on a walking tour through the center of Palermo and feel like you are visiting an open-air museum. Marvel at a range of different architectural styles and see the Capo street markets that are a true mix of culture, customs, and food traditions. Taste five local food specialties and a drink to wash them down tastefully. Blend a historical and foodie walking tour into one. See and learn about historical landmarks, including Opera dei Pupi (traditional puppet theater), Piazza Beati Paoli, the Cathedral, the Quattro Canti, and the Pretoria fountain en route. Walk through the bustling Capo Street Market, offering a wide selection of local meats, seafood, produce & Sicilian bites. Then, taste some local specialties from Palermo. Tuck into some sfincione (dough topped with onion, bread crumbs, tomato, and oregano), panelle (fried chickpea flour), crocché (potato croquettes), arancine (rice croquettes stuffed with meat or butter), and cannolo (crunchy shell with sweet-cheese). Refresh yourself with a drink, to close off your tour in style.

Palermo: Norman Palace and Palatine Chapel Tour with Tickets

5. Palermo: Norman Palace and Palatine Chapel Tour with Tickets

With more than 800 years of history, it’s perfect for culture vultures! Of all the incredible attractions in Palermo, the Palazzo dei Normanni is one that you can’t miss off your itinerary. Once the seat of the King of Sicily, it is the oldest royal residence in Europe and you can learn the history of all the dynasties who had their thrones here - as well as visiting a stunning and sublime channel. Palermo is decorated in history and there are few buildings that offer a window into the past quite as clear as the Palazzo dei Normanni. The Palazzo dei Normanni (or the Norman Palace to English speakers). Construction on the palace started in the 9th century when Sicily was under Islamic rule, though it was renovated by the Normans in 1072 when their empire spread across Europe. Now, it’s the home of the Sicilian Regional assembly. You’ll get exclusive entrance into the palace and its gardens Though not as well known as Rome’s Sistine Chapel or Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, the Cappella Palatina (or Palatine Chapel) is one of the most spectacular in all of Italy. The chapel, on the second-floor of the palace, was built in 1140 and gives an insight into the arts, science and philosophy of the dominant Western and Middle Eastern cultures at that time. See traditional Islamic designs, Byzantine mosaics, and golden decorations in one of the best examples of the Arab - Norman - Byzantine style. Not only do your tickets allow you entrance to the palace and chapel, but you can explore the gardens too with your expert guide. And as the tour is 1.5 hours long, there’s enough time for you to appreciate the stunning historic building and then spend the rest of the day wandering through Palermo’s historic centre.

Palermo: Valley of the Temples and Scala dei Turchi Day Trip

6. Palermo: Valley of the Temples and Scala dei Turchi Day Trip

Discover the Valley of the Temples Park and the Scala dei Turchi on a day trip from Palermo. Stroll through the park and admire the stunning examples of Ancient Greek architecture, including the Temple of Concordia, one of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world. Start with pickup from your hotel in Palermo in the morning and drive along the road to Agrigento, enjoying the views of medieval castles along the way. Make a stop along the way where you can buy some coffee and Sicilian cannoli, or lunch to enjoy inside the Valley of the Temples. When you arrive at the site, enjoy around 2 hours to explore. Admire the beautifully preserved Ancient Greek temples, including the fascinating Temple of Concordia and Temple of Hera Lacinia. When the visit is over, enjoy a photo stop at Scala dei Turchi, a stunning white marl rock cliff face that contrasts with the turquoise ocean waters below. Relax on the journey back to Palermo, admiring the views of the southern coast of Sicily, with drop-off back at your hotel.

Palermo: Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples Day Tour

7. Palermo: Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples Day Tour

Enjoy a scenic drive into the countryside to Agrigento on this full-day excursion from Palmero, with stops to see ancient temples. Visit local museums and learn about the country's rich history before being transferred back to Palermo. The excursion includes a short stop for a coffee en route to Agrigento, before arriving at the Valley of the Temples. You can further explore the Hera, Concordia and Apollo temples and Hardcastle villa, with a guidebook that will provide more information about the sites. You’ll have free time to decide on a place for lunch, before your driver takes you to the Agrigento Archaeology Museum. After exploring the museum’s collections, you'll be driven back to Palermo.

From Palermo: Villa Romana and Valley of the Temples Trip

8. From Palermo: Villa Romana and Valley of the Temples Trip

Follow in the footsteps of the Greeks and Romans on a day trip where your transport is taken care of for you. Discover some of the finest Roman mosaics in the world at the Villa Romana del Casale. Learn all about the Valley of the Temples archaeological site with a licensed local guide. Meet your driver in central Palermo and be taken straight to Piazza Armerina, where you will explore the Villa Romana del Casale independently. Marvel at the luxurious 4th-century villa, home to an influential Roman family. Take your time to examine its exquisite mosaic flooring. Continue to Agrigento for a guided tour of the magnificent Valley of Temples, built by the Greeks in the 5th century BC. See the ruins of temples, necropolises, houses, streets, and everything else you'd expect to find in an ancient city. Finally, return to the meeting point in Palermo.

Palermo: Walking Tour of Historic Markets and Monuments

9. Palermo: Walking Tour of Historic Markets and Monuments

Explore Palermo's historic center led by a seasoned guide. Hear about the history of the capital of Sicily while admiring notable monuments such as the Teatro Massimo, the Cathedral, and the Quattro Canti, before wandering through markets for local wares and traditional street food. Start the tour by entering the Palermo Cathedral, a Unesco-listed site dating from the early 12th century. Admire its iconic bell towers and learn about its architectural evolution through time. Then, stop by the Massimo Theater and hear about the ghostly legends surrounding it. You'll visit other must-see landmarks like the baroque Quattro Canti plaza, and the imposing Fontana Pretoria in the Piazza of the same name. Along the way, discover the myths and legends of Siciliy like the mysterious Beati Paoli sect, and the city's patron saint Santa Rosalia, or La Santuzza. Finally, walk through the Capo street market and take the opportunity to try some of Palermo's delicacies like Sicilian street food and pastries.

Palermo: Panoramic Mount Pellegrino Cabriolet Tour

10. Palermo: Panoramic Mount Pellegrino Cabriolet Tour

Experience the enchanting charm and beauty of Palermo's coastline and historic landmarks like never before on our Monte Pellegrino cabriolet tour. With our classic convertible, you can immerse yourself in the stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and fascinating history of Palermo. We will take you on a journey of discovery, sharing fascinating insights and anecdotes about the city's most iconic sights. As we make our way towards Monte Pellegrino, you'll be mesmerized by the stunning vistas of the sea and the city, and the charming villas and mansions that line the coast. You'll get a chance to snap some photos and take in the stunning panorama that stretches out before you. As we ascend Monte Pellegrino, we will visit the renowned shrine of Santa Rosalia, Palermo's patron saint, and a major pilgrimage destination for devotees from all over the world. Here you can admire the exquisite architecture and artwork of the chapel, and learn about the life and miracles of Santa Rosalia. We will then drive up to the top of Monte Pellegrino, where you can take in breathtaking views of Palermo and the surrounding landscapes. From this vantage point, you can see the glittering sea, the rolling hills, and the iconic landmarks of the city, including the Norman Palace, the Cathedral, and the famous Massimo Theatre. Throughout the tour, you can enjoy the comfort and luxury of our classic cabriolet, basking in the sun and sea breeze as you take in the sights and sounds of Palermo. Our experienced drivers and knowledgeable guides will ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience, and will be on hand to answer any questions you may have. Whether you're a first-time visitor to Palermo or a seasoned traveler, our Monte Pellegrino cabriolet tour is an unforgettable experience that will take you on a journey of discovery through the heart and soul of this fascinating city. Book now and get ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime!

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What people are saying about Palermo

Overall rating

4.6 / 5

based on 238 reviews

Fabrizio was the perfect guide. The food tour was a great introduction to Palermo, with a great balance of iconic sightseeing, exploring the street market, learning and eating. Being able to ask Fabrizio for recommendations both during and after the tour via text made our trip feel fulfilling, stress free and authentic.

This tour may be listed as a street food tour first, but it truly is a balanced blend of the history and the food of Palermo. I really appreciated this mix and it helped my family and myself get oriented with Palermo. 10/10 would recommend!

This was a great half day trip from Palermo. Monreale had great views over the cities and a lovely church. Cefalu was beautiful on the water. It was during the holidays/off season, so my was closed, but it was fun to visit.

Great way to learn a bit of history and to sample the local street food!

Very knowledgeable! Nice, Funny, good pace of tour