Monreale Culture & history

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.

Hop aboard a shuttle bus from Palermo, conveniently located near major hotels, for a direct transfer to Monreale. Experience a secure and comfortable service, avoiding long waits in lines. Upon arrival in Monreale, get free to explore the beautiful town and visit the Cathedral, one of the richest and most beautiful churches in Italy, combining Norman, Byzantine, Italian, and Saracen styles. DEPARTURE TIMES FROM PALERMO: H. 08:45 am Presentation, 09.00 Departure by VAN or Bus. ARRIVAL AT THE BUS PARKING IN MONREALE ALTA at 09.30 approximately and free time to visit the Cathedral and the Abbey route. PLACE OF PRESENTATION, DEPARTURE FROM MONREALE: Bus Parking in MONREALE ALTA Amat Terminus or Tourist Buses (Near at Teste di Moro) DEPARTURE TIMES FROM MONREALE ALTA AMAT BUS PARKING. AM. H. 12:15 am Departure by Bus. ARRIVAL AT THE TERMINUS PIAZZA VERDI TEATRO MASSIMO in Palermo AT APPROXIMATELY 12:45 AND END OF SERVICE.

Enjoy a full-day shore excursion to Corleone, a small town that has had its history and culture shaped by the Mafia. Visit the museum in Corleone and admire the breathtaking scenery of Sicily as you journey through green valleys, cornfields and vineyards. Corleone is a small town and commune of approximately 12,000 inhabitants in the province of Palermo in Sicily, Italy. Several Mafia bosses have come from Corleone, including Tommy Gagliano, Jack Dragna, Giuseppe Morello, Michele Navarra, Luciano Leggio, Leoluca Bagarella, Salvatore Riina and Bernardo Provenzano. It is also the birthplace of several fictional characters in The Godfather, including the eponymous Vito (Andolini) Corleone. The local mafia clan, the Corleonesi, led the Mafia in the 1980s and 1990s, and were the most violent and ruthless Mafia clan ever to take control of the organization. The Corleone municipality has an area of 22,912 hectares (56,620 acres) with a population density of 49 inhabitants per square kilometer. Located in an inland area of the mountain, in a valley between the Rocca di Maschi, the Castello Soprano and the Castello Sottano. Corleone is located at 542 meters (1,778 feet) above sea level. Many interesting sights of nature include the Gorges of the Dragon in the vicinity of the Ficuzza forest and the Due Rocche Waterfalls. 

Discover Palermo in Unmatched Luxury Step into a world of elegance and exploration with CruiserCar, the world’s first 9-seater Cabriolet. This isn’t just a tour; it’s an emotional journey through Palermo’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture—crafted entirely around your preferences, all in the incredible atmosphere of Palermo during Christmas. Your Adventure, Your Way Start at the iconic Palermo Cathedral, where centuries of architectural brilliance come to life. From there: Ascend Monte Pellegrino and experience breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea, all from the serene heights of this historic mountain. Relax at Mondello Beach and unwind on pristine white sands, enjoying the crystal-clear waters that make this beach a local favorite. Indulge in Onboard Luxury As you explore, savor the finer things in life with our selection of Prosecco and Pandoro or Panettone, refreshing drinks, and various snacks—all served onboard as you enjoy the open-air experience of our luxurious Cabriolet. Every detail is designed to elevate your journey, making each moment as pleasurable as possible. Tailored to You Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking to experience Palermo in the most exclusive way, our tour is fully customizable to your interests. Our expert guide will enrich your journey with captivating stories and local legends, turning each stop into a memorable experience. Book Your Exclusive Experience This unique, luxury tour is in high demand, and spots are limited. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Palermo like never before. Secure your place today and embark on an unforgettable journey through one of Italy’s most captivating cities.

Explore the ghoulish remains of friars and luminaries at Palermo’s Capuchin Catacombs on a 3-hour sightseeing tour. Wander along dank corridors through a vast human library of mummified bodies. Inaugurated in 1599, when Capuchin monks discovered that their catacombs contained a mysterious preservative that could mummify the dead, the goal of the site is to reflect on the fragility of life and consider the pettiness of worldly goods. Some 8,000 bodies of men and women were ultimately buried in the catacombs, including the mummy of friar Silvestro of Gubbio, the first body to be buried in the catacombs. The corpses are divided into categories, such as friars, virgins, and professors, and often recognizable by their decaying clothing. As you walk through the corridors, you will see ghastly bodies that include the mummified corpse of the painter Velazquez. Emerge from the gruesome catacombs and travel to Monreale, 6 miles (10 kilometers) from Palermo. Here you will swap corpses for gold and marble as you visit the 12th-century Arab-Norman Cathedral, one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in the world. End your tour at the Benedictine Cloister, completed at the turn of the 13th century. Wander around the beautiful garden, surrounded by delicate arches and white marble columns.

Get into the driver's seat and experience the Italian Dolce Vita like never before with a vintage Fiat 500 city sightseeing tour. Cruise the historic streets of Palermo in a colorful and classic Fiat 500, winding through ancient alleyways and bustling markets. Decide if you want to drive or let your guide take the wheel, and choose to visit either the town of Mondello or Monreale. Begin at the iconic Porta di Palermo, the historic gateway to the city that sets the tone for your adventure. Pay homage to the heroes of Palermo at the Murale Falcone e Borsellino, a striking mural honoring the two judges who bravely fought against the Mafia. Drive through Porta Felice, the historic city gate that opens onto the Foro Italico with stunning views of the waterfront and the Tyrrhenian Sea. Continue to the tranquil square of Piazza Marina and see one of Europe’s largest and oldest trees. Then, soak up the lively atmosphere of Mercato Ballarò, where locals shop for fresh produce and traditional Sicilian delicacies. Admire the intricate details of Baroque architecture, sculptures, and fountains of Chiesa del Gesù, Chiesa di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria, and Fontana Pretoria, and be enchanted by the heart of Palermo in Quattro Canti, a true testament to Palermo’s rich history and culture. Marvel at the majestic Palermo Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece that showcases a mix of Arab, Norman, and Baroque influences, before completing the tour at Teatro Massimo, Italy's largest opera house and a symbol of Palermo's cultural vitality. Depending on the option chosen, you will visit the town of Mondello or Monreale. If you chose Mondello, visit this iconic seaside town, renowned for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Take in the dramatic views of Monte Pellegrino in the background as you explore. If you chose Monreale, get swept away by the panoramic views and timeless beauty of this hillside gem. With panoramic views overlooking Palermo, experience the perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and local culture.

Excursion program: meeting with your driver at your hotel, B&B, cruise ship in the morning at 08.30 am, departure with New and comfortable van from Palermo. Corleone, arrival scheduled for 10:00 am, visit to the Anti-Mafia Museum and to the places that inspired the protagonist of the famous novel by Mario Puzzo and the film Don Vito Corleone. The museum guide will explain everything from the birth of "Cosa Nostra" in America to the present day, you will see a part of the museum dedicated to the Maxi Trial and to the judges Heroes Falcone and Borsellino. You will have lunch if you want in a local restaurant or bar. If possible you will assist to the preparation of ricotta and sheep cheeses in a local dairy. After departure to Monreale , visit of the Cathedral . Return to the hotel in the afternoon around 15:30.

Explore the Monreale Cathedral and its cloister with a combined ticket and audio guide. Admire the cathedral's stunning mosaics and the cloister's beautiful fountain and lush vegetation. Built during the 12th century by William II of Sicily, Monreale Cathedral is one of the most important examples of Norman architecture in the world. The cathedral is decorated with stunning mosaics, which depict scenes from the Bible and the lives of the saints. The cathedral is also home to a beautiful cloister, which is considered one of the finest in Italy. With four sides of 26 arches long and supported by 228 columns, the Benedictine Cloister speaks of the prowess of Arab and Byzantine artisans. Explore each pillar of the cloister as it unfolds scenes from the Bible and the lives of the saints. The cloister is also home to a beautiful fountain, which is surrounded by lush vegetation, ideal for a leisure stroll.

You'll take a guided tour of Monreale, which is just 5 kilometers from Palermo, at 310 meters above sea level on the hill of Mount Caputo. The visit will start from the cathedral, the symbol of the town, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage monument in 2012. The cathedral is undoubtedly an architectural masterpiece of the 12th-century, in which different styles are linked together: the architecture of northern Europe, Romanesque art and Arabic art. Outside, it is richly decorated by two bronze doors, the first from Bonanno da Pisa and the second by Barisano di Trani, who also sculpted the doors of the cathedrals of Ravello and Trani. The interior is illuminated by magnificent gold mosaics that culminate in the Christ Pantocrator in the apsidal basin as the highest expression of figurative art. Your tour continues with the visit to the ancient Benedictine monastery and cloister, which flank the cathedral, and a look at the beautiful sight overlooking the valley and the golden basin of orange and citrus groves.

After departing from Cefalù, you will make your way to the village of Monreale. Once there you will begin by visiting its cathedral, whose interior is completely covered with marble and splendid mosaics. You will then visit the cloister of the Benedictines, which are located on the south side of the cathedral. Each side has 26 arches resting on columns, and include narrative cycles from both the Old and New Testaments. Following that, you'll continue your excursion to Palermo, where you will visit the cathedral. It was formerly a mosque in Islamic times, before being converted into a cathedral church by Roberto the Guiscardo after the conquest of Palermo. You'll then wander through the old town along the typical "Capo" market and the Quattro Canti and Pretoria squares. Free time for lunch and leisure will then follow in the famous Piazza Verdi, the square of the Massimo Theatre. In the afternoon, you'll enjoy a panoramic tour by bus for an optional visit to the Capuchin catacombs, before your tour concludes with your return to Cefalù.