Top attractions in Palermo
Top sights in Palermo
Top 9 things to do in Palermo
Palermo, Sicily is colorful, loud, historic, and never short of things to see and do! Adventure is palpable in this unique city. Be sure to squeeze these tourist sights in between the exploration.
1. Orto Botanico di Palermo
This wonderland is not only a botanical garden, but also a prestigious research and educational facility belonging to the University of Palermo.
2. The Zisa
This Moorish castle derives its name from the Arab word “dear” or “splendid.” Completely unique to the region, the castle is a must-see with a fascinating history to explore.
3. Stadio Renzo Barbera
Football fans, rejoice! In Palermo, soccer is life. Catch your favorite team away from home or cheer with the locals.
4. Quattro Canti
Quattro Canti is some of the earliest urban planning in Europe. Four impressive Baroque buildings line the square, representing the 4 seasons, 4 Spanish kings and 4 patron saint.
5. Palazzo dei Normanni
It's the oldest royal residence in all of Europe. Today it is the seat of the regional parliament of Sicily, but the most impressive Arab-Byzantine rooms are open to tour.
6. Palermo Cathedral
The Palermo Cathedral was made for the architecture buff who will be able to spot Norman, Moorish, Gothic, Baroque and Neoclassical influence all in the same incredible structure.
7. Cappella Palatina
This church is sometimes called the “palace church,” and it's nothing short of regal inside. Prepare to be awestruck gazing up at the Saracen arches covered in Byzantine mosaics.
8. Teatro Massimo
Structurally celebrated for its perfect acoustics, Teatro Massimo is also the third largest opera house in all of Europe.
9. Catacombe dei Cappuccini
Creepy tourist destination or incredible historical document? These Palermo catacombs are sure to be memorable to say the least.
Frequently asked questions about Palermo
What top attractions are a must-see in Palermo?
The must-see attractions in Palermo are:
See all must-see sights in PalermoWhat are the top things to do in Palermo this week?
The top things to do in Palermo are:
- Palermo Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour: 24-Hour Ticket
- Palermo 3-Hour Street Food and History Walking Tour
- Palermo: Full Day in Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples
- Sicily: Monreale and Cefalù Half Day Tour from Palermo
- Segesta, Erice and Salt Pans Full-Day Excursion from Palermo
Which tours in Palermo are taking additional COVID-19 precautions?
These experiences in Palermo are taking additional COVID-19 precautions:
See all Palermo tours on GetYourGuidePlanning Your Visit
Palermo Day Trips: Take a Bus to The Beach
Palermo beaches are a must! Mondello is the nearest and easiest to reach by Palermo bus #806.
Walk Everywhere
It’s true for most European cities, but especially Sicily’s regional capital. Start in the Old City; admire the architecture and take spontaneous breaks in the many squares.
Good to know
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- Language
- Italian
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- Currency
- Euro (€)
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- Time Zone
- UTC (+01:00)
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- Country Code
- +39
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- Best time to visit
- If you can wait, try to plan your visit for September, when the temperatures are more bearable, the summer crowds are dying down, but the water is still warm and pleasant.
Top Attractions in Palermo
Things to Do in Palermo
Other Sightseeing Options in Palermo
Want to discover all there is to do in Palermo? Click here for a full list.
What people are saying about Palermo
A tour that becomes a real lesson on the history of the mafia, on Sicily, on Palermo. Absolutely to be experienced if you pass by this city. The guide is very good at keeping attention high, at making many dynamics understood, at answering questions. Because the mafia affects everyone and for this reason it is our duty to become aware of it.
The tour is a must for all Palermo visitors and upright people. What a handful of students began is today one of the best anti-mafia organizations Italy has to offer. If you can do the tour in Italian, you might be lucky enough to meet guide Cloe, who provides many private details about the history of AddioPizzo.
Seriously one of the best walking tours I’ve ever taken. Probably the best. Our guide Linda was exceptional - she told the story of the Addio Pizzo movement with such passion! I loved hearing her personal stories too. I will recommend this tour to EVERYONE I know!
Fabrizio was an excellent guide - knowledgeable, great English and very innovative when obstacles in his way e.g. churches changing mass time. 3 hours flashed by in now time and we really enjoyed it! Definitely recommend him as a walking tour guide:-) Mignon
Michael was great and the sites beautiful! I recommend it!
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