Things to do in
Piazza Bellini, Palermo

Piazza Bellini, Palermo: Our most recommended tours and activities

Palermo, tour tra monumenti unici e mercati colorati

Palermo, tour tra monumenti unici e mercati colorati

Immerse yourself in the main monuments of Palermo city center on this guided walking tour. Follow a local guide to discover history, legends and fascinating anecdotes about the daily life of Palermo and the Sicilians. You will get plenty of personalized tips on what to see and do during your stay in the city. You will meet your local guide a stone's throw from the Teatro Massimo, the largest in Italy and a symbol of Palermo's Belle Epoque and the legendary Florio Family. We will take a look inside the Cathedral of Palermo, a UNESCO heritage site. We will stroll through the lively "Capo" Market of Arab origin to see excellent seafood restaurants and make a short stop where you can taste the delights of Palermo's street food, one of the best in the world. We will stop in front of the incredible Fountain of Shame a few steps from the Ballarò market. Here you can enjoy the beautiful monasteries, churches and palaces that have made Palermo so famous. The tour ends at Quattro Canti, a panoramic square often used to shoot blockbuster movies and close to Piazza Bellini, one of the most unique squares in the city where you can taste one of the best coffees in the world.

From Taormina: Palermo and Cefalù Day Trip

From Taormina: Palermo and Cefalù Day Trip

This excursion offers a true Sicilian travel experience, discover the most important Arab-Norman monuments such as the Martorana church, the Cathedral, the Quattro Canti, Piazza Bellini and the Piazza Pretoria. Experience the vibrant, local market il Capo, with its colorful fruit, vegetable and the fish market at the heart of the city. Palermo is Sicily's cultural, economic and touristic capital. It is a city rich in history, culture, art, music and food. See for yourself why numerous tourists are attracted to the city for its good Mediterranean weather, its renowned gastronomy and restaurants, its Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque churches, palaces and buildings. Cefalù is a city and commune in the province of Palermo, located on the northern coast of Sicily, Italy on the Tyrrhenian Sea. Explore the Cathedral, started in 1131 in an Arab-Norman style architecture. Admire the exterior which is well preserved, and is largely decorated with interlacing pointed arches.

Best of Palermo Combo tour

Best of Palermo Combo tour

Explore the rich cultural tapestry of Palermo with this combined tour, blending the highlights of the city's architecture and history. Begin by delving into the heart of Palermo's historic center on a three-hour small group tour, marveling at Baroque and Normann-Arab style architecture. Admire iconic landmarks such as the Praetorian Square, home to the striking marble fountain and the historic Praetorian Palace. Continue your journey through Palermo's religious heritage with visits to the exterior of the Martorana Church and the awe-inspiring Cathedral of Palermo, showcasing centuries of architectural evolution. After immersing yourself in Palermo's cultural treasures, delve deeper into history with a guided tour of the Palazzo dei Normanni and its magnificent Cappella Palatina. Learn about over 800 years of Sicilian history as you explore the oldest royal residence in Europe, once the seat of Sicilian kings. Marvel at the exquisite blend of Islamic, Byzantine, and Norman influences in the Palatine Chapel, a testament to the diverse cultural exchanges of the medieval era. Your tour includes access to the palace's gardens, providing a tranquil retreat amidst the city's vibrant streets. With a total duration of 4.5 hours, this comprehensive experience offers the perfect blend of cultural immersion and historical exploration in the enchanting city of Palermo.

Cefalù: Palermo and Monreale Tour

Cefalù: Palermo and Monreale Tour

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.

Palermo: The only Cathedral Guided Tour with Scenic Views

Palermo: The only Cathedral Guided Tour with Scenic Views

Immerse yourself in Palermo's captivating tapestry of history and architecture on an enchanting tour that seamlessly blends a Palermo Cathedral exploration with a charming stroll through the city's most iconic sites. Embark on your adventure at Palermo Cathedral, a masterpiece of Norman design that stands as a timeless testament to the city's cultural and spiritual legacy. Guided by an expert, you'll venture both inside and out, delving into an atmosphere brimming with sacred significance and historical resonance. Marvel at the soaring vaulted ceilings that seem to touch the heavens, and the walls adorned with intricate marble and ornate inlays. Admire frescoes that narrate tales of faith and devotion, unveiling the artistic and spiritual heritage woven into every corner of this grand edifice. Next, venture to Piazza Bellini, home to the splendid Martorana and San Cataldo churches—architectural marvels to be admired from the exterior. As you step into the vibrant ambiance of Piazza Pretoria, famed for its "Shame Square" fountain due to its audacious statues, the experience will leave you spellbound. The journey carries on to Quattro Canti, Palermo's adorned symbolic crossroads. Just before the adventure continues to the Santa Caterina church, indulge in a sweet interlude, sampling one of Sicily's cherished delicacies—choose between a fresh pastry or a tantalizing cannolo. The pinnacle of our expedition awaits at the Church and Monastery of Santa Caterina D'Alessandria. This hidden gem nestled in the city's heart emanates beauty and spirituality, awaiting your discovery. Step into a haven of serenity and devotion, where Gothic arches and cross vaults rise with majestic grace. Within, intricate frescoes and embellishments recount stories of faith and virtue. Altars and side chapels adorned with sculptures and artworks captivate the eye and ignite the imagination. Culminate your journey with an ascent to the monastery's terraces, granting the finest panoramic view of the city. Behold Palermo's splendor unfold before you, embracing the fusion of sacredness and urban vitality. Capture souvenir photos from this vantage point, destined to amaze loved ones upon your return. Join us in an unforgettable odyssey through Palermo's cultural and architectural richness. Together, we'll unearth the city's hidden treasures, crafting enduring memories amidst its allure.

Scopri il Cuore di Palermo: arte, monumenti e mercati

Scopri il Cuore di Palermo: arte, monumenti e mercati

Discover the charm of the historic center of Palermo with an expert guide who will accompany you on a journey through history, art and tradition. Admire iconic monuments such as the Teatro Massimo, the Cathedral, before immersing yourself in the lively local markets, in search of authentic Sicilian delights. The tour begins with a visit to one of the most scenic squares in Palermo, the church of Sant'Ignazio with the archaeological museum, one of the most important in Italy. We will continue towards the grandiose Teatro Massimo, the largest opera house in Italy. Here, you will hear the fascinating ghostly legends that surround this historic place which is also a symbol of Belle Epoque Palermo and the Florio family. Along the way, I will tell you about myths and legends of Sicily, such as the mysterious sect of the Beati Paoli and the stories linked to Santa Rosalia, the patron saint of the city known affectionately as "La Santuzza". We will take a walk through the lively Capo Market, of Arab origin. Here you will have the opportunity to taste some of Palermo's delicacies, from the best street food (from Arianna Dainotti, winner of Alessandro Borghese's 4 restaurants) to the Sicilian desserts of the "Angeliche", enjoying an authentic local gastronomic experience. We will conclude the tour at the majestic Palermo Cathedral, a UNESCO site dating back to the early 12th century. Marvel at its iconic bell towers and discover the architectural evolution it has undergone over the centuries, from a pagan temple to a mosque to a Christian church. Inside are the tombs of kings and emperors and the spectacular sundial.

Palermo tour: alla scoperta del centro storico

Palermo tour: alla scoperta del centro storico

(Italian Only) We will meet in front of the Teatro Massimo, in the center of Palermo, to start an evening tour of the Sicilian capital. Ready to immerse yourself in a unique and timeless atmosphere? We will start by admiring the famous Teatro Massimo, the largest opera house in Italy. In front of its imposing facade, (often a set of famous films) we will talk about the history of the Florio family, promoters of the cultural and artistic transformation of Palermo during the Belle Époque as well as the construction of the theater itself. We will pass in front of the Opera dei Pupi theater, where the most famous performances of the Sicilian puppet tradition are staged. Did you know that this art has been declared a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by Unesco? We will head towards Piazza Olivella, where the Regional Archaeological Museum and the church of Sant'Ignazio are located, one of the most sumptuous Baroque temples in the city. Not far away is the birthplace of Santa Rosalia, proclaimed patron saint of the city by popular acclaim for having freed it from the plague. We will cross via Roma, a monumental and busy nineteenth-century street full of theaters and shops to arrive at piazza San Domenico dominated by the imposing mass of the church of the same name, the Pantheon of the city. Inside you can admire many tombs and funeral monuments of illustrious Sicilians including that of Giovanni Falcone. We will enter the Vucciria, the city's celebrated ancient market immortalized in a famous painting by Renato Guttuso. We will then head to the Quattro Canti, a scenic Baroque square, the center of the ancient city. Next to it is Piazza Pretoria with its renowned Renaissance fountain and Palazzo delle Aquile, the center of civil power in the city since '400. We will arrive in Piazza Bellini, entirely surrounded by ancient monuments including the characteristic church of San Cataldo with the three red Arab-style domes, symbol of the city and the church and monastery of Santa Caterina where typical Sicilian sweets are still produced according to the ancient recipes of the nuns. We will be able to stop for a coffee in the historic Torrefazione Stagnitta before reaching Piazza Croce dei Vespri, famous for the famous Sicilian revolution of 1200. We will admire Palazzo Ganci famous for being the famous set of the film The Leopard and Palazzo Bonnet, an imposing palace from the '300 today home to the Modern Art Gallery. We will cross a neighborhood full of young artisans' shops to conclude our evening tour in Piazza San Francesco where the majestic fourteenth-century church stands out, the oratory of San Lorenzo where the stolen Caravaggio was located and where the Antica Focacceria San Francesco has been located since point of reference of popular Palermo cuisine.

Palermo: Private Baroque and Aristocracy Guided Walking Tour

Palermo: Private Baroque and Aristocracy Guided Walking Tour

From the Baroque heart of the I Quattro Canti you will travel the ancient axis of the city to reach and visit the Palazzo Alliata di Villafranca, one of the richest residences of the Palermitan aristocracy, which among its admirably restored halls preserves a beautiful Crucified Christ by Van Dick. Then on the way to the famous fountain Pretoria or “della Vergogna”, which will be the scene of popular stories. In piazza Bellini you will admire the domes of San Cataldo from the XII century. from the Order of the Knights of the Holy Sepulcher. A particularly interesting visit will follow, the Church of Santa Caterina recently returned to the city but for centuries reserved only for young cloistered nuns, girls of the highest aristocracy who foreclosed lived among altars made with lapis lazuli and precious stones in contrast with the Baroque and the Spanish society of Palermo. You will then walk the alleys of the Guilds of craftsmen and judges that accompanied the “Inquisiti” to Death. You will be introduced to the stories of “the Leopard” admiring from the outside the terrace of the Gangi palace, location of the famous Visconti film, to reach the square decorated by the splendid Gothic rose window of the church of San Francesco d’Assisi. From there you will discover the richest and darkest centuries of Spanish Sicily, reaching Piazza Marina to admire a centuries-old ficus magnolioides of the Garibaldi Garden, once a place reserved for the Condemnations and Tortures of the Holy Inquisition. Here will end the walk between traditional ice cream and cannoli in the district of the old port La Cala.

Palermo: family tour a fun treasure hunt to explore the town

Palermo: family tour a fun treasure hunt to explore the town

A journey through time and the city’s history, going back thousands of years: from the ancient past to the present day! As you solve the riddles and look out for the characters, the itinerary will lead you to the city’s most important landmarks, like the cathedral and Piazza Pretoria. Itinerary: - Cathedral, the main church of Palermo, exemple of eclitism; the Cassaro, the main and oldest street. Four Corners, the baroque centre; Fontana della Vergogna, a strange name for an amazin fountain; Piazza Bellini, a three thousand years old square; Piazza Rivoluzione and the Genie of Palermo.

Palermo: Historical Center Walking Tour with Rooftop Views

Palermo: Historical Center Walking Tour with Rooftop Views

Discover Palermo from above on a guided walking tour. Take in the city's top attractions, including picturesque piazzas, grand churches, and Palermo Cathedral. Explore the rooftops to see the city from up high. Learn about Palermo's history and the Sicilian tradition of baking in convents. Meet your guide at the entrance to Piazza San Domenico, before heading along Corso Vittorio Emanuele, where you can admire many architectural gems, including the impressive Palermo Cathedral with its mix of styles. Then, head to Piazza Bellini and the Roman Catholic Church of Saint Catherine of Alexandria. Marvel at its Renaissance, Baroque, and Rococo features. Discover this former convent's baking roots in the Dolceria, a project aimed at rediscovering the ancient Sicilian tradition of baking in convents. Next, get a whole new perspective on Palermo by climbing up to the roof of the convent of Saint Catherine of Alexandria, where you can admire breathtaking city views. Take in the beauty of the dome of the Baroque Chiesa del Santissimo Salvatore church and the Cathedral from up high. Finally, visit the enchanting Piazza Pretoria, also known as the square of shame, in the middle of the historical center of Palermo. Admire its majestic marble fountain featuring sixteen nude statues of nymphs, humans, mermaids, and satyrs. Then, finish your tour back at the meeting point.

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