Top 6 things to do in Palermo

Palermo… Just the word already has us dreaming. Capital of the Italian island in western Sicily, and founded by the Phoenicians, this place has a rich cultural heritage. Travellers love to stroll along the pedestrianised streets and admire the sun-drenched landscapes, spend afternoons on the fine sandy beaches and let themselves be rocked by the waves, eat in an enchanting restaurant, visit the monuments and buildings that are the pride of the locals… We could go on for hours, there are so many beautiful things. If you decide to spend a holiday in Palermo, here’s a short list of some of the things you can do to make your stay as enjoyable as possible.

What to do in Palermo

1. Palermo Cathedral

Category: Cultural

Description: It’s impossible to visit Palermo without seeing the legendary Cathedral, built in the Arab-Norman style. In fact, it is one of the oldest monuments (dating back to 1185) and one that has stood the test of time. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll be blown away by the robust architecture of this singular building, which resembles few other monuments you’ve seen in your life, as well as the magnificent Baroque paintings on the ceiling, which will have you dreaming by nightfall. During your visit, you’ll learn more about the era in question, and why the decision was taken to build the cathedral. Not to mention the opportunity to discover the tombs of the Norman kings who once ruled Sicily. The cathedral is open every day from 7am to 7pm, except Sundays when it opens at 8am.

2. The Norman Palace

Category: €€/Cultural

Description: After the cathedral, it’s now the turn of the Palazzo dei Normanni to take centre stage, one of the oldest royal palaces in Europe. It stands proudly on the city bridge, dominating Palermo with its mixed Arab-Norman architecture. Because of the city’s eventful history, and taking into account all the periods of domination it has undergone over the centuries, several “transformations and modifications” have been made to this thousand-faceted monument in each era. This makes it particularly unique. This is also a wonderful opportunity to visit the “Palatine Chapel of Palermo”, which harmoniously combines Romanesque, Byzantine and Arabic styles: you’ll soon realise this as you admire the marble designs and Byzantine mosaics. The fortress dates back to the 9th century and is now a royal residence, but above all the political centre of the country. Located in Piazza del Parlamento, the Norman Palace is open from 8.30am to 4.30pm every day except Sunday, from 8.30am to 9.30am and from 11.30am to 12.30pm.

3. Stroll around the city…and get to know Palermo’s street food

Category: €€/Gastronomic/Sporty

Description: Sometimes you just have to leave the car behind and set off on a walking tour to discover the city in question, where you’ve chosen to leave your suitcases for a while. Walking around Palermo? There’s no better way to discover Palermo! You’ll be able to take your best photos of the most beautiful buildings and landscapes. What’s more, the city has many pedestrianised streets, which will make your task easier and make you feel safer. Why not hire a bike and take the whole family off to explore? It’s an activity that children generally love, and it’s a great way to get some exercise while learning more about the place you’re visiting. And don’t forget that around midday, you can take a short break and visit the street-food outlets, which offer sweet and savoury local specialities. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to enjoy some arancini while admiring the scenery?

4. The Capuchin Catacombs

Category: €€/Insolite/Cultural

Description: Located just 20 minutes from Palermo Cathedral, in the “Capuchin” district, lies a more or less… Fascinating place. Only the bravest will have the will and curiosity to venture into these places: the Capuchin catacombs. In general, it’s the gangs of friends passing through Palermo and looking for an “unusual” activity to spice up their stay who venture here. This attraction takes you deep into the city’s underground passages to discover the mummies on display along the corridors. In all, there are at least 3,000 skeletons here – needless to say, it’s the largest collection of mummies in the world! During your guided tour, you’ll notice that the bodies have been arranged in precise rows, notably according to their social status and profession. It’s a place where the aura is heavy and ‘bizarre’. But visitors are always keen to visit, and generally come away a little shaken up, but having learned a great deal about the city’s ancient history.

5. Spend an afternoon at the beach

Category: €€/Sporty

Description: After something as special as a visit to the catacombs, why not opt for something a little softer? Palermo is famous for its seductive beaches, where you’ll be as happy as a lark. We highly recommend Mondelo, which offers not only a heavenly setting, but also serene calm. White sand and crystal-clear water, enhanced by fresh, purifying air… What more could you ask for? You can go there after lunch, and set up your parasol and beach towel. You’ll love the various water sports available in the area, such as windsurfing. It’s the perfect place to take a short break from exploring the city, and really take some time out for you and your family. A beautiful moment to share, isn’t it? And don’t forget to stay until sunset, when its warm rays will pierce the water in a sumptuous spectacle, caressing your face in the gentlest way possible.

6. Getting to the Teatro Massimo

Category: €€/Cultural

Description: Visiting Palermo also means getting a taste of Italian art in all its splendour. And for that, there’s nothing better than a visit to the largest opera house in Italy: the Teatro Massimo. Located in Piazza Giuseppe Verdi, it is open from 9.30am to 5pm every day. You’ll find halls full of presentations, and grandiose staircases leading to almost unbelievable galleries. Depending on the time of year you visit Palermo, you’ll be able to attend numerous concerts, ballets and operas, all showcasing art in its purest essence and in the most dignified way. Isn’t it captivating? Now’s the time to put on your finest attire and head to one of the most chic and sophisticated venues in the whole of Europe! It’s going to be a wonderful evening…