Tour
7.7 km
3h
23 audios
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Italy… just the name makes you dream. What a beautiful country! Is it the inviting Mediterranean climate, the irresistible food, or the endless history that keep drawing us back? It’s tough to choose just one reason, as every corner of Italy has its own charm and soul. Far from the usual favorites like Venice, Rome, or Florence, the Sicilian capital hasn’t always had the best reputation. Long weighed down by clichés about mafia and poverty, Palermo has slowly reawakened, and today, it knows how to win hearts. With 2,700 years of history shaped by Romans, Arabs, Normans, and Spaniards, the city is a fascinating mix of cultures, colours, and contrasts you won’t soon forget. Follow the rhythm of its daily life, sample the street food, breathe in the tempting aromas of the markets, listen to the melodic chatter of the locals, and discover a heritage that might just surprise you. Forget what you thought you knew, and let Palermo lead you, step by step, into a world full of unexpected beauty.
A real favourite among visitors, Albergheria is probably the oldest neighbourhood in Palermo. It was born on land once rich in water, crossed by the ancient Kemonia river, and over the centuries it became the seat of power for different rulers. Read more
With a name like Santissimo Salvatore, you can already expect grandeur—and the church more than delivers. Built from 1682 on the site of a former 11th-century Benedictine convent, it is one of Palermo’s finest examples of Sicilian Baroque. Read more
Welcome to the very heart of Palermo! Officially it’s Piazza Vigliena, but everyone calls it Quattro Canti : the “Four Corners.” Read more
Here we are, right in the heart of Palermo’s old town, on Piazza Pretoria. And it’s not the palaces and churches around you that made this spot famous, but the spectacular fountain in the middle. Read more
Welcome to Piazza San Domenico, one of Palermo’s most emblematic squares, opening right onto Via Roma, one of the city’s main streets. The square took shape in the 18th century, during the period of Austrian rule, when it was known as the “Imperial Square.” Read more
It’s hard to explore Palermo without stepping into Il Capo, one of the city’s liveliest and most picturesque neighborhoods. Built on the old bed of the Papireto River, later filled in, the area grew around its market, active since the 17th century and still one of the most popular in town. Read more
Italy, the land of commedia dell’arte and the birthplace of opera, boasts a fine selection of theatres, found in both its biggest cities and its smallest towns. While Palermo is home to at least a dozen, our favourite has to be the Teatro Massimo Vittorio Emanuele. Read more
If you love to explore, reflect, and understand, then the Regional Archaeological Museum of Palermo is just the place to satisfy your curiosity. It’s been housed in the former Olivella convent since 1866, and features a remarkable collection that traces Sicilian history from prehistory all the way to Roman times. Read more
A religious gem in the heart of Palermo, the Oratorio del Rosario is best known for its stunning 17th-century interior. Lavishly decorated with wall plaster known as stucco, this sacred space offers a visual experience that’s a bit over the top, but above all, masterfully crafted. Read more
Welcome to La Loggia, one of Palermo’s oldest and most authentic neighborhoods. Tucked between the port and the Vucciria market, it has always been a place of trade and exchange. Since the Middle Ages, Italian and foreign merchants have gathered here, and its very name comes from an old loggia, a building where deals were made and meetings held. Read more
Green spaces are rare in Palermo, but Piazza Marina is home to one of the city’s most charming: the Giardino Garibaldi. Created in the 19th century by the architect Basile, the garden blends a touch of romance with a slightly wild atmosphere. Read more
A blend of austerity and elegance, Palazzo Abatellis blends into its surroundings, until you look up at its façade or step closer to its finely crafted entrance. Built in the 15th century in a mix of Catalan Gothic and Renaissance styles, the building once belonged to Francesco Abatellis, the prefect of Palermo, who used it as his private residence. Read more
A meeting point between land and sea, the Foro Italico is a beautiful promenade where people come to relax, get some fresh air, read a book, or sit and reflect while gazing out at the endless stretch of blue water. These simple pleasures are the result of a long and complex history. Read more
Slightly apart from the rest of the city, yet only steps from the sea, La Kalsa is a neighbourhood with an ancient soul that many visitors overlook. Its origins go back to the Islamic rule of Palermo, when the city’s emirs and their government made this area their home. The name “La Kalsa” comes from the Arabic Al Khalisa, meaning “the pure one” or “the chosen”, a name that reflects the neighbourhood’s original importance and prestige. Read more
With its 80 churches and chapels, Palermo fully embraces its identity as a deeply religious city. While many of these buildings may sometimes look alike, a few still manage to stand out, like the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, built in the 13th century, in the historic Kalsa district. Read more
Villa Giulia is one of Palermo’s prettiest green escapes. Created in 1775 in a neoclassical style, this public garden was named after Giulia Guevara, the wife of Viceroy Marcantonio Colonna. Free to enter and wonderfully romantic, it’s a peaceful spot filled with tall palm trees, centuries-old specimens, and the scent of citrus trees in bloom. Read more
In Palermo, it’s easy to pass by a grand palace without even realising it. Modest in appearance, with no flashy signs to draw the eye, Palazzo Gangi has earned a quiet reputation. Read more
The Chiesa della Martorana, also known as Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio, is unlike any other church in Palermo. Rooted in the Greek-Byzantine tradition, it’s one of the city’s most dazzling and unique treasures. Read more
You’re now just a few steps from the Church of San Cataldo. This small yet striking church was built in the 12th century by Maione of Bari, Grand Admiral to William I, King of Sicily during the Norman era. In 1182, it was granted to a community of Benedictine monks, who turned it into a hospice for the sick. Read more
The Chiesa del Gesù was the first place of worship built by the Jesuit Catholic congregation in Palermo, back in 1564. Severely damaged during the Second World War, the church underwent several major restorations before it could welcome worshippers once again Read more
If you keep going straight along Piazza Ballarò, which opens up just to your right, a little further down you’ll find one of Palermo’s most lively and colourful markets: the Mercato Ballarò. Here it’s a true festival of sounds, smells, and colours — an atmosphere that throws you right into the city’s popular soul Read more
The Norman Palace is one of Palermo’s unmissable landmarks, whether you’re here for a quick visit or a longer stay. Standing on a strategic rise in the old city, it brings to life the island’s multicultural and sometimes turbulent past. Read more
Whichever city you’re in, you're likely to come across a cathedral, but Palermo’s stands out from the crowd, just a short walk from Via Matteo Bonello. With its striking Arab-Norman architecture, Palermo Cathedral is unlike any other on the island. Read more
Vous avez encore un peu de temps à Palermo ? Découvrez tous nos conseils pour compléter votre visite. Read more
Discover Palermo with app
An interactive guide through the most beautiful streets, squares, and districts
23 fun audioguides full of historical facts, anecdotes, and legends
Experience something truly unique aboard a private boat, exploring the crystal-clear waters of Capo Gallo while enjoying delicious snacks and refreshing drinks
If you’re into museums, be sure to stop by the Regional Gallery of Sicily, located in Palazzo Abatellis. This Catalan Gothic palace houses a remarkable collection of Sicilian art. You could also head to Palermo’s Contemporary Art Museum inside Palazzo Riso. Archaeology lovers shouldn’t miss the Antonio Salinas Archaeological Museum, one of the biggest of its kind in Italy.
If you’re looking for something a little more unusual, the Capuchin Catacombs are a truly unique site on the island. This underground cemetery holds over 8,000 bodies, offering a very different glimpse of the city. Just a heads-up, it can get chilly down there, even if it’s hot outside, so bring a jacket or jumper to stay warm and ensure proper mummy preservation.
A bit further from the city centre, the fascinating Zisa Palace is well worth the trip. Built in the 12th century for King William I, it’s a fine example of Arab-Norman architecture. You’ll find Islamic-inspired mosaics, latticework windows, honeycomb-patterned ceilings, hunting scene paintings, and various collections of tools, pottery, weapons, and decorative items. A surprising visit, not to be missed.
Among the must-sees around Palermo is the small town of Monreale, just 10 kilometres from the city centre. Its fame lies in its breathtaking cathedral, entirely covered in Byzantine mosaics. The town also offers stunning panoramic views over the city.
If the heat is starting to get to you and you’re in the mood for a swim, head to the seaside town of Mondello, just 20 minutes from Palermo. Expect crystal-clear waters, soft sand, and excellent seafood restaurants, perfect for a relaxed Sicilian beach day.
If you’re after the region’s most iconic beach, you’ll need to go a little further to reach Cefalù. This charming village is one of the most popular spots on the island, thanks to its perfect blend of nature, history, and culture. Towering above the medieval centre, you’ll find a cathedral-fortress, a smbol of Norman power, as well as the ruins of an ancient castle. All of it set along a gorgeous beach, watched over by the famous Cefalù rock.
One of the top excursions from Palermo is the trip to the Egadi Islands. This protected archipelago off Sicily’s west coast is pure paradise, with white sandy beaches, clear turquoise water, and picture-perfect scenery. First, head to Trapani by train or car, then catch a ferry or private boat to the islands. Whether you’re into diving, lazing on the beach, cycling, swimming, or simply soaking up the scenery, you’re sure to find your perfect escape.
Discover the treasures of Sicily on an immersive day journey filled with historic landmarks, delicious tastings, and unforgettable culinary experiences
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Description:No visit to Palermo would be complete without seeing the iconic Cathedral, a masterpiece of Arab-Norman architecture. Dating back to 1185, it’s one of the city’s oldest monuments and one that has remarkably stood the test of time. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this extraordinary building will leave you in awe with its striking design—unlike almost anything you’ve ever seen—and its magnificent…
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Hotel Description: What a joy it is to wake up at “Tetide Home,” where you’ll feel…
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Location: Via Enzo ed Elvira Sellerio 38, Palermo Piano 4, Interno dx, 90141, Palermo, Italy
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To explore the Sicilian capital, the best way is to wander its charming narrow streets on foot. With Navaway’s self-guided audio tour, you can easily discover all of Palermo’s hidden treasures — from its architectural wonders to its culinary delights. You’ll visit the magnificent Palace of the Normans, once the seat of power for Sicily’s Norman kings. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2015, it stands alongside the city’s Cathedral, a stunning blend of Norman, Arab, and Baroque styles. The tour will also lead you through Palermo’s many beautiful churches and to its vibrant markets, including Il Capo and Ballarò — the oldest and liveliest in the city.
With nearly 3,000 years of history, Palermo is a city of a thousand contrasts, shaped by the passage of great civilizations — Greeks, Romans, Muslims, and Normans. Its architectural heritage is truly remarkable. The city’s majestic monuments coexist with lively local markets full of unique character and charm. To soak up the authentic Sicilian atmosphere, wander through Palermo’s vibrant markets — Ballarò, Il Capo, or La Vucciria — and take the opportunity to sample the city’s delicious Sicilian street food.
Wandering through Palermo’s maze of narrow streets can be tiring. Need a break? Here are a few perfect spots to catch your breath. Between the Palace of the Normans and the Cathedral, the **Villa Bonanno Park** is a lovely garden filled with palm trees and shaded benches — ideal for a relaxing pause between visits!
Garibaldi Garden, located on Piazza Marina, is home to palms, magnolias, giant banyan trees, and even a massive ficus imported from New Zealand — said to be one of the largest trees in Europe. Quite the natural sunshade in summer!
To escape the bustle of the city center, **Villa Giulia** offers a peaceful Italian-style garden, rich with lush Mediterranean vegetation and refreshing citrus scents. And finally, by the sea, the **Foro Italico** is a beautiful promenade where you can take a leisurely stroll, read a book, or simply meditate while gazing at the endless blue horizon.
Thanks to its typically Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot, dry summers, Palermo can be visited year-round. However, the best times to go are from April to June and in September/October, when temperatures hover around a pleasant 25°C.
The Quattro Canti area, in the heart of the old town, is the perfect place to stay in Palermo. Located at the crossroads of two of the city’s main streets — Via Maqueda and Corso Vittorio Emanuele — it’s ideal for exploring the city’s most beautiful monuments. It’s also easy to reach other parts of Palermo or even other Sicilian towns using public transport.
For a more budget-friendly option, consider the Albergheria district, south of the historic center, perfect for those who want to stay close to the old town without breaking the bank. If you prefer a relaxing stay by the crystal-clear waters of one of the island’s most beautiful beaches, lodging near Mondello Beach is ideal, with Palermo accessible by bus in under 30 minutes.
Being the largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily offers several ideal bases for discovering its many wonders. We recommend spending at least a week, with 10 to 15 days being perfect — especially if you also want to visit the Aeolian Islands. Crossing the island from east to west takes a little over four hours. Most flights arrive in Palermo, making it a natural starting or ending point for your trip.
In the south, plan a stop in the Agrigento region to visit the magnificent Valley of the Temples right when it opens, avoiding the crowds and the summer heat. On the eastern coast, you can choose between Syracuse, an open-air museum; Catania, Sicily’s second-largest city at the foot of Mount Etna; or Taormina, perched on a natural terrace with stunning views of the sea and Europe’s most majestic active volcano, Etna, standing at 3,350 meters.
Palermo is a popular destination, attracting many tourists each year. Like any tourist city, some neighborhoods are less advisable and certain areas can feel like tourist traps. However, the city doesn’t pose any significant risks. Minor petty crime exists, but usual precautions are enough to stay safe. It’s wise to be a bit more vigilant in the narrow streets of the Kalsa and Brancaccio districts after dark.
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