If you’re planning a trip to Sicily but have limited time, I have the perfect itinerary to help you make the most of your experience. Palermo, an affordable and lively city, serves as an excellent base for exploring both its vibrant streets and the stunning nearby destinations beyond its borders. We spent six days in Palermo, which was the ideal amount of time for a short yet fulfilling Italian getaway. While Sicily has so much more to offer across the island, we found that staying in Palermo allowed us to maximize our trip without feeling rushed.
Taormina and Catania are among Sicily’s most famous destinations, gaining even more recognition as the backdrop of The White Lotus. While we considered staying there, it was a bit beyond our budget this time. However, it’s high on our list for our next visit. If you have more time to explore, I’d recommend spending around five days in each half of the island, or booking a road trip to truly soak in all that Sicily has to offer. We fell in love with Sicily so much that we’re already planning a future road trip to uncover more of its hidden gems.
Let’s get into it!
Palermo, Sicily Travel Guide:
1. Transportation
Arrival and Departure Information
Arrival: We flew into Naples and then took a overnight ferry to Palermo from Naples Beverello Port. Flying into Palermo is also an option from Naples, but taking the ferry happened to be the more affordable option. *We used Grimaldi Lines, but keep in mind if you want a private room and bed, you need to specifically book a room, otherwise you will have a general admission ticket and be sleeping on lounge chairs with 100+ strangers…It wasn’t so bad 🙂
Departure: To get home, we took a train (yes a train) from Sicily back to Naples. Book HERE
If you’re looking to explore nearby cities or destinations just outside the city center, buses are your go-to option.
Once you’re in Palermo, though, most attractions are within walking distance, and walking is the perfect way to discover the city’s hidden streets and vibrant atmosphere. The Historic Center is where you’ll want to be, and from here, you can easily stroll to nearly every corner of Palermo.
Alberto and I love walking, so we may be a bit biased, but definitely check your maps to gauge how far your destinations are from your accommodation. We stayed just outside the city center, near the train station, but still enjoyed walking in since it only took a short time.
For longer trips, like heading to Cefalù, you’ll want to hop on the train.
2. Accommodation
We stayed near the train station for easy access to day trips outside the city. We stayed at B&B Central Stations, which I highly recommend because of the space, as well as the daily breakfast coupons they provide for the cafe below the apartment.
3. Mangia!
4. Must-try Foods:
- Cannoli: A crispy, fried pastry shell filled with sweet ricotta cream. A Sicilian classic!
- Arancini: Deep-fried rice balls with various fillings, including meats, vegetables, and cheeses.
- Caponata: A rich eggplant-based dish with a flavorful, slightly sweet and tangy sauce. If you’re an eggplant lover like me, this will be a dream…I’m craving it just thinking about it!
- Sfogliatelle: A flaky pastry shell filled with rich chocolate or creamy filling that crumbles in your mouth, followed by a soft, sweet center that melts seamlessly.
5. Let’s Talk Restaurants
In Palermo, we were pleasantly surprised with the style of dining they offer, where you can choose small plates or tapas-style dishes from a set menu, and it usually includes a drink, often an aperitif like spritz or wine. It’s a casual and social dining experience where you get a taste of various dishes at a set price. It’s great for sampling local specialties!
6. So Fresh, So Good
If you’re looking to satisfy your appetite with the freshest seafood straight from the Tyrrhenian Sea, vibrant produce bursting with flavor, and cannoli filled right before your eyes, then Palermo is the place to be. The city is home to some of the best fresh food markets, which take over the streets throughout the week, offering an endless variety of delicious and affordable options. Alongside the incredible food, you’ll be greeted by warm, hardworking business owners eager to serve you until you can’t eat another bite!
There are several markets scattered throughout the city, but we found ourselves at Mercato del Ballarò and Mercato del Capo.
Mercato del Ballarò
We first explored Mercato del Ballarò during our Mafia tour, which led us through the market along the way to one of our stops. While the market was a bit overwhelming at first, it was so packed with energy, flavors, and culture, that you could end up wandering through its stalls for hours.
Mercato del Capo
For a more relaxed food market experience, we had our sights set on Mercato del Capo, where we enjoyed an incredible fresh seafood lunch. After ordering at the booths, you can find tables nearby to indulge in your meal right there.
*Before heading out, be sure to check the market hours, as they can vary throughout the week and may be affected by local holidays.
7. Sip & Lounge
As college students, one thing we really admired about Palermo was the lively presence of other young travelers. The city has plenty of laid-back spots to grab a drink, and the nightlife has a social, welcoming vibe. Come evening, people gathered outside bars, chatting and making new connections. It was a fun, easygoing way to meet fellow travelers and soak in the city’s energy.
- City Lounge Bar (Owner was the sweetest, and fellow New Yorker)
- Drunks
- La Bodeguita Del Mojito
- Aperol Spritz come in to go cups along via Vittorio Emanuele which you can grab throughout your adventure of the city
- Bonus: Drink an Aperol at each corner of Quattro Canti
Must-see in Palermo
Historic Center of Palermo:
Think of this as the city’s old town, filled with historic landmarks, local shops, and delicious food options. It’s the heart of Palermo’s culture and a great starting point for exploring the city.
Quattro Canti
Also known as the “Four Corners,” this intersection along Via Vittorio Emanuele marks the city center. It’s a fantastic spot to begin your journey through Palermo’s rich history and vibrant streets.
Teatro Massimo (Palermo’s Opera House)
We took a tour of this magnificent opera house, but if you’re lucky, you might catch a live performance during your stay. Even if you don’t, simply sitting on the grand steps and admiring its beauty is an experience in itself.
Palermo Cathedral
Please go inside. The cathedral is breathtaking, both inside and out. Its architecture is a fascinating blend of different styles, stretching impressively across the area. It’s truly a must-see.
Chiesa del Gesù di Casa Professa
We stumbled upon this church by accident, and it turned out to be a hidden gem. Stepping inside was a peaceful experience and perfect for taking a moment to reflect, light a candle, and admire its intricate beauty.
Villa Bonanno (Garden & Park)
If you need a break from the city’s bustling streets, this park offers a refreshing change of scenery with lush greenery and towering palm trees. It’s an ideal spot for a stroll or a relaxing lunch.
Fontana Pretoria
Although the fountain wasn’t working when we visited, it was still a breathtaking sight. Its design and elegance make it a noteworthy stop on any Palermo itinerary.
No Mafia Museum
As part of a Mafia tour, we visited this eye-opening museum, which delves into the history and impact of the Cosa Nostra in Sicily. Organized crime has deeply affected businesses and communities, and this museum sheds light on both the past and present realities of the Mafia.
Antonino Salinas Regional Archaeological Museum
We visited this museum on one of our last days in Palermo, and it was an unexpected highlight. The exhibits explore Greek and Italian architecture, with captivating displays and well-organized galleries. Plus, the English descriptions made it easy to appreciate the history behind each piece.
Streets to Stroll
- Via Maqueda (Shopping, Eat)
- Via Vittorio Emanuele (Main street, Quattro Canti)
- Via Bara All’Olivella (View of Opera, Dining)
- Via Simone di Bologna (Unique View of Cathedral)
- Via Porta Carini (Food markets)
Beach & Cool Down
Mondello: If you’re looking for calm, crystal-clear waters so warm and inviting that you could soak in them all day, Mondello is the spot for you. Just a 50-minute bus ride from Palermo, this beach is perfect for a half-day getaway to relax, sunbathe, and take in the stunning Sicilian coast.
Cefalù: About an hour from Palermo, Cefalù offers the best of both worlds: charming historic streets to explore and gorgeous beaches to unwind. For an extra thrill, take a leap off the iconic pier into the crystal-clear waters.
Related: Check out my Day Trips from Palermo Blog HERE, to learn more about Mondello and Cefalu!
6 Day Itinerary
Day One: Palermo Exploration
After settling in to your accommodation, take some time to familiarize yourself with the area before heading into the city center. Stroll through the charming streets, weaving in and out of historic alleyways as you visit:
- Quattro Canti
- Praetorian Fountain
- Chiesa Del Gesù
As the evening sets in, enjoy a leisurely walk along Via Maqueda or Via Vittorio Emanuele, where you’ll find plenty of options for dinner and drinks to wrap up your first day in Palermo.
Easing into your trip with a relaxed first day helps you soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed. Plus, an early night means an early start to make the most of day two!
Day Two: Mondello
Take a day trip to Mondello Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and soft sand. Book a beach chair ahead of time for a comfortable and relaxing experience. Soak up the sun, take a dip in the sea, and enjoy the laid-back beach atmosphere.
After a day under the sun, with your sun kissed skin, spend the evening wandering through the city’s charming streets. Be sure to check out:
- Teatro Massimo, one of the most iconic opera houses in Italy.
- Take a scenic walk to Palermo Cathedral, admiring its stunning architecture from the exterior and interior
- Wrap up the day with a delicious dinner along Via Maqueda. Ciurma Palermo Maqueda is a great spot to try!
Day Three: Cefalù
If you’re up for an adventure outside of Palermo, head to Cefalù for a day of coastal charm and historic beauty.
Once you arrive in Cefalù:
- Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Camilleri – Ristorante Trattoria Cefalù and take time to stroll through the charming streets.
- Visit the breathtaking Duomo di Cefalù.
- Relax at Spiaggia del Porto Vecchio, a perfect spot to lay out a towel and unwind.
- For a thrill, jump into the sea from Molo di Cefalù, a jetty offering some of the best views of the town.
Spend the evening:
- Dine at Al Gabbiano, located on Lungomare Giuseppe Giardina, a picturesque waterfront street lined with fantastic dining options.
(Alternatively, you can take a day trip to Trapani, known for its historic center and nearby Egadi Islands.)
Day Four: Monreale
Take a 35-minute bus ride up into the mountains of Palermo for a peaceful retreat in Monreale.
- Visit the stunning Cattedrale di Monreale, a masterpiece of Norman architecture.
- If available, go to the cathedral rooftop for panoramic views of Palermo and the horizon.
- Enjoy a relaxed lunch in the town, explore the quaint streets, and browse local shops for unique finds.
Today is a nice day to regroup and not push yourself to do too much, because tomorrow gets really busy! For the evening we had a very nice dinner at Hama which is a Ghanaian cuisine! We wanted to try something new and unique, and this was worth the curiosity.
Day Five: Boat Tour to the Aeolian Islands
For an unforgettable experience, take a boat tour to the Aeolian Islands.
- Our tour visited Lipari, Filicudi, and Vulcano, each offering breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and volcanic wonders.
- Tours depart early in the morning from Cefalù, so plan accordingly for a full day of adventure on the sea.
Learn more about the tour HERE
Day Six: Last Day City Tours
Dedicate your last full day in Palermo to diving deep into its fascinating past and culture.
- Learn about Sicily’s complex past on a Mafia tour, offering insight into the city’s fight against organized crime.
- Visit the Opera House for a guided tour and a glimpse into its grandeur. We bought our tickets in person at the ticket office!
- See as much as you can, soaking in the rich stories and culture that make Palermo so special!
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