Palermo transforms after the sun goes down. Its many markets swap stalls for saxophones as the piazzas and surrounding areas are abuzz with chitchat. Meanwhile, nestled-away bars fling their doors open to locals and holidaymakers alike. So yep, you can bet you’ll find the right vibe for you on a Jet2CityBreak there.  

From easygoing pubs and must-attend gigs to thrumming outdoor spaces and swanky cocktail digs, the city offers something for every kind of night out. Eager to get under the skin of Palermo’s nightlife? Keep reading... 

The areas 

Teatro Massimo 

For both refined hotspots and low-key pubs 

Welcome to the historic centre, where you can really get the best of both worlds. Start your evening here and you’ll have to make the ultimate choice between swish tipples and purse-pleasing pints – which will it be? Via Principe di Belmonte is the main street round these parts, and between the wine bars and venues that boast vast views too, you’ve got lots of fun to soak up before you enter the small hours.  

Vucciria 

For lively vibes and budget-friendly beverages 

Vucciria is the thriving old market area known for its busy streets where the drinks flow for less. But it happens to be a bigwig for live music too, so don your dancing shoes and get set for a boogie. Taverna Azzurra is a local hit. The upbeat punters in the bar tend to spill out onto the pavements to make space for more to join in the revelry. It’s ideal for a full-of-life experience in the Sicilian capital!  

La Kalsa 

For locals and tourists seeking a boho feel 

Although this is arguably Palermo’s most historical neighbourhood, with hangouts from times gone by, it also doubles as a free-spirited district for clinking drinks too. Pun intended. Here, artsy bars where people can rub shoulders are in abundance, so follow the narrow streets for cocktails joints and dive bars. It’s a bit more DIY and edgy – and absolutely up to you to craft your night out. The hippest sipping havens? SPINA BAR and Sartoria.  

Piazza Rivoluzione and Piazza Sant’Anna 

For al fresco aperitifs 

Outdoor bars and social meeting spots? You bet. These piazzas both seriously make the most of aperitivo hour, so it just struck spritz o’clock. And don’t forget to nibble on those light bites that come out with your drinks at certain times. Olives and grissini? Bellissimo! Think lots of seating for nattering with folks, as you’ll soon notice that locals come out both earlier on and then later at night. Mr Beer does what it says on the tin, while if you’re after reasonably priced drinks, look towards Qvivi Music Bar. 

FYI before you fly 

Although some areas tend to draw crowds at all times, the night usually gets going pretty late. Aperitivo often runs until about 9:30pm, though some bars and pubs might pick up a bit later than that. And if you’re considering clubbing, things will be busier from midnight.  

Fancy a bite before you head out on the tiles? Read our Palermo restaurant guide here.