Palermo is Sicily’s swish and vibrant capital city, and it’s the perfect choice for an Italian city break. Spend your days soaking up the culture and grabbing a bite from a street food vendor. You can even head to the beach for an afternoon! Palermo really does have it all, from buzzy piazzas and architectural gems too. Come on – let's show you around... 

Visit the Royal Palace  

Prepare to marvel at the Royal Palace and Palatine Chapel – this UNESCO-listed site, also known as the Palazzo dei Normanni, is a must on your trip to Palermo. Byzantine mosaics cover the walls, and the ceiling nods to Islamic tradition with muqarnas. Representing a melting pot of culture, this is a spot you really have to tick off! 

Stop by Palermo Cathedral  

Another of Sicily’s architectural gems is Palermo Cathedral. Built in 1184, the interiors have been added to over the years, ranging from Gothic and medieval to neoclassical. You can even admire the tombs of the Kings of Sicily. 

Browse Ballarò Market  

Save some time to wander around one of the oldest markets in Palermo, as the streets come alive with colourful stalls full of local produce. These Sicilian street markets are bubbly hotspots, so expect a true taste of Sicily’s culture. Why not grab a bite and a cold beer and watch the world go by?  

Visit Capuchin Catacombs 

If you fancy a deep dive into an underground archive of Sicilian history, look no further than the Capuchin Catacombs. Time comes to a halt in the corridors of these catacombs, and let’s be real – they're certainly eerie! This underground tomb was established in the late 16th century, and monks, nobles and everyday townspeople are buried here. 

Explore the Kalsa neighbourhood  

It’s well worth strolling through the narrow lanes of the Kalsa neighbourhood to gaze at the exciting mix of history, art and street life. You’ll find Baroque churches and thriving piazzas. And we recommend you visit the Santa Maria dello Spasimo too – if you’re lucky, you’ll catch the jazz festival there in the summer! 

Head to the beach 

Like to roll in some sightseeing with your sunbathing? Make a beeline for Mondello Beach, where soft, white sand and turquoise waters await. You’ll even catch a glimpse of Mount Pellegrino and Capo Gallo there too. Looking for a light bite at lunchtime? You can’t beat heading to a beachside spot for fresh seafood and relaxed Mediterranean vibes.

Try local dishes  

It wouldn’t be a Sicily holiday if you didn’t stop for street food like arancini (risotto balls) and panelle (chickpea fritters). Pop into a traditional trattoria for some just-hooked seafood, pasta con le sarde or caponata. Palermo is a food-lover’s dream, so make sure to eat and drink your way through the city. And don’t forget the cannoli for dessert! 

You can read more about which restaurants to check out here.

Marvel at the Teatro Massimo 

This neoclassical opera house is the largest in Italy and known for its grandeur and incredible acoustics. From its majestic façade to dazzling interiors, it's a feast for both the eyes and ears!

Gaze in awe at Cappella Palatina

Prepare to be wowed by this 12th century chapel. Think glittering Byzantine mosaics, Arab-inspired arches and Norman craftsmanship. It’s a real smorgasbord of influences, where every inch tells a story of Sicily's rich history. Don’t forget to look up at that epic ceiling!

Check out Fontana della Vergogna

Dubbed the ‘Fountain of Shame’, Palermo’s cheekiest landmark, the Fontana della Vergogna, is a Renaissance fountain with nude statues and intricate designs. Look closely and you’ll also notice the carvings of animal figures, such as geese, turtles and sea monsters too.