Discover Palermo: 17 Incredible Things to See and Do - A Complete Guide to Backpacking Palermo

Discover Palermo: 17 Incredible Things to See and Do

A Complete Guide to Backpacking Palermo
A photo of Pete R.
By Pete R.,
Updated on

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Palermo, the beating heart and the capital city of Sicily, is a city, unlike any other city you've seen before in Italy. From its stunning Arab-Norman architecture to its bustling street food markets and stunning beaches that are reminiscent of those flea markets in Asia, Palermo is a city that will truly blow you away.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide will help you plan your trip and make the most of your visit to this vibrant city. Without further ado, here are the 17 best things to do in Palermo for solo travelers:

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Palermo Itinerary Map

Palermo Itinerary Map

17 Best Things to Do in Palermo

1. Explore the Awesome Markets of Palermo

A chef at a market in Palermo

One of the greatest things to do in Palermo is to explore its vibrant food markets which is something that took me by surprise quite a bit.

A woman selling fresh fruits at a market in Palermo

You see, I was traveling in Italy for a month before I visited Sicily so I knew what Italian markets are usually like but what I encountered in Palermo is nothing like the markets I saw elsewhere in the country.

A crowded market in Palermo

The markets in Palermo reminded me of the flea markets you often find in countries like Thailand or Taiwan with a variety of fresh foods being sold right on the street as well a ton of food stalls, huge crowded streets, occupied by both the locals and tourists alike, and merchants singing, trying to attract customers.

Planning to visit soon?
๐Ÿ›Œ Booking hotels: Booking.com, Agoda, and Hostelworld.
  1. A Casa di Amici (Budget)
  2. B&B Angolo83 Palermo centro (Mid-Range) ๐Ÿ‘ Top Pick
  3. Casa Nostra Boutique Hotel (High-End)
๐Ÿ„ Booking tours: Viator, GetYourGuide, and Klook.
  1. Palermo: Street Food and History Walking Tour (3 hours) ๐Ÿ… Top Pick
  2. Palermo: Street Food and Local Market Tasting Tour (3 hours)
  3. Palermo: Palermitan Cooking Class (3 hours)
๐Ÿš˜ Renting a car: Discover Cars.
๐Ÿฅ Travel Insurance: Heymondo.

A vespa at a market in Palermo

It reminded me so much of home (Thailand) which was unexpected and amazing at the same time! Although the prices aren't as cheap, they were still affordable compared to other Italian markets with seafood dishes going around 7 EUR while a glass of fresh orange juice and watermelon go for around 1 EUR. It was a great change from the pricy costs of food in Europe.

A couple buying fruits at a market in Palermo

For the best markets to visit in Palermo, I highly recommend you check out Mercato del Capo and Trh Palermo Ballaro, with the former a little more proper with street food stalls whereas the latter is more random with all kinds of things being sold here from fresh produce to souvenirs.

A watermelon at a market in Palermo

Both are worth a visit in my opinion and in both places, you will be able to experience the true beauty of Palermo. If you are traveling from other cities in Italy to Palermo, it is going to feel like you have arrived in a different country. Yes, it's that unique!

Octopus at a market in Palermo

Mercato del Capo is open from 7 AM to 8 PM every day except on Sundays and Wednesdays when it is open from 7 AM to 1 PM. Trh Palermo Ballaro is open from 7 AM to 7:30 PM every day except on Sundays when it is open from 7 AM to 1 PM.

A seafood dish at a market in Palermo

For those who are interested to explore the diverse cuisine of Sicily, I highly recommend you go on a street food walking tour. You will not just learn the history of the local cuisine but you will also get to try some of the local delicacies here with your local guide. It is definitely one of the best things to do in Palermo, so be sure to check the tour out while you are in Palermo!

2. Check Out Church of the Gesรน

The entrance of the Church of the Gesรน in Palermo

After you've explored the street food scene of Palermo, it is time to visit some of the tourist attractions here. One of the first places I highly recommend you start exploring is the Church of the Gesรน, a Jesuit church in Palermo, considered one of the most important Baroque churches in the city.

The nave of the Church of the Gesรน in Palermo

The church was built in the mid-17th century and is known for its impressive architecture that beautifully blends the Byzantine and Sicilian Baroque architectural styles, as well as incredibly detailed frescoes, and stunning bas-relief sculptures.

The altar of the Church of the Gesรน in Palermo

The interior is incredibly impressive and you are going to be blown away by just how detailed some of the sculpted ornaments and decors are in here. The church is located not too far from Trh Palermo Ballaro market so you can drop by the church as you make your way to other tourist attractions in the city.

The ceiling of the Church of the Gesรน in Palermo

The church is open from 7:45 AM to 4:30 PM every day except on Sundays when it is open from 10:30 AM to 12:45 PM and again from 6P M to 8 PM. The entrance fee is free for the central nave but you will have to pay 2 EUR extra for access to its other areas or you can buy the full ticket which is around 5 EUR and allow you access to all sections of the church as well as the museum inside.

3. Visit the Church of San Cataldo

The red domes of the Church of San Cataldo in Palermo

The Church of San Cataldo is another incredible church you should visit while you are in Palermo. The church is of Norman origin and it is known for its distinctive red domes and simple, yet elegant, architectural style the Normans are known for.

The square in front of the Church of San Cataldo in Palermo

The church was built in the 12th century and has since been an important landmark in the city that attracts visitors from all over the world for centuries, to see its beautiful iconic red domes.

The Church of San Cataldo in Palermo seen from above

Despite its small size compared to the other churches here, its distinct design that differs from anything you have seen before makes it enough of a reason for you to visit. The church is open from 10 AM to 6 PM every day and the entrance fee is 1.5 EUR per person. The interior is pretty small and you can see the whole thing in about 2 minutes hence why the ticket is so cheap.

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Looking to save some costs on your travel? Why not join a shared group tour from Palermo? Here are some activities you might be interested in:

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4. Admire the Interiors of Santa Maria dell'Ammiraglio

The exterior of Santa Maria dell'Ammiraglio in Palermo

Next to the Church of San Cataldo, you will find Santa Maria dell'Ammiraglio, another impressive church in Palermo that is definitely worth going inside to see its incredible frescoes.

The nave of Santa Maria dell'Ammiraglio in Palermo

Santa Maria dell'Ammiraglio is also of Norman origin and it is famous for its beautiful Baroque ornaments and its beautiful Byzantine-style mosaics and design that feels more like an Orthodox church than a Catholic one.

The frescoes of Santa Maria dell'Ammiraglio in Palermo

As you walk around inside, you can clearly tell that the designer took inspiration from the Byzantine architectural design with mosaics that look similar to the ones found on the walls of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, once the seat of power of the Byzantine Empire.

The interior of Santa Maria dell'Ammiraglio in Palermo

The place is often used for weddings as you might find yourself being able to enter the church without having to pay the entrance fee when the event is ongoing. That was certainly the case for me when I was there.

The columns of Santa Maria dell'Ammiraglio in Palermo

If not, the entrance fee is 2 EUR per person and the church is open from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM and again from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM every day except on Sundays and holidays when it is open from 9 AM to 10:30 AM.

5. Check Out the view from the top of Chiesa di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria

A person standing at the top of Chiesa di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria in Palermo

Now we have arrived at my favorite church in Palermo, Chiesa di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria, a grand catholic church located right at the center of Palermo where you can climb to the top of the church to see Palermo's incredible skyline and its surroundings from above.

The altar of Chiesa di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria in Palermo

Also known as the Martorana Church, Chiesa di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria is a Norman church built in the 12th century. The church is famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics, which adorn the walls and ceilings of the building as well as its courtyard, which is an oasis in the bustling city of Palermo.

The interior from the second level of Chiesa di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria in Palermo

Every inch of the church is amazingly designed and decorated with intricate and detailed carvings and decors while the ceiling features an incredible fresco that is quite a sight to behold.

The view from the top of Chiesa di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria in Palermo

Of course, the best part of the church is the fact that you can get access to its roof and see Palermo and its incredible surroundings from above. From here, you can see all the beautiful churches across the city as well as the dry mountainous landscape Sicily is known for.

The old roof of of Chiesa di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria in Palermo

To get access to the roof, you are going to have to pay an entrance fee of around 10 EUR per person. With the ticket, you will get access to the church, its courtyard, and the staircase that will take you to the second level of the church where you can see the nave from above as well as the covered section of the old roof of the church.

The courtyard of Chiesa di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria in Palermo

They also offer other variety of tickets depending on what you want to see inside the church. For just the church, it's 3 EUR. For access to the roof or the monastery only it's 5 EUR. For access to the church AND the roof, it's 7 EUR. For access to the monastery and the church or the monastery and the roof, it's 8 EUR or 10 EUR for everything.

The exterior of Chiesa di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria in Palermo

I think it is worth paying the 10 EUR full-ticket price to get access to everything. They are quite a lot to see inside other than the roof and you will definitely get your money's worth here. The church is open from 10 AM to 6 PM every day.

6. Hang Out at Fontana Pretoria

Fontana Pretoria in Palermo

Right at the heart of Palermo, surrounded by all the beautiful churches of the city, you will find Fontana Pretoria, a historic fountain that dates back to the 12th Century.

The statues of Fontana Pretoria in Palermo

The fountain has a large, circular shape surrounded by a series of beautiful statues depicting mythological creatures and allegorical figures. It is considered one of the finest examples of Renaissance art in Sicily and a great place for you to visit.

A statue Fontana Pretoria in Palermo

Unfortunately, the fountain is fenced off at the moment and you can only appreciate the beautiful structure from afar or from above at the viewpoint on the roof of Chiesa di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria. Still, it is quite amazing to see the fountain in person and since it is not too far from other tourist attractions in Palermo, it is worth a visit.

7. Stroll Around Quattro Canti

A fountain at Quattro Canti in Palermo

Quattro Canti is a historic square that feels more like a road conjunction than a regular square as it merges 4 important pedestrian streets of Palermo connecting you to all the other tourist attractions in the city.

The buildings at Quattro Canti in Palermo

The square was built in the late 16th century as a symbol of the Spanish rule over Sicily and is considered one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in the city.

A crowded street at Quattro Canti in Palermo

Quattro Canti is a four-cornered square, with each corner featuring a beautifully ornate fountain and statue. The fountains and statues depict scenes from the city's history, as well as allegorical figures symbolizing the four seasons, the four parts of the world, and the four monarchs who ruled over Sicily during the period of Spanish rule.

A horsecart at Quattro Canti in Palermo

Along the 4 streets, you will find all kinds of cafes, restaurants, and street food stalls as well as tuk-tuks and horse carts, taking tourists around the city. This is probably one of the most energetic and lively places you will find in Palermo.

A shop at Quattro Canti in Palermo

The square is also a popular meeting point in the city and you will find that the place is almost always crowded during the day as people explore the city. From the square, you can see all the way to Palermo Cathedral and the Norman Palace which we will be visiting next.

8. Learn More About the Dark History of Sicily at No Mafia Memorial

The entrance of No Mafia Memorial in Palermo

Just west of Quattro Canti, you will find No Mafia Memorial, a museum dedicated to telling the stories of the city's fights against the mafias that had ruled Sicily for centuries and rid the city of their influences once and for all.

The sign of No Mafia Memorial in Palermo

The museum is also dedicated to remembering and honoring the victims of the Mafia and commemorating the lives of those who have lost their lives as a result of the Mafia's criminal activities, as well as raising awareness about the ongoing fight against organized crime in Sicily.

The building of No Mafia Memorial in Palermo

You can explore a range of exhibits, including photographs, audio and video recordings, and personal artifacts that help bring the story of the Mafia to life. The museum is open from 11 AM - 5 PM every day except on Tuesdays and the entrance fee is free.

A statue in Palermo

If you want to dive even deeper into the dark history of the Mafia in Palermo, you can also go on a No Mafia walking tour which will guide you through the city of Palermo as you learn more about its dark past.

9. Admire the Beauty of Palermo Cathedral

A park in front of Palermo Cathedral

One of the most iconic landmarks in Palermo is Palermo Cathedral, a massive cathedral built in the 12th Century over an earlier mosque and it has been expanded and renovated several times over the centuries to become the impressive cathedral complex it is today.

The exterior of Palermo Cathedral

The Palermo Cathedral is a stunning example of Norman architecture, with a mix of Byzantine, Gothic, and Arab influences all of whom had conquered Sicily at some point in time which goes to show just how diverse and rich the history is in Palermo.

The dome of Palermo Cathedral

As you walk towards the cathedral, you will be blown away at how beautifully decorated the exterior is. From its beautiful clock tower to its amazingly diverse designs, all made out of the reddish brown bricks Sicily is abundant with, the cathedral is quite a sight to behold.

The interior of Palermo Cathedral

Its interior is equally impressive, with a beautiful nave and elaborate frescoes and sculptures adorning the walls and ceilings. The cathedral is also home to several important works of art, including the famous Martorana mosaics, which are considered some of the finest examples of Byzantine art in the world.

The street near Palermo Cathedral

The cathedral is free to enter but for the price of 15 EUR per person, you will get access to a 10-minute walk on the roof which offers an incredible viewpoint, the crypt, and the museum across the street. If you just want access to the roof, the ticket is 7 EUR per person.

The entrance of Palermo Cathedral

You can buy the ticket from the ticket kiosk at the entrance. The cathedral is open from 7 AM to 7 PM every day except on Sundays when it will be open from 8 AM to 1 PM and again from 4 PM to 7 PM.

10. Explore the Rich History of Sicily at Norman Palace

The entrance of the Norman Palace in Palermo

Norman Palace is another important landmark in the city and a must-visit place if you want to see just how impressive and successful the Normans were at ruling Sicily.

The exterior of the Norman Palace in Palermo

The palace was built in the 9th century and has served as a royal residence, a palace of justice, and a seat of the government over the centuries since the Normans to this day.

The courtyard of the Norman Palace in Palermo

The palace is a magnificent building that showcases a mix of Norman, Arab, and Byzantine architectural styles just like the Palermo Cathedral. The exterior itself is massive in size and worth a visit on its own.

The interior of the Norman Palace in Palermo

Inside, you will find a range of stunning rooms, halls, and courtyards, including the famous Cappella Palatina, which is considered one of the finest examples of Byzantine art in the world and one that will truly blow you away from its sheer beauty and incredible details.

The frescoes of the Norman Palace in Palermo

Every inch of Cappella Palatina is covered in intricately designed patterns and frescoes that resemble more of an eastern Orthodox church you often see in Eastern Europe than what you would come to expect in churches in Italy.

The wall patterns of the Norman Palace in Palermo

The decorations of the chapel have been influenced by many of the rulers who reigned Sicily over the centuries and you can easily see the distinct design of the Arabs, the Byzantine, and the Normans, all weaved together flawlessly into what we see here. It's incredibly unique and one that must be seen in person.

A chinese delegation room of the Norman Palace in Palermo

Inside the Palace, you will also find several museums and rooms all spread out across its 3-floor structure, each room with different functions and features ranging from a modern art museum to a Chinese-style decorated room used as a place to meet the delegates from China.

Sala di Ruggero of the Norman Palace in Palermo

One of my favorite rooms in the Norman Palace is Sala di Ruggero, originally a bedroom featuring incredible Sassanian-inspired mosaics of Sassanian animals and hunting scenes animated by figures and stylized plants all across the walls and the ceiling of the room.

Leopards mosaic of the Norman Palace in Palermo

The mosaics covering the room are a rare example of the secular mosaic art of that time, which immerses its roots in the Persian East through Sassanian-Persian design and North Africa through its Arabic influences.

The Map of Knowledge Book by Violet Moller

The mosaic was featured on a cover of one of my favorite books, the Map of Knowledge, which was the source of my inspiration for visiting Sicily in the first place. If you like reading a historical book about the history of this part of Italy, be sure to check out the Map of Knowledge.

The lions of the Norman Palace in Palermo

Visiting the Norman Palace is worth it solely just for the opportunity to see these two sections of the palace with your own eyes. I highly recommend you go early in the morning to avoid crowds.

A room inside the Norman Palace in Palermo

Definitely one of the best things to do in Palermo. The palace is open from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM every day except on Sunday when it is open from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM. The entrance fee is 10 EUR per person on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays while the fee increases to 14.5 EUR on Fridays, weekends, holidays, and Mondays which is quite pricey but you are definitely getting your money's worth here. You can expect to spend at least an hour here.

11. Check Out the Church of Saint John of the Hermits

The exterior of the Church of Saint John of the Hermits in Palermo

Not too far from the Norman Palace, you will find the Church of Saint John of the Hermits, which is another medieval church worth checking out while you are in the area.

The red domes the Church of Saint John of the Hermits in Palermo

The church features the iconic red-domed exterior that combines the best of both the Norman's and the Arab's design features, just like the Church of San Cataldo you've just seen.

The interior of the Church of Saint John of the Hermits in Palermo

For around 3 EUR per person, you will get access to the church, its courtyard, and the bell tower which gives a pretty incredible view of the city. The church is open from 9 AM to 6:30 PM every day except on Sundays when it is open from 9 AM to 1 PM.

12. Drop By Massimo Theater

The exterior of Massimo Theater in Palermo

Massimo Theater is a lavishly decorated theater, built in the late 19th Century, and is one of the largest theaters in Italy and an incredible landmark in Palermo you should visit.

The entrance of Massimo Theater in Palermo

The Teatro Massimo is a magnificent building that showcases a mix of Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical architectural styles. Its interior is equally impressive, with a range of stunning rooms, halls, and boxes, including the famous horseshoe-shaped auditorium, which is one of the largest in Europe.

The steps of Massimo Theater in Palermo

The theater is open to visitors daily, with hours typically from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day and you can see the inside by going on a guided tour that will allow access to the auditorium and rooms of Teatro Massimo as well as visit the stage and see how an opera. You will also get access to its roof which offers a nice view of Palermo's cityscape.

13. Learn the History of Sicily at the Regional Archeological Museum Antonio Salinas

The entrance of the Regional Archeological Museum Antonio Salinas in Palermo

To learn more about the medieval history of Sicily, you should definitely visit Regional Archeological Museum Antonio Salinas, a museum housed in a historic building featuring artifacts from Phoenician and ancient Greek periods.

The exterior of the Regional Archeological Museum Antonio Salinas in Palermo

The museum is named after the renowned Italian archaeologist Antonio Salinas, who was instrumental in establishing the museum and was also its first director. The museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits, including prehistoric finds, sculptures, ceramics, and other objects that tell the story of the region's rich cultural heritage.

A carvings in Palermo

Some of the most notable items on display include the famous "Sarcophagus of the Spouses", a beautifully preserved 2,500-year-old Etruscan tomb, and the "Warrior of Mozia", a life-sized statue of a Greek warrior from the 4th century BC. The museum is open to visitors daily, with hours from 9 AM to 6:30 PM every day except Sundays when it is open from 9 AM to 1 PM and on Mondays when it is closed.

14. Be Creeped Out by Catacombe dei Cappuccini

The hall of Catacombe dei Cappuccini in Palermo

What is creepier than an underground crypt? How about an underground crypt with 8000+ mummified remains on full display, almost as if they are staring at you? Catacombe dei Cappuccini is a series of underground tombs and crypts in Palermo that are filled with mummified remains dating back from the 16th to the 19th century.

A mummified face of Catacombe dei Cappuccini in Palermo

Located just outside of Palermo's old town, the catacombs were created as a solution to the overcrowding of cemeteries in Palermo during the 16th century.

Bodies of Catacombe dei Cappuccini in Palermo

The Capuchin friars, who were known for their ascetic way of life, decided to create a new cemetery for their own use, which eventually became a place where many wealthy families from the city also chose to be buried.

More bodies of Catacombe dei Cappuccini in Palermo

The catacombs are filled with thousands of mummies that have been perfectly preserved through the natural mummification process. Many of the mummies are dressed in their finest clothes and are displayed in glass cases, creating a unique and eerie atmosphere. Some of the mummies even have their hair and teeth intact, making the catacombs a fascinating and somewhat disturbing place to visit.

Walking path of Catacombe dei Cappuccini in Palermo

If you find a place like this interesting, be sure to visit the Catacombs of Cappuccini. It was certainly a mind-opening experience for me that still makes my hair stand on end and sends shivers down my spine every time I think about it.

The path inside of Catacombe dei Cappuccini in Palermo

The catacomb is open from 9 AM to 12:30 PM and again from 3 PM to 5:30 PM every day and the entrance fee is 3 EUR per person. You can buy the ticket from the ticket kiosk at the entrance.

15. Visit Castello della Zisa

The entrance of Castello della Zisa in Palermo

While you are out and about, visiting the Catacombs of Cappuccini, you can also drop by Castello della Zisa and check out is beautiful mixed architectural style interiors Palermo is known for.

The fountain of Castello della Zisa in Palermo

The castle was built in the 12th century by King William I of Sicily and is considered one of the finest examples of Islamic-Norman architecture in the world. The castle was originally used as a hunting lodge as well as a royal palace and was a symbol of the power and wealth of the Norman monarchy in Sicily.

A pool at Castello della Zisa in Palermo

Today, the Castle of the Zisa serves as a museum and is open to visitors. The castle features a mix of Islamic, Byzantine, and Norman architectural styles, making it a truly unique and fascinating place to visit. Unfortunately, the castle's garden is not well-maintained with no flowers nor functioning fountains.

The garden of Castello della Zisa in Palermo

Hopefully, one day, we will get to see this castle and its garden fully restored to its old glory days. In the meantime, the place is only worth a visit if you are already out and about in the area, visiting the Catacombs. The castle is open from 9 AM to 6:30 PM every day except on Sundays when it is open from 9 AM to 1 PM and the entrance fee is 6 EUR per person.

16. Check Out Villino Florio

The exterior of Villino Florio in Palermo

Located just northeast of the Castle of the Zisa, you will find Villino Florio, a striking 1900s villa with ornate wooden interiors built by the wealthy Florio family, who were known for their involvement in the city's thriving industrial and cultural scene.

The Villino Florio is considered one of the finest examples of Art Nouveau architecture in Palermo and is noted for its striking facade, which features intricately wrought iron balconies, stained glass windows, and a stunning entrance porch.

The interior of the villa is just as impressive, with its ornate moldings, frescoes, and stained glass skylights, all can be accessed for free alone or on a guided tour which is awesome. The villa is open from 9:30 AM to 1 PM every day except on Mondays.

17. Go on A Beach/Hiking Day Trip in Cefalu

A person's foot over Cefalu from a viewpoint

Last but not least, if you have a day to spare in Palermo, I highly recommend you go on a day trip and visit Cefalu, a historic coastal town on the northeastern part of Sicily, perfect for a day of sunbathing at the beach and hiking around old ruins.

Cefalu coastline

The city is known for its stunning beaches like Cefalu Beach and clear waters, making it a popular destination for sun-seekers and beach lovers while the mountainous park of Parco della Rocca di Cefalu behind the city offers a great viewpoint over the coast and a day full of action for adventure-seekers out there.

A person sitting at the Cafalu castle

Be sure to hike all the way up to Cafalu Castle for an even more incredible view over the city and its coastline. The hike is tough, especially in the summer months but the view is definitely worth every single drop of sweat.

Cefalu cathedral

One of the most notable landmarks in Cefalu is the Cathedral of Cefalu, which dates back to the 12th century and is considered one of the finest examples of Norman-Arabic architecture in Sicily.

The beach of Cefalu

Other notable attractions you should visit while you are in Cefalu are Bastione di Capo Marchiafava, a nice ocean viewpoint, Porta Pescara (Porta Marina), a concrete pier great for jumping in the water and relaxing by a sandy strip of beach nearby, and Lavatoio Medievale Fiume Cefalino, a 16th Century laundry house with laundry house, dating to 1514, with original stone wash basins &and cast-iron spouts.

A person looking at Cefalu from above

To get to Cefalu, you can take one of the many daily trains from Palermo Central Train Station that runs between 5 AM to 9:30 PM every day and visits the city as a day trip. The train ticket should cost around 8 EUR and takes about 40 minutes to reach Cefalu. You can book the train ticket here.

A person at the ruins in Cefalu

If you do not want to deal with the logistics, you can also visit Cefalu with an organized tour group which will take you to Cefalu and back as well as visits other tourist attractions like Monreale Cathedral, known for its incredible frescoes, all in one go which is an awesome deal since Monreale is not so easy to get to via the public transportation.

10 Best Things to Do in Cefalu10 Best Things to Do in Cefalu

What to Eat and Drink in Palermo?

1. Devour all the Seafood Dishes at Gusto Di Mare

Seafood in Gusto Di Mare in Palermo

If you are looking for a family-run restaurant that serves delicious and fresh seafood dishes, I highly recommend you check out Gusto Di Mare, one of my favorite restaurants in Palermo that I often frequented when I was here.

Seafood Risotto from Gusto Di Mare in Palermo

They serve delicious seafood dishes, made fresh every day, all at affordable prices. I ordered their seafood risotto, which was delicious, for only around 7 EUR. That's a great deal in Italy! The restaurant is open from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM and again from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM every day except on Sundays and Mondays. On Sundays, they are open from 8:30 AM to 3 PM while on Mondays, they are open from 10โ€ฏAM to 3:30 PM and again from 5:30 PM to 8 PM.

2. Try the Traditional Pizzas at Pizzeria Polleria Zummo

Pizza from Pizzeria Polleria Zummo in Palermo

Of course, when you are in Italy, you gotta try the real local pizzas and there is no better place to be than the Pizzeria Polleria Zummo restaurant, another great family-run place that serves delicious pizzas at a very affordable price.

the interior of Pizzeria Polleria Zummo in Palermo

Their pizza prices range from 3.5 EUR for a one-person size to 10 EUR for a family size. I tried their parma ham pizza and they were delicious! If you are craving a real homemade Italian pizza, be sure to check out Pizzeria Polleria Zummo while in Palermo. The restaurant is open in the evening from 6:30 PM to 11 PM every day.

Further Reading for Sicily

I hope you found this Italy travel guide useful. If you want to read more about Italy, here is a selection of articles you might like:

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