A Brief Guide to Some of Sicily's Highlights

Palermo

What to See in Palermo

Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily, is a city rich in history, culture and architectural wonders. Known for its stunning Norman palaces, bustling markets and breathtaking cathedrals, Palermo offers a unique blend of Arab, Norman and Baroque influences. Visit iconic sites like the Palazzo dei Normanni, the Cattedrale di Palermo, and the historic Ballarò Market. With its delicious Sicilian cuisine, beautiful beaches like Mondello and vibrant street life, Palermo is a must-visit destination that captures the essence of Sicily.

• Palazzo dei Normanni: Located in Piazza Indipendenza, this palace represents Palermo's cultural blend. Initially built for Arab emirs and later expanded by Normans and Spaniards, it now houses the Sicilian Regional Assembly. Highlights include its courtyards, gardens, the Sala di'Re Ruggero and the stunning Cappella Palatina with its incredible gold mosaics.

• San Giovanni degli Eremiti: Close to Palazzo dei Normanni, this medieval Norman church is known for its distinctive red domes. The church features a beautiful cloister and gardens, perfect for a peaceful retreat. The interior showcases a mix of Muslim and Norman styles.

• Cattedrale di Palermo: Located on Via Vittorio Emanuele, this spectacular cathedral features royal tombs, including that of King Roger II, and a collection of 12th-century royal jewels. Climb to the rooftops for a panoramic view of the city.

• Quattro Canti: The Quattro Canti intersection, where Via Vittorio Emanuele and Via Maqueda meet, features four symmetrically designed facades with fountains, statues of Palermo’s kings and depictions of the city's patron saints. This landmark is reminiscent of Rome’s "Quattro Fontane."

• Teatro Massimo Vittorio Emanuele: A short walk from Quattro Canti on Via Maqueda, Teatro Massimo is Italy's largest opera house and the third-largest in Europe. Renowned for its grandeur and world-class performances, it reopened in 1997 after extensive renovations.

• Ballarò Market: Visit Ballarò Market, one of Palermo's largest and most colorful markets. Find fresh produce, cheese, fish and more at unbeatable prices. The market also offers various other goods, making it a vibrant spot to explore.

• Galleria d’Arte Regionale della Sicilia, Palazzo Abatellis: Located in Palazzo Abatellis, this museum features a collection of regional art, including the famous "Trionfo della Morte" fresco, Antonio da Messina's "Annunciation," and the bust of Eleonora d’Aragona.

• Catacombe dei Cappuccini: Visit the Catacombe dei Cappuccini for a unique experience. Home to nearly 8,000 mummies, including the famous child mummy Rosalia, the well-preserved bodies offer a fascinating glimpse into historical burial practices.

• Cattedrale di Monreale: A 40-minute drive from Palermo, the UNESCO-listed Cattedrale di Monreale is renowned for its Norman-Byzantine architecture and over 6,500 square meters of gold mosaics. Adjacent is a beautiful cloister with uniquely decorated columns.

• Spiaggia di Mondello: After exploring Palermo's history and culture, relax at Mondello Beach, just a 30-minute drive from the city. This popular beach features fine sand and crystal-clear waters, offering a quintessential Sicilian beach experience.

Day Trips:

Near Palermo to the East

Villa Bagheria: A Glimpse into Sicilian History

Bagheria, also known as Baarìa, is a bustling town in the province of Palermo, renowned for its historic villas, 18th-century palaces, and as the birthplace of painter Renato Guttuso. It has been featured in films like "Baarìa" by Giuseppe Tornatore.

Visit Bagheria’s Historic Villas

Villa Palagonia: Known as the "Villa of Monsters," this eccentric masterpiece features grotesque statues, a grand Hall of Mirrors with marble high reliefs, mythological frescoes and a double-flight limestone staircase. Location: Piazza Garibaldi, 3, 90011 Bagheria PA, Italy.

Villa Valguarnera: A stunning 18th-century villa offering a symbolic journey from earth to the celestial sphere. It features an oval hall by Vaccarini, frescoes and paintings of illustrious ancestors. Featured in a Dolce & Gabbana commercial. Location: Via Valguarnera, 3, 90011 Bagheria PA, Italy.

Palazzo Butera: Bagheria’s oldest stately residence, featuring crenelated towers, rich salons with frescoes and a picture gallery. The terraces offer a view of the Santa Rosalia Festival fireworks on July 14. Location: Corso Butera, 1, 90011 Bagheria PA, Italy.

Villa Cattolica: Resembling a castle, Villa Cattolica houses the Renato Guttuso Museum with works by the neo-realist painter and other contemporary artists. The garden includes Guttuso's tomb by sculptor Giacomo Manzù. Location: Via Rammacca, 9, 90011 Bagheria PA, Italy

Aspra Seaside Village: A charming seaside village known for its limestone quarries and anchovies in salt and oil, exported worldwide. Location: Aspra, Bagheria PA, Italy

Where to Eat in Palermo: A Guide to the Best Restaurants

Palermo, the capital of Sicily, is a city rich in history, culture and culinary delights. Whether you're looking for traditional Sicilian cuisine or a modern dining experience with breathtaking views, Palermo has something to offer every food lover. Here’s a guide to some of the best restaurants in Palermo:

• Torquemada: Situated on Via Pignatelli Aragona, near the Regional Archaeological Museum, Torquemada offers a wide range of dishes from pizza to pasta and fish. The generous portions and excellent quality come at a reasonable price, with complimentary limoncello. Note: it can be quite noisy due to its popularity.

• Lo Scrigno dei Sapori: Located in Piazza Principe di Camporeale, near Palazzo della Zisa, this restaurant offers abundant Sicilian cuisine with fresh products and daily catch. Despite its modest entrance, it features a charming garden and offers great value for money.

• Sicilo: In the Terrace of the Rinascente Store: Situated in the heart of Palermo's historic center, Sicilo offers unparalleled panoramic views of the Basilica of San Domenico and the Vucciria market. The terrace restaurant caters to all tastes, offering classic menus, raw fish dishes, traditional Sicilian appetizers and even sushi.

• Al Fondaco del Conte: Located in Piazza Conte Federico, this small, quiet restaurant offers delicate and refined cuisine. Enjoy complimentary appetizers, flavorful dishes and original desserts, all at a very reasonable price.

• Seven Restaurant at Hotel Ambasciatori: The Seven Restaurant Rooftop Garden offers a 360° view of Palermo’s historic center, from Ballarò to the Kalsa and Cala. Enjoy the colors and flavors of Sicilian cuisine, along with expertly crafted cocktails.

• Politeama Roof: Located atop the Politeama Hotel, Politeama Roof offers panoramic views of Palermo. Enjoy cocktails inspired by historic sites and a menu combining seasonal ingredients with gourmet recipes. Sundays feature a brunch buffet with a DJ set from 11:30 am to 4 pm.

• Osservatorio Rooftop: In the Politeama-Libertà district, Osservatorio Fine Restaurant and Mixology Rooftop offers city views, including Monte Pellegrino and the Politeama Garibaldi theater. The restaurant features fine dining and exceptional mixology, with a Sunday brunch starting in March.

• Le Terrazze del Sole: Near Quattro Canti in the heart of Palermo's historic center, Le Terrazze del Sole offers an extraordinary panorama of Corso Vittorio Emanuele. Located on the terraces of the historic Grand Albergo Sole, Sicilian tradition inspires the menu, featuring innovative, seasonal and locally sourced products.

Buon appetito!