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Curator’s statement
Welcome to Palermo, a captivating city on the sun-kissed island of Sicily, where history, culture and culinary delights converge. From immersive cooking classes to exploring historic sites, indulging in vibrant food markets, savoring beach time and embarking on a visit to the charming town of Cefalù, this guide promises to unveil the city's most opulent and captivating treasures.
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Insider knowledge
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Where to stay in Palermo, Italy
Villa Igiea, A Rocco Forte Hotel
Discover history, majesty and serenity at Villa Igiea: a turn-of-the-century palazzo at the perimeter of vivid Palermo, the foot of Mount Pellegrino and the Gulf of Palermo.
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$100 food / beverage credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Hotel Principe di Villafranca
Offers a blend of Sicilian elegance and modern luxury in the heart of Palermo, creating an intimate haven for discerning travelers.
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Breakfast daily.
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Things to do in Palermo, Italy
The Historic Charms of Palermo
Palermo is a city steeped in history with many historical sites that glimpse its rich and diverse past.
Palazzo dei Normanni - Marvel at the Palazzo dei Normanni, a grand palace that houses the stunning Cappella Palatina, adorned with intricate mosaics and breathtaking frescoes.
Teatro Massimo - Europe's third-largest opera house, Teatro Massimo, is a triumph of neoclassical architecture. Enjoy a guided tour or indulge in an evening of opera to experience this cultural gem in all its splendor.
Palermo Cathedral -Visit Palermo Cathedral, a majestic structure that showcases an array of architectural styles, from Arab-Norman to Gothic and Baroque.
Exploring Vibrant Food Markets
Sicily is renowned for its vibrant food markets, where the bounty of the land and sea come together in a tantalizing array of colors and flavors.
Mercato Ballarò - Delight in the bustling atmosphere of Mercato Ballarò, where stalls brim with fresh produce, aromatic spices, and delectable street food.
Mercato del Capo - Experience the charm of Mercato del Capo, a market that has been a culinary hub for centuries. Sample local delicacies and find a plethora of gastronomic delights.
Beach Time and Serenity
Escape to the tranquil beaches of Palermo for moments of relaxation and serenity.
Mondello Beach - Just a short drive from the Palermo city center, Mondello Beach offers pristine sands and crystal-clear waters, making it a perfect spot to soak up the Sicilian sun.
Isola delle Femmine - Discover the secluded beauty of Isola delle Femmine, a small island that can be reached by boat, offering an intimate beach experience away from the crowds.
A Day Trip to Charming Cefalù
Venture beyond Palermo for a day trip to the picturesque town of Cefalù, where historic charm meets stunning coastline.
Cefalù Cathedral
Explore the Cefalù Cathedral, an architectural marvel that showcases a blend of Norman, Arab, and Byzantine influences.
La Rocca
Hike to the top of La Rocca, a rocky promontory offering panoramic views of the town and the surrounding coastline.
Travel Advisor
Aida Mollenkamp
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Italy. Looking for more Italy travel inspo? Check out my guide, 10 Things To Do In Bellagio Italy For A Luxurious Trip.