Palermo 4 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Historical Center

  • Morning: Check into your hotel, preferably located in the historic center for easy access to major attractions. Some recommendations include Hotel Residence San Domenico or Palermo Inn.

  • Afternoon: Visit the Quattro Canti, a famous Baroque square known for its four corner palaces adorned with sculptures representing the patron saints of Palermo. Nearby, you’ll find the beautiful churches of San Cataldo and Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio (The Martorana).

  • Evening: Stroll through the bustling markets of Vucciria and Ballarò, trying local street food such as arancine (fried rice balls) and pani ca’ meusa (spleen sandwich). For a sit-down dinner, head to Trattoria a Santo Spirito.

  • Night: End your day with a visit to the Teatro Massimo, one of the world’s largest opera houses.

Day 2: Monumental Palermo

  • Morning: Visit the Palazzo dei Normanni and the adjacent Capella Palatina. Don’t miss the stunning mosaics inside the chapel.

  • Afternoon: Explore the Cathedral of Palermo, which houses the tomb of Constance of Aragon, and the nearby Cappella del Santo Rosario di San Domenico where you can find the famous statue of the Virgin Mary by Baroque artist Giuseppe Venanzio Marvuglia.

  • Evening: Enjoy a dinner at Ai Borgheri, offering delicious Sicilian cuisine, or Pizzeria Trattoria Antica Focacceria San Francesco for authentic pizza.

Day 3: Day Trip to Mondello and Capo Gallo

  • Morning: Take a bus or rent a car to visit the charming seaside town of Mondello. Spend your morning relaxing on its sandy beaches.

  • Afternoon: Head to the Capo Gallo Nature Reserve, known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and unique birdwatching opportunities. Don’t forget your swimming gear!

  • Evening: Return to Palermo and dine at Osteria alla Giudecca, offering a variety of Sicilian dishes with a contemporary twist.

Day 4: Food and Artisanal Exploration

  • Morning: Visit the Market di Ballarò for an early breakfast, where you can find fresh fruit, vegetables, fish, and other local produce.

  • Afternoon: Discover the artisan workshops of Via Maqueda, particularly known for its goldsmiths, leatherworkers, and ceramicists.

  • Evening: For your final dinner in Palermo, dine at La Favola, a restaurant offering traditional Sicilian dishes with a modern touch.

Other Tips

  • Transportation: Public buses are the most common way to get around Palermo. Taxis and rental cars are also available. Consider getting a 24-hour or multi-day ticket for the city bus system.

  • Currency: Euros are used in Palermo. ATMs are widely available throughout the city.

  • Language: While many locals speak English, it’s always helpful to learn a few basic Italian phrases.

  • Safety: Be aware of your surroundings and avoid visiting less touristic areas at night.

  • Weather: Palermo experiences a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Pack accordingly!