What to do in one day in Palermo?

Palermo is the capital of Sicily, the island that is a melting pot of thousands of culture and peoples, characteristics reflected everywhere. Palermo was founded by the Phoenicians, who established it as a landing place in the middle of the Mediterranean. The city’s architecture bears witness to a past full of historical events, history and culture – this is what the palaces and religious buildings that appear in every corner of the city reveal. What to do in one day in Palermo? See beautiful photos of Palermo below. Here at Your Travel to Italy with Ana Patricia you make the trip of your dreams!!! ALSO: see our “Accommodation in Italy – Tips for your holidays!”

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Introduction

Palermo is among the South’s favorite destinations for its mild climate, landscapes and cuisine. Punic, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Arabic and, later, Norman and Swabian, Palermo soon had thirteen domains in twenty-eight centuries. This place, followed by civilizations, peoples and history, left deep wounds, but also fascinating memories and richnesses, where everything coexists in a charming way. Discover our section on Climate in Italy!

We will continue our journey to explore this wonderful city, whose magic is still waving like a flag today, guiding those who know how to enjoy the wonders of our country. We will then get to know this sensational city. Visiting Palermo is like taking a long trip back in time. One day to get to know Palermo is almost impossible, so a short walk through the beauties of the place is the first step to returning a second time with more time available. We are now going to the 1 Day Tour in Palermo .

Watch this video about Palermo and be enchanted

1) What to do in one day in Palermo? VUCCIRIA AND BALLARÒ

We start our day in Palermo, starting the morning with a breakfast. It is mandatory to start by eating a Sicilian cannoli and a coffee with almond milk, a real caloric bomb, but necessary to face the journey. After breakfast, we will enter the heart of Palermo, within the regions where there are regional fairs in the city: Vucciria and Ballarò – a unique way to immerse yourself in the colors, flavors and traditional climate of this beautiful people. Ballarò is located in the vicinity of the Central Station, while Vucciria is in the Martorana region (neighborhood where the authenticity of the city still remains). Here it is possible to find beautiful buildings (a little deteriorated, but which still have their charm), where Arab and Western culture mix harmoniously.

2) What to do in one day in Palermo? HISTORIC CENTER

We follow our route to the Historic Center, the oldest part of the city, with the most beautiful monuments such as: the Cathedral (dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary), the Royal Palace (with the Palatine Chapel), the Fountain of Pretoria Square and Vigliena Square, also known as Quattro Canti (“Four Corners”), as the meeting point of the two most important streets in the historic city: Via Maqueda and Corso Vittorio Emanuele, separating them into four corners.

3) What to do in one day in Palermo? CHURCH OF MARTORANA

We left the Quattro Canti Square behind to be surprised by the beauty of the Church of Martorana, which follows the rituals and traditions of the Orthodox Church. The particularity of the Church of Martorana is the combination of different styles that recall the clash of two cultures, just as it happened in relation to the city’s historical changes: the brilliant Byzantine mosaics that adorn the walls and the dome contrast with the baroque finish of the columns. The series of mosaics with the stories of Christ is the oldest in Sicily and was completed in 1143.

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4) What to do in one day in Palermo? THE CATHEDRAL

Now it’s time to visit the symbol of the city of Palermo: The Cathedral. One of the oldest Christian churches in the world, from AD 600 (although its current structure was completed in 1185). Contrary to what many people think, this church is not dedicated to the devotion of Saint Rosalia (patron saint of the city, as the Chapel of the south nave implies), but to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. All in Catalan Gothic style, this historic architectural treasure is a must. It is the same for the Norman Palace and the Palatine Chapel.

5) What to do in one day in Palermo? NORMAN PALACE

Also known as the Royal Palace of Palermo, the Norman Palace is famous for also being the seat of the Regional Assembly of Sicily and the oldest Royal Residence in Europe. This palace is certainly the most visited tourist attraction in all of Sicily, thanks to the beautiful Arab structure and sumptuous rooms with priceless mosaics. Still inside the complex of the Norman Palace, the hidden treasure inside the Palace deserves a visit: the beautiful Palatine Chapel.

Saint Peter and Saint Paul the Apostle

A basilica with three naves, dedicated to Saint Peter and Saint Paul the Apostle, which at the time served as a private church for the city’s royalty. All composed of marble in Byzantine style and carved wood and with paintings with an Arab touch, it surprises the tourist as soon as he enters, it is so imposing and striking. The Chapel shines on all sides, it is covered by Byzantine mosaics, in which the Omnipotent Christ is represented, talking to Saint Peter, Saint Paul and also to all the visitors who look up, amazed by the golden immensity. The visit of the Palace (and Chapel) costs on average 12.00 Euros. The ticket changes values according to the various attractions you choose.

MAP WITH THE ATTRACTIONS OF PALERMO

At this point, we will have seen the postcards of the city and our tour of Palermo continues through the streets and alleys, among the perfumes, sounds and colors of the city, looking for the typical products of the place. After all, you can’t leave without first experiencing what we now call “street food” (which has existed in Palermo since forever).

Important to Know

Considering that Palermo does not have the modernity of the subway (unlike other Italian cities), it is advisable, if possible, to book a hotel close to the center, so you can get around on foot. Find out here Where to stay in Palermo?

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How to get to Palermo?

It is possible to reach Palermo by car, by ship or by plane.

1) How to get to Palermo? BY SHIP

There are boat routes through the ports of Naples, Civitavecchia and Genoa.

2) How to get to Palermo? BY AIRPLANE

Thirty kilometers from the capital, there is the famous Punta Raisi Airport (now renamed Falcone and Borsellino), which works with the largest airlines. Find out here how to get to Palermo Center from Palermo Airport! Also read our Special Posts on Airports in Italy:

2) How to get to Palermo? BY CAR

You can also drive to Calabria via the Autostrada del Sole highway, and then take the ferry across the strait. TRAVELING BY CAR IN ITALY: EXAMPLES OF TOURS

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Conclusion

What to do in one day in Palermo? Palermo, the capital of Sicily, is a tourist destination coveted mainly for its coastline – which, in addition to being the birthplace of art and culture, is also a place of entertainment for young people. It is not such a big city, but there is no shortage of things to do. Palermo is that place where it is impossible not to fall in love with the streets, fairs and traditions of the city. It is a magical region that must be explored and experienced.

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