Palermo was named the Italian Capital of Culture in 2018, and this lively city might just be one of your more boisterous Italian experiences. Having been under Greek, Roman, Arab, Norman, German, French, and Spanish rule before joining the Kingdom of Italy in 1861, Palermo is a vibrant mix of architecture, culture, and cuisine. It’s colorful, eclectic, and inexpensive compared to other major Italian cities.
Many travelers only spend a couple of days here before continuing their Sicilian road trips. With so much to see and so little time, we’ve highlighted the best from our month-long exploration of Palermo for you.
Palermo might initially overwhelm you with its rugged charm, grimy buildings, and cluttered streets. However, if you can look past the decay and mess, you’ll discover a gem of a city. Indulge in its stunning Baroque architecture, delicious street food, and lively aperitivo culture.
Palermo’s rich history of cultural influences over thousands of years makes it a fascinating place to visit. Its unique Arab-Norman architecture is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site, with highlights like the Cappella Palatina in the Norman Palace and the church of Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio. The Arab-Norman cathedral is another beautiful architectural marvel, especially on the outside.
You can experience the peak of Palermo’s Baroque architecture in places like Chiesa di San Domenico, Fontana Pretoria, and Quattro Canti. Quattro Canti, in particular, serves as the heart of Palermo and features a beautiful Baroque representation of the four seasons. Palermo’s early 20th-century wealth also brought about stunning Art Nouveau structures like Teatro Massimo and the quaint kiosks in the square in front of the theater.
For something a bit unusual, consider visiting the Catacombs of the Convent of Capuchin Friars. It’s not as creepy as it sounds and is a fascinating experience. Additionally, the beautiful public library next to Chiesa del Gesù, set in a Baroque convent, is one of the most stunning in Italy.
When it comes to food, Palermo is all about street food. Sure, there are fancy restaurants, but to truly experience Palermo’s spirit, you need to hit the streets and markets. Our Guide to Street Food in Palermo has more details, but don’t miss out on this culinary adventure.
For dining, there’s a charming quarter with a vast selection of restaurants. Exploring the cobblestone alleys and finding a dinner spot in the shadow of a magnificent Baroque church in Piazza Olivella is a delightful experience.
When it comes to drinks, you can enjoy coffee and pastries at various cafes, especially on the pedestrianized Via Maqueda heading north towards Teatro Massimo. For aperitivo, which is more than just a pre-dinner cocktail, this area is perfect. Between 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM, cafes serve snacks with your drinks, which can include focaccia, cheese, olives, chips, and more.
If you’re really hungry, you can turn the aperitivo into a dinner at places like Il Siciliano, where for 10€, you get a drink and a snack board with cold cuts, cheese, mini-pizzas, and pasta salad. It’s great value for money.
Shopping in Palermo is not its main attraction. While it has the usual international brands like H&M, Zara, and some luxury brands, the fun lies in exploring its markets. Visit the Street Markets of Il Capo and Ballarò for food, spices, textiles, clothing, leather goods, and more. These markets offer a unique shopping experience and a taste of Palermo’s local life.
Appreciate that Palermo hasn’t yet been overrun by traditional tourists. Its raw, unpolished charm is what makes it special. When you visit again in thirty years and see a revitalized Palermo, you’ll remember how it was a diamond in the rough. While some cleaning up might make it more visibly appealing, its uniqueness is part of its charm. Let Palermo be a new and different experience, and may you fall in love with its delightful craziness.
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