Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Centro Storico's golden-hued streets reveal Palermo's fascinating multicultural past at every turn. The Norman Palace dazzles with Byzantine mosaics in its Palatine Chapel, while medieval churches showcase unique Arab-Norman architecture. Ballarò and Vucciria markets pulse with local life, offering authentic Sicilian street food alongside colourful produce and spices. The area works best on foot, with most treasures within a 10-minute walk of each other through narrow cobblestone streets. Traditional trattorias serve fresh seafood and local specialities, while converted palazzos offer charming boutique accommodation with original frescoes and period details.
Kalsa's storied streets whisper tales of Sicily's layered past, from Arab rule through Norman conquest. Medieval palazzos house incredible art, like the "Annunciation" masterpiece at Palazzo Abatellis. The hauntingly beautiful roofless ruins of Santa Maria dello Spasimo host starlit concerts, while narrow cobblestone lanes lead to hidden courtyards. Traditional trattorias serve authentic Sicilian flavours after 7:30pm in this walkable quarter. Choose from restored palazzo apartments or boutique B&Bs with frescoed ceilings. Most attractions are within easy walking distance, though the uneven medieval streets require sturdy shoes.
Photo by Peter Sutton
Open Photo by Peter Sutton
Politeama
Politeama blends culture and commerce in Palermo's sophisticated heart. The impressive Teatro Politeama Garibaldi anchors a area filled with elegant 19th-century architecture and designer boutiques. Stroll along tree-lined Via della Libertà to discover Liberty-style palazzos housing upscale shops. The piazzas buzz with well-dressed locals while historic churches offer quiet moments between shopping sprees. Dining options range from refined Sicilian restaurants to trendy wine bars perfect for pre-theater drinks. Boutique hotels in converted historic buildings provide stylish accommodation with business-friendly amenities. The excellent bus connections make exploring the rest of Palermo a breeze, though the area itself is wonderfully walkable.
Castellammare Vucciria
Vucciria Market breathes life into Castellammare Vucciria, where vendors shout across narrow medieval alleys selling fresh seafood, blood oranges, and cannoli. This historic Palermo area lets you step back in time with ancient churches like Santa Maria della Gancia hiding behind weathered baroque facades. Traditional puppet theatres showcase Sicilian marionette artistry in atmospheric spaces that transport you straight into local culture. Walking is your best bet through the honey-colored limestone buildings and cobblestone streets too narrow for cars. Small family-run guesthouses and converted palazzos offer authentic stays with local charm. Traditional trattorias and street food stalls serve up pasta con sarde and arancini that won't break the bank.
Palermo Historical Center
Palermo's Historical Centre dazzles with golden Byzantine mosaics, Arab-Norman architecture, and baroque façades that tell stories spanning centuries. The streets buzz with life as UNESCO treasures like Palatine Chapel and Palermo Cathedral stand watch over bustling markets. Wander through Quattro Canti's crossroads or catch an opera at the neoclassical Teatro Massimo for a cultural feast. Traditional trattorias and street food vendors serve up authentic Sicilian flavours between medieval churches and honey-colored limestone buildings. Most attractions are within a 15-minute walk, though narrow cobblestone streets can be challenging. Historic palazzos converted into boutique hotels offer the perfect home base for exploring this vibrant district.
You can stroll along Palermo Harbour for relaxing water views when you're in Borgo Vecchio. If you carry on walking you'll get to Palermo Cruise Terminal, Molo Trapezoidale, and La Cala for some more water views.
If you want to see a show while you're in town, try and grab some tickets at Teatro Massimo in Palermo Historical Center. If you enjoy the show and want to see another, Politeama Garibaldi Theater, Biondo Stabile Theater, and Bellini Theater are all a short walk away.
If you're planning a bit of sightseeing, head to Via Vittorio Emanuele – just one of the monuments in Palermo Historical Center. You could also start your cultural experience by heading over to the cathedral in the area.
During your visit to Palermo, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Via Roma. While in this walkable area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.
Enjoy a performance at Politeama Garibaldi Theater, a theatre with a story to tell in Palermo. While in this culturally rich area, find time to visit its shops.
During your trip to Palermo, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Ballaro Market. Visit the monuments and cathedral in this culturally rich area.
Wander through bustling markets overflowing with exotic produce, street food, and centuries of Arab-Norman history. Feast on arancini and pasta alla Norma before marvelling at the golden mosaics of Cappella Palatina.
Palermo is also notable for its historical sites. Simply book a local tour to enjoy your stay a little more. Beachcombers can spend the day at Mondello Beach when the weather is nice. While you're here, make time to enjoy other sights such as Palermo Harbour.
