13 Very Best Things To Do In Palermo, Italy – Hand Luggage Only

Palermo is an absolutely brilliant city to explore in Sicily. It’s one of those cities that’s well worth visiting in its own right or as part of a wider stop to see all the beautiful places in Sicily. That being said, there are heaps of the best things to do in Palermo in its own right.

We loved our time in the northern Sicilian city of Palermo and it feels quite a bit different from other cities in Sicily like Catania. We stayed three nights on our last visit to Palermo and it was totally epic.

So, to help you get the most out of your time in Palermo, I’ve popped some total gems that you don’t want to miss when you visit. Have the best time in Italy. 

1.) Palatine Chapel

One of the things that make Palatine Chapel so special is that it forms part of the royal palace and dates back almost 1,000 years. It’s stunning and the ‎Muqarnas ceilings are just something else. It’s so impressive and influenced by Fatimid art that you sometimes see it in Islamic architecture and rooms. 

Now, the admission price is a little more than other similar sights in Palermo, so keep that in mind. Though, I’d always say to go, as it’s so lovely to see. 

Afterwards, book this delicious street food tour in Palermo that takes place in the early evening. It’s a great way to find local eateries and try local produce that sometimes gets overlooked. We loved the tour and the local guide is so nice.

Just be sure to book this food tour in advance as places do fill fast. 

Read more: Best places to see in Sicily

2.) Quattro Canti (Piazza Vigliena)

Okay, so Quattro Canti is a typical piazza area in Palermo to visit. It’s right in the heart of the historic centre and well worth passing through as you ramble the bustling streets of the city. 

History-wise, Quattro Canti dates all the way back to 1608. Sculptures of figurines are set up around the courtyard. And admire the paintings by Pietro Novello.

Whilst here, be sure to take a gander inside the Church of San Giuseppe dei Padri Teatini. It’s totally gorgeous and a brilliant way to see some of that Baroque architecture that is so popular in Sicily. 

Oh, and don’t forget that you’ve got the beautiful Fontana Pretoria that’s a few steps away. This means it’s totally easy to visit both at the same time. You will love it. 

Getting peckish? Get yourself over to Osteria Ballarò for dinner that’s just off the market area. It’s totally lovely and the pasta…