Introduction to Palermo Tour

Palermo, Sicily's largest city, is a layered metropolis with centuries of Arab, Norman, Byzantine, and Mediterranean influences. In the company of a local expert, learn about the city's history, art, and architecture in this 3-hour tour, as we traverse a diverse range of topics from Norman religiosity to contemporary challenges affecting the city.

Your tour will begin with an overview of Palermo’s history, art, and architecture, as you explore the vibrant streets, analyze the exterior of the magnificent Cathedral of Palermo, and enjoy the picturesque Piazze such as Piazza Verdi, Piazza Pretoria, and Piazza Bellini. 

You'll then visit the Norman churches of Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio, called "La Martorana" by the locals, with its famous 12th-century mosaics, and San Cataldo church, known for its famous red onion-shaped domes, and one of the finest blends of architectural and artistic styles. 

You will also learn about contemporary Palermo, its current issues, challenges, and the influence of the Mafia in this multifaceted city. 

At the end of the tour, you will visit one of the most splendid examples of the Sicilian Baroque: the church of Casa Professa, and you will gain a deep understanding of this fascinating, yet complex city.

If your tour takes place in the afternoon, the visit to the La Martorana church will be replaced with the church of Santa Caterina.

Tickets

The tour includes entrances to churches and sites. There might be some extra fees to be paid on-site. It is a good idea to have some cash with you for those.

This tour visits several churches. Visitors must dress modestly, covering their shoulders and knees for both men and women. It's also advisable to wear comfortable footwear.

You will meet your guide in front of the Bar Marocco, via Vittorio Emanuele. Your route and end location may differ according to your guide. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map.

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your expert will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to be prepared; we encourage keeping an eye on the weather and bringing along an umbrella, sunscreen, water, or a hat as needed.

We do cover quite a bit of ground on this tour, and therefore we recommend contacting us with any mobility questions; we will be happy to advise if the itinerary will be appropriate for you or propose modifications where necessary. Please feel free to contact us.

Do we visit the Cathedral of Palermo and the Palatine Chapel?
This tour does not include access to the interior of the Cathedral or the Palatine Chapel. Your guide will provide explanations about these sites from the outside, and you are welcome to visit them on your own after the tour.

Can we walk on the terraces of the Cathedral?
If you are interested, and it is available, you might be able to access the terraces (it's about 100 steps) by paying a 5 euro ticket on-site, not included in the price of the tour.