Inspiration for your own tailor-made trip
A Short Break in Palermo Discover the Rich History and Culture of Sicily
Italy - Sicily - Palermo
Touch down in the Sicilian capital and marvel at the city’s grand buildings, including the Norman Palace and the Palatine Chapel with its dazzling Byzantine mosaics. Learn about Palermo’s historic cathedrals on guided tours and immerse yourself in Sicily’s culinary traditions at the city’s markets, enjoying everything from warm arancini (deep-fried risotto balls) and crispy pane e panelle (chickpea fritters) to pasta con le sarde (sardine pasta) and golden cannoli (cream-filled pastry tubes). Head to the capital's outskirts to sun yourself on the blissful Mondello Beach, or to the beautiful botanical gardens for a tranquil escape from the city buzz.
Itinerary
100% customisable for you
Your Sicilian short break begins today, so hop on a three-hour flight to Palermo, where a private transfer will be waiting to take you to your hotel. Once you’ve settled in, the rest of the day is yours to play with: wander through the city streets; admire the Byzantine architecture, Arabesque domes and Neoclassical buildings; and tuck into your first authentic Italian meal at a restaurant recommended by your local Concierge. Perfection.
Today, uncover Palermo’s past on guided tours of the city’s cathedrals. Your half-day tour begins at the Cathedral of Palermo, one of Sicily’s most important architectural monuments. This distinctive Norman structure was built in 1184 and retains its beautiful Arab-Norman geometric features and intricate arches.
After admiring the cathedral’s craftsmanship, head to the city's south-west to visit the equally impressive Cathedral of Santa Maria Nuova de Monreale. Dating back to 1174, it inspired the Cathedral of Palermo, built ten years later to surpass Monreale’s grandeur. Your knowledgeable guide will explain the significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site, which is renowned for its Byzantine mosaics.
Need dinner plans? Consult our Dossier for a list of tried and tested spots to sample Sicilian cuisine.
We hope you’re hungry – today, you’ll explore Palermo’s vibrant food markets with a local guide. On this gourmet market tour, visit Vucciria, Il Capo and Ballaro, each one full of life and brimming with local produce. Along the way, tuck into local street food specialities including arancini, scaccia (stuffed flatbread) and cannoli.
Once you’ve munched your way through the city, the rest of the day is yours to discover Palermo’s many gems. Stroll (or roll, if you’re full to the brim) through its wild botanical gardens, marvel at (more) beautiful Byzantine mosaics at the Palatine Chapel or venture to Mondello Beach, just outside the city, for a refreshing dip in the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Come evening, toast to the final night of your Sicilian long weekend with a glass of the region’s famed Marsala wine and chow down on a bowl of pasta alla norma – Sicily’s signature pasta dish.
Sadly, your short break in Palermo ends today, so make the most of your final hours in Italy with one last wander through the city. Pick up souvenirs, revisit your favourite historical buildings and indulge in delicious dishes before heading to the airport in a private transfer. Arrive in the UK after a three-hour flight, armed with plenty of edible goodies for your family and friends.
Suggestions
Everything in this itinerary is entirely customisable, down to the smallest details. Here are some more suggestions of what could be included
PRIVATE TOUR OF PALAZZO VALGUARNERA GANGI
Marvel at the Palazzo Valguarnera Gangi on a private guided tour. Built by Prince Pietro Valguarnera in the 18th century, this sublime Baroque palace exudes opulence, from its silk-cloaked walls to its gilded woodwork. Fans of the iconic Italian film The Leopard will recognise the palace’s ballroom and gallery of mirrors from the unforgettable ballroom scene.
Why visit Italy with Original Travel ?
Each of our trips is entirely tailor-made with originality, quality and cultural immersion in mind. Our team of destination specialists will craft itineraries based on your tastes, using their first-hand knowledge and the help of our in-country team of Concierges and guides. All trips are accompanied by a wide range of additional services, including a 24-hour helpline, the Original Travel app, fast-track airport services and much more.
Enquire nowA few of the benefits of travelling with us to Italy
- Our local Concierges
- The Original Travel app
- Destination Dossier
- 24-hour helpline
- Expert guides
- 100% carbon absorption
