Tour difficulty

  • Easy
  • Medium
  • Hard

Duration

3 hours

Sicily Walking Tours: City Tours

Tour of the Unique Sites of Palermo

 

Discover Palermo's Unique Heritage

Embarking on a Tour of the Unique Sites of Palermo with Your Own Italy offers an unparalleled journey through the vibrant heart of Sicily’s capital. This personalized exploration delves into Palermo’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and gastronomy, uncovering the city’s most distinctive and captivating sites. From ancient palaces and hidden chapels to bustling markets and iconic theaters, each stop reveals a layer of Palermo’s complex identity, blending Arab-Norman influences with contemporary Sicilian life.

Palazzo dei Normanni and the Palatine Chapel
Begin your adventure at the Palazzo dei Normanni, a testament to Palermo’s Norman past and one of the most stunning examples of Norman architecture in the world. The palace’s jewel, the Palatine Chapel, dazzles visitors with its intricate mosaics, a harmonious blend of Byzantine, Norman, and Islamic artistry, reflecting Sicily’s multicultural history.

The Capuchin Catacombs
For those with a taste for the unusual, the Capuchin Catacombs offer a haunting yet fascinating glimpse into Palermo’s past. This underground cemetery houses thousands of mummified bodies, dressed in their finest clothes, providing a unique perspective on Sicilian customs and beliefs regarding death and the afterlife.

Quattro Canti and Piazza Pretoria
Stroll through the Quattro Canti, the iconic Baroque square that marks the heart of Palermo, where the city’s four historic districts meet. A short walk away lies Piazza Pretoria, with its stunning fountain surrounded by scandalous nude statues, known locally as the “Fountain of Shame,” set against the backdrop of beautiful baroque buildings.

Teatro Massimo
Visit the Teatro Massimo, Italy’s largest opera house and one of the most prestigious theaters in Europe. A symbol of Palermo’s love for the arts, the theater offers guided tours that showcase its magnificent architecture, intricate frescoes, and the grandeur of its auditorium.

The Markets of Palermo
No tour of Palermo is complete without experiencing its lively street markets. Venture into the Capo, Ballarò, or Vucciria markets to witness the vibrant daily life of Palermitans. These markets are a feast for the senses, offering everything from fresh produce and seafood to street food delicacies like panelle and arancini.

Your Own Italy: A Gateway to Authentic Sicilian Experiences

With Your Own Italy, your Tour of the Unique Sites of Palermo is more than a sightseeing trip—it’s an immersive experience that connects you with the heart and soul of Sicily. Tailored to your interests, whether you’re drawn to historical treasures, culinary adventures, or the arts, we ensure your exploration of Palermo is as enriching as it is unforgettable.

Embark on Your Palermo Discovery
Are you ready to delve into the unique sites of Palermo and uncover the stories that make Sicily’s capital so captivating? Contact Your Own Italy to begin planning your personalized tour. Discover Palermo’s unparalleled heritage, from its ancient palaces and mysterious catacombs to its lively markets and majestic theaters, for a journey that will stay with you long after you leave.

What's Included

Embark on a journey through time and history as your personal guide unveils the wonders of Palermo, starting from the grandeur of the Palazzo dei Normanni. This ninth-century royal palace, now the seat of the Sicilian government, is home to the Cappella Palatina, famed for its breathtaking Byzantine mosaics. Your adventure then takes you to the eerie yet fascinating crypts of the Capuchin monastery, a museum-like testament to mortality that’s not for the faint of heart. Rest assured, all transportation needed during this immersive tour is provided for your convenience and comfort.

Personal Guide Meeting: Be greeted by your guide outside your accommodations, ready to share the rich history and culture of Palermo.
Palazzo dei Normanni Tour: Explore the royal palace’s complex history, architectural grandeur, and the unparalleled beauty of the Cappella Palatina’s Byzantine mosaics.
Capuchin Monastery Crypts: Venture into the crypts for a unique glimpse into a museum of death, where the mummified remains of monks and prominent citizens offer a solemn reflection on life and eternity.
Included Transportation: Enjoy the convenience of included transportation, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience throughout your tour.

This personalized tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to delve into Palermo’s rich tapestry of history, art, and culture, from the regal beauty of the Palazzo dei Normanni to the solemn depths of the Capuchin crypts, each moment enriched by the insights of your personal guide.

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Making the Most of Your Palermo Tour

Comfortable Footwear: Be prepared for cobblestone streets and some walking to fully enjoy Palermo’s historic center.
Respectful Attire: When visiting religious sites, remember to dress modestly out of respect for local customs.
Try Local Specialties: Palermo is famed for its street food. Seize the opportunity to taste authentic Sicilian flavors.
Photography: Capture the beauty and uniqueness of Palermo’s sites, but remember to ask for permission before photographing people, especially in markets.

Faq

Is there a dress code I should know about?
There is a dress code for churches and basilicas. Shoulders and knees must be covered; shorts, miniskirts, and sleeveless shirts are not permitted. It is also recommended that you not take large bags or backpacks on tours that include churches as you may not be permitted to enter and storage accommodations are not usually available.
What if there is bad weather?
Our tours operate rain or shine!
Is tipping customary in Italy?
Tipping is indeed customary in Italy ! It is considered a kind gesture and proper etiquette to leave “a little something extra” depending on the level of service you receive. For a private guide it is suggested to leave 15 – 25 euros for a typical 3-hour tour.
What happens after I’ve requested a booking through your website?
Your Own Italy will send a confirmation email within 24 hours of your booking. You will then be invited to make your payment using a link that will be provided.
Can wheelchair users go on this walking tour?
Not all walking tours are fully accessible for wheelchair users or those with walking disabilities. However, if anyone in your group requires special accommodation, please let us know when completing the booking and we will work out suitable alternative routes.
Can tours be modified?
Yes, we will do our best to adjust any tour to accommodate special requests.
How far in advance should I book my walking tour?
Tours should be booked 48 hours in advance. While we cannot guarantee availability if booking occurs in less than 48 hours, we will do our best to accommodate your request.
What are Your Own Italy’s payment terms?
Full payment is due when the tour confirmation email is sent, within 24 hours of your booking. You will be provided with a link to our payment page. We accept Visa, MasterCard, and American Express.
What is your cancellation policy?
Tours must be canceled by email 24 hours prior to the start of the tour. If cancellation is made in less than this time, Your Own Italy cannot guarantee a full refund.
How do I amend a reservation?
Any changes to existing reservations must be requested by email. All efforts will be made to accommodate changes, but they cannot be guaranteed.
What should I do if I have a larger group than the size suggested on the website?
Your Own Italy is delighted to accommodate large groups. Please specify the number in your party when booking, and every effort will be made to organize a tour within the time limits provided.

Meeting Point

Please specify when booking whether you would prefer to meet your private guide at your accommodations or at a designated point near the highlights of the tour.

Duration Of Tour

Walking Tours last approximately 3 hours unless otherwise specified.
Tour times are average – some groups prefer a more leisurely pace with fewer sites, with your private guide, this is your option.