Palermo, Italy, known as the Capital of Sicily due to its cultural, economic, and political centre, offers a blend of history and culture with diverse architecture and gastronomy, all surrounded by several natural wonders. Palermo is one of Italy’s most popular Mediterranean coastal cities and a cruise stop; it’s conveniently located near the stunning beaches of the Sicilian Coast.
Our NH Hotels in Palermo, Italy offer you the perfect accommodation options in Palermo, strategically situated in the heart of the city.
What is there to do in Palermo?
Palermo is full of history. Walking through its historical centre will make you feel like you’ve travelled back in time as you see the Palermo Cathedral or the Santa Maria dell'Ammiraglio church, the most important religious building in Palermo. Moreover, to enjoy some of the prettiest panoramic views of the city you can climb to the top of the Chiesa del Santissimo Salvatore. The 360º views will leave you speechless!
The Capuchin Catacombs are also worth exploring. They are one of the most visited landmarks in Italy. There, you’ll learn about the people that were buried in the catacombs and about Rosalia Lombardo, one of the best-preserved bodies in the world.
If you’re looking for more of what to do in Palermo, you should consider snorkelling in nearby beaches such as Mondello and Capo Gallo Nature Reserve. The crystal-clear waters will let you admire the marine life. If you want to explore Palermo’s surrounding area, you’ll be just a few minutes from the city’s pier, where you can go on a boat excursion to the Aeolian and Egadi Islands, famous for their spectacular beaches and their rich biodiversity.
Another thing to add to your itinerary is to visit the chaotic markets of Palermo such as Capo Market, one of the city’s oldest markets with very fresh produce, and the Mercato delle Pulci, a flea market in the city centre where you can find real vintage bargains!
If you’re travelling to Sicily on business, our hotels in Palermo, Italy, which include rooms for meetings and events, are generally well connected with the train station and city’s main highways, making it very easy to get to the airport to travel to other areas of Italy.
How is the weather in Palermo?
Palermo is known for its Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot, dry summers. Summer is perfect for all kinds of outdoor activities: snorkelling, cycling through the city, or even hiking in the surrounding hills like Monte Pellegrino. Or simply unwind and enjoy the modern services and facilities on offer, including a swimming pool.
However, if we had to recommend the best time of the year to visit the Sicilian capital, it would be either spring or autumn as the city won’t be as crowded, but you will be able to sit on the terraces and enjoy the amazing atmosphere of the South of Italy.
What are the must-try foods in Palermo?
The gastronomic options in the Capital of Sicily are endless. After all, the Sicilian cuisine offers a wide range of divine dishes that are to die for.
One of the best ways to try some of the iconic Sicilian treats is to go to the city’s vibrant markets such as Ballarò or Vucciria. There you can taste the famous fried rice balls, arancini, the pane ca meusa, a spleen sandwich, or the delicious cannoli, the most popular Sicilian dessert.
You can also mingle with the locals as you watch the sun go down during the aperitivo at Foro Italico, an Italian tradition of enjoying a snack while sipping your favourite Sicilian wine or a refreshing spritz.
Our hotels in Palermo, Italy also have wonderful restaurants where you can try Sicily’s typical cuisine after an exhausting day of exploring.
What events are worth attending in Palermo?
Palermo is a city full of life, offering several annual festivals you shouldn’t miss! For music lovers, in October the Ballarò Buskers Festival takes place, filling the famous market with live music and acrobatic performances.
Food lovers will love the Palermo Street Food Festival. It’s a celebration of the delicious Sicilian street food, featuring tasting, music and plenty of entertainment.
During summer, Mondello Beach comes alive with vibrant nightlife, featuring beach club parties, DJs, live music events, which make Palermo’s main beach a hotspot for both locals and tourists.
How to get around in Palermo?
Although getting around Palermo by bus is easy, the best way to explore the city centre is on foot. Most of the things there are to do and see in Palermo are within walking distance from each other. By going on foot, you’ll discover off-the-beaten-path locations! Another option is to rent a car, this way you will be able to go on day trips and explore all that Sicily has to offer, like Monreale, Segesta, Venus Castle in Erice or other UNESCO sites like Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples. Moreover, buses, trains and ferries connect the island to Italy’s mainland.
What are the best areas to stay in Palermo?
Contrary to the popular belief that Palermo is a dangerous city due to its historical ties to the Sicilian Mafia, Palermo is generally safe for tourists as any other European city.
One of the best areas to stay in Palermo is definitely the Historic Centre. It’s ideal for first-time visitors as you’ll be right next to the Palermo Cathedral or the Teatro Massimo and will walk through the cobblestone lanes.
La Kalsa, one of the city’s oldest neighbourhoods, is also a great area for your accommodation in Palermo. It’s full of bars and markets where you can immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.
And lastly, the seaside neighborhood of Mondello is perfect for a beach getaway, near the stunning views of the Sicilian coast.
Our NH Hotels in Palermo offer you the perfect starting point for your holiday in Palermo. You’ll be able to walk to the main attractions of the city and make the most of your trip by returning to our comfortable and modern amenities and facilities after a perfect day of exploring the Sicilian capital. By booking a room with NH Hotels, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable trip with your family in a city that has already earned its place in the top positions in Italy’s tourist guide books.
