Things To Do In Palermo Sicily

What Are The Best Things To Do in Palermo?

Palermo and North/Northwest Sicily as a whole offer an unforgettable mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. From Palermo’s lively markets to medieval hill towns and sweeping coastal views, this region is perfect for travellers who want to soak up authentic Sicilian life. Whether you’re into architecture, street food, or dramatic landscapes, North Sicily delivers experiences you won’t find anywhere else. With its vibrant cities and quiet seaside escapes, this corner of the island invites you to slow down and explore at your own pace. Discover the best things to do in Palermo, Sicily.

Table Of Contents

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Wander through Ballarò Market in Palermo

Ballarò is one of the oldest and most vibrant markets in Palermo and Sicily, and walking through it feels like stepping into a living museum of Sicilian culture. Locals shout out prices and jokes in dialect, fishmongers display their catch with pride, and the scent of grilled panelle and fresh herbs fills the air. It’s chaotic, colorful, and completely authentic. You’ll find everything from octopus and swordfish to olives, cheeses, vintage trinkets, and knock-off fashion. It’s the kind of place where you’ll get a feel for real Palermo, not overly polished or touristy, just raw and alive.

Where is it and how do I get there?

The market stretches through the Albergheria district in Palermo, starting near Piazza Casa Professa. You can easily walk there from major attractions like the Quattro Canti or Palermo Cathedral. Coming in by train? Palermo Centrale is just a 10-minute walk. Taxis and local buses are also easy options.

Is there an entry fee?

No, it’s completely free to enter and browse. Street food at Ballarò Market typically costs around €5 to €7 for a full meal. Raw seafood like shrimp or oysters is about €3 each, and pastries or cheeses range from €3 to €4. Most vendors only take cash, so bring small notes and coins.

Is it good for families or kids?

Yes, as long as you’re okay with crowds and a little chaos. Kids will enjoy the colors, street food, and general buzz, but keep a close eye, it’s easy to get separated in the narrow lanes. A weekday morning visit is calmer than the busy weekend rush.

When should I go?

Mornings are best, especially before noon, when the market is most alive. By 2 p.m., most stalls start closing down. Try to go on an empty stomach, so you can sample your way through without missing anything.

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Discover the Glorious Gold of the Palatine Chapel

Tucked inside Palermo’s Royal Palace, the Palatine Chapel (Cappella Palatina) is one of the finest treasures of Palermo, Sicily. This 12th-century chapel was commissioned by King Roger II and reflects a rich blend of Norman, Byzantine, and Islamic influences. Its shimmering gold mosaics, carved wooden ceiling, and marble floors will stop you in your tracks. It’s not just a religious site, it’s a walk through Sicily’s multicultural past.

Where is it and how do I get there?

The chapel is located in the Norman Palace (Palazzo dei Normanni) in central Palermo. It’s about a 20-minute walk from Palermo Centrale train station. You can also hop on city buses that stop nearby.

Is there an entry fee?

Yes. Tickets cost around €19 for adults, and this often includes access to other palace areas. Reductions are available for students and seniors. Entry is also free on the first Sunday of every month with no reservation needed.

Is it good for kids?

Yes, although younger children may find it a bit less engaging unless they’re into history or architecture. The space is manageable in size, and there are plenty of colors and patterns to hold their attention.

Extra tip

Go early in the day to avoid the crowds. The golden mosaics glow beautifully in the morning light streaming through the small windows.

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Discover the Teatro Massimo: Sicily’s Grand Opera House

Teatro Massimo is the largest opera house in Italy and one of the grandest in Europe. Even if you’re not an opera fan, the stunning architecture and the chance to peek inside this cultural landmark make it a must-see.

Where is it and how do I get there?

Located in central Palermo, it’s within easy walking distance from the main squares like Piazza Verdi and Piazza Politeama. Public buses also stop nearby.

Is there an entry fee?

You can tour the theatre with a guided visit for around €12. Ticket prices vary if you want to attend a performance, but even a daytime tour is well worth it.

Is it good for kids?

Older kids who enjoy music or theatre will find it fascinating. For younger children, the sheer size and beauty of the building can still be impressive.

Additional info

Tours run several times a day in multiple languages. Booking ahead is recommended, especially during the tourist season.

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Unwind in Palermo’s Orto Botanico

If you need a break from Palermo’s buzzing streets, the Botanical Gardens offer peace and lush greenery in the heart of the city. Founded in the 18th century, it’s one of Italy’s most important historic gardens. Wander under towering palms, spot rare tropical plants, and even find ancient ficus trees with roots like sculptures. It’s a perfect breather in between sightseeing.

Where is it and how do I get there?

Located near the seafront, not far from Via Lincoln, the gardens are walkable from central Palermo. It’s a short 10-minute walk from the Kalsa district.

Entry cost

Adults pay around €7, with discounts for children, students and large groups.

Is it good for kids?

Yes, it’s a great place to let kids roam a bit. There’s space to run around, and they might enjoy spotting different plants and wildlife.

Bonus

It’s close to Villa Giulia park, another calm spot with shaded benches and fountains, perfect for a picnic or break.

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Climb Palermo Cathedral for Rooftop Views

Palermo Cathedral (Cattedrale di Palermo) is an architectural patchwork, showing centuries of influence from Arab, Norman, Gothic, and Baroque design. The interior is impressive, but if you’re able, the rooftop walkway is the real highlight. From the top, you’ll get panoramic views of Palermo’s rooftops, distant mountains, and the sea on a clear day. It’s the perfect place to take a breath and take it all in.

Where is it and how do I get there?

The cathedral is located on Corso Vittorio Emanuele, one of the city’s main streets. It’s central and very easy to walk to from most neighborhoods in Palermo.

Do you need a ticket?

Access to the cathedral itself is free, but tickets for the rooftop and tombs cost around €10 to €13, depending if you get them from the cathedral or a tour guide. Combo tickets are available.

Is it suitable for kids?

Older children will enjoy the views, but the spiral staircase to the rooftop can be narrow and steep, so it’s not ideal for toddlers or anyone with mobility issues.

Pro tip

Go at sunset for softer light and fewer crowds, but check the hours in advance, rooftop access often closes earlier than the main cathedral.

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Sample Traditional Street Food at Antica Focacceria San Francesco

If you want a taste of authentic Palermo, and Sicily in general, without wandering far, Antica Focacceria San Francesco is the place. Founded in 1834, this historic eatery is famous for serving up classic Sicilian street food in a slightly more refined setting. It’s where locals and visitors go for pane con la milza (spleen sandwich), arancine, and panelle (chickpea fritters) with all the character of a street stall but under the frescoed ceilings of a historic building.

Where is it and how do I get there?

It’s located in the Kalsa district, right next to the San Francesco d’Assisi church. You can walk there easily from Palermo Cathedral or Via Roma, and buses stop nearby.

How much will it cost?

Very affordable. You can try a full meal of street food classics for around €10–€15. Sandwiches are also incredibly affordable with most around €3.

Is it suitable for kids?

Definitely. The food is freshly made, and you can find options that are more kid-friendly if they aren’t up for spleen sandwiches. There’s also indoor seating and table service which can be helpful if you’re travelling with little ones.

Extra detail

The place has deep cultural roots. It’s known for being a meeting place for anti-Mafia figures, and you’ll even see signs explaining its support for the “Addiopizzo” movement, which encourages businesses to refuse extortion.

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Where to stay in and around Palermo, Sicily and how to plan your trip

This region is as diverse as it is stunning, offering everything from local street eats to mountain hikes and ancient churches. At Sicily4u, we make it easy to base yourself in the heart of it all. Our handpicked villas in North and Northwest Sicily are the perfect starting point for your adventure, whether you’re planning a family escape, a food-focused getaway, or something in between.

Start planning your Sicilian stay today with Sicily4u, and unlock the very best of the island’s vibrant north.

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