Palermo, the capital of one of the largest islands in the Mediterranean, is a city that has always been intimately connected with the sea, a source of life, commerce, and entertainment. From the stunning places of worship that represent the starting point of any tour to the experiences to be had on the narrow, shabby streets of Panormos, there is so much to discover in this multiethnic city.
Discover artisan shops where you can buy centuries-old craftsmanship products, such as classic or modernized majolica, moor’s heads, jewelry, and tailoring products of all kinds. Explore the city markets where you can breathe in the colorful folklore of the land, with “Virgin Mary street shrines” and “clothes hung out to dry in the sun.”
Embrace the dark and noble side of Palermo by visiting the Paleochristian Catacombs of Porta D’Ossuna and the crypt below the church of Santa Maruzza dei Canceddi. Or indulge in the bright colors of the city, such as the emerald green of almond paste decorating traditional sweets and the exquisite turquoise of the “Promenade of the Marina,” perhaps the best postcard view of the Gulf.
Palermo has something for everyone. Enjoy sandwiches with spleen or attend a famous show at one of over 10 theaters in the center, from the Teatro Massimo, the largest opera house in Italy and the third largest in Europe after Paris and Vienna, to the experimental Free Theater born from the ashes of the former Hotel de France.
Despite the neglect and decay of some of its monumental assets, Palermo’s mild climate, lively people, and extraordinary cuisine make it an undeniably splendid city.
On this page, we have put together a list of 8 classic or unusual experiences that will make you fall madly in love with this city of contradictions and contaminations.
[…] the Egadi Islands: Beyond the Egadi Islands: Palermo is too good to be missed, but also Trapani is fascinating and a superb base to visit Greek temples […]