Palermo Holidays

Palermo is the capital of Sicily, a historic port city full of palaces, churches and other old buildings. The mix of architectural styles reflects the city’s past; Palermo has been successively conquered, occupied and abandoned over the centuries. Arabs, Normans, Byzantines, French and Spaniards have all ever occupied Palermo in the past. 

Palermo’s History

Visit Quattro Cantiin, the historic district. The square is located at the intersection of two main roads of Palermo and has four identical baroque buildings on its corners, displaying statues of the four Spanish rulers of the city. 

Visit the eclectic 12th Century cathedral which is a collision of all Palermo’s cultures, from its Arabic architecture to Romanesque flourishes, from its Gothic gargoyles to its baroque interior. Take a tour of the Church of San Cataldo, an Arab-Romanesque building with three domes. Walk past the heavy wooden door of the Palazzo di Alliata Pietratagliata and admire its Gothic decor and architecture.

Discover Greek, Roman and Etruscan artefacts in the Museo Archeologico Regionale Antonio Salinas. Examine medieval art in the Galleria Regionale and modern works in the Galleria d'Arte Moderna. Buy seafood and souvenirs on the open market La Vucciria and find second-hand clothes at the market Ballarò. Then take advantage of the beautiful sun and relax at one of the many beaches.

The Catacombs 

Explore the most unusual and unique attraction in Palermo, the Catacombe dei Cappuccini, a crypt beneath the Piazza Cappuccini. Here you will find thousands of mummies, some of which are well preserved, while others are in various states of decomposition. They lie on racks, hang on the walls or fill different nooks. Make sure you take a look at the bones that decorate the ceilings - lovely.

Remember, Sicily is still Italy and that means one thing is certain; the food round here will be to die for. Feast on the pizzas prepared in wood ovens and enjoy regional favourites, such as pasta with sardines and Cassata Siciliana, a traditional cake. 

Fly into Palermo International Airport or arrive by boat or train. Palermo is a major transport hub, making it a very easy location to reach. When you’re here, you can easily explore the area on foot.

Q: Should I book a car while on holiday in Palermo?

A: That all depends on what you want to see and do. If you've organised to stay in downtown Palermo for the entire time you're away, you may prefer to take advantage of the city's public transportation system. Get from point A to point B without the bother of hefty parking fees (or getting lost). If your number one aim is to discover regional Palermo, booking a rental car is a terrific option. For a comfy ride, check out our guide to Cheap Car Hire in Palermo.

Q: Which airports can I fly in to for a holiday to Palermo?

A: When you touchdown in Palermo, you'll most likely be collecting your luggage at Palermo (PMO-Punta Raisi). This major airport services 586 international flights per month.

Q: What are the most popular types of hotels for a holiday to Palermo?

A: The most popular accommodation in Palermo are apartments. Also in high demand are bed & breakfasts, guest houses and hotels.

Q: What does a Palermo holiday booking with Expedia include?

A: You can choose to plan every little detail of your trip or let Expedia help you out with a wonderful Palermo holiday package. Flights, hotels and cars — we have them covered. All you'll have to do is figure out the type of adventures you'd like to try out.

Q: What is the best way to save money on my holiday to Palermo?

A: A package deal takes the worry out of travelling, and it can save you some serious dollars too. Flights, Hotels, Activities — Expedia is here to help. Bundle the lot and start dreaming of what you'll be able to do with all your extra spending money.

Q: What are the best things to do in Palermo?

A: If you haven't already added a stop in Palermo to your travel schedule, you may want to do it now. You really shouldn't miss Teatro Massimo, Cathedral of Palermo and Palace of the Normans while you're in this part of the world.