Palermo is one of the most underrated cities in Italy. It’s the capital of the island of Sicily, famous for its old buildings, amazing beaches, wine and food.
At the beginning of summer, I travelled to Palermo. I spent 5 amazing days there and can comfortably say Palermo is now one of my top three Italian cities. I will share some useful tips on how to enjoy Palermo while visiting on a budget.
How to Get to Palermo from the Airport
The Palermo airport is just 30-45 minutes from the city. You have about four options to get to the city when you arrive: train, bus, taxi and shared taxi.
The fastest is by taxi, but it is also the most expensive. You can also grab a shared taxi but you might have to wait a bit longer to leave. This is because all seats must be filled before the driver departs. The bus and train are the cheapest. They cost just $7 but take about 45 minutes to the city centre.
Tip: If you take the bus, keep your hotel marked on Google Maps to get off at the closest stop.
Public Transport in Palermo
The most convenient way to get around the city is by walking or using a shared scooter. You also have the option of Uber, Apptaxi and local taxis in the city. The bus system, like every other city in Sicily, is in shambles. They are always extremely late or fail to show up completely.
However, the buses that go to neighbouring cities and beaches are more reliable.
Tip: Download Rome2Rio app. It gave us the most approximate information on bus times and prices. The info was off by a few euros and minutes at most.
Accomodation in Palermo
You can find lots of quality hotel and apartment options on Booking.com and Airbnb. We got a nice beautiful modern apartment in the old town through Booking.com. Palermo gets pretty hot, so always double-check that your accommodation has air conditioning. Ours was well furnished with a kitchen, massive bedrooms, a grand piano and a smart TV. And It only cost us about $100 a night.
Best places to eat in Palermo
Palermo has a plethora of food options. The city is popular for its seafood and street food. You could walk into any restaurant or bistro and get blown away by their food. However, there are places where the hype exceeds the taste, specifically targeting tourists.
Here are some of the best-rated food places I tried and 100% recommend:
- Odori e Sapori Al Vecchio (4.6 rating): This was arguably the best place we ate. The food and service were excellent. We spent about $40 on a big lunch. It had Spaghetti with seafood and roasted potatoes. Plus chicken with fries, Aperol Spritz and a bottle of Coke.
- Al Tentacolo (4.2 rating): This one was a corner store on Main Market Street. I had my first boiled octopus experience here. Although I won’t be trying the octopus again, the other seafood options were fantastic.
- Ciwara (4.6 rating): A West African restaurant with great options. I tried some Senegalese jollof rice for the first time and it was as good as the hype. Also had some mouth-watering roasted chicken wings that I still think about to this day.
Best Gelato in Palermo
Since this post is about a Sicilian city, it is only right to create a separate section for the gelato. Italy is well known for the quality of its gelato. No other country comes close. Sicily is arguably the best region in the country for gelato. I tried a couple of places in Palermo and these are the best two that you absolutely have to try.
- Amuni. Gelato chain that makes some of the best quality ice cream and gelato you will ever taste. The flavours are rich, and creamy and have fantastic textures.
- Bagliori. A family-owned and operated gelato place just opposite the Piazza Ruggiero Settimo. Hands down, it is the best gelato I have had in all of Italy and Europe. I tried some new flavours they created and I was impressed. The Fior de latte was excellent and pistachio was to die for.
Ten Fun and Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Palermo
1. Explore the Palermo Cathedral (Cattedrale di Palermo)
Visit the stunning Palermo Cathedral, which features a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of the city. The entrance is free, and you can also explore the crypts and treasures within. The cathedral closes at 7 pm, so you still have a chance to get some decent early sunset photos.
2. Wander through the Capuchin Catacombs (Catacombe dei Cappuccini)
For a unique experience, visit the Capuchin Catacombs. You will see mummified remains and learn about the history of this fascinating site. The entry fee is modest, just over $6; making it a budget-friendly option.
3. Stroll in Giardino Garibaldi
This beautiful garden is home to the oldest tree in Palermo, a 150-year-old ficus. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely walk or a picnic, especially on Sundays when a flea market is held.
4. Visit Villa Giulia
Adjacent to the botanical gardens, Villa Giulia Park is known for its palm trees and tranquil atmosphere. It’s a great place to relax without spending a dime.
5. Join a Free Walking Tour
Discover the rich history and culture of Palermo by participating in one of the free walking tours available. This is an excellent way to learn from locals and explore the city.
Tip: Use guruwalk.com to find free English walking tours.
6. Sample Street Food
Palermo is famous for its street food, including arancini (rice balls) and cannoli. You can find these delicious treats at local markets and food stalls, often at very reasonable prices.
7. Explore the Markets
Visit the bustling markets like Mercato di Ballarò or Mercato del Capo. Experience local life, sample fresh produce, and enjoy affordable meals.
8. Relax at the Beaches
Take a trip to one of Palermo’s nearby beaches, such as Mondello, where you can sunbathe and swim for free. There are many private beach sections, but you don’t have to pay their $35 costs. All you need is a towel and a bag to keep your stuff. You will find locals selling beach umbrellas and towels for $10–15. We had our own towels. After swimming, a nice security man allowed us to take a quick shower and use an empty changing room.
9. Visit the Teatro Massimo (Performing Arts Theatre)
While attending a performance might be pricey, you can admire the exterior of Teatro Massimo. Constructed in 1897, Italy’s largest opera house is a great place to visit in Palermo. Guided tours come in English and Italian, costing just $14.
10. Discover the Palazzo Reale e Cappella Palatina (Palatine Chapel)
Located in the Royal Palace, the Palatine Chapel is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s known for its stunning Byzantine mosaics and paintings. With just $20, you get access to both the Royal Palace and the Palatine Chapel. Just keep in mind that the chapel gets packed in the summer months.
Conclusion
Palermo offers a rich blend of history, culture, and culinary delights without breaking the bank. Whether you’re exploring cathedrals, indulging in gelato, or relaxing on the beach, there’s something for everyone. Plan your visit, enjoy these budget-friendly tips, and share your experiences in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more budget travel tips and updates!
Bonus: Perfect 5-Day Itinerary for Palermo
Here’s a 5-day itinerary for a trip to Palermo, Italy. It’s a blend of cultural experiences, sightseeing, and local cuisine.
Day 1: Arrival and City Center Exploration
– Morning: Arrive in Palermo and settle into your accommodation.
– Afternoon: Explore the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Palermo Cathedral and Quattro Canti, a beautiful Baroque square.
– Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local trattoria and then catch a performance at the Teatro Massimo.
Day 2: Cultural Highlights
– Morning: Visit the Palazzo dei Normanni and the Palatine Chapel to admire its stunning mosaics.
– Afternoon: Explore the Catacombe dei Cappuccini, an intriguing underground cemetery. Afterwards, visit the Galleria d’Arte Moderna for contemporary art.
– Evening: Stroll along the Foro Italico, enjoy the sea views, and dine at a seafood restaurant.
Day 3: Day Trip to Monreale and Cefalù
– Morning: Take a short trip to Monreale to see its famous cathedral with intricate mosaics.
– Afternoon: Continue to Cefalù, a picturesque coastal town. Visit the Cefalù Cathedral and climb the Rocca for breathtaking views.
– Evening: Relax on the beach or enjoy dinner at a local trattoria in Cefalù before returning to Palermo.
Day 4: Markets and Gardens
– Morning: Start your day at the Vucciria Market to experience local life and sample the popular street food.
– Afternoon: Visit the Orto Botanico di Palermo, a beautiful botanical garden, and then explore the Capuchin Catacombs.
– Evening: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the vibrant Kalsa neighbourhood.
Day 5: Relaxation and Departure
– Morning: Spend a leisurely morning at Mondello Beach, relaxing and soaking up the sun.
– Afternoon: Return to Palermo for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Visit Palazzo Abatellis for medieval and Renaissance art.
– Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner featuring Sicilian specialities.
