Palermo, Italy: A 5-Day Adventure for the Whole Family

Discover family fun in Palermo, Italy, where adventure and culture come together!

19 July 2023

Embark on a captivating family adventure in Palermo, Italy, where ancient history meets modern charm. Explore the vibrant street markets filled with colorful local produce and indulge in mouthwatering gelato. Discover the rich cultural heritage through visits to the magnificent Palermo Cathedral and the enchanting Catacombs of the Capuchins, ensuring an unforgettable and family-friendly experience for everyone.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Soul of Palermo

  • Check into Hotel Libeccio, a charming family-friendly hotel near the beach.
  • Dive into history at Palazzo dei Normanni, a majestic fortress showcasing stunning Byzantine mosaics.
  • Lose yourself in the vibrant streets of Ballarò market, where aromas of freshly baked bread and spices fill the air.
  • Indulge in a delectable meal at Antica Focacceria San Francesco, serving mouthwatering Sicilian street food since 1834.
  • Stroll through the enchanting gardens of Villa Giulia and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.
  • End the day with a gelato from the magical Gelateria Al Cassaro, where flavors like cannolo and pistachio will transport you to dessert heaven.
Day 2

Coastal Splendors and Sweet Delights

  • Take a day trip to the picturesque beach town of Mondello and soak up the sun on its white sandy beaches.
  • Treat your taste buds at Pasticceria Cappello, a heavenly bakery known for its cannoli, Sicilian pastries, and dangerously addictive cassata.
  • Explore the surreal Catacombe dei Cappuccini, an underground crypt housing thousands of mummified bodies, eerie yet fascinating.
  • Discover the vibrant street art scene in the Kalsa neighborhood, where colorful murals and graffiti add an artsy touch to the historic alleys.
  • Enjoy a seafood feast at Trattoria Sant'Anna, where freshly caught fish and squid ink pasta will transport your taste buds straight to the sea.
Day 3

Ancient Treasures and Mouthwatering Delicacies

  • Uncover history at the Archaeological Museum, home to ancient artifacts from Sicily's Greek and Roman past.
  • Get lost in the maze-like streets of the Vucciria market, where street performers, vibrant colors, and quirky characters create a lively atmosphere.
  • Savor a traditional Sicilian breakfast at Pasticceria Massaro, where fluffy brioche and granita will awaken your senses.
  • Visit the stunning Palermo Cathedral, a mesmerizing blend of architectural styles that embodies the city's multicultural heritage.
  • Enjoy a leisurely dinner at Trattoria Da Salvo, where rustic Sicilian dishes like pasta alla norma and arancini are cooked with love and tradition.
Day 4

Palatial Palermo and Culinary Delights

  • Marvel at the opulent interiors of Palazzo Abatellis, housing exquisite artworks including Antonello da Messina's famous "Annunciation."
  • Visit Orto Botanico di Palermo, a hidden oasis featuring a vast collection of exotic plants and a charming pond inhabited by graceful turtles.
  • Embark on a street food adventure in the bustling markets of Capo, where panelle, crocché, and sfincione will tempt your taste buds.
  • Experience Palermo's vibrant nightlife with a visit to Cantunera, a trendy bar offering unique cocktails inspired by Sicilian flavors.
  • Indulge in a heavenly dinner at Osteria dei Vespri, where innovative dishes showcase the finest local ingredients in a cozy atmosphere.
Day 5

Farewell Palermo, Until We Meet Again

  • Take a leisurely morning walk along the Via Libertà, admiring the beautiful liberty-style buildings and designer boutiques.
  • Explore the enchanting Norman Palace and its exquisite Palatine Chapel, adorned with shimmering gold mosaics.
  • Have a delightful picnic in the picturesque Giardino Inglese, a charming English-style garden filled with blooming flowers and peaceful paths.
  • Bid farewell to Palermo with a final gelato from Ilardo, known for its inventive flavors like ricotta and fig or jasmine and orange blossom.
  • Pack your bags with cherished memories and depart, vowing to return someday to this captivating city.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Palermo, Italy by plane is to fly directly to Falcone-Borsellino Airport which is located 35 kilometers west of the city centre. There are many international and domestic airlines that operate flights to and from Palermo including Alitalia, Ryanair, and EasyJet.

Car

If you are driving to Palermo, Italy it is best to take the A19 motorway which connects the city with the national road network. The journey time from Naples is about 8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Train

You can take a train to Palermo, Italy and the best way to do so is to arrive at Palermo Centrale railway station, which is the main train station in the city. The station is served by many national and international trains, and has connections to all major Italian cities.

Boat

The best way to get to Palermo, Italy by boat is to take a ferry from Naples. The journey takes about 10 hours and there are several companies that operate this route including Grimaldi Lines and Tirrenia. The ferry arrives at the port of Palermo which is located in the city centre.

Bus

The best way to get to Palermo, Italy by bus is to take the bus from the central bus station in Naples. The bus ride takes about 12 hours and there are several bus companies that operate this route including Autolinee Federico, Sicilbus, and Sais Autolinee.

More travel plans

Palermo on a Budget: A Day of Sicilian Adventure

A trip to Palermo, Italy on a limited budget can be a thrilling and worthwhile experience. Explore the stunning architecture of the Norman Palace, visit the colorful markets and taste delicious Sicilian cuisine. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the historic district of Caccamo and visit Piazza Pretoria, the heart of the city.

Escape to Palermo for a 4-Day Romantic Getaway

Explore Baroque churches, Arab-Norman palaces and winding street markets on a romantic trip to Palermo, Italy. Savor the unique Sicilian cuisine, including arancine and cannoli, while taking in the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Take a moonlit stroll on Monreale's terrace and marvel at the illuminated Norman cathedral and the glittering stars above.

The Ultimate 3-Day Palermo Adventure

Palermo, the capital city of Sicily is a fascinating destination that offers visitors a mix of cultures, cuisines, and history. The city boasts of ancient ruins, Gothic-style cathedrals, bustling markets, and mouth-watering street food. Visitors can explore the historic center, take a stroll through the Botanical Gardens or indulge in a little retail therapy at the open-air markets.

Palermo, Italy: A Family-Friendly Adventure Like No Other

Palermo, Italy offers a fantastic destination for a family-friendly trip filled with rich history, delicious food, and stunning architecture. You can explore the city's iconic landmarks like the Palermo Cathedral and the Royal Palace, while also enjoying leisurely walks through its charming streets and lively markets. The whole family will relish in the local cuisine, with opportunities to try authentic Sicilian dishes like arancini and cannoli, making Palermo a perfect choice for a well-rounded and enjoyable family vacation.