3 Days in Palermo, Sicily: Top Tips for First-Time Visitors, Palermo, Italy

Our Sicily adventure began in Catania, and after spending three days there, we made our way to Palermo. We opted for a bus ride, which took about 2.5 hours and cost 14 euros.

If you’re planning a similar route, you’ll quickly notice the distinct change in atmosphere as you arrive in Palermo—it’s more energetic, bustling, and a bit more chaotic than Catania.

–MARIANO APARTMENT – We stayed in this apartment. The location was great, and it was clean, but I wouldn’t recommend it due to an odd, old odor.

Originally built in 1185 by the Normans, the cathedral stands on a site with a deep religious past, including a former mosque. The exterior features a mix of Norman, Gothic, and Arabic influences, while the interior houses royal tombs, including that of Emperor Frederick II.

One of the highlights is the rooftop tour, offering panoramic views of Palermo, its surrounding mountains, and the sea. Additionally, the cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Palazzo dei Normanni (Palace of the Normans) is a historic palace originally built in the 9th century by the Arab rulers and later expanded by the Normans in the 11th century. It showcases a blend of Arab, Norman, and Byzantine architectural styles. Today, it houses the Sicilian Regional Assembly. Inside the palace is the Cappella Palatina (Palatine Chapel), commissioned by Roger II in 1132. The chapel is famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics, Arab-inspired muqarnas ceiling, and a remarkable mix of Byzantine, Islamic, and Western art. Both sites are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, reflecting Sicily’s rich, multicultural history. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).