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Planning a trip to Palermo and not sure how to fit it all in? We’ve got you covered!
Palermo is full of ancient history, vibrant markets, and some of the best street food in Italy. But with so much to see, eat, and do, planning the perfect trip can feel overwhelming.
After multiple trips to this Sicilian city, I put together the ultimate 3-day Palermo itinerary filled with local experiences, top-rated tours, and just the right amount of downtime. From historic walking tours to coastal escapes, you’ll hit all the highlights while still having time to relax and explore at your own pace. Whether it’s your first time in Sicily or not, this itinerary makes it easy to enjoy the best of Palermo—without the stress!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Palermo was this street-food walking tour! It whisked us through colorful markets, where we sampled arancine, panelle, cannoli, and even local drinks that really brought Palermo’s flavors and stories to life.
Itinerary Overview
One of the things we love about Palermo is that you don’t need a car to get around. Once you’re in the city center, most of the sights are easily walkable. For spots that are a little further out, the local buses are a solid option; they’re generally reliable and run consistently throughout the day. Taxis are also available if you prefer a quicker or more direct ride. Getting around is simple, so you can focus on enjoying the city!
Here’s what to expect from each day:
Day 1: Kick off your time in Palermo with a private walking tour and dive into the city’s history. In the afternoon, explore the eerie Catacombe dei Cappuccini and the impressive Regional Archeological Museum. End the day like a true local by sampling Palermo’s best street food on a lively evening tour.
Day 2: Start your second morning soaking up the sun on a private boat tour along Palermo’s stunning coastline. Afterward, head to Mondello Beach for a relaxing afternoon of swimming and lounging by the sea. In the evening, enjoy dinner and live music at the charming Taverna Dei Canti.
Day 3: On your final day, take a fascinating look into Palermo’s anti-Mafia movement on a tour. In the afternoon, make your way to the hilltop town of Monreale to see its breathtaking cathedral. Then, wrap up your trip with a fun and hands-on evening learning how to make authentic Sicilian pizza and gelato.
Day 1
Morning – Discover Palermo on a private, customizable walking tour
We think this private walking tour is the ideal way to start your time in Palermo. It’s completely customizable (this is just what we wanted to see), so not only do you get to visit some of the city’s top landmarks, but you also get to explore at your own pace with a knowledgeable local guide.
This tour gave us a great feel for the layout of the city, and we appreciated learning about Palermo’s layered history. We suggest choosing between a 2 or 3-hour version, depending on how much time you want to spend sightseeing. Either way, starting at 9 or 9:30 am and wrapping up no later than noon works great, so you can finish in time for lunch.
It all starts with hotel pickup (super convenient!), and from there, your guide will tailor the route to match your interests. The Norman Palace and Palatine Chapel were absolutely stunning, with breathtaking golden mosaics inside the chapel.
From there, we made our way to Palermo Cathedral, which is a stunning mix of architectural styles and has a long, fascinating history. We also found the Teatro Massimo a really cool stop since it’s the largest opera house in Italy!
We ended the tour at the Chiesa di Santa Caterina, and if you have time, definitely check out the rooftop for panoramic views over Palermo’s old town.
We really appreciated how many tips our guide gave us on places to eat and explore on our own (some are even on this itinerary!), and it was a huge help as first-time visitors. With a knowledgeable guide, a flexible itinerary, and hotel pickup included, it’s easy to see why this tour has so many rave reviews!
Reserve this private walking tour here and get FREE 24-hour cancellation!
Lunch – Mercato di Ballarò
For lunch, head to Mercato di Ballarò—one of the liveliest and most authentic markets in Palermo. It’s the perfect spot to grab a quick bite between sightseeing, with tons of delicious street food options like panelle (chickpea fritters), arancini, and fresh grilled meats. While you’ll visit two other markets this evening, Ballarò is a great midday stop to fuel up and soak in the local energy.
Afternoon – Catacombs and museums
After lunch, take a deeper dive into Palermo’s fascinating (and sometimes haunting) history with two very different but equally memorable stops.
Both the Regional Archeological Museum and the Catacombs offer a unique glimpse into the city’s layered past—and the best part is, they’re both easy to reach and budget-friendly. Even if you’re not a history buff, we’re pretty sure you’ll be glad you didn’t skip these!
Regional Archeological Museum Antonio Salinas
If you’re even mildly curious about Sicily’s ancient history, the Regional Archeological Museum Antonio Salinas is worth a visit. It houses one of the most important collections of Punic and Greek artifacts in all of Italy, with beautifully preserved sculptures, pottery, and relics that date back thousands of years.
One of the highlights is the incredible metopes from the temples of Selinunte—massive carved stones that once decorated ancient Greek temples. The museum itself is housed in a former monastery, which gives it a peaceful, open-air courtyard feel in between exhibits.
We recommend spending about an hour or two here so you can make it to the catacombs by about 4 pm, but you could easily spend anywhere from one to three hours, depending on how deep you want to go into the collections.
It’s about a 20-minute walk from Mercato di Ballarò, but if your legs need a break, hopping on the bus will cut that time in half. Tickets are €8, and it’s a low-key, crowd-free way to escape the heat while immersing yourself in Palermo’s deep historical roots. Just take note that the museum is closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly.
Catacombe dei Cappuccini di Palermo
After the museum, take a 10-minute taxi ride and head to somewhere a little more unusual, the Catacombe dei Cappuccini. Opening at 3 pm, this eerie yet fascinating site offers a completely different kind of historical experience.
Beneath the Capuchin monastery lie corridors lined with thousands of mummies, some still wearing their original clothing. Some of the bodies date back to the 1600s, and others are hauntingly well-preserved, like little Rosalia Lombardo, often referred to as the world’s most beautiful mummy.
Try to get here around 4 pm so you have about an hour to explore before closing time around 5:10 pm. With the entry being just €5, we know it’s an experience that you won’t regret!
Evening/dinner – Taste Sicily’s famous street food
Everyone comes to Italy expecting incredible food, but it’s way too easy to miss the best of it if you don’t know where to go. That’s exactly why this Palermo street food tour is our top pick experience. It takes you straight to the heart of the city’s food culture, where locals actually eat, and guarantees you’ll try the real-deal flavors of Sicily. If you want to eat well in Palermo without the guesswork, this is the one tour you absolutely shouldn’t miss.
Running from 6:30 to 9:30 pm, it kicks off at Teatro Massimo—just a 25-minute walk or quick bus ride from the Catacombs. From there, you’ll explore lively markets like Mercato del Capo and Mercato di Sant’Agostino, stopping to sample iconic street foods along the way.
Expect crispy panelle (chickpea fritters), cheesy sfincione (Sicilian pizza), perfectly fried arancini, and even pani ca’ meusa, a local spleen sandwich that’s surprisingly good if you’re feeling adventurous. It doesn’t hurt that there are Sicilian drinks and dessert to round it all out!
What we really loved is how informal and engaging the whole experience felt. It’s more like walking around with a local friend who knows all the best spots and stories. The guide shares great context behind each bite, so you’re not just eating, you’re learning too!
By the end of the evening, you’ll be full, happy, and completely in love with Palermo’s food scene. If you’re going to splurge on one activity here, make sure it’s this street food tour!
Book this street food tour here and taste your way through Palermo!
Day 2
Breakfast – Histo Caffè Antico Caffeteria Corona Bar
Today, you have an incredible boat tour to look forward to, but before that, you need to get fueled up! Histo Caffè Antico Caffetteria Corona Bar is a convenient stop on the way to the marina and just the place for a quick and delicious Sicilian breakfast. Grab a strong espresso or cappuccino and pair it with a fresh pastry for a simple, local way to start your day right before heading out on the water.
Morning – Relax on a private boat excursion
There’s no better way to soak in the beauty of Palermo’s coastline than by spending a few hours on the water, and this private boat tour is one of the most relaxing and scenic experiences we’ve ever had!
We recommend the 9:30 am–1:30 pm option for the perfect balance of morning sunshine and free time later in the day. Not only does it give you front-row views of the coast, but you’ll also get the chance to swim, snorkel, and unwind in some of the most beautiful spots in Italy.
The tour includes everything you need for a laid-back morning: unlimited water, a traditional aperitif with authentic Italian snacks, and even freshly made cannoli for a sweet treat. We loved that it wasn’t just about the views—this felt like a full local experience, right down to the flavors on board. There’s also snorkeling equipment available, including masks, noodles, and even fun scuba scooters if you feel like zipping around in the water.
The vibe on board was casual and friendly, with drinks available for purchase if you want to sip something while cruising. The boat itself is comfortable, and since it’s a private tour, the experience felt personal and unrushed—you can simply sit back and enjoy the sea breeze, jump in the water whenever you feel like it, and take in the view without the crowds.
This was one of our favorite experiences from Palermo, and judging by the glowing five-star reviews here, we aren’t the only ones. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or even solo, this tour is an easy highlight of any trip!
Check availability and book this private Mediterranean cruise here!
Afternoon – Mondello Beach
After your morning on the water, keep the coastal vibes going with a relaxing afternoon at Mondello Beach—Palermo’s closest and most popular beach escape. It’s about a 30-minute drive from downtown or roughly 40 minutes by bus, making it an easy half-day trip. You can either grab a quick lunch in the city before heading out or wait and eat once you arrive—there are plenty of restaurants and beach bars lining the shore.
Mondello is the kind of beach that instantly puts you in vacation mode, with soft sand, clear turquoise water, and a laid-back local atmosphere. We spent the afternoon swimming, lounging under the sun, and just taking it slow.
At one point, we stopped into a beachfront restaurant for a cold drink with a sea view—honestly, the perfect reset before heading back to the city. Whether you rent a sunbed or just lay out a towel, this is an easy, breezy way to enjoy the Mediterranean without going far from Palermo.
Aperitivo – Vespa Café
Before dinner, unwind even more with an aperitivo at Vespa Café, a cozy and stylish spot that’s perfect for easing into the evening. It’s got a great vibe, with outdoor seating and a solid selection of drinks and small bites if you’re feeling snacky. Even better, it’s just a 7-minute stroll from your dinner destination.
Evening – Taverna Dei Canti
End the day with dinner at Taverna Dei Canti, a popular Sicilian restaurant tucked into the heart of Palermo’s historic center. The food here is authentic and delicious, with a welcoming atmosphere that caters to locals and tourists alike. It’s the kind of place where you can relax over a long meal, try classic dishes like pasta alla Norma or fresh seafood, and enjoy a glass of Sicilian red (which we recommend).
After dinner, we took a short walk through the old town, which is especially charming in the evening when the streets are quieter and dimly lit. We couldn’t resist stopping for gelato at Dolce Capo on the way back, and it was the perfect way to end another amazing day in Palermo!
Day 3
Morning – Discover the Mafia history of Palermo
It’s your last day in Palermo, and we think there’s no better way to start it than with this eye-opening walking tour. Palermo’s mafia history is no secret, but what we loved about this experience is how it focuses on the anti-mafia movement—introducing you to the people and places still fighting for change today.
If possible, book the 9 am or 10 am option so you’ll have plenty of time for the rest of the day’s adventures. Note that the tour doesn’t operate on Sundays, so you may need to swap your days around to fit it in.
The tour kicks off at Teatro Massimo, Palermo’s iconic opera house and the filming location for The Godfather III. But beyond the Hollywood ties, we learned how this grand building became a symbol of resistance and rebirth after years of mafia control. From there, we made our way to the Wall of Legality—a striking 70-meter (230-feet) mural honoring victims of the mafia. Seeing their faces up close added a powerful emotional layer to the history.
As we wandered through Capo Street Market, our guide explained how the mafia once ruled through extortion, forcing local shopkeepers to pay “pizzo” or protection money. Today, many of those same businesses are proudly refusing to comply, marked by bold orange Addiopizzo stickers in their windows. Even our gelato stop at Cappadonia Gelati supported the movement—delicious and meaningful!
This tour was one of the most impactful things we did in Palermo. It gave us a deeper understanding of the city’s past and a real appreciation for its ongoing transformation. If you want to see how Palermo’s history and present collide, don’t miss this experience.
Book this tour here and see Palermo’s fight for change up close!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Lunch – Sfrigola Via Maqueda
After the mafia tour, head just a block down to Sfrigola on Via Maqueda for a quick and tasty lunch. This casual spot is known for its arancini, and after having it ourselves, we can see why! It’s a great no-fuss option where you can refuel without straying far from the historic center.
Afternoon – Visit the Monreale Cathedral
In the afternoon, take a short trip just outside the city to see one of Sicily’s most stunning landmarks—the Monreale Cathedral. Located about 30 minutes by car or around an hour by bus, this hilltop masterpiece is absolutely worth the journey. The cathedral is famous for its jaw-dropping golden mosaics that cover nearly every inch of the interior, depicting scenes from the Old and New Testaments in incredible detail.
You’ll want to spend about 2–3 hours here so you can also explore the peaceful Cloister, climb up to the terrace for sweeping views over Palermo, and visit the Diocesan Museum. Entrance tickets are €13 and give you access to everything. If you only visit one church in Sicily, make it this one!
Evening – Learn how to cook Sicilian pizza and gelato
To wrap up your final night in Palermo, we recommend ending on a high (and delicious) note with this fun, hands-on cooking class, which goes from 5:30 to 8:30 pm. After days of eating your way through Sicily, why not try making two of its most iconic dishes yourself? Dining out in Italy is always a treat, but making our own pizza and gelato is an experience you’ll never forget.
Lydia, our pizzaiolo for the day, made sure we didn’t just follow a recipe—she taught us why we were doing each step. Why we shouldn’t tear the dough, why folding it just right is important, and why traditional gelato is made differently from ice cream. This really matters when you take the recipes back home to recreate for friends and family!
Her passion for Sicilian food was contagious, and before we knew it, we were shaping the perfect base for authentic Italian pizza, layering fresh basil, ham, and sliding them into the oven. While the dough rested, we got started on dessert, chocolate gelato.
A few drinks later, and we were digging into our own creations, which (not to brag) were some of the best pizzas of the entire trip! We left with full bellies, a digital recipe booklet, and the confidence to recreate a little taste of Palermo at home. Without a doubt, this cooking class was the perfect finale to our time in the city.
Reserve this cooking class here and bring home the flavors of Palermo!
Night – Grab a drink at Enotequa
It’s your final night in Palermo, and there’s no better way to end the trip than with a Sicilian drink in hand. Enotequa is a cozy, stylish bar just a short walk from the cooking class location, making it a perfect last stop. With a fantastic selection of local beverages and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s the kind of place where you can sit back, reflect on your trip, and toast to an unforgettable few days in Palermo!
Related Read: Want even more ideas for your trip? Our guide to the 8 best things to do in Palermo covers the city’s must-see landmarks, mouthwatering street food, and hidden gems you won’t want to miss.
Where to Stay in Palermo, Italy
Now that your Palermo itinerary is set, it’s time to find the perfect place to stay! With plenty of accommodation options, it can be tough to know where to book. To make it easier, I’ve rounded up my top picks for every type of traveler and budget!
Luxury – $$$
The Grand Hotel Wagner is a five-star hotel that brings classic elegance to the heart of Palermo. With its grand chandeliers, antique furnishings, and luxurious details, it’s a perfect choice for those looking to stay somewhere refined. Guests can enjoy an on-site fitness center, a stylish bar, and a prime location just steps from the city’s best shopping, dining, and attractions!
Prices vary depending on the time of year but usually start between €160 and €200 per night. You can check prices and book this stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Borghi di Belmonte is a charming boutique stay in Palermo’s city center, offering comfortable, soundproof rooms with private bathrooms, air-conditioning, minibars, and tea/coffee makers. Some feature city views or overlook the peaceful courtyard. Guests can relax on the terrace, enjoy private check-in, and use paid private parking. Its prime location puts you within walking distance of Palermo Cathedral, Teatro Massimo, and top dining spots.
Prices are usually around €90 – €130 per night, and you can book this stay on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Alba Central City offers budget-friendly accommodations in a prime Palermo location. Each unit includes air conditioning, a microwave, a fridge, a coffee machine, a desk, a balcony, and a private bathroom with a bidet. With its central location near major attractions, restaurants, and public transport, it’s a solid choice for travelers looking to explore the city without breaking the bank!
Rooms can start as low as €45 per night. You can reserve your room here on Booking.com!
For more options, see all of the hotels in Palermo here!
Renting a Car in Italy
Renting a car in Italy is one of the best ways to explore the country beyond the cities—think charming Tuscan villages, dramatic Amalfi Coast drives, and hidden gems in the countryside. While Italy’s roads can be a little chaotic (especially in cities), with the right preparation, renting a car here can be an unforgettable and rewarding experience!
We always use Discover Cars when booking our rentals, and highly recommend them. They compare dozens of providers to find you the best rates, include important filters like “automatic transmission,” and offer affordable full insurance coverage. For more info, you can read our in-depth Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Italy
- Drive on the right: Italians drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left. Right turns on red are illegal, and you must often yield to vehicles coming from the right at intersections.
- Stay alert and confident: Italian driving can feel aggressive in cities—expect assertive drivers, scooters weaving through traffic, and liberal horn use (often just a form of communication). Stay calm and practice defensive driving.
- Insurance is a must: We highly recommend adding full coverage insurance when booking. Minor damage like scratches and dents is common, especially in cities, and Discover Cars’ full protection gives you peace of mind at a low cost!
- Mind the ZTL zones: Many city centers have restricted traffic zones called ZTLs. Entering without a permit can result in a fine. Check with your hotel and use GPS with ZTL alerts.
- Choose the right vehicle: Roads in Italy can be narrow and parking tight, so a compact car is usually best. Most rentals are manual, but if you need an automatic, you can easily filter for one when booking with Discover Cars.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Italy
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- You must be at least 18 years old, but renters under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Italy on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
We love how Palermo blends rich history, vibrant street life, and unforgettable food into every day, and this itinerary gives you the perfect mix of culture, coastal escapes, and local flavor. From golden mosaics to bustling markets and relaxing afternoons by the sea, you’ll experience the city like we have—inside and out!
Before you go, be sure to check out our other Italy blogs here, or browse some of our favorites below for even more great travel ideas. Whether you’re exploring Sicily, hopping over to the mainland, or planning your next Mediterranean adventure, we’ve got plenty of tips and itineraries to inspire your trip!
10 Best Things to do in Sicily