Palermo, Sicily: A City That Captured Our Hearts! If you're planning a trip and designing a multi-day itinerary to Palermo anytime soon, these must-see sites and practical tips will surely make your trip as fabulous as ours!
Our 15-day journey began in Palermo, the bustling capital of Sicily. I chose Sicily and Malta for the first-ever Truden Travel tour because I had arranged a similar trip for Steve Whysall, and the feedback from guests was outstanding. Little did I know this tour would become one of my all-time favorites.
Palermo completely exceeded my expectations. The city is alive with energy—from the stunning blend of architecture to the vibrant markets. Everywhere you turn, there’s something to explore.
Eurostar Centrale Palace Hotel
We stayed at the Eurostar Centrale Palace Hotel, right in the heart of Palermo’s historic center. The moment you walk through its grand entrance, you feel like you’ve stepped into another time. The high ceilings, intricate mouldings, and sparkling chandeliers gave it an old-world elegance—almost like walking into a scene from Bridgerton.
What surprised me most was the size of the rooms. In Europe, space can be tight, but our room was generously large. The hotel’s location made it easy to explore the city on foot, and there were so many interesting nooks to discover within the hotel itself. Breakfast was served in an inner courtyard, surrounded by beautiful rooms that reminded me of a ballroom. If you’re looking for a mix of comfort, convenience, and history, this hotel hits the mark.
The Norman Palace and Palatine Chapel: A Step Back in Time
Our first stop was the Norman Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This incredible structure dates back to the 9th century and has been the seat of power for rulers across different eras. The Palatine Chapel inside is truly a masterpiece. The mosaics are breathtaking—each one telling stories from Sicily’s multicultural past, blending Arab, Norman, and Byzantine influences.
We arrived just after opening at 8:30 a.m., which I highly recommend if you want to avoid the crowds and get those perfect photos. Buying tickets in advance is a must, and be sure to check if there’s a service happening in the chapel, as this might limit access to certain areas.
IMPORTANT: Don’t Miss These Hidden Treasures
Be sure to explore the art exhibit and the excavated area beneath the main building. The art exhibit changes regularly, but it’s included in the ticket—and easy to overlook if you’re not careful. Beneath the palace lies an ancient world—the excavated basement reveals Greek and Roman ruins, showing that this site has been significant for thousands of years.
Palazzo Butera: Where Art Meets Architecture
If you love art and history, Palazzo Butera is a must visit! This architectural gem, blending Baroque grandeur with contemporary art, was one of the highlights of our Palermo stop. Imagine yourself stepping into the tranquil courtyard, a peaceful oasis within the bustling city. The staircase, seemingly suspended in mid-air, connects two galleries and leads to a hallway adorned with striking art against stark white walls and arched ceilings.
The collection inside is just as impressive. Claudio Costa’s textured works and Tom Phillips’ powerful pieces—including those depicting the Berlin Wall and apartheid—sparked conversations that stayed with us. One of the most unique features was the former boiler room, where a glass floor reveals an ancient tiled water basin, intertwined with the roots of a Jacaranda tree. It’s a breathtaking contrast between nature and history.
On the upper floors, you’ll find a mix of ultra-modern spaces alongside rooms adorned with stunning frescoes. The terrace, with its vibrant green and white majolica tiles and lush garden, was the perfect backdrop for photos and a much-needed escape from the Palermo sun. Among the many artistic treasures, the works of Gilbert and George stood out for their bold colors and thought-provoking themes, leaving a lasting impression.
One of the most unique experiences at Palazzo Butera was the chance to ascend into the roof space above the frescoes. Walking among the intricate wooden beams, we gained a new appreciation for the craftsmanship behind these masterpieces. Seeing the “backstage” of a fresco—its exposed framework and delicate details—was truly unforgettable, and a testament to the palace’s dedication to preserving its rich artistic heritage.
Finally, I highly recommend ending your visit on the terrace outside the café. Sipping an Aperol Spritz with the gentle sea breeze and panoramic ocean views was the perfect way to conclude our time at this captivating palace.
Ballaro and Vucciria Food Markets: A Taste of Sicily
At Truden Travel, we make sure every trip includes as many food experiences as possible. Our first stop was the Ballaro market, which is the more traditional of the two. Vendors sold everything from fresh seafood to spices, making it the perfect spot to grab a few things to bring home. Don’t miss the panelle (Sicilian chickpea fritters)—just make sure they’re made fresh. We also tried calamari and octopus, both of which were fantastic.
In contrast, the Vucciria market has shifted to a more vibrant scene for drinks and dinner. It’s an exciting place, full of life. I recommend heading here for dinner and enjoying the atmosphere along with some delicious food.
Both markets are buzzing with energy. The vendors try to draw you in, but never in a pushy way. There’s singing, dancing, and an incredible vibe that’s hard to describe—it’s something you need to experience for yourself. My advice? Visit Ballaro for lunch and Vucciria for dinner—you’ll get the best of both worlds.
A City Full of Life and Flavor
Palermo really has it all—history, culture, art, food, and some of the warmest and friendliest locals you'll ever meet! Imagine strolling through ancient streets, marveling at architectural wonders, and savoring the rich flavors of Sicily. At night, the city comes alive. Nearly every major intersection in the old town hosts a performance. Right outside our hotel in Quattro Canti, I watched a local singer perform top 40 hits, while an elderly Italian man danced away at the front of the crowd. Keep an eye out for the photographer who takes pictures and prints them to look like old newspaper cutouts—it’s a fun, inexpensive souvenir.
Where to Eat and Drink in Palermo
My favorite restaurant was Osteria Pane e Alivi, tucked just off the main street. If you’re willing to wander away from the crowds, you’ll find this hidden gem. I ordered ravioli with a sauce that tasted like carbonara—it was incredible. For dessert, I went with a trio of gelato, but others in our group raved about their choices as well. This spot truly had something for everyone.
If you’re in the mood for something more modern, Maison Bocum is the place to be. Great cocktails, appetizers, and an incredible vibe, with live DJs spinning jazzy house music. The décor is modern and artistic—there was even a point where the music got so smooth, we thought there was a live saxophone playing.
Fancy a late-night cocktail and live music? Another recommendation is Mak Mixology located inside Galleria delle Vittorie on Via Marqueda! The group absolutely love the 1930s-style vibe of this place.
The Perfect Launchpad for Your Sicilian Adventure
Palermo is the perfect starting point for any trip to Sicily. You’ll be welcomed by the warmth of the people, the excitement of the old town, and fall in love with the food and art. We definitely think that our 5-day stop wasn't enough to fully experience this vibrant city—there's just so many things to see and do! Palermo, we’ll see you again soon!
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