Best of Palermo
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Port
Palermo, Sicily, Italy
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$249.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 6½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Here's a very different way to get acquainted with Palermo — one of Italy's most beautiful cities, renowned for its long history and colorful culture.
A short panoramic drive brings you to the Palatine Chapel. This is like taking a walk through the 12th century as you explore the Palatine Chapel's dome, transept and apses. This stunning church ranks among the most important in Sicily. It is a splendid example of Norman art and was consecrated in 1140. Outside, its narrow portico is supported by columns decorated with mosaics. Inside, the chapel features a floor decorated with marble mosaics. Inlaid marble covers the lower part of the walls. Above the nave is a beautiful wooden ceiling executed by Arab artisans, with a honeycomb pattern and stalactite-like decoration. All the upper walls are decorated with mosaics on a gold background.
Next, visit the beautiful Martorana Church as you walk with your guide through the alleyways of the Old Town.
You'll also explore the famous local market of Sicily — the Ballarò. Among stalls laden with brightly colored produce lies a wealth of rich traditions and customs deeply rooted in Palermo's farm-to-table culinary heritage.
In complete contrast, step into a private home — an opulent, discreet and refined residence in the ancient part of the city, where the descendants of the once-noble aristocracy cling to vestiges of grandeur that are both evocative and nostalgic. Walk through museum-like rooms to discover treasures and works of art from Sicily's golden age.
End your visit with a sample of fine taste treats from an authentic Palermo restaurant where you can savor the typical panelle (fritters made from chickpea flour).
Notes:
Wear comfortable walking shoes. The area surrounding the Cathedral and the Four Corners is subject to traffic restrictions, which may preclude viewing of some highlights in the Old Town.