Coastal Sights & Seaside Delights
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Port
Palermo, Sicily, Italy
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
Beach,Local Sightseeing,All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$119.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Drive through the main streets of Palermo and along the coast.
You'll pass through Favorita Park -- former home of Ferdinand III of Bourbon, who fled from Naples in 1798 with his wife, Marie Caroline. They took refuge here on the slopes of Mount Pellegrino and called their estate Favorita.
The spectacular panorama of the green Piana (Plain) del Gallo extends as far as the sea, forming the sandy boundary of the Bay of Mondello. In 1911 the building of roads and facilities here radically transformed the bay. Cafés, bars, shops, and restaurants followed, along with a host of attractions combining to make Mondello a lively seaside resort. Stroll along the promenade to the local beach, where you can relax, enjoy the sun, or swim. Each guest will have the use of a sunbed and shared umbrella (two guests per umbrella).
En route back to the ship, you will pass through the center of Palermo, along via Liberta -- the most important street in the city. See the Teatro Politeama -- the theater built in the 19th century -- and via Ruggero Settimo, known for its elegant shops. Pass via Maqueda, the neo-Classical Teatro Massimo, and Palermo's Opera House, built at the end of the 19th century.
Notes:
Participants must be able to walk approximately 350 yards over flat and sandy surfaces. Wear comfortable walking shoes. You will have about 2.25 hours on the beach. Wear your swimsuit under your clothing; bring a towel, sunscreen and a hat. Swim at your own risk. Additional activities are available at the beach (at your own expense). The drive to Mondello is approximately 45 minutes each way. 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.