The Excursion begins at your hotel in Palermo. Our walking tour will show why Sicilians praise their fascinating capital, founded in the 8th Century BC by the Phoenicians. First we will visit two of the most spectacular churches in the city: Il Duomo di Palermo and La Chiesa della Martorana. Next we will walk to the historic crossroads of the city, I Quattro Canti (The Four Corners). If time, we will visit the nearby San Giuseppe dei Teatini, a church built in the early 17th Century and one of the most beautiful Baroque churches in Sicily.
Next we will walk through the colourful and lively Ballarò Market. Here we may try samples of Palermo’s famous street food – arancine (rice balls) or panini con la milza (spleen) or crocchè di patate (fried mashed potatoes) or panelle di ceci (chickpeas). Maybe even cannoli di ricotta! After our snack, we head toward the magnificent Teatro Massimo, an Art Nouveau theatre built in the late 19th Century and one of the largest opera houses in Europe. Not far, we will continue walking by the Teatro Politeama Garibaldi, a Neoclassical theatre built in the late 19th Century, the Via Libertà, and the shopping district of the city. Now time for a delicious lunch at one of the many fine restaurants in Palermo!
In the afternoon, we will travel by van to the nearby Duomo di Monreale, a major tourist attraction in Sicily. This Norman cathedral was built in the 12th Century and is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Duomo has been described as one of the most exquisite cathedrals in Italy. We will tour both the Duomo and the Cloister.
At the end of the day, you too will be impressed by this introduction to Palermo and likely will will yearn to learn and see more of this fascinating capital!
Note: Additions/Deletions to the itinerary are possible, based on discussions among the guide and tour members.
Options: Extend your stay in Palermo with another day.
(1) Explore the Riserva Naturale Orientata di Capo Gallo. While this reserve attracts international scientists to study its flora and fauna, visitors appreciate its natural beauty. Reward yourself with a delicious lunch during your visit (www.riservacapogallo.it/en/home-eng/).
(2) Consider a cooking class. Mamma Corleone offers a popular cooking class in the historic centre of Palermo (www.mammacorleone.it/).