Cruise stopover in Palerme. The best things to do!🤩

Welcome aboard this comprehensive guide to “Cruise stopover in Palerme”.
I’m Sarah ( or Miss Tatane 😛), passionate about cruising and a cruiser just like you. I’m here to share my experiences and advice with you, so that you can experience each destination to the full 😉
Don’t forget to add us to your favorites if you plan to go on a cruise again! Our MTT site (yours) is constantly updated with new articles every week, as well as new destinations throughout our travels.😀

Cruise stopover in Palermo

How to exit the cruise port in Palermo

Arriving at the port, you won’t even need a shuttle, you will be directly in the heart of the city. It’s super practical! Leaving the port you will find all kinds of transportation available: taxis, horse-drawn carriages (unfortunately the horses seem neglected and without water, it was really horrible), small trains and even tourist buses.

I highly recommend taking a tourist bus or a small train to save time, as everything is on an incline in the city.
The little train will take you to Palermo Cathedral, where you can stroll through the picturesque streets, full of small shops, ice cream parlors (Gelateria) and much more…
Personally, I go to Palermo twice a year and the tourist bus is definitely the best choice. This avoids getting tired with the climbs in Palermo.

Here are some ideas for activities to do in Palermo during your cruise stopover:

Visit Palermo Cathedral, a masterpiece of Norman architecture. There you will discover a collection of sculptures, frescoes and mosaics of great beauty.
Stroll through the Vucciria district, a lively market where you can taste Sicilian specialties.
Visit the Palace of the Normans, a 13th-century royal palace that now houses Sicily’s regional parliament.
Explore the Palermo Catacombs , a network of underground tunnels that house tombs and frescoes dating back to the 4th century.
Taste the culinary specialties of Sicily, such as pasta alla Norma, cassata and granita.

So, don’t waste a minute! Opt for the tourist bus or the little train and explore Palermo without getting exhausted. You will be able to make the most of your time and explore all the treasures this city has to offer.

Downtown

Cruise stopover in Palerme

Palermo’s city centre, also known as the “Centro Storico,” is the beating heart of the Sicilian capital. Its streets bear witness to a rich history marked by Arab, Norman, Spanish and Italian influences. Every street corner, every building tells a fascinating story of conquests, cultures and traditions.

The strong points

The Cathedral. An architectural masterpiece that combines Norman, Gothic, Baroque and Neoclassical styles. Don’t miss visiting its royal tombs and climbing to the roof for a panoramic view of the city.
The Norman Palace . A magnificent palace that houses the Palatine Chapel, decorated with dazzling Byzantine mosaics. It is a symbol of the grandeur of the Norman era in Sicily.
The Quattro Canti . A splendid Baroque square in the heart of the city, where four facades decorated with statues and fountains come together. It is a central landmark and a great place to start your exploration.
Piazza Pretoria . Known for its impressive fountain, the Fontana Pretoria, also called the “Fountain of Shame” because of the naked statues that surround it. It is a photogenic and historical place.
The Teatro Massimo . One of the largest opera houses in Europe, famous for its magnificent architecture and excellent acoustics. Attend a performance or enjoy a guided tour to discover its secrets.
Markets. Explore the bustling markets of Ballarò, Capo and Vucciria. These markets offer a real immersion into Sicilian daily life with their colourful stalls, fresh produce and lively atmosphere.

A preference for the upper part of the city

Personally, I find that lower Palermo, while rich in history, can seem a little dull compared to the upper part of the city. Upper Palermo, where the cathedral and the bustle of shops and markets are, is much more lively and dynamic. This area is a real hub where history meets modernity, creating a vibrant and engaging atmosphere.

Cathedral

Cruise stopover in Palerme

This architectural masterpiece, a mixture of Norman, Gothic, Baroque and neoclassical styles, is one of the most emblematic sites of the Sicilian capital.

Palermo Cathedral, also known as the “Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta”, was founded in 1185. Over the centuries it has undergone many transformations, reflecting the various cultural and architectural influences that have marked the history of Sicily. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts visitors from all over the world.

The strong points

Architecture. The cathedral is a fascinating example of architectural syncretism. You will see Norman, Gothic, Baroque and Neoclassical elements that combine harmoniously to create a unique and impressive structure.
The tomb of Frederick II. Inside the cathedral are the tombs of several kings of Sicily, including the famous Emperor Frederick II. These tombs are works of art in themselves, carved with great finesse.
The Cathedral Treasury. This museum houses a valuable collection of jewels, sacred relics and liturgical objects. Among the most remarkable pieces is the Crown of Constance of Aragon.
The roof of the Cathedral. Climb to the roof of the Cathedral to enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the city of Palermo and its surroundings.

Practical advice

Access . The Cathedral of Palermo is located in the historic center of the city accessible from the cruise port (but uphill).
Opening hours . The cathedral is open every day from Monday to Saturday from 9:30 am to 7 pm & Sunday 10 am → 7 pm.
Tickets . Entrance to the cathedral is free.
Be careful .

Cruise stopover in Palerme – Hop-on Hop-off in Palermo

No. 1 in MTT sales

⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 1 199 reviews

Fare → 20 €

See availability – Booking

Vucciria neighborhood

Cruise stopover in Palerme

Known for its vibrant and colorful market, the Vucciria is an emblematic place of daily Palermo life.

The Vucciria district, located in the historic center of Palermo, is famous for its eponymous market. “Vucciria” comes from the Sicilian word “vuccirìa,” which means “noise” or “hustle and bustle,” perfectly reflecting the lively atmosphere of this place. For centuries, this market has been a meeting point for the people of Palermo, where they come to buy fresh produce and exchange news.

The strong points

Vucciria Market. The heart of the neighborhood is its historic market, which is held mainly in Piazza Caracciolo. Here you will find an incredible variety of fresh produce: fish, meat, vegetables, fruit, cheese and spices. It is a festival for the senses with its bright colors, enticing aromas and enthusiastic vendors.
Street food stalls. La Vucciria is also famous for its street food stalls, where you can taste authentic Sicilian specialties. Don’t miss out on trying arancini (stuffed rice balls), panelle (chickpea pancakes) and sfincione (Sicilian pizza).
Street Art. Stroll through the alleys around the market to admire the vibrant street art that adorns the walls of the neighborhood. These works, often by local artists, add a touch of modernity and creativity to this historic place.
Shops and antique shops. In addition to the market, the Vucciria district is home to many small shops and antique shops where you can find unique souvenirs, art objects and antique pieces.
The Church of San Domenico. Located nearby, this impressive Baroque church is worth a visit for its majestic architecture and religious artwork.

Practical advice

Access. The Vucciria district is located in the historic center of Palermo, within walking distance from the cruise port or the main tourist sites. You can also take a taxi, public transport or the tourist bus.
Opening hours. The Vucciria market is open every day from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Safety. As with any busy market, keep an eye on your belongings and be vigilant in crowds. La Vucciria is generally safe, but it’s always a good idea to be cautious.

The Norman palace

Cruise stopover in Palerme

Cruise stopover in Palermo The Norman Palace

During your stopover in Palermo, a visit to the Palazzo dei Normanni, also known as the Royal Palace, is a must. This majestic palace, witness to the thousand-year-old history of Sicily, offers a fascinating dive into the Norman, Arab and Byzantine eras.

A historical gem

The Palazzo dei Normanni is one of the oldest royal palaces in Europe. Its construction began in the 9th century under Arab rule, but it was in the 12th century, under the reign of the Normans, that it took on its current appearance. The palace was the seat of the Norman kings, the emperors of the Holy Roman Empire, and today it houses the Sicilian Regional Assembly.

The strong points

The Palatine Chapel. The heart of the palace, the Palatine Chapel is a masterpiece of Byzantine art. Built by Roger II in the 12th century, it is famous for its sparkling mosaics depicting biblical scenes, its carved wooden ceilings decorated with Arabic motifs, and its harmonious blend of cultural influences.
The Royal Apartments. Discover the sumptuous royal apartments that bear witness to the luxury and refinement of the Norman court. The rooms are decorated with frescoes, tapestries and period furniture.
The Sala di Ruggero. This room, also commissioned by Roger II, is decorated with mosaics depicting hunting scenes and animal motifs. It is a perfect example of Norman decorative art.
The Royal Palace Museum. This museum houses a collection of art objects, sculptures and historical relics that trace the history of the palace and Sicily. Here you will discover unique treasures and rare artifacts.
The Palace Garden . Enjoy a stroll through the Palace Garden, a green space that offers stunning views of the building’s exterior architecture.

Practical advice

Access. The Norman Palace is located in the historic center of Palermo, within walking distance from the cruise port or the main tourist sites.
Opening hours. The palace is open every day from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm except on Sundays, when it closes at 12:30 pm.
Tickets. Entrance to the palace is subject to a fee (see below). It is advisable to buy your tickets in advance, especially in high season, to avoid queues.
Photography. Allowed inside the palace, but no flash to preserve the artwork. Respect other visitors and posted instructions.

Entrance ticket to the Royal Palace and its Palatine Chapel → 13 $

You will visit “the most beautiful church in the world” (only in Italian)
The royal palace, which has 2,700 years of history.
You will admire the most beautiful gold mosaics
The palace of Frederick II, the king and emperor who amazed the whole world
You will see the Chinese-style royal chamber

Reservation and availability here👈

The Capuchin catacombs

Cruise stopover in Palerme

The Capuchin Catacombs, located beneath the monastery of the same name, are famous for their mummies. Founded in the late 16th century, they house the bodies of over 8,000 people, carefully preserved by the Capuchin monks. These mummies, dressed in their original clothes, are arranged along the walls of the catacombs, offering a striking and poignant vision of mortality.

The strong points

Mummies. The catacombs are famous for their remarkably well-preserved mummies. You will see the bodies of monks, notables, families and even children, each preserved in a natural posture and dressed in their period clothing.
The Mummy of Rosalia Lombardo. Nicknamed “Sleeping Beauty,” Rosalia Lombardo is one of the best-preserved mummies in the world. Her body, which she died in 1920 at the age of two, is still almost intact thanks to a special mummification technique.
Thematic corridors. The catacombs are organized into separate sections for men, women, children, priests, monks and professionals. Each corridor offers a different view of the funerary traditions of the time.
Funerary History. The Capuchin Catacombs offer a fascinating insight into Palermo’s funerary practices from the 16th to the 20th century, illustrating how Sicilians treated their dead and celebrated their memory.
Architecture. Although macabre, the catacombs are also an interesting architectural testimony, with carefully carved niches and alcoves to accommodate the bodies.

The weak point

The high price – 180 euros
It’s still quite disturbing when you know that there are human beings there, especially children.

Advice

Opening hours. The catacombs are open daily from 9 am to 1 pm and from 3 pm to 6 pm.
Tickets. Entrance to the catacombs is subject to a fee. It is advisable to purchase your tickets in advance.
Photo. Photography is prohibited inside the catacombs out of respect for the deceased and to preserve the mummies. Respect the posted instructions and other visitors. Everything is filmed, so I advise you to take pictures with your mind!
Dress code. Discreet attire is recommended.

Why visit them?

Historical heritage. Delve into the rich and fascinating history of Palermo’s funeral practices by discovering this unique site.
Emotion and reflection . Visiting the catacombs is an emotional experience that invites reflection on mortality and respect for the deceased.
Unique atmosphere. Enjoy the striking atmosphere of the catacombs, where history and the memory of the disappeared are omnipresent.
If you have a strong heart and the means, then lose yourself for 3 hours under the catacombs!

Capuchin Catacombs and Monreale Cathedral – Price 196 $

2 sessions per day – 10 a.m. or 2:30 p.m.
Explore the terrifying corridors of the Capuchin Catacombs in Palermo
See the mummified remains of monks, children and the painter Velazquez
Learn about the mysterious techniques of mummifying the dead
Admire the mummy of Rosalia Lombardo, the last person buried in the catacombs
Admire the Norman architecture of Monreale Cathedral, dating from the 12th century

Reservation and availability here👈

The best things to do

Safety

Cruise stopover in Palerme

Safety in Palermo during the cruise stopover Although ship authorities sometimes emphasize the need to look after your personal belongings and remain vigilant in Palermo, it is essential to put this message into perspective. Although caution is always recommended, especially in major tourist destinations, one should not give in to fear without reason.

In reality, 99% of cruise passengers who stopover in Palermo experience no incidents. Based on our own experience, after a multitude of visits, we have never been confronted with theft or assault. For your information, we must have done Palermo around twenty times!

This suggests that Palermo is no more dangerous than any other city.

By respecting a few simple rules, like everywhere else: