Unearth a hidden gem of Norman architecture at the Duomo di Santa Maria Nuova (Cloister of Monreale) in northern Sicily. Explore the art and architecture of this secret Benedictine garden.

The Cathedral of Monreale is one of the best surviving relics of Norman architecture in Italy.

Its highlight is the hidden oasis of its cloister, surrounded by no less than 228 dazzlingly carved columns.

The centerpiece of the cloister is the stylised palm tree fountain. The monks use the fountain to wash their hands before entering the refectory. Pigeons use it to cool their feathers, and you'll no doubt use it as a photo subject.

Monreale: Cloister of Santa Maria Nuova Entry Ticket

Travel between Palermo Airport and the city center with a 1-way transfer.

Use the airport shuttle to avoid public transport and travel efficiently. Load your luggage, sit down, and see views of Palermo from your seat.

Get on a modern bus, arrive on time at the airport or city. Use the cooling ventilation and high-speed WiFi on board. Pets can travel if they are in proper boxes or cages and do not disturb others. Blind and deaf passengers can travel with their guide dogs.

Palermo: Bus Transfer To/From Airport and City Center

Visit Palazzo Bonocore in Palermo, a 16th-century building close to the Quattro Canti. 

From its balconies, you can see Pretoria Square and the Fountain of Shame, a popular sight. 

The main level has seven rooms, each with unique 18th-century frescoes on the ceilings. You'll see images like playful grotesques, calming countryside scenes, classical gods, and cherubs. 

There are also scenes that show the four seasons, like busy harvests and grape picking.

Palazzo Bonocore: Entry Ticket + Audio Guide App

Step back in time at Sicily's Palazzo dei Normanni (Norman Palace), a historic royal palace in Palermo. With over 800 years of history, it witnessed the rise and fall of numerous dynasties.

Join a guided tour that leads you through time. Explore the palace's intriguing past, from its 9th-century Islamic origins to its Norman transformation in 1072. Today, the palace is home to the Sicilian Parliament, blending historical grandeur with modern governance.

On the second floor, you'll discover the hidden treasure - the Cappella Palatina. Built in 1140, this chapel may not have the global fame of Rome's Sistine Chapel or Milan's Santa Maria delle Grazie, but it offers a fascinating sight.

Admire the mix of Islamic designs, Byzantine mosaics, and golden ornaments, providing an interesting glimpse into the worlds of art, science, and philosophy.

Norman Palace and Palatine Chapel: Entry Ticket + Guided Tour

Prepare for a flavorful adventure in Palermo, where pizza-making is not just an art but a family tradition. With guidance from an experienced pizzaiolo, you'll learn the ins and outs of kneading, stretching, and crafting the perfect dough. Top it off with fresh tomato and mozzarella, and you're in for a treat.

While the dough rests, enjoy a delicious sideshow. Adults can taste local wines, taking a leisurely dip into Italian culture. Italy's beloved pie might be a global favorite, but there's more to the country's culinary repertoire. There's a sweet detour into the world of Italian gelato for everyone, guided by the chef's insights and the history of this creamy delight.

The afternoon promises a delicious experience for the whole family, offering an understanding of Italian culinary heritage and the pure pleasure of creating and eating these iconic treats.

Palermo: Pizza & Gelato Cooking Class

Learn about the Mafia's history and the **civil anti-mafia movement** while strolling through Palermo's picturesque historic center. See a city standing firmly against the Mafia’s influence.

This 3-hour walking tour offers an insightful look at a city defying Mafia control. Led by locals, deepen your understanding of the notorious Sicilian mob and the vibrant anti-mafia movement, beyond the myths seen in films like _The Godfather_.

Visit sites like Teatro Massimo, the open-air market _Il Capo,_ a memorial for prosecutors and judges killed by the Mafia, the Cathedral, City Hall, and Piazza Pretoria. Each stop offers a chance to reflect on the Mafia's realities and the civic movement against its power.

Along the Cassaro, spot orange stickers in shop windows. These businesses have rejected Mafia extortion, or ‘pizzo,’ joining the Addiopizzo movement's campaign for mafia-free commerce. Take the chance to support them with some “good” shopping!

Palermo: No Mafia Guided Walking Tour

Explore the vibrant history, art, and culture of Palermo with this exclusive combo tour. Visit UNESCO-listed sites like Piazza Pretoria and the Cathedral of Palermo as part of a small-group walking tour.

Next, discover the Palazzo dei Normanni (Norman Palace) on a guided exploration. Witness the grandness and history of Italy's oldest royal residence, including the exquisite Cappella Palatina with its Islamic and Byzantine designs.

This tour offers privileged access to the palace, chapel, and gardens, providing fascinating insights into Palermo's architectural wonders and cultural heritage. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or curious about Sicily's past, this combo tour promises a rich experience in Palermo.

Palermo: Small-Group Guided Walking Tour with Norman Palace

Zisa derives from the Arabic word _aziz_, meaning magnificent. There's really no other word for the impressive Zisa Castle. Step inside with an audio guide and discover an Arabic gem in the heart of Sicily, complete with an ancient form of air-conditioning!

Zisa Castle: Entry Ticket

Take a day of your Sicilian adventure to escape the island capital on this full-day small group tour from Palermo. On the itinerary is the medieval hilltop town of Erice, a typical Sicilian lunch, and a panoramic tour along Marsala's Salt Route.

Stroll through the narrow streets and find delightful little courtyards. Look out for the viewpoints, offering vistas that stretch to the Egadi Islands and over the city of Trapani. 

Then, tuck into a traditional Sicilian lunch, a medley of flavors unique to this region of Italy.

Erice: Day Trip from Palermo + Sicilian Lunch + Salt Route

Visit the Contemporary Art Museum of Palermo in Sicily to explore its collection of contemporary art. Housed in the historic Palazzo Belmonte Riso, an 18th-century building, the museum offers a unique cultural experience. It's an opportunity to learn about modern art in a historic setting. This architectural wonder, built by the Princes Ventimiglia di Belmonte, is a blend of late baroque brilliance and neoclassical precision.

Riso Palace: Entry Ticket

Start in the capital of Sicily, Palermo, a city known for its rich history and architecture. On this bike tour, ride through the hidden sides of Palermo that many visitors miss. 

Cycle along quiet back streets and through local squares with a guide. Try Sicilian street food and see daily life away from busy tourist spots (at your own expense).

Starting from the local office (Discesa dei Giudici n.21), ride at a comfortable pace. Palermo is flat, making the 3-hour tour suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Pass through Piazza Bellini and Piazza Pretoria to see Arab, Norman, Byzantine, and Spanish art.

Palermo: Guided Bike Tour

Tour Palermo from rooftops and hidden corners few know about. See more than the typical spots and view historical and artistic sights along the way.

Travel through the city center from major landmarks to hidden spots rich in contemporary history and local culture. Take in the views from above for great photos.

Admire ancient domes, street art, unique rooftops, quiet parks, and significant architectural sites.

Palermo: Secret Terraces & Hidden Corners Guided Tour

Palermo boasts many cultural and historical sites, including eight UNESCO sites. This small group tour lets you see the best attractions with a local snack. Over three hours, visit must-see spots in the city center, exploring Baroque and Norman-Arab architecture. 

You'll see Piazza Pretoria, known as the Square of Shame, with its fountain and nude statues. The Praetorian Palace, home to the Town Hall, is also here. Built in the 14th century and renovated in the 19th, you might spot the mayor.

See the Royal Palace, now the Regional Parliament, called Palazzo dei Normanni. After the Normans arrived in 1072, it became the royal residence. King Roger II added the Palatine Chapel in 1132, known for its golden mosaics. 

Renowned for its beauty, the tour will also take you to the Martorana Church, which you will view from the outside. Finally, you'll visit inside the Cathedral of Palermo, which combines styles from Muslim to Norman to Christian.

Palermo: UNESCO Sites Guided Walking Tour

Depart from Palermo for a day tour that combines Sicily’s scenery, heritage, and coastline. 

Travel in a comfortable minivan or minibus to Cefalù, a medieval town with narrow streets, sandy beaches, and a bay.

You can choose your activity. The boat trip option lets you take a 3-hour coastal cruise, swim in clear waters, snorkel among fish, and enjoy a chilled aperitivo (if weather permits). 

Alternatively, the free time option allows you to roam Cefalù as you like. Visit the Norman Cathedral, a UNESCO Site, or walk around the town's alleys, shops, and beach.

After lunch (not included), head to Monreale to visit its cathedral, known for Arab-Norman art. Use the audio guide to learn about its golden mosaics and history.

Afterwards, return to Palermo.

Cefalù & Monreale: Day Tour from Palermo + Optional Boat Cruise

Join a walking tour of Palermo’s historic center. Learn about the Sicilian Mafia and eat at spots not linked to the mafia, while trying local street food.

Start with a guide who has a background in law. Walk through Palermo’s historic center, learning about the history of the Sicilian Mafia, from its beginnings to today. Hear stories of those who opposed it.

Visit places that do not pay protection money to the Mafia, a sign of civic resistance. 

Enjoy four tastings at a local street food spot, traditional fried foods like panelle, Sicilian craft beer, and a typical dessert.

Palermo: Mafia History Guided Walking Tour + Street Food Tasting

Discover Palermo through its food in this hands-on cooking class.

Begin with a visit to Mercato del Capo, one of Palermo's most popular markets. Walk through the stalls with your chef, learn about seasonal ingredients, and sample local produce while gaining insight into Sicilian food traditions.

At the cooking school, prepare several classic Sicilian dishes. Learn how to make arancine, fresh maccheroni for Pasta alla Norma, and a traditional cannolo filled with ricotta.

After the class, sit down and enjoy the meal you've prepared together. You'll also receive a recipe booklet and a certificate to take home.

Tickets in Monreale