In the Sicilian region of Italy, you don’t have to travel very far to be close to the sea. Duh, it’s an island. But besides from hanging out at the beach, there is also lots of history here and there will always be neat things to do in Palermo.
These are the seven best things to do in Palermo.
Unmissable Things to Do in Palermo
How do these rankings work?
1. Cappella Palatina
Capella Palatina is Palermo’s best attraction and for good reason. This breath-taking chapel is an absolute marvel inside once you look up and see the sparkling gold mosaics. The Arabian-style wood muqarnas ceiling shows a different level of art and architectural complexity not seen anywhere else in Palermo.
You must come to the Cappella Palatina and behold the sight of this amazing structure inside – highly recommend it!
2. Galleria Regionale della Sicilia
For lovers of art, you need to visit Palermo’s best art museum, the Galleria Regionale della Sicilia. This art museum proudly displays the finest works by Sicilian artists going all the way back to the Middle Ages.
There are some magnificent pieces of art here, perhaps none better than the amazing fresco Trionfo della Morte (Triumph of Death).
3. Palazzina Cinese
Chinese influence has also had a profound impact on architecture even all the in Palermo. The Palazzina Cinese is a pagoda-like structure that showcases “Oriental Exotica” and the many rooms in this building feature a heavy Chinese influence.
Egyptian, Islamic and Pompeiian artefacts are also very visible in the rooms here as well.
4. Teatro Massimo
Teatro Massimo is Palermo’s premier neoclassical opera house and is the second-largest of its kind in Europe! Fans of the Godfather movie series will recognise the end scene of the third instalment being filmed here.
Aside from watching an opera here, this building’s wonderfully decorated interior is a sight to behold as well.
5. Palermo Cathedral
This Cathedral has been standing tall in Palermo since 1185. This great structure has been altered throughout the time since it was built but today, it is Palermo’s best structure.
A great reason to come here to see the old jewels and relics include a 13th century, gold and gem crown for the wife of King Frederick II, Constance.
6. Regional Archaeological Museum Antonio Salinas
The Regional Archaeological Museum Antonio Salinas is the place to go visit if you love history. Here, there is a wide collection of old Greek history and art from the Sicily region.
The museum features three sections – Underwater, Phoenician, and Roman artefacts.
7. Fontana Pretoria
Lying at the heart of the Piazza Pretoria is the Fontana Pretoria. This old fountain has been here since 1574 and on it are marble statues of ancient Greek gods.
Just an amazing sight of artwork that is on full display at this lovely fountain.
