Inspiration for your own tailor-made trip
Italy - Sicily - Palermo
100% customisable for you
Begin your Sicilian short break by flying from London to Palermo. Upon arrival, you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel in the Sicilian capital. Palermo is an ever-changing cultural melting pot, thanks to centuries of sovereignty by various foreign powers. Today, it boasts a heady blend of Byzantine architecture, Arabesque domes and neoclassical buildings, accompanied by some bustling street markets. You’re free to relax for the rest of your first day; settle into your hotel, wander through the city centre and tuck into your first authentic Italian meal at a restaurant recommended by our local Concierge.
Delve into Palermo’s past today, with guided tours of the city’s cathedrals. Your half-day tour will begin at the Cathedral of Palermo, one of Sicily’s most important architectural monuments, built in 1184 by the Normans. The building has undergone multiple reworkings over time, however its geometric features and intricate arches still reflect the region’s distinctive Arab-Norman design. You’ll then head south-west of the city to visit the similarly impressive Cathedral of Santa Maria Nuova de Monreale, which dates back to 1174 and served as inspiration for Palermo’s cathedral (as they aimed to surpass its architectural grandeur). Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the cathedral is renowned for its Byzantine mosaics, made by local artists. Your expert guide will talk you through the history of each landmark and explain their significance for the city, while you admire the magnificent craftsmanship. Again, our local Concierge can recommend the best spots for rounding off the day and getting a taste of local Sicilian cuisine.
Today’s activity is one for the foodies; Palermo plays host to a number of vibrant food markets, full of life and brimming with local produce. The main ones are the Vucciria, Il Capo and Ballaro, and you’ll visit all three during a gourmet market tour, accompanied by a local guide. Along the way, you will have the chance to sample some local specialities, such as arancini, scaccia and cannoli. Once you’ve munched your way through the city, the rest of the day is at your leisure; discover some more of Palermo’s many gems, or wander down to nearby Mondello Beach and lounge on the pristine white sand. Toast to the final night of your Sicilian long weekend with a glass of Marsala, the region’s most well-known wine, and chow down on some pasta alla norma – Sicily’s signature pasta dish.
Your Palermo short break draws to a close today, so you’ll want to make the most of your final hours in Italy by taking one last stroll through the city, perhaps visiting the beach for a bit and, of course, indulging in some more pastries or pasta. After checking out of your hotel, you will be privately transferred to Palermo airport for your flight home.
Everything in this itinerary is entirely customisable, down to the smallest details. Here are some more suggestions of what could be included
Each of our trips is entirely tailor-made with originality, quality and cultural immersion in mind. Our team of destination specialists will craft itineraries based on your tastes, using their first-hand knowledge and the help of our in-country team of Concierges and guides. All trips are accompanied by a wide range of additional services, including a 24-hour helpline, the Original Travel app, fast-track airport services and much more.
ENQUIRE NOW
Our team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday
We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities
All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from fast-tracking you through airport check-in and security to our network of local Concierges
