Very nice, buy the ticket for everything..the two best parts were the roof.. you walk up a very tight spiral staircase..a little taxing. Very good view from the roof. The crypt is also nice. Across the street (your ticket gets you in) if you are looking at the cathedral, it's to the left. There is a big museum, I think we paid fifteen euros for the whole thing.

While I don't consider myself religious, I found this cathedral quite striking. Its architectural and historical significance is notable and warrants a visit, regardless of your religious persuasion. The cathedral offers a range of tours, including options to explore the underground crypts, royal tombs, or ascend to the rooftop. The tours can be combined as per your interest, with prices varying accordingly. For instance, visiting the royal tombs costs a mere two euros, whereas a comprehensive tour including the underground, tombs, and roof comes up to twelve euros. One particular highlight was the roof tour, priced at seven euros. This option includes a look at the royal tombs as well, as they're situated en route to the rooftop. The rooftop offers one of the finest views of Palermo, making it an ideal spot for photo ops on a clear day. The authorities manage the number of visitors on the roof at any given time, maintaining a serene atmosphere. You can choose to spend anywhere from a brief visit of ten minutes to a leisurely hour exploring the premises. For the devout, there's the option of participating in a service. Regardless of the duration of your visit, this cathedral is certainly among the must-visit sites in Palermo.

This cathedral is truly a feast for the eyes. The ornaments, the aisles, the tombs... Everything in this place makes you feel the sacredness of the place.I really recommend seeing this cathedral, also because from above it allows you to see the roofs of Palermo and truly appreciate every part of it.

Palermo Cathedral is an incredibly lavish building. Every single detail is perfectly executed. Although I have been to the Vatican, I have not seen a more amazing and magnificent cathedral. Maintained and with a unique view both outside and inside. As long as he asks, for 7€ a person goes up to the roof, from where he has the opportunity to look at Palermo from above, as well as being closer to the tops - the towers of the impressive creation! Preserved in time. If I have to describe it in a few words - magnificence and opulence!

Palermo Cathedral is an architectural marvel that truly embodies the rich history and cultural heritage of Sicily. Stepping inside this magnificent structure, you're immediately struck by its grandeur and beauty. The cathedral's intricate design features a blend of architectural styles, reflecting the diverse influences that have shaped Sicilian history over the centuries. From the stunning mosaics adorning its walls to the majestic columns and vaulted ceilings, every detail exudes a sense of reverence and awe. Beyond its architectural splendor, Palermo Cathedral is also a spiritual sanctuary, offering visitors a place for quiet reflection and contemplation.

Main church is open to public as it should be. If you want to see the treasures, the crypt with its 30 odd tombs and go on the roof, which I can 'highly' recommend then you pay €12, €10 for seniors.

This place is full of history. For 7 Euros you can buy a tour to the top of the Cathedral from where you can enjoy an astonishing view of Palermo historic center, hills around and the sea. The tour starts every 30 minutes and lasts around 15-20 minutes, but it’s worth it. Note - it’s not a guided tour, just a possibility to go up to the roof. I recommend coming as early as possible so there is no crowd.

Great aesthetic from outside, nice but not impressive from the inside. Great terrace but difficult to go up as the stairs are narrow, don’t go if you are elderly or not in great physical shape. 135 steps in total.

The cathedral of Palermo is a sun of different styles. Many tours are available from the roof to the catacombs. I found also interesting a visit to the royal tombs and of the treasure of the cathedral. It’s shape is very original and the view from the top is beautiful.

Impressive huge cathedral, very stylish on the outside, rather simple in the inside. Lots of history in one place, recommended visit, but expensive if you want to go to the roof.

Quite extensive with lots to look at, even if the ticket isn't the cheapest (€15 for everything). The views from the roof are stunning, although you don't get that long up there. The roof wouldn't be suitable for someone who is claustrophobic, as there are quite confined areas. The museum you also access with the ticket is interesting, although would benefit from more information. The inside of the cathedral is much more modern than the outside, so provides quite a contrast!

Incredible combination of historical influence is evident in the exterior of the cathedral. Roman, Norman, Arab, etc. The inside is simpler but beautiful. The tombs of the kings in imperial porphyry can be seen inside for an additional fee

Very interesting architecture, resulting from the history of the cathedral itself. The outside is a magnificent mix of east and west

Pretty cool place to see. I liked that it has a rooftop accessible and also down to the crypt. It was hot outside was relatively cool inside the cathedral, even with all the people. Line wasn't too long at high season. The crypts were cool to see with a few tombs and other artifacts. I found it to be a good stop.

Palermo Cathedral is a stunning example of Norman architecture, and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Sicily. The cathedral is located in the heart of Palermo, and is surrounded by a number of other important historical buildings. It's worth going on the rooftop.

Cattedrale di Palermo, a masterpiece of Norman architecture, graces Palermo's skyline with its majestic presence. Built in the 12th century, the cathedral boasts a unique blend of architectural styles, showcasing influences from various periods. Its intricate details, including Arab-Norman mosaics and Gothic elements, create a visual feast. The cathedral offers insightful guided tours that unravel its historical and artistic significance, providing a deeper understanding of Sicily's cultural evolution. A visit to Cattedrale di Palermo is not just a glimpse into the past but a profound exploration of the island's rich heritage and architectural splendor.

What a stunning building, so ornamental, so unique! Inside, the church is rather plain but still beautiful. We thought the best part was climbing up to the roof, the views were amazing. The stairs are very steep and narrow, make sure you're wearing comfortable shoes.

A stunning cathedral offering access to its rooftop for breathtaking views of Palermo. There is a fee to access the roof, and reaching it involves climbing spiral steps through narrow passages, making it unsuitable for strollers and wheelchairs.

Not the most impressive cathedral in Sicily, but certainly a cool one to visit and experience for yourself with plenty to offer in terms of art, history, culture and views. Access to the Cathedral itself is free. You can pay 7 euro for the ticket that gives you access to the terraces and the crypts. Other ticket options available. Make sure to arrive an hour before they close if you’re looking to see the view from above at sunset. Payments accepted with cash or card. Steep stairs make it nearly impossible for wheelchair access to the top. Watch your head if you’re a tall person!

Cathedral is super nice. Experience to go on the roof is extremely satisfying. Thanks to Italian Church that you can enter for free in the cathedral.

Built in Norman style from 1184, the Cathedral of Palermo is an absolute must for every Palermo visitor! This building impresses its visitors not only with its imposing construction, but also with its rich decoration inside. For German visitors, the special fact is that, among other things, the grave of Emperor Friedrich II is located inside. Another highlight is a visit to the roof with a panoramic view of the square in front and the historic western city center of Palermo.

Amazing experience and a must see location whilst in Palermo Sicily. Ticket prices vary I done the €15 which includes cathedral the museum the roof top access and the crypts. For those with reduced mobility the roof top would be best avoided. Super narrow and steep stairs to climb up and go back down. The views from the top are absolutely sensational.

Imposing building from the outside. Women must have their shoulders covered in order to enter. I did not go in as I was eager to leave Palermo. Personally there aren’t many attractions and if you drive here, it is a nightmare to find parking.

Well worth the visit. The visit of the Cathedral is free of charge. Don’t skip the chance to visit the other parts of the Cathedral (for a fee), especially the crypt and the roof.

The magnificent Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary is built in the Arab-Norman style. Entrance is free, but there is an option to buy entrance fees to the roof, the crypt and the tomb. Many cultures have changed over the centuries in Sicily, and the local culture is most influenced by Arabs and Normans. The cathedral stood here already in the 6th century, then it was transformed into a mosque by the Arabs. In the 12th century, it was completely demolished because it was heavily destroyed by a massive earthquake. The cathedral that we can see today in Palermo dates from the 12th century. It is an impressive complex with a wonderful interior.

The chapel is marvelous but really small, the palace itself is nice too. The garden is small but well maintained. The royal chambers were close when we visited, so I cannot comment on them. There are a couple of exhibitions, but we were very disappointed by them. The entry fee of 15 euros is a little excessive for what it is.

My experience of this grand structure was very negative. Much of it was closed off and not accessible. I paid 15.50 euro for admission and then had to get change and pay to use the toilet. ALL of the staff members I saw or interacted with (about ten) were surly, on their phones, and not wanting to be bothered by visitors. It's a good thing none of them were on my payroll. One would expect to buy a ticket at the entrance. No. One has to hike across a large park plaza to a kiosk on the far side. That said, the royal garden was pleasant and the royal chapel especially satisfying to visit.

While the chapel is significantly smaller than other churches in Palermo, its interior is by far the most exquisite! The rest of the palace is also worth a visit, and both of its gardens are lovely. If you like the golden mosaics & Arabic-Norman-Byzantine architecture, definitely visit the cathedral in nearby Monreale.

Nice place, I guess it has to be seen when in Palermo. The main attraction is the church. Beautiful mosaics, really spectacular. The rest is a bit hit and miss. The royal garden is nothing grand, few contemporary exhibits along the way, that frankly can easily be missed. Price wise, it is a bit stiff for what's on offer.

Royal palace and chapel near the cathedral. Stunning chapel inside to visit, an art gallery, small museum and gardens. The palace apartments (higher price ticket) were closed when we visited which made the visit a bit shorter. There's a Cafe in the gardens which is nice but compact. €30 for two adults, child free, but found it a little short for the price. Surprised that there's a charge of ¢50 to use the toilet. We held on. Ok but a little underwhelming.

Really gorgeous chapel and mediocre garden. For the high price they charge, it’s not enough of content to see. Same price I can visit art museum in Paris. And purchasing a ticket with time slot doesn’t guarantee you can enter on time because they just oversale the ticket to big tour groups and didn’t control the crowd in the certain time slot. My time slot to visit is 9:30 and I entered at 10:30 and only visited for half an hour.

Lovely place. You get to see the main concourse garden and Chapel. Sculpted dogs lying on floor? Interesting.

A bit expensive to enter but there are 4 distinct areas to visit that cover a time span from BC to 1800s so a decent value. We went on a rainy Monday so the line to get tickets was 15 minutes but we’re glad we waited in it.

Chapel and was absolutely blown away by the beauty of the architecture and decor. The intricate details and grandeur of the palace and chapel are truly breathtaking, and I highly recommend a visit to anyone in the area. However, I was disappointed to find out that the toilet facilities were not free. While I understand that maintenance and upkeep costs money, it would have been nice to have been informed of this beforehand, or for there to be a more affordable option available. Despite this minor inconvenience, the Royal Palace and Palatine Chapel are a must-see for anyone interested in history, art, or architecture. The stunning beauty of the site is truly worth the visit.

Very small church, but probably the most beautiful I saw in my life. You'll be able to get here with palace tickets, and, probably, it's the only worth visiting place in the whole palace. Ceiling is beautiful and so unusual, mosaics are marvelous and, obviously, a lot and a lot of gold around. Real masterpiece.

We paid to do all four things and an extra 5 euros each for an audio tour, which I highly recommend. It took about 4 hours to see everything. A must do.

I visited it a couple of days ago and it was a bit of a mixed bag. Firstly, the Palatine Chapel was an absolute gem. Mosaics are so marvellous and beautiful that I could have spent hours admiring the details. On the flip side, the Royal Palace was a bit underwhelming and there wasn’t much to see. The complex ticket for 20€ also included some strange artwork exhibition and the Royal garden which is nice but very small. And another one fly in ointment - I had to pay for the toilet! Ok, 50 cents is not a big cost, but paying for the loo in the museum where I have already spent 20€ for the visit was a real nonsense for me. In summary, I’d recommend to visit only the Palatine Chapel - it’s small but breathtaking.

Museum and royal garden is nice, but META Experience - temporary exhibition at Palazzo Reale is surprisingly awful and not worth visiting...

Well worth a look if you are in Palermo The inside of the chapel is magnificent . Take a seat and view the mosaics and architecture. Quite stunning

The Capella Palatina was Obviously impressive, staff for the meta experience was a bit confusing, unfriendly and unhelpful in showing how it works and wouldn’t let me in at first. 3 people blocked the door and guest were confused and didn’t know were to go. I recommend asking a few times more where to go to avoid missing out on something.

Entry is free. The interior is not incredibly beautiful and unique, but I'd suggest getting the roof ticket, it is worth the €7,(2023). The exterior architecture is amazing.

Spectacular golden mosaics in the Chapel. The apartments are ONLY open Friday-Sunday. Avoid at all costs the special multi-media exhibit which took us an hour in line for a 5 minute "experience. " An hour of our lives we will never get back.

Mast have to visit if you are in Palermo! Stunning and unique place what will blow up your mind! Absolutely creamy mix of styles and you have to see it at least once in your life. Better to buy tickets in the kiosk what is not far away from the entrance, as according to the security with e-tickets might be some issues, especially if it was not bought in advance. Surprisingly there were no lines.

My husband and I were confused by different info regarding whether or not this place is open so we went there today. We were so hoping it was open Unfortunately it is not open yet. ☹️ The gentleman at the office stated they are hoping next month it will be open. So maybe sometime before summer.

These are the living dead. Here you will find souls form all walks of life preserved in their glory - as if in suspended animation. Recommend a guided tour or having a knowledge of the history as it adds to the marvel of the site.

Personally not my favourite activity to check skulls and dead bodies, however quite interesting stories through the death bodies

Well bit creepy place - I had some nightmares after visit. But it's very special cultural place and if you looking for FUN do not go there! Ticket costs me only 3 euros - unfortuanetly had no cash but lady on the desk after while took card payment. Please remember it's very special place and do not any records or do not take pictures there! CCTV there is for a reason and it's kind of heritage and pay respect for the bodies there (record is played from speakers about fact you should not record anything, and if you break the rules someone will catch you on CCTV and remind you where are you) . Is impressive experience - for me bit unique and it can open eyes for the culture.

This place is not for the faint hearted. Seeing thousands of corpses hung on the walls may not be your idea of entertainment or vacation attraction. I had to visit this place on the insistance of my companions otherwise I would not have. I could only stand about 15 minutes walking around the grotesque figures only scientists of anthropology may be able to bear. These pictures are not taken by me but obtained from friends even though it is not allowed to take pictures inside. The choice is yours...

A depressing feeling after visiting this place. I didn’t think that the sight of skeletons could have such an effect on me. Well, there are hundreds of dead here, some of them still have hair, skin, even the bridge of their nose (some even have facial features). And especially the skeletons of children are a shock. I think students of medical institutions will be interested.. .But I definitely wouldn’t want my skeleton hanging like that - I’m for cremation :)

Something different if you like those sort of things. Worth to see for sure. You can literary feel that you are moving back time. It could be little bit overwhelming if you are more sensitive but I recommend it.

An interesting experience, a lot of death bodies is here, adults and children's also to. The tax for entrance is 3 euro/person. It's close between 12:30 and 15:00. Must see in Palermo!

Nothing wrong with the place per se, but if you actively enjoy the place I feel you need psychological evaluation. This is the sort of place someone who listens to True Crime podcasts might like. There is close to no educational background or historical information to make this a valuable experience. It's literally just caves of decaying bodies, huddling over you with missing jaws, hoods and empty eye sockets. Just imagine walking in a line through streets of dead, mummified bodies hanging over your head- including small children and people with signs round their necks. It's pretty horrifying if you aren't fully prepared for this, and there is nothing done to prepare you. I felt when I reached the Bambino corridor (babies and children) i was ready to get out. It was already reminiscent of a certain space I don't want to mention. I honestly feel like I inhaled human skin. Not saying this place is bad, but if you don't have a taste for the macabre and there's a limit to the amount of dead bodies you want to see in your lifetime (let alone on holiday) maybe avoid and go for a walk instead. I'm a bit traumatised, to be honest.

The experience was unique, walking amongst the dead, got to see the burial attire of centuries old dead men women and children. Inexpensive experience however out of the way, taxi don’t walk unless you are young lol

This place is not for everyone. There are human remains hanging on the walls like a display case. If you're not ready to see it, go to an art gallery. I liked it here, it makes you think about death and rejoice in life. They don't accept cards, so be ready to pay €5 cash for a ticket.

Oh my god! I could hardly believe it. Hundreds of bodies dressed up in their best clothes hanging from a wall. Some are also in glasses coffins and very well conserved. There's a children, monk and women section. What an experience!

Went there back in 2013 December. Didn’t appreciate the significance of it until now. It’s amazing to see such a well maintained museum with high archaeological value.

This place is a must visit. People who gave it 1 or 2 stars is not doing it justice. Yes it is grotesque, but not a big deal. Just skip it if you feel you are not interested. The catacombs are really big, a lot of mummies. A lot of them are not in a good shape. Some of them has skin and facial hair intact. But the 100 year old mummy of a 2 year old girl is fantastic. It really looks like she is just sleeping. Though the museum keepers didnt do a good job placing it under plastic glass and then hanging lamps over it, because it is really hard to get a good look. We bought tickets with a credit card today, cash is not needed. There is info in English if you scan QR code but I recommend reading Wiki. An interesting piece of history of Palermo.

Having read a few posts about it, I was curious to see what kind of feeling the place makes you feel. For an entrance fee of €5 you can enter the vaults and look at the mummified corpses, some of which are sorted by groups (male, female, families). It is understandable that there is a strict ban on photography and filming. For reasons of piety, I stuck to it. There are some guards and cameras in every corner for surveillance. So basically it's worth a visit, even if in the end it's just a 30-45 minute walk among dead people.

The Catacombs are quite macabre with hundreds of dried corpses on display ranging from the 16th to early 20th century. Nonetheless, it is of historical interest and should be a destination while visiting Palermo. There is a no photo policy that should be respected by visitors as you can Google all the images. A photo of the building (background) of where you enter has been added.

This place is a sight to see. I have been to many catacombs but there are definitely unique in the way the mummies are displayed in a unique way. I have found this very interesting and educational esp because you can also see different clothes the dead would wear at different times. Definitely not a place for kids or fainthearted. Entrance is 3€.

Creepy but cool. I was here 35 years ago and not much has changed. It was very cool seeing the embalmed baby that would have been over 100 years old today. You can’t take pics, but I’m sure that memory would stay with you forever like it has me.

Beautiful and ornate Opera House in the middle of Palermo. My partner and I took the 10 euro guided tour and enjoyed learning about the history of the structure. The theater is massive and incredibly beautiful. The tour guide takes you to the main seating area of the theater and explains the design. We also toured the large private box above the main entrance which was very impressive. Walking inside the theater was worth the money seeing even the ornate stairwells was fun.

Beautiful! When you’re visiting Palermo come and take a look at this place. You can only enter via a tour. Mine was spoken in English and Spanish. The tourguide had a thick Italian accent but gave nice facts about the place. Keep in mind that it only lasts for 30 min.

One of the biggest theaters in the Europe. Highly recommend guided excursion. You’ll fully see theater from the inside and guide was good. Worth the money. In March we didn’t buy excursion tickets beforehand, but it might be crowded in high season. If you want to visit a show just don’t buy the cheapest tickets as you will not see anything (that’s why tickets are cheap). If you don’t want to go inside it’s still worth to visit as the building is beautiful

The Teatro Massimo Vittorio Emanuele is an opera house and opera company located on the Piazza Verdi in Palermo, Sicily. It was dedicated to King Victor Emanuel II. It is the biggest in Italy, and one of the largest of Europe, renowned for its perfect acoustics. horse-drawn carriages are available for a one-hour ride around among the beautiful streets of Old Town.

Amazing Opera theatre. Perfect acoustics, stunning interiors and a view into times of another era. We did the half hour tour and also went to a symphonic performance, both of which were first class. If you have an interest in theatre, performing arts and architecture worth a visit.

What a treat! We visited this theater as a part of our tour of the city center of Palermo. The acoustics are magnificent and to hear live musicians play was special. The engineering and attention to detail are worth a visit.

Interesting, enchanting, imposing and impressive... For Euro12 each, the guided tour of Teatro Massimo was well worth the money. The building in and of itself was imposing and impressive, but to fully appreciate the significance of the opera house, one must also explore its interior. Since there were no live performances during our time in Palermo, our best available option was the guided tour in English. Yes, some additional preventive maintenance was needed and no doubt will be done as schedules and funds allow...probably similar to our own homes. Overall, the viewing of Teatro Massimo was both interesting and enchanting, so now we only lack attending a live performance. Throughout our tour, I tended to trail the group a bit. The photo ops were cleaner and mostly devoid of other people.

The Teatro Massimo Vittorio Emanuele is a Grand opera house of gorgeous architecture on the Piazza Verdi in Palermo, Sicily. It was dedicated to King Victor Emanuel II.

An excellent experience. The tour guide explains all important information both in Italian and English. We had a really good time with plenty of new gained knowledge. Totally recommend it.

Took a wonderful tour of the grand Teatro Massimo on my first night in Palermo. It was informative and enjoyable and we were given lots opportunities to take pictures. The only unspectacular area was probably the orchestra pit. It would also have been interesting to visit the Men’s and Women’s Lounges/restrooms as they are usually pretty spectacular in theatres of this age. I also wish our time in Palermo had allowed us to see a performance in this grande dame.

Exploring Palermo's opera house was an unforgettable experience! This historic venue, ranking as the third-largest in Europe, is a true architectural gem. The 30-minute guided tours, available in both English and Italian, are a must. They provide fascinating insights into the opera house's rich history and offer a chance to explore key spots like the royal box and the intriguing echo chamber. Just a friendly tip for fellow travelers: be prepared for limited restroom options nearby, so plan accordingly. However, this minor inconvenience is outweighed by the cultural and artistic treasure that awaits you. A visit to the Palermo opera house captures the essence of Palermo's history and artistry beautifully. Don't miss it!

One of the best theaters that I have seen, really massive. The opera room is impressive, with multiple levels of stalls and a big scene, also, the ceiling is really beautiful, in the shape of a flower, and practical, because it cand open it's small "petals" to let the air in. You can visit only with guide and the ticket is 12 euro for 40 minutes. There is a backstage option (+5 euro to the main ticket), but it is only once per day and at 13:00 o'clock, from what they told us (we didn't go).

最高の思い出 ここで貸切イベントは凄すぎた！ ゴッドファーザー3の最後のシーン。 最後のシーンといっても30分はここが舞台なので映画のメイン。 ここの入口に続く階段はオーラが本当に凄い！ ここで写真を撮ると映画の主役になった気分 約160年前にこの建物を作ると決めた人がいて30年以上かけて建築する。 スゴすぎる。 (Translated by Google) Best memories The private event here was amazing! The final scene of The Godfather 3. Even though it's the last scene, it's the main part of the movie because it takes place for 30 minutes. The stairs leading to the entrance here have an amazing aura! When you take a photo here, you feel like you're the star of a movie. About 160 years ago, someone decided to build this building, and it took over 30 years to build it. Too amazing.

Grand historic theatre in Palermo, Sicily. Biggest in Italy, and apparently 5thh biggest in the world - according to our Sicilian tour guide! Located in a piazza of sorts, it casts a beautiful presence. Only got to see it from the outside but it is impressive. If you are a fan of the Godfather trilogy of movies, this is where Mary Corleone is shot in the 3rd movie. If you are in Palermo, give it a visit, worth it.

Teatro massimo is a beautiful monument of neoclassical and liberty style. Second in Europe for dimensions. The tour is interesting and exhaustive both in English and Italian language. If you’re lucky you may access the rehearsals of some play during your visit and enjoy the great atmosphere.

I have wanted to visit Corleone since childhood, it was interesting, the guide was a let down, the museum was small but again interesting, the town is a mix of old and new, worth a visit

Spectacular theatre, third largest in Europe after Paris and Vienna, and the largest in Italy I am pretty pleased to say I been to all three , Turandot today

This place is stunning. 3rd largest opera house in all of Europe (Paris, Vienna) and is a must visit when in Palermo. The tour is offered in Italian and English and is worth the cost. The orchestra was rehearsing while our tour was going on which made for some behind the scenes atmosphere

If you ever visit Palermo, you should visit Teatro Massimo. My suggestion is to take a guided tour in theatre. You can see the inner parts of the theatre and admire works of architects, which designed theatre a long time ago. Really beautiful and impressive building in the centre of Palermo. My advice is to visit it during the night when it looks more impressive.

Teatro Massimo Vittorio Emanuele di Palermo, Italy's largest opera house, is a cultural gem that seamlessly blends architectural grandeur with artistic excellence. The magnificent structure, inaugurated in 1897, boasts Neoclassical and Art Nouveau elements, creating a visually stunning backdrop for a myriad of performances. The theater's rich history resonates in every corner, from its opulent interiors adorned with intricate frescoes to the grandeur of the auditorium. Attending a performance here is an immersive experience, with exceptional acoustics and a palpable sense of tradition. The diverse repertoire, spanning opera, ballet, and concerts, caters to a wide audience, ensuring there's something for everyone. Tip: Opt for a guided tour to delve into the theater's fascinating history and architecture, gaining insights into its role in Palermo's cultural tapestry. Teatro Massimo stands as a testament to Palermo's cultural vibrancy, offering not just entertainment but an opportunity to immerse oneself in the timeless beauty of the performing arts.

A really nice beach, but extremely crowded. It’s also a bit crazy that you need to pay for a chair otherwise you have no space.

Off season was a great place to escape Palermo when you’ve had enough of the city or need a break on a hot day. Simple to reach by buses listed on Google maps and I found the place clean, pleasant and safe. Peak season it’s rammed but October hit day - perfetto!

Beautiful beach, clear water. I went in May time with 23°c and it feels perfect. Parking wise, very busy after midday. I found a parking place and it was costly, €2/hour. The chairs and parasol was pricey too, €28 for 2 pax on weekend days. They have, however, free area if you do not mind the sun/heat and bring your own parasol.

Clean beach with crystal water. Nice and quiet place during low season. The only annoying thing - people trying to to sell you towels, lighters, tobacco etc.

A real tourist nightmare. It's terribly crowded, it's dirty, 90% of the beach is fenced off and given to tenants. You can enter the fenced part if you are lucky and at a very high price to lie on deckchairs 30-40 meters from the water.

Very crowded, most of the ⛱️ beach is closed of and you can't even get in as it is private, but the water is great and you can always find a spot. If you want to be smart about it don't BUY but RENT the sunbrella from the sellers on the beach, they gave me one for ten, maybe they will even go lower if you are good at bargaining.

Lovely beach. We went on one of the last days of September and while not deserted, it wasn't very busy. We easily got a spot in one of the free areas of the beach, in between two paid areas. The section we were in was clean, tidy, with crystal clear water - not every area was like this so it pays to check a few our first. A bit of seaweed now and again but that's pretty standard. The spruikers selling beer and drinks were pretty annoying, they made a racket with their screaming and shouting - but honestly, weren't that bad. Public toilets were a bit hard to find, but found some eventually. All in all, we really enjoyed our time here!

Easy to go from Palermo city center. public bus runs every 10min in summer, 20min in winter. Everything was closed in January but nice to relax at the beach.

I got here by an accident, after being rather dissapointed with Palermo itself. What a lucky mistake it was, nice view and crystal clear water. A great place to spend a day on the beach.

Great long sandy beach close to Palermo. Lots of bars and restaurants. Pristine water, also perfect for kids. There is a public and a private lido part. The latter offers sunbeds and umbrellas for 20 to 30 euro per day. Recommended. 👍

Beautiful beach near Palermo (about half an hour away by car/bus). Very crowded in August, even on a Monday.

Extremely crowded. The water is not very clean, lot of seaweed. Not much of good restaurants around. There is no good hotels around. We enjoyed the food at the pizza cart. Beautiful sea view, along with the mountains cliffs. I rate it 4/10

This beach has a wonderful location and the sea is as clear and blue as on the pictures online. Sadly it is very crowded even in September, so for me it didn’t feel like a cute local beach, more like a beach for tourists. You also have to pay a fee just for entering, which is not very common for beaches around the world.

A small area is "free", I recommend renting a beach chair and umbrella, there are a few areas to rent since a big percentage is "privately owned" and requires some type of membership. Renting an umbrella and chair offers some "privacy," meaning, not as crowded as the few free areas of the beach, is safer to leave your things unattended since there are employees walking around and keeping an eye on the area.

Wonderful beach. Great view. The water is Cristal clear

I don't understand the hatred towards this beach..i have been to dozens of different beaches around the world, and it is WAY cleaner than I expected (especially after seeing Palermo city center). Yes, there is some algae - but so is everywhere else in the world. It does NOT float in lumps and does NOT make you feel eegy while swimming. Food is cheaper than in the center of Palermo. No quality difference whatsoever. The price is very reasonable - 30 euro for the whole day, 16 after 2 pm (and it is for two ppl!). To that, no random people walking around the territory. If you happen to forget something on the territory, the beach attendants keep it in the lockers until the next day. The lifeguards are always on duty till 7 pm, they even monitor the safety from the boat. You can rent a catamaran for 15 euros per hour too. Only fishy thing is the cash that you give for the orange bands. We didn't have any cash so we had to carry the receipt with us to leave the beach territory (to go buy food) and come back. But we saw some people getting their 2 euros back after returning the bands

Fantastic beach ruined by a mass of privately owned businesses selling sun loungers for the day at an average cost of 28 euros per day for two beds, sadly the result of this is a very small strip of beach left available for those that don’t want to spend which during peak seasons the scene resembles tinned sardines. There are plenty of amenities nearby with bars, restaurants, food kiosks and ice cream parlours. Unlike the rest of mondello there is a litter picker so it’s relatively litter free and the promenade is lined with Oleander bushes which look amazing in full bloom. The promenade is also perfect for morning runs with the entire stretch spanning around 2.5km from one end to the other although there are some areas with limited walking/running areas.

One of our favorite churches that we visited in Palermo - specifically the amazing mosaics in such an otherwise small and intimate church. Make sure you save your church tickets for possible discounts at other churches, too!

Really nice looking church standing out from the others by having every single spot covered in art instead of having boring plain walls and columns. The roof entrance is an amazing feature that is a must do if you wanna see the city landscape. Havent visited monastery.

Gorgeous church. Incredible mosaics.

At least three very different cultures merging in a single place, lavishly yet pleasantly decorated. My eyes could barely take in all of that beauty. Unique place, worth a visit. There is an entrance ticket to pay of 2.5 euros, but if you visit any other church nearby you get the reduced ticket for 1 euro.

Historical and nice place, architectural is at the Norman-Arab-Greek baroque style...You can visit small Church the big one was closed while we visited...

Visited this place today. We paid 2.5€ for entrance, but it was 2x2 room with literary nothing to see. It is fraud. The thing is they cover entrance with curtain, so you can not see for what you pay until you actually pay and come inside. It is on the right upstairs. Do not go there. It appeared it is not main church, we did not know that and no one told us.

Is such a wonderful pice of art! Just amazing!

Beautiful interior. Must-see in Palermo. Defenitly recommend it.

Beautiful church. A must for arquitecture lovers.

It might be small but the inside is visually stunning, the entire church walls and ceiling is covered in elaborate designs and there are two superb medieval mosaics. Primarily due to the size of the church it can get crowded so try and time your visit (early on a week day would probably be best). At only 2€ entry it is superb value (when compared to the entry costs elsewhere) & it is definitely one of Palermo's star attractions.

Amazing, as good as the Palatine chapel. Although not as detailed you could take it in more easily. Well worth the 2 euros.

A smaller scale church with a 2 euro entry fee to visit. Suggest arriving at 0930 as soon as open to get good photos before the crowds arrive.

Beautiful church but 10 euros per adult is too much...

Note that enterence is for a small fee and place might be overcrowded, but it worth it. Very beautiful church with a mix of styles. Must see in Palermo.

Beautiful fountain in the heart of Palermo... An amazing monument... It's especially beautiful at night when light is on... Always there are many peoples who take some nice pictures or videos, but you can always find place for good photo... It's best to come there on foot and look around... One of the things you must see in Palermo👌

What a surprise for me Beautiful Architecture turned out to be Palermo!!!

Nice place aside the main central walkway. During our visit it was fenced around and no water running there.

Absolutely my favorite fountain in all of Italy! This is an exquisite marble sculpture from Florence you must see while in Palermo. Unfortunately you can’t get inside the gate now. 4 years ago the fountain was on, you could walk inside and it had its own security guard. Please bring this back Palermo.

Must see in Palermo! Very beautiful master piece!

Large fountain dating from the 1500s. The marble statues represent various mystical figures. As of Oct 2022, the fountain wasn't operational.

Beautiful place. The Fountain of Shame (designed by Francesco Camilliani), is in the heart of the historic center of Palermo, is decorated with some 50 marvellous statues of monsters, harpies, sirens and tritons.

Worth a visit. Lots of history around the plaza. Apparently the nuns used to come out and cloth the statues every night and the government officials would come and remove the clothes revealing the statuses in all their glory every day. The architecture is once again outstanding. Just don’t see that kind of detail today.

My air Bnb was nearby, whenever I passed by it I just couldn’t help but sit and stare.. lovely, also interesting story/ history..

Definitely one of the nicest fountains I've ever seen, right up there with Trevi, you need 20 minutes just to take it all in, plust there are so many amazing things to visit all around it.

Beautiful fountain, I was a little bit disappointed because it wasn’t running. The sculptures were so delicate.

One of the most beautiful historical buildings I have ever seen. I congratulate Italy for preserving its historical monuments very well. from Turkey ♥️

Very beautiful place. Is interesting the story of this fountain.

Wonderful Fontaine, located inside the old part of the city. You will get a great photo.

The Fontana Pretoria, aka Fontana della Vergogna, is both grand in scale and significance - its a prominent visual reminder of the high renaissance architecture of the 16th century Sicily.

Just enjoy being there. Took some videos ti share with you..

The Fontana Pretoria is a monumental fountain located in Piazza Pretoria in the historic center of Palermo. The fountain dominates the piazza on the west flank of the church of Santa Caterina, and is one block south of the intersection of the Quattro Canti. The fountain was originally built in 1544 in Florence by Francesco Camilliani but was sold and moved here.

It is the cenral part of Palermo for the tourists. Best time to visit this ticket free area is morning. The entire area is historically rich with several monuments. If you want to capture crowd moments, afternoon to evening would be the best time for you

The Quattro Canti is a square framed by baroque architecture in the historic center of Palermo. The facades of the four palaces are concavely curved, divided into three parts and decorated with statues and ancient columns. In the base niches there are fountains whose fountains and statues symbolize the four seasons. In order to get good pictures of all four parts, you should, if possible, visit the site at different times. Because each of the four parts of the facade is illuminated by sunlight at different times. The square is particularly busy in the afternoon and evening and artists add to the atmosphere with musical performances. Particularly nice when opera singers present arias etc.

Beautiful intersection. The best part is that to visit the square is free and you can visit it at any time, day or night.

Very interesting cross roads of Palmero. Go early in the morning when no crowds. Each corner has several representations the bottom level being the seasons. Each corner catches the most sunlight during that particular season! Very cool!

One can spend in this corner hours and hour and won’t feel bored. A bustling street historical, sunny and alive. I must admit who ever is visiting Sicily they have to fall in love with it.

I like Palermo. It was love for first sight. Perfect for nice pictures!

Really nice square in Palermo. Still well maintained and really gives that historical perspective in the area. There are loads of tourists around. So going early is highly recommended if any like to avoid the crowd. Definitely nice insta spot

We were lucky enough to be staying a half block away from this gorgeous intersection with more magnificent fountains, sculptures and churches as well as food and shopping within walking distance.

We stayed at the Quintocanto Hotel & Spa, which is right next to this historic "Four Corners" site. When we were there, it was quite exciting that they were shooting a Netflix TV series (I think the name is Il Gattipardo). Unfortunately that meant the intersection was blocked off so you had to take a walk around several blocks to get to various places in Palermo however you could walk right up to the site where they were filming and it was very cool. I can't wait to watch the series. The buildings and statues themselves are quite beautiful and historic, dating back to the 1600s. The TV series depicts the time period around the unification of Italy in the 1860s and therefore they put dirt in the streets to cover the asphalt and the actors were dressed for the period. This is the heart of Palermo.

The Four Corners is considered the heart of Palermo Italy. It is a fascinating intersection with four women statues representing the four seasons. There are many interesting things to do in Palermo. I would recommend staying at least four nights to see most of the best of Palermo. Be sure to stay in the heart of the city near Victor Emmanuale Street from the Harbour to the Piazza Independencia.

The heart of the historic part of Palermo where two major streets cross. Each corner represents a season, a saint, and a king.

Many historical stories about this place. We were guided by a experienced local tour guide who speaks good English. She walk us through the more iconic churches, palace and abandon fountain Ig:amber_sicilyguide.

Unexpectedly impressive. I walked past dragging luggage from the train station to our hotel and thought, wow! 😮

Breath taking!! A must see. A wonderful area as well to get lost in while taking in the sights, sounds, shopping & delicious food!

Streets that holds so much memories ! Garibaldi, the unification of Italy, The Mafia, The Kingdom of Naples are all here .. Just a simple read through a thousand years page of many thousand of years Sicilian story-book !

great intersection to wander through, people watch and listen to the buskers - some very good, some uurggh. Great location to move onto the pedestianized areas for huge choice of food and drinks, as well as touristy style shopping. lots of horse and carriages (probably explains the constant smell of urine in this area)and tuk tuks vying for business. And along with Piazza Pretoria just off the corners, seems to be the main place for newly weds to have their photos taken - we saw 3 or 4 a night.

Worth a visit. Different ticket types 2€ - 20€ for adults. Part of the roof is closed.

Very pretty place surrounded by beautiful buildings. Expect this street to be very busy. Great place for a photo 😉. When we visited the place for the first time, there was a movie being filmed all along the street. So it was closed. The photo taken from below was taken 2 days later.

I was shocked to find such a beautiful church in an absolutely random place. This is one of the most beautiful baroque interior I’ve ever seen, and I’ve seen plenty. The eye in the triangle which is also related to Illuminati - is actually a regular Christian (and not only) sign which symbolizes an eye of the God and an unlimited power of the God to see everything in the world. So called Eye of Providence or all-seeing eye.

Chiesa Del Gesu was a surprisingly gorgeous baroque church which was bombed during the Second World War and restored over several subsequent years. The result of the restoration and continued preservation was quite stunning and more than worth our visit.

Unbelievably stunning church. Unassuming from the outside but we’ll worth a visit inside! Incredibly ornate with beautiful ceilings. Definitely check this one out. We’re not church people, but really enjoyed it.

From the outside you’ll never know how splendid it is. It is super decorative, unique style that i’ve never seen in another region in Italy. There was no crowd, I could enjoy watching peacefully as much I could.

it's the most beautiful church I've ever seen. It is decorated throughout with rich marble stucco and the ceiling is stunning - with beautiful paintings in a modern style. The church was rebuilt after the bombings in 1943 and I honestly can't imagine they could have been done better job. Truly hand of God itself!

Incredibly beautiful church. Such contrast between the sober facade and the interior with marble "paintings" on all walls, columns, ceiling. Baroque at its highest. For €5 one gets a guided tour to the chapels, the choir and the sacristy and free visiting to the crypt, the rectory and the museum. If baroque is for you, a must-see.

I thought it was the Cathedral it was so breathtaking..

The interior of this church is breath taking. The faces of the sculptures are very well done. Almost life like. There are lots of details to discover. Definitely the highlight of the Palermo visit.

Increadible church with beautifull ceiling paintings. Bright and detailed. Worth visiting when in Palermo.

Does not look like much for the outside, but stunning interior. Breathtaking view from the top. Must see if in Palermo.

Really interesting choice of Baroco architecture. Beside the ceiling the church is not painted which is amazing given the amount of details in the columns. This is the most interesting church in Palermo. It was also used as a hospital during the plague in the city. Lots of interesting history behind it

This church is amazing. The decorations are beyond belief, just stunning. I am posting photos because no words could do it justice. Absolutely a must see. Check opening hours before going

A rather austere exterior doesn’t betray this cathedral’s absolute stunning and toe-twirlingly fantabulous interior. Very Sicilian baroque, rich in colour and detail, yet somehow never over the top. Stands out even in Italy, which is definitely not short of stunning churches.

This place is fabulous. Good illustration of Jesuits’ philosophy “the beauty is inside”. Very recommended to visit. 1 euro entrance worth it

Absolutely stunning!! One of the most beautiful churches I’ve seen!!

One of the most beautiful churches I've visited, the amount of details is mind-blowing! Pictures don't do it justice! A must visit in Palermo!

One of most beautiful churches I've ever seen. The paintings are amazing, especially the colors are really stunning. You can't stop looking at them Entrance to the church is free. It was nice and surprising.

Beautifully built. Love this place!

Absolutely wonderful little botanical garden full of local and exotic plants surrounded by neoclassical little buildings that gives a remembrance of old Greek and Roman times. When the weather get too hot it’s a perfect place to have a rest. There’s also a little cafe inside the garden.

Worth seeing. Tickets are €7 for adults, €4 for children. The park is fantastic, but like the whole of Sicily, neglected and unkempt. All the plants have plaques, unfortunately only with their Latin names, which doesn't mean much to us ordinary people. With a little work, the park could be unique. It takes about 1 hour to get around. Attention: be sure to bring mosquito repellent.

in deep need of maintenance we visited during a rainy day, and it was quite empty so we had the grounds mostly to ourselves. the compound is large and hosts various exhibits, a significant amount under maintenance. most of the greenhouses were rather barren or had plants in need of care! they have beautiful old growth, insanely old trees that i hope continue to be cared for and why I’m rating this place a 3. this place has a lot of potential and definitely needs care. entrance fee is 7€.

Enchanting botanical garden! Probably one of most beautiful of all Europe! Whenever you love botany or not this should not to be missed when in Palermo! Any period of the year is beautiful. I’m totally sure you won’t be disappointed..

Perfect garden it's huge it has great variety super fun to explore. The price for people under 25 is 4€ which was cool. They asked us tho if we are interested in paying 1€ more in order to see the archeological museum inside the garden and we said yes but after all it was open and everyone could go inside without a ticket so that was a bit sneaky of them. Anyways super cool garden !!

Found it to be an enjoyable, albeit slightly mixed, experience. The entrance is currently marred by construction works which detract a bit from the initial impression. There's no effort to mask these works, making them a bit of an eyesore for those seeking a serene escape. A surprise hit was the cafe, where we had a rather satisfying chicken sandwich and chips. It was plenty for two, but be warned - service was quite slow. At times, it felt like we might have slipped off their radar. The architectural structures within the garden were a nice touch, although some more information about them would be welcome. All in all, it's a good spot to spend half a day. Entry was €7 per person, which seemed fair for the experience on offer. So despite a few hitches, it's worth a visit.

I think it's worth a visit. It's a shame that they don't look after the garden, you can see that some of the potted plants need weeding and care. But still a lot of impressions, in the garden there is a great cafe with comfortable sofas.

This is a fantastic garden to begin your horticultural exploration of the island of Sicily! They are plants from around the world and it’s extremely well-maintained!

Wonderful botanical gardens. I visited mid October 2023 on a lovely and warm day. The gardens are very easy to reach; just a short walk from the main train station. The entrance and book/gift shop are well organised. The price is reasonable (€7 when I visited). The plants are clearly labelled even if some of the older labels are now quite difficult to decipher. There seems to be a wider range of plants kept outdoors compared to other botanical gardens in Italy... obviously due to the climate. It's a great place to wander round, breathe and take in the unique sights, smells and sounds. I definitely want to revisit in another season. As I was leaving I noticed an area was being set up for a wine-tasting event that evening. Can't think of anywhere lovelier to hold such an event.

The botanical gardens are soo nice. There is a huge variety of plants, trees and flowers and also several greenhouses with different biomes. There are suggested routes that are color coded with estimated time of the tour we were following the red one and ended up making our own way. The entry ticket is 7 euros for the general public and 4 euros for under 25 it is free for erasmus student studying in Palermo.

Very lovely place with great specimens and collections. Definitely worth the visit, at least for the bamboo mini-forest. It is sad to see that it is starting to degrade in some areas (the further you go in the back), as it seems to be in great need of maintenance.

This place is very interesting. There is a lot of gorgeous plants, especially I enjoyed the ficus trees. The biggest one is as old as Italy, year 1861. Definitely recommend this place 👌🏼

That’s a really interesting and pretty big place were you can spend a few hours exploring and enjoying local fauna. Unfortunately, a lot of plants and park parts look neglected. The employees doesn’t care much about the botanic garden. Muddy fountains, shabby paths, dried plants, pots overgrown with weeds.

Lovely botanical gardens near the harbor front. Nice tranquil space away from the bustle of the main tourist areas. Around €15 for a family, has a nice cafe to enjoy drinks and snacks after exploring. There is a free public park adjacent to the gardens if you don't want to pay. Worth visiting.

Located in the heart of Palermo, Sicily, the Orto Botanico di Palermo, or the Palermo Botanical Garden, is a true gem that captivates visitors with its enchanting beauty and rich botanical diversity. During my travels, I've had the pleasure of visiting this botanical wonder twice, and each time, it left an indelible mark on my memory. Spread across an expansive area, the garden is home to a remarkable collection of plants, trees, and botanical specimens from around the world. Established in 1789 by King Ferdinand IV of Bourbon, it is one of the oldest botanical gardens in Europe, boasting a long and storied history. One of the highlights of my visits was experiencing the garden during the summer months when it truly comes alive in a riot of colors and fragrances. The warm Mediterranean climate creates the perfect conditions for a wide variety of plant species to thrive, ranging from exotic tropical plants to indigenous Mediterranean flora. Walking through the garden's winding paths, I was awestruck by the sheer diversity of plant life on display. From towering palms and majestic cacti to delicate orchids and vibrant flowering shrubs, every corner of the garden was a feast for the senses. The meticulously curated collections are a testament to the garden's dedication to botanical research, conservation, and education. One of the garden's most iconic features is its majestic Ficus macrophylla, or Moreton Bay Fig trees, which are among the largest and oldest specimens in Europe. These ancient giants provide shade and shelter to visitors, inviting them to linger and immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of their surroundings. In addition to its impressive plant collections, the Orto Botanico di Palermo also boasts several architectural marvels, including ornate fountains, statues, and pavilions, which add to the garden's charm and character. What struck me most about the Palermo Botanical Garden is its ability to transport visitors to a different world, where time seems to stand still amidst the lush greenery and blooming flowers. Whether you're a botany enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply someone looking for a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, this magical oasis offers something for everyone. Overall, my experiences at the Orto Botanico di Palermo were nothing short of magical, and I eagerly look forward to my next visit to this botanical paradise.

I highly recommend visiting the Orto Botanico di Palermo! It is a beautiful botanical garden with a wide variety of plants from all over the world. I was particularly impressed by the collection of cacti and succulents, as well as the Japanese garden. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable, and they are always happy to answer any questions you may have. I visited the garden on a sunny day in September, and it was the perfect place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. There are many shady spots where you can take a break and people-watch. I also saw a few families with young children, and the kids seemed to be having a great time exploring the gardens. Overall, I had a wonderful time at the Orto Botanico di Palermo. It is a great place to visit for people of all ages, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone interested in plants, nature, or history.

The entrance is majestic. Very beautiful statues and details ( old jars with plants, seeds, explanations.) The gardens can be cured more. Wonderful variety of colors/flowers/plants.

A quiet moment of peace and calm amidst the hustle and business of Palermo. There are gorgeous trees and plants of all sorts and it didn’t seem particularly crowded. There were some biting insects in the shade but that’s not their fault. Would really recommend a visit

Absolutely beautiful ❤️ The mosquitos loved me too! We spent a lovely lunchtime there with cocktails and fries on comfy sofas under sails and read our books! Perfect

Well worth the visit, especially if you are planning on walking back down to Palermo (about 1.5 hours if you stroll). The trail is easy, and the view is breathtaking. Take the bus up, visit the sanctuary, and bring a lunch so you can stop along the way down to admire the surroundings. From the bottom, we actually kept walking to the city center via the waterway (another hour or two, but we love walking).

Don't be lazy and stop at the bar! Climb the few steps and visit the sanctuary. You won't believe your eyes. Then enjoy the fantastic orange from the bar.

There are buses that run up the mountain, but you should pack a water bottle and make the hike up to the sanctuary instead - it's worth it for the views, and makes reaching the sanctuary that much more satisfying!

A very interesting experience. You can get to it by car or by bus 812 from Politeama. It's a 30 min drive. The bus schedule is available in any tourist info center. I suggest getting of at the sanctuary and after visiting it take a stroll up the road, through the forest, and you will arrive at at the top of Monte Pelegrino. The most breathtaking vista awaits you.

Such an experience, this wonderfull place on a mountain next to Palermo, can it get more beautifull than this? A little further you have a POV on Palermo from the mountaintop belvedere di Monte Pellegrino!!

It must be something you really want to see. It was a 70.00 euros total round trip. It was about 40 minutes each way for a 30 minute walk around to see a small church build against the mountain cave where her remains were found. No admission fee.

The patron saint of Palermo has a chapel here in a grotto where her body was discovered. It's high above Palermo on Mount Pellegrino with views to the east. When I was here in May, 2022, the steps to the view point were closed. But there is a nice view just a about 200 meters from the sanctuary plaza, northeast on Via Monte Ercta. You might have to bushwack a bit through some weeds to get to the shrine on the peak of Mount Pellegrino.

Worth a visit. The sanctuary is actually a grotto inside the mountain, where the saint lived as a hermit for 4 years until her death (age 40) The trip to mount Pellegrino is lovely, easily done by public transport.

Twisty winding steep drive - but so beautiful to see this small church built into a cave in the mountainside! Aluminum sheets collect the water dripping from the cave ceiling and funnel it into a stone trough. The statue of the saint glows a celestial blue. Totally worth the trip - amazing views of Palermo and the harbor on the way down.

A place with a very interesting history and definitely worth a visit. Along the way there are wonderful views of Palermo and the surrounding area. Definitely recommend.

A unique church built of a cave. Even the German writer Goethe was here. The atmosphere is crazy. Half cave, half church. Have only seen that once before.

Very nice little church carved into the mountain. also a place of pilgrimage for believers.

What an impressive church that sits atop and built into the mountain, this was built in 1625 and still standing today. So beautiful and serene once u walk inside, the ceiling or lack there of is pure rock and u can see thru to the sky. They have a shop attached to buy religious/trinket souvenirs. They also have a donation box to help keep it up and running. The bells had the most beautiful sounds. Down below are cafes, and people selling souvenirs. We couldn't believe it, but the amount of eucalyptus trees growing up there, gave off a lovely smell.

Take the 812 bus next to the Politeama Theatre for an amazing ride up Monte Pellegrino to visit the sanctuary. Be careful on the way back; it takes a different route!

Magical, especially the setting with the views to the front! There is disabled access if you go in a car. The barrier can be lifted in the carpark below if you ask and then you can drive up. There are metal slopes up to the sanctuary and shrine. You just have to be careful inside as the cave floor is uneven

Very small church , ticket price 1,5€ because I had visit Santa Maria dell'ammiraglio before. Not even worth the 1,5€, wish I had used that cash towards the purchase of a cannolo. 2 minute visit, faster if you camera is fast to zoom!

The three dome church. Fascinating for its Arab influence. When you look at it from the outside with it's domes and from the inside with its geometric patterns you could believe someone if they told you it was a mosque and not a church. Very simple without the mosaics of the fancier churches but very beautiful in its simplicity.

Disappointing... not worth 2,50 euro. The entrance is covered with a curtain because if people catch a glimpse inside, they'd see it wasn't worth the admission. It's just a small room with barren walls and ceilings, floor mosaics are nothing special, you can't sit on the chairs, the altar has nothing interesting on it. Just take a picture of its red domes from the outside, then move on to the church right next to it which costs 50 cents less and is incredible - a must see! Lastly, if you've paid to see any other churches/chapels in Palermo, you can get a discount here if you show your ticket (still not worth it though).

Underwhelming! Very cheeky way to get your money, they hide the inner structure with a big curtain, so you need to pay (2-3€) to get a glimpse, but it’s just a very small, very badly lit and badly-tended chapel. The chapel next to it is much more well-tended and offers byzantine mosaics.

Breathtaking mosaics,paintings and marble sculptures.The visit was very good organized.After seeing Church of St.Catald,the staff directs you what is next to be seen in Norman Palace...don't miss the coffee break in Royal Garden

Interesting to see the structure from the inside, but that’s about it. I think tickets should include both Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio and San Cataldo - the separate tickets only create confusion and more waiting times.

Being agnostic, the religious stuff was a little over my head, but I can see that for some it’s a big draw. But aside from that the general history was there in detail and very interesting. When you pay to get in you have to opt for a minimum package as such with limited access to specific areas. We bought the full package and that included access to the roof, which was well worth it with views across the city. Overall, pretty impressive and the resources to read with regards insights into the history great as well (Italian and English).

The fact that you must pay to see an old stone room... no. That should be a sin. It states that it literally only fits 20 people standing (sitting is forbidden). Its cheap, only 2.50 euro but thats 2.50 euro to look at a stone built room that fossils used to visit. The outside is a better experience than the room. Dont do it.

As a history enthusiast this place was incredible. It was €2.50 each to get in and it is small (it's 15 min max to see everything inside) but if you are a student of the crusades this 12th century church is a must see. It's one of those places where its history just hangs in the air.

It is one of my favourite churches, even if extremely simple. Many years ago, any church in Palermo was free, and now you have to pay to visit any of them. Furthermore, locals pay as much as tourists. Discounts should be a must. So, 5 stars for the place and zero for customer service and the organisation in charge. You must support local people bringing family and friends from abroad to show around or even for them to visit part of their local patrimony. This should still be a church and follow its spirit.

Very beautiful church from outside side but nothing really unique from the inside, even though the ticket costs only 1,5€

Nice on the outside, a single room almost empty on the inside, not worth the 2,5€ (Martorana is much much better, this one is a complete dissapointment).

Impressively beautiful church located along Via Maqueda . Easy access except for a short flight of stairs Recommended

The Normans were geniuses, and incorporated architecture from their conquered people's into their works. The amount of Arab architecture influence is amazing...this building could be at home in Jerusalem, and looks like it belongs to First Crusade era. MUST SEE ITEM for Palermo

Very nice, small church. Interestingly a mixture of normanic and arabic styles. Take special note of *the* column and find out, what the writing on the capital means.

Totally loved this place. Offers great views around Palermo from different angles. Easy to walk hiking route. There is also a bus 812 that goes but Google maps doesn't show this. So, I am uploading the timetable from Liberta Croci.

Beautifull mountain with an even more beautifull church at the top of it , build directly into the mountain . A surreal view and feels special , it is a must visit for anyone in Palermo. You can get there by bus 812 (1.4 euro ) , but be prepared to wait as long as 30 minutes for the bus , or hiking as there is an amazing mountain path to the top of it .

The views from the top are breathtaking and will stick with you forever. From Palermo you can take the 812 bus from Politeama. The schedule can be found at any tourist info center. I suggest getting of at the Sanctuary, visiting it and then take a leisurely 15 min walk up to the top.

Visited bact in 2016.This beautiful monastery is build inside the caves. Its breathtaking, its beautiful. If you go further up in the mountine you will find the view that captures the entire Palermo! Breathe taking view's up there. Well now why 2 stars? In the monastery there is water that is labeled as cure for eye diseases...That's cool but however in order to get it you need to pay for it (you have to pay for empty bottle if you want to get your water) For me that's shameful it should be give what you can. This felt like pure evil in this holy place.

A beautiful mountain for hiking and reaching spots with beautiful views of the city. Is a nice mountain to hike with family and enjoy. You can also go up the mountain by car or by bus. Kindly while on the mountain don't those rubbish not even in the available bins . Keep the trash with you and throw it when you come back to city. Also collect any plastic that you find lying around. Let's protect the beauty of the nature.

Such a lovely place to hike to. if you visit Palermo, mountain Pellegrino is a must

Great hike with church, shops and refreshments at the end

Really important historic place for Sicily and Italy. The story of Falcone's fight against mafia is amazing.

Beautiful monument of the tragedy at Capaci near Palermo

A place to reflect and to learn. The park is small but meaningful. I was very moved

The victims and facts this monument is about, would merit a better access to the place. The forthcoming 30th anniversary of the attack would justify a full refurbishment of the monument!

Interesting history!

Very energy place..recommended to visit!

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Maximum emotions :) Should be never ever forgotten.

Unfortunately disappointed. There's so much history from the the presented periods, especially the time of inquisition. However there were only showing a few cells with the wall drawings and paintings. There were empty cells which could have shown the conditions or replicas of common torture tools and devices, but they were empty. In these parts there were no English labels unfortunately and parts of the building where they were, it was not show. Then next room with the wooden ceiling was nice however the last part, exhibition of La Vucciria di Guttuso had little connection to the rest of the two places or it was lost in translation... The list could go on, like lack of utilities in the bathroom and so.

Interesting history of Sicily. Probably not interesting for kids. Combined tickets with Salinas & botanical gardens both worth it. Tours on the hour get there 10 min early. Bathroom also available.

Nice area but not worth the money for those who just buy a single ticket. We bought the combo-ticket that included “Orto - Salinas - Steri”. The place can only be visited at designed tour entries depending on the scheduled time slots with a guide. The tour at five started late and the guide Antonio literally rushed to the end. Gave introductions in both English and Italian simultaneously . However, the English parts are short and hard to understand unlike his Italian parts. I’d recommend either let visitors freely visit or do have a proper English guide and don’t hold tours with both Italian and English simultaneously. Unless the guide his her English is at full professional working proficiency.

Interesting place about the Spanish inquisition ,8 euros each the guide was in Italian but gave glimpses of English translation. The end part of the tour was to see the famous Palermo market painting which I wanted to see.

I saw a lots of Museum so I wasnt sad to left. You can visit only with guide! And I was arrived at half past 2 and they had a time for 3 oclock. For theese havent got any time.

Interesting place, but it's a bit unpleasant to visit if you are not an Italian speaker. The guide makes all presentations in Italian and the rooms aren't interesting enough on their own without a backstory. You can read details on the internet and see pictures - spare yourself 8 euros. The architecture isn't anymore special than other palaces in the area. Only thing worth seeing here is the painting La Vucciria. It's a nice one.

Having read some reviews, we made sure our tour (at 18:00) was conducted in both Italian and English--the folks behind the desk in the gift shop and outside the main entrance were very helpful in this regard! Antonio led us through the cells and other rooms of the Palazzo Chiaramonte and knowledgeably explained each stop in both English and Italian. He received questions in both languages and translated his responses so everyone could learn. We were a fairly small group (five visitors) and he let us take our time in each room, never making us feel rushed. We appreciated his charisma and expertise--this stop is well worth the price of admission (€8 per adult as of July 2023)! Though it did not detract from our experience, it's worth noting the tour goes up and down several flights of stairs.

The Spanish inquisitions Sicilian jail, now part of Universita di Palermo. Well worth a tour which is guided. The prisoner cells are covered with drawings and writings made by those incarcerated. As a major port many nationalities were branded as heretics, including a Cornish fisherman, whose writing seems very contemporary. The museum also house Rene Guttuoso's painting of the now much diminished Vucciria Market. A magnificent painting The ticket also included entry to the Orto Botanico a short walk away.

Moving exploration of faith, cruelty, passion, and art. One of the best testaments remaining of the inquisition. Also features art from earlier and later periods of Sicilian life. Saw on combined ticket with archaeological museum and botanical garden.

I highly recommend booking a visit, while you are not allowed to visit the Palazzo independently the hourly tour (in Italian & English) is very good value. The guide gave significant insight both of the Palazzo's past history (most notably the period of the inquisition), and its current role as part of the university. The tour also gives you the chance to view one of Palermo's artistic treasures Renato Guttuso's fabulous 'La Vucciria'.

We arrived at 955am on a monday morning and joined a 10am guided tour, which was included in the 8 Euro per person admission fee. The tour took about an hour, about 75% of which was spent in the inquisition cells. Very interesting and a worthy visit while in Palermo. Imagine what it would have been like to be one of those poor people locked up by the Inquisitor. Loved seeing the graffiti in the cell bathroom where the jailors didn't venture of s horse pooping on the grand inquisitor...

You can only visit this palace with a guide. The guide we had spoke abysmally bad English, we could only make out a few words of what he was saying. Even so, it's really not that interesting to visit. You will only visit some rooms with old graffitis and one big room of the palace.