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Palermo

Italy · Coast · EUR · 38.115700, 13.361500
Family friendly 7.6/10 · Rank 297 of 2 709
Best season: April-June, September-October

Best for

Palermo is a city for those who love real, living Italy with its chaos, history and gastronomy. It is recommended for gourmets, architecture lovers and those seeking an authentic atmosphere. Suitable for families with children thanks to its beaches and interesting excursions. Least suitable for those seeking perfect order and expensive resorts with five-star service.

Best season

April-June, September-October

Daily budget
$129.00 (≈ 10 826 ₽ · ≈ 115 EUR)
For 7 days
$903.00 (≈ 75 780 ₽ · ≈ 806 EUR)
Palermo is the capital of Sicily and a city where millennia of Arab, Norman and Spanish cultures have woven a unique architectural and gastronomic pattern. The Palatine Chapel, the cathedral and the markets of Vucciria and Ballarò create an atmosphere of an Eastern bazaar, while local street food and arancini are a true culinary discovery.
Summer
36.0°C
Winter
9.0°C
Sea
28.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

moderate

Pace of life

moderate

Local character

Palermitans are open, emotional and hospitable people. They are proud of their history and cuisine. There are many tourists in the centre, so locals are used to guests. At the markets you can feel the genuine Sicilian warmth.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Rich history and architecture
  • Amazing Sicilian cuisine
  • Beautiful Mondello beach
  • Affordable prices compared to northern Italy
  • Authentic atmosphere
  • Many markets and street food
  • Proximity to other Sicilian attractions

Cons

  • Chaotic traffic
  • Some areas look neglected
  • Risk of petty theft in crowded places
  • Can be noisy
  • Mondello beach is overcrowded in summer
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
25.5°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
31.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
36.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
12.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
16.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
9.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
26.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
28.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
December-February
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
white
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
mild
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
clear
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Mondello
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
No
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
No
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
Yes
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

Palermo is a safe city for swimming. The main risks are jellyfish in summer and petty theft in crowded places. Standard precautions are recommended.

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins in the coastal waters of Palermo inhabit rocky bottoms and Posidonia seagrass beds. They are part of the region's marine ecosystem
  • Sea urchin stings are painful, special swimming shoes recommended

Corals and reefs — details

  • Coral communities inhabit the Tyrrhenian Sea off Palermo, represented by gorgonians, red corals (Corallium rubrum) and other species on rocky seabed areas
  • Diverse corals and marine organisms inhabit the Capo Gallo — Isola delle Femmine marine reserve. Reefs are home to groupers, barracudas, moray eels and octopuses

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish are found off the coast of Palermo during the summer months, especially after storms. Mostly harmless, but can cause skin irritation.

Sharks — details

  • Various shark species inhabit the waters off Palermo, including the blue shark (Prionace glauca) and other Mediterranean species. Sharks do not pose a serious danger to swimmers
  • Shark attacks on humans are extremely rare in this region. Caution is recommended in open waters
Attractions

Mondello Beach

Famous beach with white sand and turquoise water at the foot of Monte Pellegrino. The most popular swimming spot in Palermo.

Norman Palace and Palatine Chapel

A royal palace with a luxurious chapel in the Byzantine-Arab-Norman style, covered with golden mosaics.

Palermo Cathedral

A majestic cathedral combining architecture from different eras — from Norman to Gothic. The burial place of the kings of Sicily.

Quattro Canti

An intersection of four streets with four fountains and baroque facades. The central point of the old town.

Ballarò Market

A lively street market with the aromas of Sicilian cuisine. The best place to taste arancini and panelle.

Teatro Massimo

One of the largest opera houses in Europe with magnificent architecture. A great place for an evening visit.

Best areas

Historic Centre

The heart of Palermo with the cathedral, palaces, markets and baroque squares. Ideal for sightseeing.

Mondello Area

A resort area with a beach, restaurants and hotels. For beach holidays.

La Kalsa

An authentic area with Arab influence, narrow streets and art workshops.

Must-try food

Arancini

Fried rice balls stuffed with ragù, mozzarella or ham. The main Sicilian street food.

Pane ca meusa

A sandwich with chopped spleen and lungs fried in lard. A local delicacy for the brave.

Pasta with sardines

A traditional Sicilian pasta dish with sardines, fennel, raisins and pine nuts.

Cannoli

The famous Sicilian dessert — crispy tubes filled with ricotta and garnished with pistachios.

Granita with brioche

A refreshing dessert of frozen juice with a soft bun. An ideal breakfast on a hot day.

Caponata

A vegetable stew of aubergines, tomatoes, celery and olives in a sweet sauce.

Where to go next

Monreale

A town 15 km from Palermo with a cathedral decorated with golden Byzantine mosaics.

Cefalù

A beautiful coastal town with a Norman cathedral and beach, an hour's drive away.

Valley of the Temples in Agrigento

One of the largest archaeological parks in the world with magnificent Greek temples.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
moderate
Getting there
Nearest airports
Аэропорт Палермо имени Фальконе-Борселлино (PMO).
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Visa
Visa requirements
required (Schengen)
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
April-June, September-October
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽ · ≈ 22 EUR
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$70.00
≈ 5 874 ₽ · ≈ 63 EUR
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$120.00
≈ 10 070 ₽ · ≈ 107 EUR
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$220.00
≈ 18 462 ₽ · ≈ 196 EUR
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$180.00
≈ 15 106 ₽ · ≈ 161 EUR
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$90.00
≈ 7 553 ₽ · ≈ 80 EUR
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 13 EUR
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽ · ≈ 36 EUR
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽ · ≈ 3 EUR
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$4.50
≈ 378 ₽ · ≈ 4 EUR
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$0.80
≈ 67 ₽ · ≈ 1 EUR
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 9 EUR
Burger
Average price for a burger
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 7 EUR
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 4 EUR
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 7 EUR
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$35.00
≈ 2 937 ₽ · ≈ 31 EUR
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$1.50
≈ 126 ₽ · ≈ 1 EUR
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 9 EUR
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$45.00
≈ 3 776 ₽ · ≈ 40 EUR
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 11 EUR
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽ · ≈ 22 EUR
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 45 EUR
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$80.00
≈ 6 714 ₽ · ≈ 71 EUR
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$60.00
≈ 5 035 ₽ · ≈ 54 EUR
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 13 EUR
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 11 EUR
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Frequently asked questions
Palermo: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is April-June, September-October. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Palermo: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +36.0°C, during the day — up to +31.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Palermo: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +9.0°C, during the day — up to +16.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Palermo: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +28.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Palermo: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on December-February. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Palermo: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand" surface, white sand, clear water. The most popular beaches: Mondello. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Palermo: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Palermo: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: jellyfish. Palermo is a safe city for swimming. The main risks are jellyfish in summer and petty theft in crowded places. Standard precautions are recommended.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Palermo: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $129.00 (≈ 10 826 ₽ · ≈ 115 EUR) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Palermo: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $25.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $70.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $120.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $220.00 per night, an apartment — $90.00 per night, a villa — $180.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Palermo: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $15.00, dinner at a restaurant — $40.00, a cup of cappuccino — $3.00, a 0.5L beer — $4.50, a 1.5L bottle of water — $0.80. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Palermo: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $35.00, a single public transport ticket — $1.50, a short taxi ride — $10.00, car rental — $45.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Palermo: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Mondello Beach — Famous beach with white sand and turquoise water at the foot of Monte Pellegrino. The most popular swimming spot in Palermo.; Norman Palace and Palatine Chapel — A royal palace with a luxurious chapel in the Byzantine-Arab-Norman style, covered with golden mosaics.; Palermo Cathedral — A majestic cathedral combining architecture from different eras — from Norman to Gothic. The burial place of the kings of Sicily.; Quattro Canti — An intersection of four streets with four fountains and baroque facades. The central point of the old town.; Ballarò Market — A lively street market with the aromas of Sicilian cuisine. The best place to taste arancini and panelle.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Palermo: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Arancini — Fried rice balls stuffed with ragù, mozzarella or ham. The main Sicilian street food.; Pane ca meusa — A sandwich with chopped spleen and lungs fried in lard. A local delicacy for the brave.; Pasta with sardines — A traditional Sicilian pasta dish with sardines, fennel, raisins and pine nuts.; Cannoli — The famous Sicilian dessert — crispy tubes filled with ricotta and garnished with pistachios.; Granita with brioche — A refreshing dessert of frozen juice with a soft bun. An ideal breakfast on a hot day.; Caponata — A vegetable stew of aubergines, tomatoes, celery and olives in a sweet sauce.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Palermo: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Historic Centre — The heart of Palermo with the cathedral, palaces, markets and baroque squares. Ideal for sightseeing.; Mondello Area — A resort area with a beach, restaurants and hotels. For beach holidays.; La Kalsa — An authentic area with Arab influence, narrow streets and art workshops.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Palermo: is a visa required?
Visa: required (Schengen). Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Palermo: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Аэропорт Палермо имени Фальконе-Борселлино (code PMO). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $35.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Palermo: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — EUR. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $129.00 (≈ 10 826 ₽ · ≈ 115 EUR). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Palermo: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Palermo: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as moderate. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Palermo: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Monreale — A town 15 km from Palermo with a cathedral decorated with golden Byzantine mosaics.; Cefalù — A beautiful coastal town with a Norman cathedral and beach, an hour's drive away.; Valley of the Temples in Agrigento — One of the largest archaeological parks in the world with magnificent Greek temples.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

7.6/10
Overall rank: 297 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 197

Best season

April-June, September-October

Useful information

Currency: EUR
Coordinates: 38.115700, 13.361500