Dreaming of a city break in Palermo with kids?
This guide will take you through everything you need to know including the best things to do in Palermo with kids, the best places to stay in Palermo, where to eat and the day trips!
We’ll even take you through some of the best Palermo itineraries from 1-5 days. The city is one of the best places to visit in Italy with kids.
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Is Palermo Child-Friendly?
Sicily is an excellent destination for families, with plenty of activities to keep the little ones entertained. Palermo, Sicily’s capital city, is no exception.
Top Palermo attractions for families include the Botanical Gardens, the Zisa Palace (a Moorish-style palace), the Piazza Pretoria (with its ornate fountains), and the Catacombs of the Capuchins (a network of tunnels and crypts which are great for a bit of adventure). Kids will also enjoy exploring Palermo’s centre’s narrow streets and colourful markets.
Many restaurants in Palermo offer child-friendly menus, and many hotels have babysitting services available.
Top Things to do in Palermo with Kids
Welcome to Palermo, Sicily’s treasure trove of fun and excitement for families! With its splendid beaches and heaps of history, Sicily has treats for all ages. Palermo, sitting pretty by the sea, is the perfect spot to dive into these delights. Here are the best things to do in Palermo for a memorable trip.
1. Visit Palermo’s Beaches: Sun, Sand, and Splashes!
One of the must-do activities for families in Palermo is to visit its stunning beaches. I find that although my daughter likes looking around cities, she’s always pleased to get to a beach! Build sandcastles, splash in the gentle waves, and soak up the glorious Sicilian sun.
The beaches near Palermo are known for their clear waters and golden sands, making them an ideal playground for children.
Here are a few beaches you might want to consider:
Mondello Beach: Just a short drive from Palermo’s city center, Mondello is perhaps the most famous beach in the area. With its white sands and turquoise waters, it’s a hit with both locals and tourists. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby where you can grab a bite to eat.
Addaura Beach: Located along the coast from Mondello, Addaura is a more rocky beach, which can be great for older kids who are into snorkeling. The clear waters here are perfect for spotting fish and other sea creatures.
Capaci Beach: A little further out but well worth the visit, Capaci Beach has a more local feel. The golden sands are perfect for kids to run around on, and the waters are calm and clear.
2. Visit the Shops and Markets in the Historic City Centre
Dive into the vibrant heart of Palermo by exploring its bustling shops and markets nestled in the historic city centre. This is a fantastic way for the family to absorb the local culture, taste authentic Sicilian delicacies, and hunt for unique souvenirs.
Here are some of the markets and shopping areas that you should not miss:
Ballarò Market: This is one of Palermo’s oldest and most famous markets. Meandering through the narrow streets, you’ll find a colorful array of fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, meats, and local street food. The lively atmosphere and the shouts of the vendors make it an exciting experience for kids.
Vucciria Market: Another iconic market, Vucciria is a sensory overload with its variety of food stalls, aromatic spices, and local crafts. Don’t forget to try the famous Sicilian street food “Pani ca Meusa” (a traditional sandwich), which is a favorite among the locals.
Via Maqueda and Via Ruggero Settimo: For a more traditional shopping experience, stroll along these pedestrian streets. They are lined with charming shops selling everything from clothing to souvenirs. It’s also a great place to enjoy some gelato while you shop!
Quattro Canti: Located at the intersection of Via Maqueda and Via Vittorio Emanuele, this is a historic square surrounded by Baroque buildings. It’s a great spot to appreciate the architecture and snap some family photos.
Visiting the shops and markets in Palermo’s historic city centre is not just about shopping – it’s an adventure! Engage your senses, try new foods, and take in the rich culture as you wander through this lively and historic area with your family.
3. Visit Palermo’s Parks and Gardens
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city by retreating to Palermo’s beautiful parks and gardens. These green oases are the perfect spotsto relax, have a picnic, and let the kids run around in nature.
Here are some of the parks and gardens in Palermo that are worth visiting:
Orto Botanico di Palermo (Botanical Garden): A tranquil haven in the heart of Palermo, this Botanical Garden is home to a vast collection of exotic plants and trees. With its lush greenery, fountains, and historical buildings, it’s a great educational and recreational space for kids.
Parco della Favorita (Favorita Park): This is one of the largest parks in Palermo, and it offers plenty of space for kids to play. There are play areas, walking trails, and even spots for picnics. The park is also home to the Palazzina Cinese, a Chinese-style palace which is a must-see.
Villa Giulia: This is a beautifully landscaped garden near the seafront. It’s full of fountains, statues, and wide paths perfect for a leisurely stroll. There is also a playground where younger children can have fun.
English Garden (Giardino Inglese): A beautifully designed garden with meandering paths, benches, and a central fountain. The English Garden is a serene spot to take a relaxing walk with the family.
Parco d’Orleans: Located close to the Royal Palace, this park is a peaceful retreat with a playground for kids, and benches to sit and relax. The park is also home to a variety of plants and trees, making it a lovely spot for a nature walk.
4. Explore Palermo’s Ancient Ruins
Embark on a thrilling time-travel adventure with your family by exploring the ancient ruins in and around Palermo. Unveil the layers of history as you walk through the remnants of civilizations that once flourished on this enchanting island.
Here are some ancient sites that are sure to captivate both kids and adults:
Palazzo dei Normanni (Norman Palace) and Cappella Palatina: Visit the majestic Norman Palace, which is one of the oldest royal palaces in Europe. The Cappella Palatina, located within the palace, is a stunning chapel with intricate mosaics and gold detailing.
Teatro Massimo: While not ancient, this 19th-century opera house is a must-see. The grandeur and opulence of Teatro Massimo are awe-inspiring. There are guided tours available that will let you explore the interior and learn about its history.
Monreale Cathedral: A short drive from Palermo, the Monreale Cathedral is an architectural marvel, renowned for its stunning mosaics. This is an excellent opportunity to teach your kids about medieval art and history.
Solunto Archaeological Site: Just outside Palermo, the ancient city of Solunto offers a fascinating look into the life of the Roman and Phoenician civilizations. Kids will be thrilled to explore the ruins of houses, streets, and public buildings.
5. Go on a Boat Trip
Palermo harbour is an excellent place for a family outing, and a boat ride is a perfect way to see it all. There are plenty of boat tour operators in Palermo, so you’re sure to find one that suits your needs.
Harbour Tours: Opt for a guided harbour tour that takes you around the coast, offering glimpses of the city skyline, historical forts, and beautiful natural scenery. Some tours provide interesting commentary about the history and significance of the various sights you pass by.
Fishing Trips: For a more hands-on experience, consider taking a family fishing trip. Learn the art of fishing from local experts and try your luck at catching some fish. It’s an exciting and educational experience for the kids.
Sailing Excursions: If you fancy sailing, you can book a sailing trip that takes you further along the coast. Enjoy the serenity of the open sea, and you might even spot some dolphins or other marine life!
This half day sailing tour with a snack and drinks is perfect for kids!
Island Hopping: Use Palermo as your starting point for an island-hopping adventure. Visit nearby islands such as Ustica or the Aeolian Islands. Each island has its unique charm, and the boat ride itself is part of the fun.
Why not book this Favignana and Levanzo Islands Cruise >>>
6. Visit a museum
Immerse your family in a world of art, history, and culture by visiting some of Palermo’s intriguing museums.
Engage the curiosity of your kids and provide them with a learning experience that’s both educational and fun.
Here are some must-visit museums in Palermo:
Palermo Archaeological Museum (Museo Archeologico Regionale): This museum is a treasure trove of ancient artifacts from Sicily’s rich history. With collections from the Greek, Roman, and Phoenician periods, it’s an excellent place for kids to learn about ancient civilizations.
International Marionettes Museum (Museo Internazionale delle Marionette): A hit among children, this unique museum showcases a vast collection of puppets and marionettes from around the world. The intricate details on the puppets and occasional puppet shows make it a fun and interactive experience for kids.
Palazzo Mirto: Give your kids a glimpse into the aristocratic life of the past by visiting Palazzo Mirto. This 17th-century palace is adorned with lavish furnishings, artwork, and antique collections that transport you back in time.
Modern Art Gallery Sant’Anna (Galleria d’Arte Moderna Sant’Anna): For families with an interest in modern art, this gallery is a must-visit. It features works by Italian and international artists and offers an insight into contemporary artistic movements.
Museo del Giocattolo e delle Cere Pietro Piraino (Toy and Wax Museum): This lesser-known museum is a delight for children and adults alike. With an extensive collection of vintage toys and wax figures, it offers a nostalgic journey through childhood memories.
7. Get Up Close with Sicily’s Wildlife
If you’re looking to infuse an element of natural wonder into your family trip to Palermo, getting up close with Sicily’s diverse wildlife is the perfect adventure.
Sicily, with its varied landscapes ranging from mountains to wetlands, is home to an array of fascinating creatures.
One of the best places near Palermo to witness wildlife is the Oasi dello Zingaro Nature Reserve. Nestled on the coast, this reserve is not just about the sparkling blue waters and rugged cliffs; it is also a sanctuary for various bird species, and it’s not uncommon to spot eagles soaring overhead.
For a more interactive experience, consider visiting the Bioparco di Sicilia. Located a short drive from Palermo, this zoological park is an oasis for animal lovers.
Here, children can marvel at the exotic animals such as zebras, camels, and flamingos, and also participate in educational activities.
The park is dedicated to conservation and offers an engaging way for kids to learn about the importance of protecting wildlife.
A visit to Trapani Salt Pans can also be a thrilling experience. While it’s a bit further from Palermo, the salt pans are home to an ecosystem that attracts various bird species, including the elegant flamingos.
8. Tour a Vineyard
Sicily is famous for its delicious red wines, so why not try them yourself? One of the most renowned wine tours Sicily offers is a local vineyard or winery tour, where you can learn all about wine-making and taste some of Sicily’s finest wines.
9. Explore Palermo’s Traditional Cuisine: A Gastronomic Journey Through Sicilian Flavors!
Diving into the traditional cuisine of Palermo is an adventure in itself. The city’s food culture is a delectable mix of influences from its rich history, combining Arabic, Spanish, and Italian elements.
For families, exploring Palermo’s traditional cuisine is not just about satisfying your taste buds; it’s about engaging with the culture, history, and soul of Sicily.
Start your culinary exploration at one of Palermo’s bustling street markets, such as Ballarò or Vucciria. Here, the aroma of freshly cooked street food fills the air.
One must-try street food is “Arancini” – delectable fried rice balls filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables. Another Palermo specialty is “Pane e Panelle,” a sandwich filled with chickpea fritters, perfect for a quick and satisfying snack.
After sampling street food, make your way to a traditional trattoria or osteria for a more relaxed dining experience. “Caponata,” a sweet and sour eggplant dish, is a flavorful start to any meal.
For the main course, don’t miss trying “Pasta alla Norma,” a classic Sicilian pasta dish with tomatoes, fried eggplant, grated ricotta cheese, and basil.
No gastronomic journey in Palermo is complete without indulging in Sicilian sweets. “Cannoli,” crisp pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta cheese, are an iconic Sicilian dessert.
Another beloved treat is “Cassata Siciliana,” a rich cake made from sponge cake, ricotta cheese, marzipan, and candied fruit.
Finally, to quench your thirst, sip on some refreshing “Granita.” This semi-frozen dessert made from sugar, water, and various flavorings is particularly popular in the summer and comes in flavors like lemon, almond, and coffee.
When is the Best Time to Visit Palermo?
Central Palermo is mild all year round, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F-77°F).
In contrast, Mount Etna, Sicily’s tallest mountain, can be pretty cold in the winter, with average temperatures around 5°C (41°F) and hot in the summer, with temperatures averaging 28°C (82°F).
Palermo During the Summer Months
If you’re looking for warm weather and don’t mind crowds, visit Palmo during Sicily’s peak tourist season, usually from May to September.
It’s a significant period to have a perfect day in Palermo. Sicily’s cities can get a bit busy and crowded during this time. Still, it is ideal for enjoying Sicily’s great beaches, which usually span several kilometres.
Palermo in Winter
Sicily gets most of its rain in the winter months from November-April in terms of weather. If you don’t mind dodging a shower or two, Sicily will still be an enjoyable destination outside peak tourist season.
If your priority is clear skies and crisp mountain air, then March is probably best avoided since Sicily gets quite a lot of precipitation at this time.
How to Get to Palermo
Palermo, one of Sicily’s more modern cities, is a central transportation hub for many Italian and some North African cities. As Sicily’s capital, Palermo is the largest city on the island, with more than 1 million people.
Flying to Palermo
Falcone Borsellino Airport (Palermo Airport), also known as Punta Raisi Airport, is the primary international airport serving Palermo. It is located about 35 kilometers (22 miles) west of the city.
Major airlines operate flights to Palermo from various European cities, and there are also seasonal flights from other continents.
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Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or use the shuttle bus service called “Prestia e Comandè,” which connects the airport to Palermo’s city center.
Arriving into Palermo Cruise Port and Arriving by Ferry
Palermo has a major port that serves as a gateway for ferries and cruise ships. This is an alternative way of reaching the city, especially if you are traveling from mainland Italy or other Mediterranean destinations.
Ferry services connect Palermo with cities like Naples, Genoa, and Cagliari. The journey by sea can be long but is often scenic.
The port is located near the city center, making it easy to reach your accommodation once you disembark.
Find an Amazing Cruise Here >>>
Train to Palermo
If you are already in Italy or Sicily, reaching Palermo by train is a comfortable option. Trenitalia, the national train company, operates services connecting Palermo with other major Sicilian towns and cities on the Italian mainland.
The train journey includes a ferry section where the train is loaded onto a ferry to cross the Strait of Messina.
Palermo Central Station (Stazione Centrale) is located in the city center, providing easy access to various parts of the city.
Book Your Train Tickets Here. I always use RailEurope when out of the UK >>>
Driving to Palermo
If you’re in the mood for a road trip and are already in Europe, you can drive to Palermo. However, keep in mind that this involves crossing the Strait of Messina by ferry if you’re coming from the Italian mainland.
Where to Stay in Palermo with Kids
Palermo is a great city to visit with kids. There are plenty of things to see and do and some great places to stay. Here are a few suggestions for staying in Palermo with the kids.
Best Area to Stay in Palermo for Families
If you want to be in the heart of the action, consider staying at one of the hotels in the historic centre. These hotels are within easy walking distance of all the major sights. They offer a convenient location for exploring the city.
Another option is to stay outside the city centre in one of the suburbs. This can be a great choice if you’re looking for more peace and quiet or if you want to be near some of Palermo’s beautiful parks and gardens. Just be sure to factor in the extra time to get into the city centre.
Whatever your choice, be sure to book well in advance, as Palermo is a popular destination with tourists. And whatever you do, don’t miss out on trying the local cuisine – it’s some of the best in Sicily!
If you’re looking for a great place to stay in Palermo with kids, these are a few of our top recommendations.
Budget: Hotel Politeama
Families looking for a place to stay in Palermo will find Hotel Politeama an excellent option. This hotel is located in the city’s heart and offers easy access to all the main attractions. Additionally, it features a range of facilities that will make your stay with kids as comfortable as possible.
The on-site restaurant serves a variety of dishes that will please both parents and kids alike. Plus, the hotel provides cots, high chairs, and other amenities that can make life a bit easier when travelling with children (free of charge).
Mid-Range: Hotel Giardino Inglese
Hotel Giardino Inglese is an excellent choice for families because it has a playground and a pool on site. The hotel is also located close to several tourist destinations, such as the Palermo Cathedral and the Teatro Massimo.
The rooms are equipped with wireless internet; they all have air conditioning, minibar, safe, satellite TV and hairdryer.
The hotel staff is amicable and helpful. They will be happy to provide you with directions or recommendations for restaurants and attractions.
Hotel Giardino Inglese is an excellent choice if you are looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay in Palermo with your kids. A cot is available on-demand and costs 15€ per night.
Splashing Out: Palazzo Natoli Botique Hotel
When travelling with children, finding a hotel that will make them feel comfortable and provide them with plenty of activities to keep them occupied is crucial. Palazzo Natoli Boutique Hotel is the perfect place for families travelling to Palermo.
This boutique hotel offers charming rooms and suites decorated in a traditional Sicilian style. There is also a lovely courtyard where guests can relax and enjoy the view. The hotel staff is friendly and helpful, and they can recommend some great places to visit with kids in Palermo.
The hotel has a swimming pool, which is always a hit with children, and a playground is on-site. Plus, the location is perfect for exploring all Palermo offers, and the staff can provide you with plenty of recommendations. Also, a Cot is available upon request and is paid 10€ per night.
Where to Eat in Palermo for Families
The very best restaurants in Palermo are often the simplest.
The city’s most good restaurants are typically good not because of innovations or clever decor but rather because they serve – with flair and imagination – fresh dishes that showcase authentic flavours, regional cooking traditions but also new culinary ideas.
When visiting Sicily’s capital, you should try to stick to this principle rule: keep it local!
Biga Genio E Farnia
If you’re looking for a delicious pizza in Palermo, Biga Genio e Farina is the place to go.
Trip Advisor has named it the best pizza restaurant in Palermo, and with good reason! The pizzas here are made with only the freshest ingredients and are absolutely delicious.
Not only is the food great at Biga Genio e Farina, but the atmosphere is also very family-friendly. The restaurant is warm and welcoming, and there is plenty of space for kids to run around.
This makes it the perfect place to eat with your family while in Palermo.
MEC Restaurant
MEC Restaurant is one of the best places to eat in Palermo for families.
They have a wide variety of dishes that will suit everyone’s taste. They also have a play area for kids so parents can relax and enjoy their meal.
MEC Restaurant is open every day from 12 PM to 11 PM.
Galloway
Another excellent option for families is Galloway. This restaurant specializes in Sicilian cuisine and has something to appeal to everyone in your group.
From pizzas and pasta to seafood dishes and meatballs, there is something on the menu for everyone. What’s more, the portions are large enough that even the hungriest of teenagers will be satisfied.
2 Days in Palermo
If you have a couple of days in Palermo with your kids, there are many things to do and see. Here is a suggested itinerary that will make the most of your time.
Many attractions in Palermo are child-friendly. It is a destination with lots to see and do, whether you’re just visiting for the day or looking for something to do that won’t cost too much money or take up too much of your time.
Day 1: 24 Hours in Palermo With Kids
Morning: The tour of Palermo has its starting point in the historical centre. We will use local transport while moving across the city until we arrive at Monreale, where we can visit its impressive gothic cathedral.
Why Not Try: Welcome to Palermo – Private Tour with a Local
Afterwards, before coming back to Palermo for lunch, we will make a quick stop at Cefalu’ if time allows us. In any case, our driver will also be at your disposal during this time.
Finally, after having returned from Monreale, you may wish to visit the ancient mosaics of Piazza Bellini, in the heart of the city.
Afternoon: Visit the Regional Archaeological Museum, which has an extensive collection of art and archaeological finds from all over Sicily.
Day 2: 48 Hours in Palermo with Kids
Morning: Start your day at The Puppet Museum, where you and your kids can learn about the history of puppetry. This museum is especially child-friendly, with interactive exhibits and plenty of hands-on activities.
Afternoon: Head to the beach! There are several great beaches in Palermo, so you’re sure to find one that suits your needs. If you want to stay closer to town, try Mondello Beach, which is only a few kilometres from the city centre. When you’ve had your fill of sun and sand, head back to town to see the Teatro Massimo, one of Europe’s most famous opera houses.
There are many other things to do in Palermo with kids, so be sure to explore and find what interests you and your family the most. Enjoy your time in this beautiful city!
3 Days in Palermo
Morning: Start your day at the Mercato Ballarò, where you can find fresh produce, meat, fish, and cheese, as well as souvenirs and clothes. Be sure to try some of the delicious street food, such as arancini (rice balls) and panelle (chickpea fritters).
Afternoon: Head to the Vucciria market for even more shopping opportunities. This busy market is also home to some great street food vendors. Once you’ve had your fill, take a walk through the historical centre of Palermo, stopping to see the Cathedral, the Royal Palace, and Piazza Bellini.
4 Days in Palermo
Morning: Head to the Norman Palace to tour its beautiful gardens and historical exhibits. Then visit the Church of San Giovanni Degli Eremiti, famous for its exquisite mosaics. After lunch, explore the city’s bustling markets, where you can buy souvenirs or try some delicious Sicilian cuisine.
Afternoon: Use the rest of the day to visit one of the historic churches and mosques that you can explore with your family. Some activities include:
- Visiting the Palatine Chapel in Palazzo dei Normanni. The chapel features beautiful mosaics and Byzantine art.
- Visiting the Church of San Giovanni Degli Eremiti, built during Norman times, showcased exquisite religious mosaics on its walls.
- Listening to choral music at St Agata’s Cathedral or admiring its Renaissance paintings.
5 Days in Palermo
Morning: Palermo is also home to many beautiful parks to go for a nature hike. Use the last day to visit them. Some recommended parks are:
- Villa Giulia features lovely gardens and a pond with turtles and fish.
- The Botanical Garden has an extensive collection of plants from all over the world.
- The Monte Pellegrino Nature Reserve offers stunning views of Palermo and its coast.
- The Regional Park of Lo Zingaro is known for its pristine beaches and crystal clear waters.
Afternoon: Don’t forget to buy some authentic Sicilian souvenirs, head to the markets and food shops around Palermo. Some recommended markets are:
- The Ballarò Market is known for its vibrant atmosphere and where you can try local street food.
- Vucciria Market, offers a large variety of products from all over the world and fresh produce from Sicily.
- Capo Market features local clothing and accessories along with arts and crafts.
- La Pescheria Fish Market, where you can taste delicious sardines straight from Sicily’s coast.
- Il Capannone Artigianale di Ballarò, a market featuring handcrafted items made by locals.
Day Trips from Palermo with Kids
There are many places within easy reach of Palermo (a car would come in handy) where everyone can spend time together while enjoying spots off the usual tourist path.
Mondello
The first suggestion for our list is Mondello, which has long been one of Sicily’s most famous beach resorts (and one of Europe’s spectacular hidden gems); around Via Veneto, countless restaurants offer excellent seafood-based dishes using fresh fish caught just moments before being served.
The road that runs along the seafront contains small bars, pastry shops, ice cream parlours and all kinds of entertainment.
How to Get to Mondello from Palermo
Mondello is just 12.2km from Palermo – a 27 minute drive.
Drive: The easiest way to get to Mondello from Palermo is to drive. If you’ve hired a car, this is the perfect trip. View hire car prices for yourdates here >>>
Bus: Bus line 544 takes 38 minutes to get from Palermo to Mondello and cost just €2.
Salemi
Not far from Mondello is Salemi, a town with a long history dating back to before the Arab conquest.
Visitors can start by climbing up to the top of the castle built by Count Roger’s son, Jordan; it offers fantastic views of the surrounding countryside and coast.
There are also two beautiful churches: Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio (St Mary Admirals), King Roger II was crowned in 1130, and San Nicolò l’Arena.
How to Get from Palermo to Salemi
Palermo is 99.2km from Salemi.
Drive: The easiest way to get to Salemi from Palermo is to drive. The drive will take you around 1 hour, 26 minutes. If you’ve hired a car, this is the perfect trip. View hire car prices for yourdates here. If you’re travelling with kids, the next best option is to book a private transfer. Get a fixed price transfer with Get Transfer here.
Train: Trains from Palermo to Salemi take 1 hour, and 46 minutes and can cost around 9 Get your train tickets here.
Bus: Buses from Palermo to Salemi take 1 hour, and 45 minutes and cost €8. You can buy your tickets here.
Monreale
The town of Monreale is 27 minutes from Palermo. It is known for its beautiful Duomo and the world-famous Cappella Palatina.
This church, with its spectacular mosaics, was built in 1174 under King William II. He reigned over Sicily during the Norman Period.
The most striking feature of this Norman cathedral is the huge Byzantine style gold mosaic ceiling that covers three naves and 500 square meters.
The designs depict stories from the Hebrew Bible involving God, Adam, Eve, Abraham, Moses, David and Goliath. They were created by craftsmen who came to Sicily from Constantinople between 1076-1091.
Begin your visit at one of two parking lots near the centre of Monreale. This will save you some time because these are the only lots you pay with a credit card. The ticket office will give you a map of Monreale and a sheet explaining all the mosaics found in each room of the cathedral.
How to Get from Palermo to Montreale
Drive: The easiest way to get to Salemi from Palermo is to drive. The drive will take you around 27 minutes. If you’ve hired a car, this is the perfect trip. View hire car prices for yourdates here. If you’re travelling with kids, the next best option is to book a private transfer. Get a fixed price transfer with Get Transfer here.
Bus: The number 364 bus takes 21 minutes from Parcheggio Basile Corsia Interna to Montreale.
Getting Around Palermo
Palermo, Sicily, is an expansive city, making having your own mode of transportation a practical option.
Whether you’re driving or using public transport to get around Palermo, there are several different options for getting from one place to another.
Here we’ll provide a brief overview of each so that you know the cost and the estimated time it takes before your trip.
Subway, Train and Bus in Palermo
Most bus lines connect with the subway system to form a streamlined way of getting around Palermo during regular hours or when other services have stopped running for the evening.
The buses generally run from 5:30 AM-11 PM Monday-Saturday, with reduced services on Sunday.
The Palermo urban railway, or ‘metropolitana’ as it’s called in Italian, connects the city centre with many suburbs and is open from 5:30 AM-11 PM Monday-Saturday (8:30 PM on Fridays) and 8:30 AM-11 PM on Sundays.
The cost of a single ticket for all forms of public transportation is €1.50, which can be purchased at tobacconists, newsstands, vending machines or directly from the bus driver.
Tickets valid for more extended periods (3 hours, 1 day, etc.) can also be purchased and offer a discounted rate.
Renting a Car in Palermo
If you plan on renting a car in Palermo, keep the following points in mind:
- A driver’s licence (valid for one year) is required along with your original passport; be sure to check the expiration date of both documents before renting.
- The minimum age for car rental is 21 years old. However, if you’re between 21-25 years old, there is often a Monadditional fee.
- Before leaving the rental agency, take time to read over all documents carefully.
- Don’t forget that it’s mandatory to have third-party insurance covering any dam Aroundage or injury that may result from driving.
Walking and Cycling in Palermo
Palermo is a great city to explore on foot or by bicycle if you’re the active type. The narrow streets, an abundance of piazzas (squares) and pedestrian-only areas make for a leisurely stroll or a cycling adventure.
There are several places to rent bicycles in Palermo, both short and long-term, so be sure to inquire at your hotel or visit one of the local tourist information centres.
No matter how you choose to get around Palermo, be sure to take time to enjoy the sights and sounds of this vibrant city. There’s much to see and even more to do, from its Norman architecture and baroque churches to its street mar inkets and seafood restaurants.
Try this bike tour of Palermo old town
Plan Your City Break to Palermo
Don’t forget to plan ahead when visiting Palermo with kids:
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Sylvie Simpson is the founder of European Cities with Kids. For the past 6 years, she has been travelling all over Europe whenever she has the chance, both solo, for work and with her daughter. Sylvie is on a mission to help people make the most of city breaks in Europe with kids and helps over 50,000 readers per month plan and make the most of their trips in Europe with kids.