Things to do in Palermo
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Top 10 attractions in Palermo
Quattro Canti
Quattro Canti is a distinctive intersection formed by the crossing of two main streets in the heart of the old town of Palermo. It is famous for the exquisite Baroque architecture at its four corners, and locals also call it the Theater of the Sun. The square has an octagonal plan, with concave curved walls adorned with layered columns, embracing the intersection like an exquisite stage set, showcasing a unique architectural aesthetic. The building facades on the four sides of the intersection are decorated in multiple layers from bottom to top: the ground level is adorned with fountains and statues symbolizing the four seasons, the middle level features sculptures of past rulers in niches, and the top level is carved with the city's patron saints, with intricate reliefs and layered colonnades weaving together a rich visual depth. This intersection, full of local atmosphere, is surrounded by numerous historical and cultural sights. Strolling through the old town, you can encounter this magnificent architectural complex at a turn; its unique octagonal spatial layout and ornate carved details form the iconic cityscape of the old town of Palermo.Palermo · 17m from downtown
Royal Palace Palermo
Royal Palace Palermo was built in the 11th century as a modest palace by the Normans on the ruins of ancient Carthage and Rome, and later served as an official residence for successive Sicilian rulers. The Royal Palace and Palatine Chapel on the second floor of the palace was built in 1130 and is in the Byzantine style. The gold-leaf inlaid stained glass inside the church is magnificent, depicting various biblical stories, features that are rare in Italy. The wooden niches on the ceiling are masterpieces of honeycomb carving.Palermo · 862m from downtown
The Praetorian Fountain
The Pretoria Fountain is surrounded by 4 bridges and staircases, surrounded by sculptures of the Olympian gods. The fountain, also known as the "Fountain of Shame" because the ambiguous nude statues around the fountain made it difficult for conservative Sicilian parishioners to accept, but now the fountain has become one of the town's famous attractions.Palermo · 74m from downtown
Piazza Pretoria
Piazza Pretoria is a historic and artistic attraction located in the center of Palermo, Sicily, Italy. The square is famous for its central Pretoria Fountain, designed by sculptor Francesco Camigliani in the 16th century and featuring several exquisite marble statues of mythological figures and animals in lifelike detail. The square is surrounded by several important buildings, such as Palermo Town Hall and the Church of San Cataldo, and visitors can enjoy a strong sense of history. Piazza Pretoria is known as the "Piazza of Shame" because of the naked figures of the fountain statues, which also adds to its unique appeal. The square is conveniently located within walking distance of attractions such as Palermo Cathedral and Piazza Quattro Canto. Visitors can take a break in the cafes around the square and enjoy the mellow aroma of Italian coffee while admiring the beauty of the surrounding buildings.Palermo · 59m from downtown
Foro Italico
Foro Italico is a well-known attraction on the waterfront in Palermo, Sicily, Italy. It features expansive lawns, a variety of Mediterranean flora, benches, trees, ceramic sculptures, bicycle paths, night lighting, and wide scenic walkways along the coast.Palermo · 1.2 km from downtown
Orto Botanico di Palermo
Palermo · 1 km from downtown
Zisa Palace
The Palazzo dei Normanni is located in Palermo, the capital of Sicily, Italy. It is one of the representative monuments of the local 'Arab-Norman architecture' and, as part of 'Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalù and Monreale,' is listed as a World Cultural Heritage site. The palace was originally built during the 12th century under Norman King William I and was later completed by William II. The name 'Zisa' comes from the Arabic al-ʿAzīz, meaning 'magnificent.' The palace was originally a suburban summer retreat for the Norman royal family. Its design was heavily influenced by Islamic architecture, using thick walls, ventilation openings, pools, and fountains to create a natural cooling system.Palermo · 1.8 km from downtown
Regional Archeological Museum Antonio Salinas
Palermo · 573m from downtown
Spiaggia Vergine Maria
Palermo · 5.7 km from downtown
Porta Nuova
Palermo · 848m from downtown
Experiences you can't miss in Palermo
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Free things to do in Palermo
Quattro Canti
Palermo · 17m from downtown
Palermo Cathedral
Palermo · 480m from downtown
Cattedrale di Monreale
Monreale · 7.1 km from PalermoBook now for tomorrowThe Praetorian Fountain
Palermo · 74m from downtown
Villa Giulia
Palermo · 1.2 km from downtown
Church of Saint John of the Hermits
Palermo · 883m from downtown
Amalfi Coast
Italy · Amalfi
Capri
Italy · Anacapri
Sorrento
Italy · Sorrento
Stair of the Turks
Realmonte · 92.3 km from Palermo
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What travelers say about Palermo
系统错误提示23 April 2020
4.0
Quadrilateral Square is located at the intersection of via Emanuele and via Maqueda. It is also the central area of Palermo. The building surface is still very gorgeous, with a bit of Baroque decorative design. It is also one of the main attractions.
Quattro Canti
elsashen052930 January 2020
5.0
The Norman Palace is really a bit unremarkable from the outside, and we almost missed it. The most interesting thing here is the Palatine Chapel, which is really a chapel built with gold, with golden mosaics everywhere! This palace incorporates the Byzantine style! It’s a pity that the rooms are not open in winter
Royal Palace Palermo
大姐小露開心果20 July 2021
5.0
The Pretoria Fountain, built in 1554, is a classic landmark in Palermo. The fountain square is magnificent. Surrounding the main statue, there are about 30 nude statues, most of which are Olympian gods. They are lifelike and extremely vivid. The exquisiteness of the sculptures is amazing. The designer at that time was from Tuscany in central Italy. His artistic style was avant-garde. However, these nude statues were difficult for conservative believers who came to the nearby church to worship to accept. They thought it was immoral and gave the fountain a nickname: the Fountain of Shame. It was built in 1554. The Fountain of Pretoria is a classic landmark in Palermo. The fountain square is magnificent. Surrounding the main statue, there are about thirty nude statues, most of which are Olympian gods. They are lifelike and extremely vivid. The exquisiteness of the sculptures is amazing. The designer at that time was from Tuscany in central Italy. His artistic style was avant-garde. However, these nude statues were difficult for conservative believers who came to the nearby church to worship to accept. They thought it was immoral and gave the fountain a nickname, the Fountain of Shame. To this day, this nickname is more famous than the real name. It's really interesting~
The Praetorian Fountain
沈福成12 April 2020
4.0
Piazza Pretoria, where the Pretoria Fountain is located, was bought by the Sicilian government from Tuscany. The art of the north is more explicit, bold and realistic, but Sicily is still quite conservative.
Piazza Pretoria
小思文23 January 2022
4.0
The Archaeological Museum is also a good choice. Archaeology has a long history. Palermo is an ancient city with many centuries-old architectural traces. Some archaeological discoveries are also very peculiar, and you can get a simple understanding of ancient things.
Regional Archeological Museum Antonio Salinas
Popular cities near Palermo
Frequently asked questions
What are the must-do things in Palermo?
Don't miss these attractions in Palermo: Quattro Canti, Royal Palace Palermo, and The Praetorian Fountain. If you like Cultural experiences, try Electric scooter tour in the Valley of the Temples Agrigento. If you enjoy Day tours, try Palermo: Shared Tour with Snacks and Snorkeling.
What are the must-try foods and restaurants in Palermo?
You can give Palermo: Shared Tour with Snacks and Snorkeling and Morning street-food tour of Palermo a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.
What are the recommended tours and excursions in Palermo?
When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include Palermo: Shared Tour with Snacks and Snorkeling, 2.5 Hours Sunset Boat Tour in Search of Dolphins, and Tour of the island of Ortigia and exploration of sea caves with baths.. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.
What's the typical cost of day tours and activities in Palermo?
As of 12 October 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Palermo is around EUR 20.4 – EUR 85.61. Rates vary by duration, group size, transportation, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.
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