Palermo cathedral
One of the first things to do in Palermo, to start your itinerary through this beautiful Sicilian city, is to visit the cathedral, characterized by an interesting and suggestive architectural style typical of the Orient.

The Cathedral of Palermo was built starting from the year 1185 on the site where a Byzantine basilica previously stood. It should also be known that the cathedral has been modified several times over the centuries, due to the many artistic and cultural influences, such as the Aragonese one. In 2015, this cathedral, along with eight other cultural assets, was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

La Cappella Palatina
Another attraction that is definitely worth visiting is the Palatine Chapel of Palermo, or the royal chapel of the kings of Sicily, which is located in the beautiful royal palace, called Palazzo dei Normanni.

It should be known that this is the most dazzling chapel in the palace and that it was founded in the 12th century to replace the previous chapel, which today is the crypt of the Palazzo dei Normanni. The chapel is decorated with various mosaics and numerous works of art: for this reason it is part of the group of monuments declared a World Heritage Site in 2015.

Palazzo dei Normanni
Naturally, in addition to visiting the aforementioned Palatine Chapel, it is a must to visit the rest of the beautiful Palazzo dei Normanni, which was the palace of the kings of Sicily and the seat of Parliament. In fact, it should be known that it is the oldest royal residence in all of Europe, since its construction began in the 12th century by the Norman kings.

Consequently, the Palazzo dei Normanni is undoubtedly a fundamental monument, which for many centuries constituted the pivot around which the public life of the city of Palermo revolved.

Il Museo Archeologico Antonio Salinas
Another activity that you absolutely must do in Palermo with your family, your partner or your group of friends is to visit the Antonio Salinas Archaeological Museum, which is the most important and oldest in all of Sicily, since it was opened in year 1814 .

The museum is characterized by one of the most conspicuous collections of archaeological finds and remains linked to the long history of Sicily. Therefore, the museum exhibits archaeological remains of various ancient civilizations, such as Greeks, Romans, Phoenicians, Byzantines and many more.

La Chiesa di Sant’Agostino

Afterwards, if you are still wondering what there is to do in Palermo to enjoy the best of the city, you should also stop by the Church of Sant'Agostino. It is a Romanesque church located in the marvelous and suggestive historical center of the city and was built in the second half of the XIII century.

The particularity of this church is that, over the centuries, it has been modified numerous times, due to the multiple cultural, artistic and architectural influences. Therefore, if you are an art and history lover, you will certainly appreciate the end result of this magnificent mix of cultures and artistic traditions.

La Chiesa di Santa Caterina
However, the beautiful Church of Santa Caterina de Palermo should not be forgotten either, also located in the historic center of the city, in particular in Piazza Bellini. It is a church that was built from the year 1566 and is characterized by a beautiful Baroque style.

However, it is also possible to notice some artistic and architectural elements typical of the Renaissance style. Finally, it should be noted that the church is part of a complex with the Monastery of Santa Caterina. Therefore, it is best to visit both monuments.

I Quattro Canti
Another fundamental stop on your itinerary through the city of Palermo can only be the Piazza dei Quattro Canti. It is a very characteristic octagonal square located near the Palazzo dei Normanni.

The Piazza dei Quattro Canti is located at the crossroads between the two main streets of the city, one of which is the oldest in Palermo. Consequently, it can be a good idea to walk through the Quattro Canti during a nice walk through the most important streets of the city with family, partner or friends.

Il Foro Italiaco
The Foro Italico is another of the most recommended stops in Palermo and is also known as the Bourbon Forum or Walk of the Navy. It is one of the most remarkable walks in the city, created in 2000.

It is a large green area that is completely pedestrian, where there are always people talking, strolling and enjoying each other's company, both day and night. The entire area of ​​the Foro Italico, in fact, has several benches, where you can rest while enjoying the view, and with the possibility of practicing outdoor sports.

Mercati palermitani
Finally, if you want to enjoy the typical and peculiar atmosphere of Sicily, you cannot miss a visit to one of the most famous and ancient markets in Palermo in the company of your family, your partner or a group of friends.

It is therefore necessary to know that the most recommended are three: Ballarò, Il Capo and Vucciria. All three are very typical and definitely worth a visit, as in each of these markets you will find food of all kinds and you will be able to understand what traditional life was like in this southern Italian city, characterized by many fascinating and particular traditions. .

What to see around Palermo

Finally, it is necessary to know that Sicily is characterized by innumerable fascinating and interesting attractions, as it has a thousand-year history and an incomparable cultural and artistic heritage.

So don't forget to consider some of the island's most famous attractions to visit after Palermo, such as the cities of Catania, Messina and Cefalù, and the magnificent Aeolian and Egadi archipelagos. In addition to this, however, there are other places of great interest that are worth visiting in company. So, don't miss the best things to see in Sicily to put together your travel itinerary.