Palermo cruise port excursions

Welcome to MonTataneTour (MTT) and your page “Palermo cruise port excursions”.

I’m Sarah (or Miss Tatane 😛), a cruise lover and traveler just like you. I’m here to share my personal experiences and insider tips so you can make the most out of your stopover in Palermo.

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On this page, I recommend two of the most budget-friendly partners. You can choose to book with Civitatis 🔴 or GetYourGuide 🔵, depending on your preference. I’ve compared the prices for you and handpicked the most affordable options for every activity.

Enjoy your read, have a wonderful cruise… and above all: have fun! ONE LIFE!!!

How to get from the port to the city center?

The Palermo cruise port is located at the Vittorio Veneto Terminal, right in the city center. This is a huge advantage because you can easily walk to the main landmarks. Here are the best ways to leave the port and start your visit:

Transport options from the terminal

On foot	Free – About 30 minutes to reach the historic center (around 1.2 miles) – Perfect to explore at your own pace
Free port shuttle	I often get asked about this, but no, there is no free shuttle — and honestly, you don’t need one! 😉
AMAT city bus	Approx. $1.50 – Lines 101, 102, 107 – Covers most of Palermo
Taxi	Approx. $16–$22 – About 10 minutes – A comfortable choice if traveling in a group or with luggage
Tourist bus	Approx. $21 – Hop-on Hop-off – Great for a complete overview of the city in a short time, boarding right at the Palermo cruise port exit

Things to do during your Palermo cruise port excursions

You’ve just arrived in Palermo and want to see as much as possible in this vibrant city? Palermo is full of treasures: impressive cathedrals, historic palaces, and lively markets. It’s the perfect stop for cruisers looking to combine history, culture, and local atmosphere.

Start with the Palermo Cathedral, a stunning architectural masterpiece blending Norman, Arab, and Baroque styles. Nearby, the Palazzo dei Normanni and its Palatine Chapel will transport you back to medieval Sicily with dazzling mosaics.

To experience the city’s soul, wander through traditional markets like Ballarò or Vucciria. Here you’ll find local products, Sicilian specialties, and a lively atmosphere — perfect for a quick foodie stop.

Don’t miss Quattro Canti, the famous Baroque square, and Piazza Pretoria with its monumental fountain. Art lovers will enjoy the Galleria Regionale della Sicilia, featuring collections from the Middle Ages to modern times.

Let’s go discover Palermo together. Follow me! 😍

Cathedral

Palermo cruise port excursions

Built in 1185, the Palermo Cathedral, also known as Cattedrale della Santa Vergine Maria Assunta, is an exceptional monument that harmoniously blends Norman, Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical styles. This architectural masterpiece reflects the rich history of Sicily, shaped by various rulers over the centuries.

When visiting the cathedral, you’ll be amazed by the diversity of influences. The exterior, with its arches and Islamic-inspired decorations, recalls the Arab period, while the imposing towers and overall structure reflect Norman architecture. Inside, later additions bring a mix of Baroque and Neoclassical touches that make this place truly unique.

Don’t miss:

Admire the cathedral’s treasure: Explore collections of jewelry, liturgical objects, and royal garments.
Visit the royal tombs: Resting place of Norman kings and emperors of Sicily, including the illustrious Frederick II.
Climb to the rooftop: The panoramic view over Palermo from the roof is breathtaking. It’s the perfect spot to admire the city rooftops, the port, and the bay.

ℹ️ Practical information

Address – Corso Vittorio Emanuele, 90134 Palermo PA, Italy.
Access – Palermo Cathedral is located in the historic city center, uphill from the cruise port. It takes about a 40-minute walk (roughly 2.5 miles).
Hours – Open Monday to Saturday from 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM & Sunday from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Tickets – Entrance to the cathedral is free.
Visit duration – 45 to 60 minutes.
Dress code – Shoulders must be covered. My daughter was not allowed inside in a tank top during summer. We rented a disposable shawl for her shoulders — about $1.

Villa Bonanno

Palermo cruise port excursions

Villa Bonanno is a charming public garden located in the heart of Palermo, between the Norman Palace and Piazza della Vittoria, just a 4-minute walk from the Cathedral. Created in the early 20th century, the garden was named after its architect, Palermo’s then-mayor Giuseppe Bonanno. It’s a green oasis of peace and relaxation perfect for a break from the city buzz.

As you stroll through the villa, you’ll discover many majestic palm trees symbols of the city along with colorful flower beds and fountains. The garden is also decorated with busts of important Sicilian figures, adding historical and cultural depth to the setting.

ℹ️ Practical information

Visit duration – 15 to 20 minutes, ideal for a short break.
Address – Piazza della Vittoria, 90134 Palermo PA, Italy.
Access – Villa Bonanno is conveniently located just steps away from the Norman Palace and the Cathedral.
Hours – Open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Tickets – Free entry.

Vucciria neighborhood

Palermo cruise port excursions

La Vucciria is one of the oldest and most fascinating districts of Palermo. Historically famous for its lively and noisy market (the Sicilian word “vucciria” means “butchery” or “noise”), this neighborhood was once the vibrant heart of the city’s commercial life. Today, even if the market has lost its old bustling atmosphere, the district has preserved a truly unique soul.

In the evening, La Vucciria transforms into one of the liveliest nightlife areas. Its narrow alleys and small squares come alive with bars and restaurants. It’s the perfect spot to taste authentic Sicilian street food and soak up Palermo’s festive and local atmosphere.

ℹ️ Practical information

Address – Piazza Caracciolo, 90133 Palermo PA, Italy.
Access – The Vucciria district is located close to the port and Quattro Canti. It is easily accessible on foot from the historic center.
Activities – Stroll around, admire the street art, discover historical buildings, and above all, enjoy the lively evening atmosphere.
Note – The district can get very crowded, especially on weekends. Stay alert and enjoy the lively vibe.

Tourist bus

Palermo cruise port excursions

If you want to discover Palermo in a flexible and stress-free way, the Hop-on Hop-off sightseeing bus is an excellent option. The main company, City Sightseeing, offers several routes covering the city’s major attractions.

You can purchase a 24-hour ticket and get on and off the bus as many times as you like. An audio guide is available in several languages, including English.

Ticket – Tourist Bus

⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 2,163 reviews

The Palermo tourist bus is the best way to explore the Sicilian capital. With its double-decker design and open roof, you’ll enjoy the very best views during your journey.

Price per person → $23.5

✅ Check availability – Book now

Mini tourist train

Palermo cruise port excursions

For a pleasant and guided tour of Palermo’s historic center, the mini tourist train is an excellent alternative to the bus. It allows you to admire the city’s main attractions in a relaxed way without the fatigue of walking.

The ticket is valid for 24 hours and allows you to get on and off at the different stops along the route. The service is equipped with a 6-language audio guide, including English.

Main route and stops:

The panoramic tour lasts 1 hour and takes you through the city center and its iconic landmarks. The mini train offers three stops to explore Palermo’s must-see attractions:

Palermo Port
Norman Palace: to admire the famous mosaics of the Palatine Chapel.
Teatro Massimo: the largest theater in Italy.

Ticket – Mini tourist train

⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 139 reviews

Discover Palermo’s Arab-Norman beauty with a guided tour aboard the mini tourist train. You’ll have the chance to admire the city’s most beautiful churches, theaters, and monuments.

Price per person → $12

✅ Check availability – Book now

Teatro Massimo Vittorio

Palermo cruise port excursions

Located on Piazza Verdi, the Teatro Massimo Vittorio Emanuele is the largest opera house in Italy and the third largest in Europe. Inaugurated in 1897 after more than 20 years of construction, it symbolizes the architectural ambition of its era and is a jewel of lyrical art. Its Neoclassical architecture and exceptional acoustics make it a must-visit for music and architecture enthusiasts.

The theater is also famous for being the filming location of the final scene in “The Godfather Part III”.

ℹ️ Practical information

Address – Piazza Verdi, 90138 Palermo PA, Italy.
Hours – Open daily for visits from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (last tour at 6:30 PM). Opera, ballet, and classical music performances are also available.
Distance – About 0.6 miles (10-minute walk) from the Cathedral.

Quattro Canti

Palermo cruise port excursions

The Quattro Canti (meaning “Four Corners”), officially called Piazza Vigliena, is a monumental Baroque square in the heart of Palermo’s historic center. It sits at the intersection of the city’s two main streets, Via Maqueda and Corso Vittorio Emanuele (formerly Cassaro).

Nicknamed the “Theater of the Sun” (Il Teatro del Sole), the square is famous for its octagonal shape and the four concave facades of the surrounding buildings. Each facade features three levels of statues:

The lower level is decorated with fountains representing the four rivers of old Palermo (Oreto, Kemonia, Pannaria, Papireto).
The middle level houses statues of the Spanish kings (Charles V, Philip II, Philip III, and Philip IV).
The upper level features statues of Palermo’s four patron saintesses (Saint Agatha, Saint Nympha, Saint Olivia, and Saint Christina), who protect the four historic districts that meet at this point.

Quattro Canti is a popular meeting point and landmark for locals and tourists, and an ideal starting point to explore other wonders of Palermo.

Palermo Free Tour

Cruise friends, if you want to explore the city without getting lost, this free guided tour is perfect for you!

Your guide is extraordinary and passionate. They will show you Palermo’s must-see sights and share fascinating anecdotes along the way.

Here’s a glimpse of the sites you’ll discover:

The Cathedral. A blend of architectural styles and history, with breathtaking views of the city from the rooftop.
The Norman Palace. Admire the dazzling Byzantine mosaics of the Palatine Chapel.
Piazza Pretoria. Discover the “Fountain of Shame” with its impressive statues.
Quattro Canti. A magnificent Baroque crossroads in the heart of the city.
Teatro Massimo. One of Europe’s largest opera houses.
Local markets. Experience the lively atmosphere of Ballarò, Capo, and Vucciria.

Ready to let yourself be guided?

Ticket – Palermo Free Guided Tour

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 12,898 reviews

Romans, Arabs, Normans… On this free tour of Palermo, you’ll discover the cultural blend of the beautiful Sicilian capital. You’ll be captivated from the first step!

Price per person → $0

✅ Check availability – Book now

The Norman palace

Palermo cruise port excursions

Also called palazzo dei normanni, is an iconic monument in palermo, located on piazza indipendenza. it is one of the oldest royal residences in europe and now houses the sicilian regional assembly.

The history of the palace is as rich as it is complex. originally built by the arabs in the 9th century, it was transformed and expanded by the normans in the 12th century. the architecture reflects this mix of cultures, with punic, roman, arabic, norman, and even baroque elements. the highlight of the visit is undoubtedly the palatine chapel, commissioned by king roger ii, a masterpiece of arab-norman art. its interior is covered in stunning golden mosaics and features an islamic-style carved wooden ceiling.

the royal apartments are also open to the public, decorated with frescoes and mosaics, such as the sala di ruggero.

ℹ️ practical information

address – piazza indipendenza, 1, 90129 palermo, sicily, italy
access – the palace is located on piazza indipendenza, easily reachable on foot from the city center.
hours – generally open monday to saturday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, and sunday from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm.
note – access to the royal apartments may be restricted on tuesdays, wednesdays, and thursdays due to parliamentary sessions.

Ticket – Palatine chapel and royal palace

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 182 reviews

Discover palermo’s royal palace and its palatine chapel (unesco), a unique gem entirely covered in golden mosaics. guided tour available in italian. entrance tickets not included.

price per person → $14

✅ check availability – book now

Health park

A perfect break during your cruise stop in Palermo

Parco della salute, or “health park,” is a relatively new green space, little known to tourists, located by the sea near the port of palermo. built on a former industrial area, it offers a striking contrast to the busy city center and provides direct access to the coastline.

it is a perfect spot for relaxation and outdoor activities for locals. you’ll find walking and biking paths, green areas to unwind, and stunning views of the tyrrhenian sea and palermo port. the park also hosts wellness and sports events.

this is an ideal place for a peaceful break during a cruise day, to enjoy the sea breeze and soak up the sicilian sun away from the hustle and bustle of the historic center.

ℹ️ practical information

address – via filippo patti, 90133 palermo pa, italy
access – on foot: from the cruise port exit, turn left and continue straight for about 0.87 miles. it’s a pleasant 20-minute walk along the seafront.
by bus: if you prefer not to walk, take the local bus 107, also from the left at the cruise terminal. it is a direct route and will drop you a few steps from the park.

Mondello beach

A paradise beach just 15 minutes from palermo port

If you are looking for a dream beach, mondello is a must-visit. the scenery is caribbean-like with turquoise water and white sand, just a few miles from palermo port.

however, it is important to know that most of the beach is privatized by beach clubs. renting sunbeds and umbrellas is paid. there is a public area, but it is very small and often crowded in summer. despite these practical aspects, the beauty of the beach and the clarity of the water make it truly worth a visit.

Upon arrival at palermo port, exit the palermo cruise terminal (molo vittorio veneto) and immediately take bus 107 on the right. this bus will take you in about 20 minutes (with several stops) to piazza francesco crispi, a central stop to reach mondello.

from piazza crispi, take bus 806 towards mondello. this bus stops at 16 locations in different neighborhoods of palermo before arriving at the stunning mondello beach. the ride takes about 21 minutes.

the round-trip ticket costs about $3, making it an economical and easy solution to enjoy this must-see beach during your palermo cruise stop.

ℹ️ practical information

bus access – the ride is easy. from the cruise port, take bus 107 to piazza francesco crispi. from there, board bus 806 which will take you directly to mondello. the journey takes about 45 minutes, and the round-trip ticket costs about $3.
taxi or uber – for faster travel, a taxi or uber is a good option. the trip takes about 15 minutes. expect to pay around $70 for a round trip by uber.
on-site costs – if you choose to rent equipment, expect to pay around $16 per person for a sunbed. the umbrella is extra.

The Capuchin catacombs

Palermo cruise port excursions

the capuchin catacombs are one of the most fascinating and unusual attractions in palermo. this historic site houses an underground necropolis where the mummified bodies of nearly 8,000 people are preserved, including monks, nobles, professionals, and members of palermo’s bourgeoisie.

the mummification tradition began at the end of the 16th century with the body of the monk silvestro de gubbio and continued until 1880. the bodies are categorized by social class (monks, women, children, priests, teachers…) and are dressed in their finest clothes, offering a macabre yet unique insight into the customs and traditions of the time.

although the visit may be intense for some, it offers a unique immersion into sicilian history and society’s relationship with death.

Tips

opening hours: the catacombs are open daily from 9 am to 1 pm and from 3 pm to 6 pm.
photos: photography is strictly forbidden inside the catacombs out of respect for the deceased and to preserve the mummies. follow the posted rules and respect other visitors. everything is filmed, so use your imagination to take pictures!
dress code: modest clothing is recommended.

ℹ️ practical information

address: piazza cappuccini, 1, 90129 palermo, sicily, italy
hours: open daily from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm and from 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm. closed sunday afternoon.
note: photos are strictly forbidden inside the catacombs.

Ticket – visit to the capuchin catacombs of palermo

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 15 reviews

during this visit to the capuchin catacombs of palermo, discover the remains of hundreds of mummies and the hidden secrets of the sicilian capital’s underground. a journey full of history and mysteries!

price per person → $70

✅ check availability – book now

Céfalu excursion

Palermo cruise port excursions

for cruise passengers arriving in palermo, this excursion is the perfect opportunity to explore the charming town of cefalù with schedules perfectly adapted to your stopover. departure is at 9:30 am and return at 3:30 pm, giving you plenty of time to explore palermo before reboarding your ship.

What’s included in this 6-hour excursion:

free time: enjoy some time for lunch at a local restaurant and soak up the atmosphere of the town.
explore the heart of cefalù: start by wandering the historic center, its picturesque streets, and monuments.
visit the cathedral of cefalù: admire the majestic norman façade of this unesco world heritage cathedral and step inside to see the beautiful byzantine mosaics, including the famous christ pantocrator.
mandralisca museum: dive into local history through archaeological discoveries and precious artworks.
medieval washhouse and other sites: travel back in time discovering the medieval washhouse, santa maria dell’odigitria church, and porta pescara.

Ticket – excursion to cefalù

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 15 reviews

with this excursion to cefalù from palermo, a gem of sicily’s northern coast, discover its history, natural beauty, and mediterranean charm!

price per person → $106

✅ check availability – book now

Safety

As cruise passengers, you often hear warnings about safety. while staying alert is important in any major tourist city, it’s equally important not to give in to fear.

based on our own experience after numerous visits, we have never encountered any incidents. palermo is no more dangerous than any other european city, and by following a few simple rules, you can enjoy your stopover safely:

stay aware of your surroundings and personal belongings, especially in crowded areas.
never leave valuables unattended and avoid displaying expensive items ostentatiously.
adopt a calm and respectful attitude, just as you would anywhere else.

by following these simple tips, you can fully enjoy the richness of palermo safely.

Activities

Make the most of your palermo stopover by discovering the city’s best activities. from cultural tours to historic walks and culinary experiences, there’s something for everyone. whether you choose to stay in the historic center or explore the surroundings, your stopover will be rich and memorable.

popular activities for cruise passengers with getyourguide:

palermo cathedral – discover this norman, gothic, and baroque masterpiece, its treasures, and enjoy panoramic views from the rooftop.
vucciria district – immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the typical markets, with colorful stalls and local gastronomy.
villa bonanno – stroll through this historic garden and enjoy a moment of calm in the heart of the city.
palermo hop-on hop-off bus – explore the main sites at your own pace, getting on and off as you wish.
street art and murals – discover modern artworks decorating palermo’s façades for a unique artistic experience.
excursions to monreale – visit the famous cathedral and cloisters outside palermo, reachable by shuttle or taxi.
culinary experiences – taste sicilian specialties and enjoy guided foodie tours to discover authentic local cuisine.

Prefer booking with civitatis? us too!

discover all the excursions and guided tours they offer for your palermo stopover.

✅ check availability – booking – civitatis

Faq – what to choose from palermo?

stay in palermo or go on an excursion: what to decide?

if it’s your first time in sicily and you want a complete overview, stay in palermo. you’ll find a concentration of monuments, markets, art, and gastronomy. if you already know the city, or have a very specific interest, choose an excursion.

for a first time in sicily, what to choose?

palermo – perfect for a first contact with sicily. the city offers a full immersion in history, culture, and island life.
monreale – ideal if you love byzantine art. its cathedral is an absolute masterpiece, but the visit is shorter.
cefalu – for those who prefer charming small towns, cefalù is beautiful with its beach, cathedral, and narrow streets. travel time is longer, though.

traveling with kids, which option?

mondello – no doubt if your kids love the beach. the shallow water and fine sand make it a little paradise, easy and quick to reach from the port.
palermo – interesting for slightly older kids who enjoy stories. colorful markets or the unique atmosphere of the catacombs can fascinate them.

how much time to spend on site?

palermo – plan a full day to see the main sights at a relaxed pace.
monreale – 2 to 3 hours are enough for the cathedral and surroundings.
mondello – 4 hours to enjoy the beach and relax.
cefalu – allow half a day or more due to travel time.

want to avoid the tourist crowd?

it’s hard to avoid crowds at the most famous sites, whether in palermo, monreale, or cefalù. however, palermo being a large city, you can easily step away from busy routes by exploring markets or small streets.

want to swim?

head to mondello beach. it’s the only easily accessible place for a swim.

my personal advice

for a first visit – stay in palermo. it’s a concentrated sample of everything sicily has to offer.
for relaxation – mondello is the ideal option to rest.
for art lovers – monreale is a must-see.
for charm and photography – cefalù will captivate you.