The largest city in Sicily rises up from the Conca d'Oro bay (Golden Shell Bay), surrounded by glorious orange and citrus groves. It was founded in the 8th century B.C. by the Phoenicians and has been variously ruled by the Romans, the Byzantines, the Arabs, the Normans, the Spanish and the Bourbons, all of whom have left their mark on the city. Parlermo's historic centre is one of the largest in Europe; it has 158 churches, 55 monasteries, more than 400 stately homes and 7 theatres. Tours of the city can be organised depending on the various eras one is most interested in, but the cathedral dating from 1185 and the famous Cappella Palatina are not to be missed. Over the last few years the city has been undergoing a transition and wants a new image, to encourage culturally-interested tourists to visit. The Teatro Massimo, the former monastery of Spasimo, the Albergo delle Povere, Villa Niscemi, the Palazzo Merlo, the Chiesa di San Domenico and many other sights have now re-opened their doors for visitors following extensive restoration work.

Tips for excursions

Historic Palermo and Monreale (cathedral)

Tour of the historic centre of Palermo and visit to the cathedral. Then on to the cathedral of Monreale with its mixture of classical, Arabic, Nordic, and Byzantine styles, and fabulous mosaics. Free time to buy souvenirs.

Mythic Palermo

Trip through the town past the Politeama and Massimo theatres, Quattro Canti, Palazzo Reale and Piazza Pretoria. Visit to the Catacombe die Cappuccini catacombs with more than 80,000 modified bodies. Onwards to Palermo. Visit to the Chesa dello Spasimo church (1509) in the district of Kalsa, the Arabic part of the town. In 1582 it was turned into a theatre and, at the time of the plague, a field hospital.

Cefalú Beach

A trip to the famous bathing spot of Cefalú with its mighty Norman Cathedral. Onwards to Osteria Magno and the medieval washing place. There will then be free time to go swimming in the sea. On the return journey there will be a short panoramic trip through Palermo. Lunch is not included.