Discover Palermo UNESCO Sites - Half-Day Walking Tour

Palermo is a fascinating city, boasting many cultural and historical treasures, even 8 UNESCO sites. By choosing this small group tour, you will have the opportunity to admire the best attractions, with a tasty local break!

A tour of the UNESCO sites in the centre of Palermo is a fascinating journey through the city's rich history and cultural heritage. The tour starts in the historic center of Palermo, where your local guide lead your group through the winding streets and alleyways to discover some of the city's most iconic landmarks.

A walking tour of Palermo UNESCO sites

As you explore these iconic landmarks, the local guide shares fascinating stories and insights into the city's history and culture. The tour offers an opportunity to learn about the influences that have shaped Sicilian architecture, art, and religion over the centuries, crossing the Baroque and Normann-Arab style architecture, admiring UNESCO attractions such as the Square of Shame, called by the locals Piazza Pretoria (Praetorian Square). The huge fountain you can admire in this square is amazing, and it is also the reason for the square's name, due to the nudity of its statues. The Praetorian Palace is located in this plaza, too, and it hosts the Town Hall, which is usually open to the public so that you may spot the mayor of Palermo. This impressive building was built in the 14th century, and it was renovated in the 19th century.

Discover the main attractions of the city centre

Your cultural and historical experience will be enriched by admiring the exterior of the Royal Palace, which now hosts the Regional Parliament of Sicily. After the Normans conquered Sicily in 1072, the palace was the main residence of the kings and it is nowadays the most ancient Royal Palace in Europe. Though you will not enter inside the guide will explain the building's unique blend of architectural styles, including Norman, Arabic, and Baroque. Strolling across the city centre, the expert guide that will be with you will share fascinating stories and insights into the landmarks that have shaped Palermo's identity, helping you to understand the city's unique character and importance.

A tasty break with Sicilian cannolo

When visiting Palermo, we cannot ignore its religious significance, so it will be part of our small group itinerary. You will have the opportunity to admire from the outside iconic spiritual cornerstones such as the Martorana Church, famous around the world for its beauty and majestic appearance. An Arabic traveller who visited the Martorana in 1184 called this Christian church "the most beautiful monument in the world", which perfectly resumes all we could have said about this site, that showcases the cultural and religious diversity of Sicily. One more unmissable stop will be the Cathedral of Palermo, a brilliant and unique example of stratification of styles, a grand cathedral that combines Norman, Gothic, and Baroque architectural styles, that houses the tombs of several prominent figures in Sicilian history. If you are wondering if this culture and walking will make you hungry, don’t worry…we will have another substantial stop included for our small group: a tasty Sicilian cannolo or a granita, you can choose.

This tour of the UNESCO sites in the centre of Palermo is a memorable and enriching experience that offers a deeper understanding of the city's unique cultural heritage.