Overview
Experience the clash of East and West as evidenced by Palermo's striking monuments.
Palermo's monuments reflect the magnificence of two worlds (East and West) that come together in clashing contrast.
After docking in Palermo you will head straight to beautiful Monreale for an opportunity to scope out the famous Arab-Norman architecture which is best manifested in “The Dome.” This national monument of Italy is considered to be one of the must-see attractions in Sicily and is reason enough to visit this incredible town on the slopes of Monte Caputo. If you are this close to Monreale make sure you don’t pass it up!
You will then take a short drive back to Palermo to explore the fascinating Capuchin Catacombs. When the catacombs outgrew their original cemetery in the 16th century Monks started clearing out the crypts below making it perfect for exploration. To preserve the bodies they were dehydrated on racks of ceramic pipes and at times even washed with vinegar. The Monks to be buried were left in their everyday clothing with ropes worn as a penance. 8,000 mummies line the Catacombs with halls dividing the buried into the following categories: Men, Women, Virgins, Children, Priests, Monks and Professionals.
After your time in the Catacombs you will head over to the energizing Capo Market and the bustling part of the city. Much of this area is protected by pedestrian streets so you will be joined by your guide who will walk and talk about the city, history, and the sights. The open air street market is a gathering point for locals and tourists alike and does a perfect job capturing Palermo’s Saracen Arab past. What looks like chaos is just a day in the life of a vendor as locals flock back and forth on the winding road that leads to the old city wall, Porta Carini. From the market you will make your way to the stunning Piazza Pretoria which takes you to what is known as Palermo's “four corners” where baroque palaces converge showcasing the areas growth during Spanish rule in the 1500s.
Your guide as well as your driver will have great stories to tell you about their life and the folk tales. Additionally your guide will direct you to all of the important sights within the city center before you head back to your starting point.
- Please pick the departure time starting 30 minutes after you dock.
- Entrance fees are not included in this tour. Capuchin Catacombs entrance fee is 3€ per person.
We do not personally recommend a visit to the catacombs for children under 16 years old. If you wish to enter other sites, additional entrance fees will apply.
- You will walk through the city center of Palermo so please dress comfortably and accordingly.
- Please contact ShoreTrips if you are traveling with a wheelchair.
Days offered: 7 days a week
Departures:- 08:30 AM, duration: 8 hours
- 09:30 AM, duration: 8 hours
- 10:30 AM, duration: 8 hours
