Athenaeum Palermo, Palermo

Advantages: Cultural diversity, historical interest, weather, food
Disadvantages: Can be difficult to navigate!

...It has been said that Sicily is Italy in concentrated form but that detracts from the many unique natures of the island which has enough of her own charms to win out over any of her mediterranean competitors. Palermo as the capital of Sicily has come down a peg or two over the course of history, being, at one time the capital of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies before the Bourbons transferred themselves to Naples. But the vestiges of a regal past are very much evident in the old Sicilian capital. The most notable site being the Norman Palace at the gate of the Porta Nuova. It is possible to enter the palace to see the Royal Chapel but the opening hours are a little erratic (especially at the weekend) so it is always best to check when to go in advance. Whilst at Piazza Indipendenza (outside the palace), you should get the bus up... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: lots of cultural information mixed with lots of fun.
Disadvantages: it can be really hot.(no really a problem is it?)

...sicily is one of the most wonderful places i´ve ever been to , i went there last summer i ´ve got to say that it was utterly amazing, the island is basicaly full of ancient monuments and museums together with the magic of being in the heart of the mediterream sea. I advice to visit palermo because it is the capital of the city and all the beauty of the island is reflected in it. i would speacially recomend it to ancient stuff lovers and people who enjoys having a sun holidays summer mixed with some culturals day trip through the schedule. i would point out the principal caracteristics of the island: -you can see the sea from mostly any point in the city. -it has some of the most amazing museums about greek, phenician and roman stuff through italy. -it has the example of the mediterrean food. (in fact it is the best thing... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Good food
Disadvantages: Can be dangerous

...I visited Palermo twice, the first time for few hours and the second time for 2 days, guest of a colleague of mine. The memories I have from my first visit (we arrived by boat and where meant to go somewhere else in Sicily) is of a messy town, with a relatively ugly outskirt. The memories of my second visit are much more livelier. I visited the famous market of Vucciria and lived with locals for 2 days. I had superb food! Plenty of fish and delicious cakes with a local cheese, ricotta. Although every female in my friends house seemed to be a 5 star chef, you may still be able to find this food in the best restaurants in town. The cake, “Cassata Siciliana”, can be found in any local patisserie. Make sure the cheese is fresh.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful