By leah jones
Palermo is the capital of the Italian region/island of Sicily. You can spend days exploring this city and Sicilian culture without getting bored.
Palermo is also a great base for exploring nearby destinations that have their own cultural and historical appeal. Here are some excellent options for day trips in the area.
The Monreale Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site only 30 minutes from Palermo, is renowned for its Norman architecture and gold mosaic decorations. Monreale’s town also offers gorgeous views of the valley.
Get to this picturesque coastal town from Palermo in an hour. It features a beautiful sandy beach, charming medieval streets and the Cefalù Cathedral, another UNESCO World Heritage Site.
An hour from Palermo, you can visit the well-preserved ancient Greek temple and amphitheater in Segesta set in a dramatic hillside landscape
Erice, 1.5-2 hours from Palermo, is a medieval hilltop town with cobblestone streets, ancient castles and sweeping views of the coastline. It’s also famous for its pastries and local ceramics.
The Zingaro Nature Reserve is 2 hours from Palermo and ideal for lovers of the great outdoors. This protected coastal area offers stunning hiking trails, hidden coves and crystal-clear waters.
Explore Trapani’s historic center and the famous salt flats with windmills about 1.5 hours from Palermo. You can also take a ferry to the Aegadian Islands from here.
Bagheria. 20-30 minutes from Palermo, is known for its baroque villas, including the Villa Palagonia (the "Villa of Monsters") and Villa Cattolica, which houses an art museum.
Corleone, 1-1.5 hours from Palermo, is famous for its association with the Mafia (and The Godfather movies). Visit for insights into Sicilian history and culture, including an anti-Mafia museum and rural landscapes.
Visit the popular beach destination of Mondello in only 30 minutes from Palermo with its turquoise waters, art nouveau architecture and fresh seafood restaurants.
San Vito Lo Capo (about 1.5-2 hours from Palermo) is a seaside town known for its white sandy beach and turquoise waters, this seaside town also hosts an annual Couscous Festival.