Palermo holidays

Holidays to Palermo knock up a winning combination of sights, sand and street food.

Palermo city breaks

Sicily’s historic capital sits on the island’s north coast. Its seafront spot made it a target for conquering invaders, who have all left their marks on the city over the centuries. The result is mix-and-match architecture, North African-style markets, and a city with a unique identity. Fast-forward to today, and it’s known for its thriving street food scene and first-rate beaches, too.

Calling all culture vultures

Palermo’s big on culture – historic sights line up in their droves here. Palazzo dei Normanni is one example of a building stamped by centuries of invasions and settlements. The palace was built by Arab settlers before being expanded by the Normans, and it was given one final makeover by the Spanish. Inside, a Byzantine chapel houses well-preserved mosaics. Turn to Quattro Canti, though, and the fountains and statues are unmistakeably Italian.

Food for thought

The food scene in Palermo is a trendy take on traditional Italian classics. Street food’s big business around here – you won’t have to look far to find hearty snacks that you can eat on the go. Take sfincione, for starters. It’s a cross between pizza and focaccia, usually served by the slice. Then you’ve got arancini bomba – extra-large arancini balls packed with rice, meat and peas.

Superb sands

Once you’ve had your culture fix, make way for Palermo’s beaches. You’ll be spoilt for choice on sunbathing spots, with Mondello Beach earning the title of the city’s most popular. This sweep of cloud-white sand’s lapped by some of the clearest water around, and it’s watched over by a clifftop nature reserve with far-reaching views across the city.