See full version: Palermo Sicily Italy Cruise Port Guide
Set at about three hundred meters above sea level, the town overlooks the "Conca d'Oro," as the valley beyond Palermo is known. It is famous for its cathedral and its cloister, which represents the largest concentration of Norman, Arab and Byzantine art in one place. [links]
Note: After dark Palermo can be a little "rough", walking the area near port is not recommended at night. [links]
Palermo is widely considered to be the most conquered city in the world. The long history of the city assures that there is a lot to see, although the city as a whole, as well as some of the sights, are in need of repair.
It pays to compare your cruise line shore excursions here
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There is also a small tourist train (Trenino) for 10 Euro sightseeing tour at the port. here
Internet cafe's are hard to find, but WiFi is available at some restaurants i.e. McDonald's about 500 meters from the terminal near the Teatro Politeama.
If you walk in the direction of the central station, you will pass all major shopping areas. [links]
Other stops in Catania include the Museo Belliniano and the Palazzo Biscari . [links]
The train station is a good 10 minute pleasant walk from dock, in case you want to go to Taormina.
In the nearby Sicilian city of Taormina , the Greek Amphitheater is one of the most stunning performing arts venues in the world. Constructed in BC times, its views include the Mediterranean and Etna. Trains to Taormina. Once there, take the shuttle bus to town. Take the cable car to the beaches below town.
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In front of the cathedral (only a five minute walk from where you are docked) Hop 0n/Off open air tour buses leave on a regular basis. here
There are many cafes which offer free WiFi for customers.
Medieval Church in Romanesque-Gothic style dedicated to St. Francis of Asisi. here
Docking in Palermo can be a bit overwhelming. Around the cruise ships it is a hustle and bustle of taxis , shuttle buses , guides , horse carts, etc. who make their way among the thousands of passengers . Outside of the harbor, you immediately get acquinted with the loud and chaotic traffic in Sicily . Many cruise passengers choose to combine their visit of Palermo with a trip to Monreale .
Former palace of the Norman kings of Sicily with great Arab-Norman architecture. here
Church dating back to the 12th century dedicated to Saint Cataldus. here
At the exit gate of Palermo cruise port, you can find the information kiosk of the Palermo Tourism Board. They distribute free city maps and are a great help for those wandering on their own. On their website you can find detailed information about gastronomy, history and culture of Sicily.
Arab-Norman Architecture: Several of Palermo's churches and palaces have UNESCO World Heritage designation for their Arab-Norman architecture, which is unusual; Sicily is one of the few areas where these two cultures co-existed. These include the Cattedrale, the main cathedral of Palmero. If you aren't afraid of heights, you can go up 200 stairs to a catwalk observatory that gives you fabulous views of the city (alas, the interior isn't as interesting as the exterior). more
Palermo has an excellent street food scene, and cafes and pizzerias also abound. Generally speaking, avoid places that have hawkers outside. If you're a foodie, you can easily access the best of Palermo on culinary walking tours. Many cruise lines also offer cooking lessons or excursions in Palermo that focus on local dishes. (Excursions to local vineyards are also sometimes offered.) more
Capuchin Catacombs: The Capuchin monks have more famous catacombs in Rome, where the bones of the dead are displayed in fantastical patterns. Their catacombs in Palermo are perhaps even more macabre, with full skeletons and mummies on display, often in the clothes they were embalmed in. The crypt is located outside the city center, so you'll want to take a taxi or tour. Hours are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Other buildings of note include the Royal Palace (Palazzi di NormannI), the Church of San Cataldo and the Church of the Martorana. Check locally for hours, as they can vary. The cathedrals in nearby Monreale and Cefalu are also part of the UNESCO designation and worth seeking out. [links]
Best for White Sand: Mondello has the prettiest sand and water in the area. While it can get crowded in July and August, this is the best beach if you want to avoid the rocks that are prevalent at many Mediterranean sea towns. Excursions and buses go here, or you can take a taxi. [links]