Almost 3,000 years of history have been preserved in stone: the facades, squares, and streets of Palermo are heavily decorated with sculptures and ornaments from different time periods, turning a leisurely stroll through the Old Town into an exciting history lesson.
The best starting point for a walk is Quattro Quanti square. The name refers to the four corners of the square, on each of which you will see a palace with intricate baroque facades. The fountains in front of them symbolize the four seasons, and in the center statues of the Spanish kings of Palermo observe the buzz on the square while the four patron saints of this district watch over the whole scenery.
From Quattro Quanti it is only a short walk to churches, palaces, parks, and museums. The most important landmark outside the square is the cathedral dating from the 12th century. The house of worship has been remodeled time and again and as a result is a mixture of all kinds of styles, and the trained eye will instantly spot the Arab influences on the pristine decorations. Choose the rental car option for memorable holidays and complete freedom.
The crypt is resting place to kings, and the treasure hall displays crosses and bishop’s hats covered with gems and gold.
The Norman Palace once was the residence of the Sicilian kings, though democracy has long moved in and the palace functions as the seat of the island’s parliament. Parts of the buildings are open for visit, among them the Cappella Palatina, the city’s greatest treasure. The walls are covered in gold and huge mosaics, and the atmosphere created by the dimmed light is magical. In order to save you from any worries on-site, make sure you book your rental car well in advance.
Excavations under the palace have found parts of an ancient defensive wall which can be viewed in the basement. Do not forget to rent your rental car before leaving on vacation.
To get a better understanding of Palermo and Sicily visit the archeological museum. The exhibition covers anything from prehistoric times to the Romans. The art produced by such a rich history is displayed in the regional gallery displaying paintings and sculptures from the Middle Ages to the 18th century. Enjoy this gorgeous landscape while driving your car rental.
When temperatures rise above 86°F around noon and long sightseeing tours turn gruesome the green parks of Palermo will be a welcome distraction. Parco della Favorita on the northern edge of town is the biggest, including green lawns, shadow-giving trees, tennis and soccer courts, and a horse racing track. The park is at the base of Monte Pellegrino, a almost 2000 ft high chalk hill resembling a Swiss cheese on the inside: 120 grottos contain prehistoric wall paintings and grant a visitor a cool break from the noon heat. Monte Pellegrino is also a popular pilgrimage destination, dedicated to Santa Rosalia whose remains supposedly stopped the worst plague epidemic ever to devastate the city in the 17th century. Book your car rental and discover this beautiful region.
North of Monte Pellegrino the most beautiful beach in the region stretches out along the Mediterranean Sea. Mondello Bay is popular among locals seeking a dip in the water as much as tourists wanting to work on their surfing skills. With a car rental, enjoy your newly found freedom.