Cruise Holidays To Palermo

Overview

Located on a large bay dominated by Mount Pellegrino to the north and Cape Zafferano in the south, Palermo is the largest city and capital of Sicily. The largest island in the Mediterranean has been inhabited since the Phoenicians made it their home in the 8th century BC. Among subsequent occupying powers were the Greeks, Romans and Phoenicians, all of whom left behind fascinating relics of their rich cultural heritage.

The convenient cruise terminal where ships dock is just across from one of the main streets that leads to the Quattro Canti, a city square containing four 17th century palaces. Not to be missed is the Capella Palatina with its stunning biblical Mosaics and Arab-style stalactites and alveoli ceiling; there’s also the chance to admire the mixture of European and Arab influences in the Palazzo dei Normanni.

Tours operate to Monreale where you can visit the town's dramatic cathedral noted for its stunning mosaics and the nearby Benedictine monastery founded during the reign of William II. The charming fishing village of Cefalú served as the backdrop for the film Cinema Paradiso; the town's Romanesque cathedral is supported by sixteen Byzantine and Roman columns.