Few travel moments rival that first encounter with a new city — the instant when its sounds, scents and pulse begin to unfold. Palermo, I soon discovered, makes that moment unforgettable. A short flight from London brings you to Falcone-Borsellino Airport, from where the drive into the city takes about 20 minutes. Palermo is a lively, historic and unapologetically gritty metropolis that seems to be in constant motion.
What to see and eat in Palermo
Palermo boasts natural beauty, situated between the sea and the mountains, with magnificent Baroque architecture, mosaics unlike any I’ve seen in Sicily, a plethora of museums, vibrant street life, and, of course, excellent food. With only two days in the city, you will need to pack in a fair amount. Here are my top five picks for churches and museums to visit, along with some great places to eat.
La Bella Palermo
La Bella Palermo is an enigmatic place, occupying the piano nobile (main floor) of Palazzo Pantelleria, in the centre of Palermo’s old city. It is known as a home museum, which sounds like a bit of a riddle. It resembles a museum, filled with intriguing collections and antique furnishings, yet it is a private house, not open to the viewing public.
ADLER Spa Resort Sicilia
Like many of the best destinations, reaching the ADLER Spa Resort Sicilia requires a little effort. Part of its charm and exquisite beauty lies in its remote location, high up on a hill above the Torre Salsa nature reserve, overlooking the sea and a beach that extends for miles.
NH Collection Taormina, Sicily
Located one street above the constant buzz of Corso Umberto, I found a quiet haven at NH Collection Taormina