How to Plan Your Private Shore Excursion to Lovely Cefalù, a Piece of Authentic Sicily

Are you planning a cruise to Palermo, Sicily and looking for the best shore excursion? Look no further than the private shore excursion to Cefalù and Monreale. These two cities are two of the jewels of northern Sicily, with beautiful architecture and rich Arab, Byzantine, and Norman history to explore. Join your English-speaking guide/driver and discover the best that Sicily has to offer, hassle-free.

Overview of the Tour

This private shore excursion provides a comprehensive tour of Cefalù and Monreale, two of the most important cities in Sicily. You will travel through the Madonie Regional Natural Park via air-conditioned Mercedes minivan and reach both sites in one day. Along the way, you will witness Arab, Byzantine, and Norman architectural styles, taste the local cuisine, and be immersed in Sicilian history.

Details of the Tour

Itinerary

The tour starts from the port in Palermo where your English-speaking guide/driver will meet you at the prearranged time. From there, you will travel to Cefalù, a charming coastal town located about ninety minutes from Palermo. During your visit to Cefalù, you will explore the historic center of the town, including:

• The Norman-style Cefalù Cathedral, an impressive structure whose construction dates back to the twelfth century and that was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015
• La Rocca, a medieval castle with stunning views of the town and the sea
• The Mandralisca Museum, which displays art, archeology, and natural history from the region

After exploring Cefalù, you will enjoy a delicious traditional Sicilian lunch in a local restaurant. After lunch, you will depart for the town of Monreale, located about thirty minutes from Palermo. Home to one of the most important Norman-Byzantine cathedrals in Italy, Monreale offers a breathtaking spiritual and architectural experience. You will have the chance to:

• Visit the Monreale Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2015, and admire its stunning golden mosaics and other Byzantine decorations
• Explore the cloister of the cathedral, which features forty-eight columns each with uniquely carved capitals
• Wander the streets and markets of the town, soaking up the authentic atmosphere of Sicily

At the end of the tour, you will be driven back to the port in Palermo, arriving in plenty of time before your ship departs.

What’s Included in the Tour

• English-speaking Guide/Driver
• Exclusive Private tour
• Transportation by Luxury Mercedes Minivan
• Lunch
• Gratuities
• Entrance Fees

Pickup Points and Start Time

The tour starts at the port in Palermo. Your English-speaking guide/driver will meet you at the prearranged time, and the tour will end at the same location.

Booking the Tour

To book your Private Shore Excursion to Lovely Cefalù, a Piece of Authentic Sicily, head to Viator’s website and book the tour here.

In Book Your Tour Now

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to see some of the most beautiful and culturally rich cities in Sicily. Book your private shore excursion to Cefalù and Monreale today and get ready to be blown away by their beauty and historical significance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Palermo

1. Where is Palermo and how do I get there?

Palermo is the capital city of Sicily, an island in the Mediterranean Sea that is part of Italy. You can reach Palermo by plane, train or ferry. There are daily flights from major Italian cities such as Rome, Milan, and Naples. The nearest airport to Palermo is Falcone-Borsellino Airport, which is located about 35 kilometers west of the city center. The airport offers several transport options, including buses, shuttle services and taxis.

You can also reach Palermo by train. There are direct trains from Rome and Naples, and several stops along the way. The journey takes around 10 hours from Rome and 7 hours from Naples. If you are travelling from mainland Italy, you can also take a ferry from Naples or Genoa.

2. What is the best time of the year to visit Palermo?

The best time to visit Palermo is during spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. Summer (June to September) is peak tourist season, and the city can get quite crowded and hot. Winters in Palermo are mild and rainy, so it can be a good option for those who prefer a quieter time and lower hotel rates.

3. What are some of the top attractions to visit in Palermo?

Palermo is a city rich in history, culture and natural beauty. Some of the top attractions to visit in Palermo include:

• The Cathedral of Palermo
• The Royal Palace of Palermo
• The Norman Palace and Palatine Chapel
• The Teatro Massimo
• The Quattro Canti
• The Church of Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio (also known as Martorana)
• The Ballarò Market
• The Catacombs of the Capuchins

4. What is the cuisine of Palermo like?

Palermo has a rich cuisine influenced by Italian, Arabic and Spanish cultures. Some of the most famous dishes to try in Palermo include:

• Arancini (fried rice balls filled with meat, tomato sauce, and cheese)
• Caponata (a sweet and sour vegetable stew)
• Pasta con le Sarde (pasta with sardines, fennel, and pine nuts)
• Cassata (a sweet cake made of sponge, ricotta cheese, and candied fruit)
• Cannoli (fried pastry shells filled with sweetened ricotta cheese)
• Almond granita (a refreshing almond-flavored dessert)

5. What are the best beaches near Palermo?

Palermo has several beautiful beaches that are worth a visit. Some of the best beaches near Palermo include:

• Mondello Beach
• Isola delle Femmine Beach
• Sferracavallo Beach
• Capaci Beach
• Cefalù Beach
• San Vito lo Capo Beach

6. Is Palermo safe for tourists?

Yes, Palermo is generally safe for tourists. However, like any other big city, you should take some precautions to avoid any problems. Make sure to keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas, and be aware of pickpockets. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in quiet areas. Also, as in any other city in Italy, you should be aware of the traffic, and always use a pedestrian crossing to cross the road.

7. What is the currency used in Palermo?

Palermo is part of Italy, so the currency used in Palermo is the Euro. There are many exchange offices and ATMs located throughout the city for your convenience.

8. What language do people speak in Palermo?

The official language spoken in Palermo is Italian. However, since the city has a rich history and culture, other languages such as Sicilian, Arabic, and Spanish can also be heard.

9. What is the nightlife like in Palermo?

Palermo has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, pubs, and clubs. The city has something to offer for everyone, from trendy bars to traditional pubs serving local beer and wine. The most vibrant areas for nightlife in Palermo include the Vucciria, Kalsa, and La Cala districts.

10. What are the best day trips to take from Palermo?

Palermo is a great base for exploring other parts of Sicily. Some of the best day trips to take from Palermo include:

• Monreale (famous for its stunning cathedral and cloister)
• Cefalù (a charming seaside town that boasts a beautiful sandy beach)
• Selinunte (an ancient Greek archaeological site)
• Segesta (an ancient Greek temple and amphitheatre)
• Erice (a beautiful hilltop town with stunning views)

We hope that this FAQ about Palermo has been helpful in planning your trip to Sicily. Enjoy your visit to this beautiful and vibrant city!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Palermo

Are you planning a trip to Palermo and wondering what to do during your stay in this beautiful city? Palermo is the capital of Sicily and it’s full of history, art, and delicious food. Here is a guide with tips on how to spend your time as a tourist in Palermo.

1. Visit the Cathedral of Palermo

The Cathedral of Palermo, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, is one of the main attractions of the city. This stunning cathedral was built in the 12th century and it’s a masterpiece of different architectural styles, from Norman to Baroque. You can visit the cathedral and admire its beautiful mosaics, sculptures, and frescoes.

2. Explore the Norman Palace

The Norman Palace, also known as Palazzo dei Normanni, is a palace from the 9th century that was used as the royal palace of the Kings of Sicily. Today, the palace is open to the public and you can visit the different rooms, including the famous Palatine Chapel, which is famous for its Byzantine mosaics.

3. Walk around the old town of Palermo

One of the best ways to explore Palermo is by walking around the old town. The old town is full of narrow alleys, beautiful squares, and stunning buildings. You can walk around and admire the different architectural styles that make Palermo so unique. Don’t forget to visit the Ballarò market, where you can find fresh food and local products.

4. Visit the Monreale Cathedral

The Monreale Cathedral is located just outside of Palermo and it’s worth a visit. This cathedral was built in the 12th century and it’s famous for its golden mosaics that cover the entire interior. You can also admire the cloister, which is a masterpiece of Arab-Norman architecture.

5. Try the local food

Palermo is famous for its street food and you should definitely try some of the local specialties during your stay. Some of the must-tries include arancini (rice balls filled with meat or cheese), panelle (chickpea fritters), and sfincione (a local pizza topped with tomato sauce, onions, and breadcrumbs).

6. Visit the Regional Archaeological Museum

The Regional Archaeological Museum of Palermo is located in the old town and it’s one of the most important museums in Italy. The museum houses a collection of artifacts from different historical periods, from the prehistoric era to the 3rd century BC.

7. Relax at the Beach

If you want to take a break from the city, you can head to the beach. Mondello Beach is the most famous beach near Palermo and it’s easily accessible by bus or car. The beach has crystal clear waters and it’s perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

8. Take a Day Trip to Cefalù

Cefalù is a beautiful town located about an hour away from Palermo. The town is famous for its stunning coastline and the impressive Cathedral of Cefalù. You can take a day trip from Palermo and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Book Your Tour Now

Palermo has plenty to offer for tourists and it’s a city that you should definitely add to your Italian itinerary. From stunning architecture to delicious food and beautiful beaches, Palermo has it all. Use this guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful city.