Palermo (Sicily) ???

[Goodtime Cruizin]

Seeking a bit of help/recommedations. We're planning a cruise that offers a very small window of only 6 1/2 hours of port time in Sicily. We've never been so we're interested of course. But with a small amount of time... for those that have experienced this Port/City, what would your suggestion be of a must see or do?

 

TIA ! 

[1025cruise]

Have you checked the ports of call board for Italy?

[Goodtime Cruizin]

Yes. And it wasn’t very helpful 

[edinburgher]

You maybe didn't use the SEARCH THIS FORUM facility on the Italy Boards with the word PALERMO?

 

Amongst the results which popped up, this thread dates from July and is worth a read:

 

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2675854-palermo-must-sees-and-dont-bothers/?tab=comments#comment-57803996

 

Tripadvisor should probably be your first stop for ideas and photos of the sights.  We loved it, but as there is so much to see in Palermo and with limited time you need to decide what will suit your personal interests. A tough choice!

 

Edited November 24, 2019 by edinburgher

[bennybear]

The  cathedral in Monreale has amazing mosaics.   

[cruisemom42]

With only 6 and a half hours, I'm not sure that Monreale is possible, as it's a bit outside of Palermo. However, there are stunning mosaics (actually I liked them better) in the Capella Palatina that is right in Palermo, easy distance from the port. 

http://www.wondersofsicily.com/palermo-palatine-chapel.htm

 

Also in Palermo to consider -- a very nice, recently updated archaeological museum. And if you like the macabre, there is the Capuchin crypts -- with mummies:   http://www.palermocatacombs.com/

 

[BLine]

We did the ships tour called 'Palermo and Monreale' - left ship 0930 and back on ship 1300 and termed 1/2 day trip. Monreale is not that far away from Palermo, just over 4 miles but if it's a DIY excursion then stick to Palermo and the church mentioned by cruisemom42

[bennybear]

We actually did it ourselves after exploring some of Palermo,  which was also very interesting. We took the local bus and had  a nice lunch there as well.   But as always,   Be careful of your timing.   We were fortunate to be able to watch an artisan repairing some of the mosaics. Fascinating.  It has just stuck with me over the years as a highlight.  

Edited November 28, 2019 by bennybear

[ljandgb]

We did a really fun food tour with a local company, Streaty, thru the street markets.  It was obvious he knew everyone around and it felt like traveling with your cousin (well, if you like your cousin! lol )