Palermo is ideal for history buffs and beach lovers, with its mixture of UNESCO World Heritage churches and stunning stretches of sand.
Explore Sicily’s stories of the past
See Sicily’s political centre at the Palazzo dei Normanni – a former royal palace now the seat of the local parliament. You can still visit the exquisite Cappella Palatina, containing sumptuous 12th-century Byzantine mosaics. Another of the city’s impressive buildings is the 12th centuryArab-Norman Cathedral. Climb to the roof for superb views across the city and its skyline.
Experience the macabre side of the city’s history at the Catacombe dei Cappuccini. This ancient burial site is home to mummified remains of 16th-century Capuchin monks, frozen hauntingly in time.
A short walk from the cathedral sits the city’s bazaar-like Vucciria market, where you can find some of Italy’s best street food. Grab a delicious cannoli (crispy cream-filled pastry shells) and wander amid the hustle-bustle, taking in the sights and sounds – and the scents of a thousand spices.
Relax on beautiful beaches
West Sicily boasts gorgeous white-sand beaches lapped by turquoise waters and backed by lush green mountains. Closest to the capital and only a 30-minute drive from the airport is lovely Mondello. This semi-circle of talcum-white sand is lined with beach umbrellas, sun loungers and stands selling creamy pistachio gelato.
Another beautiful beach is San Vito lo Capo at the northern tip of the rocky peninsula west of Castellammare del Golfo. Much of this area is protected as part of the stunning, dramatic limestone cliffs and coves of Lo Zingaro nature reserve.
Just over an hour’s drive east along the coast lies Cefalù, one of western Sicily's most popular seaside resorts. The main attraction is its Norman cathedral, with elaborate Byzantine mosaics. But Cefalù also boasts one of Sicily’s best beaches. After a dip in the warm sea, stroll along the pretty harbour and explore the narrow medieval streets and squares.
Visit ancient Greek ruins and medieval castles
One of western Sicily's must-see attractions is the magnificent archaeological site at Segesta, less than an hour’s drive from Palermo. The Doric temple dates from around 430 BC and is one of the best-preserved examples of ancient Greek architecture in the world. You can also trek a further 1.5 kilometres uphill to see a stunning Greek amphitheatre with glorious views.
On the island’s west coast sits the town of Trapani, complete with a beautiful historic centre full of Baroque churches. Close by is the spectacular hill town of Erice, reached by a series of tight hairpin turns up a steep mountain road. Once safely at the top, you can wander its medieval stone streets and enjoy the amazing views from the castle.
With car rental from Palermo Airport you can explore this exciting city and the best of Western Sicily.