"Familiarity with Sicily's terrain leaves an enduring yearning for it: Our comprehensive guide"
Palermo, the vibrant heart of Sicily, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and gastronomy that makes it a must-visit destination. Here, we present a curated list of top recommendations for accommodations, dining, and sightseeing, based on local advice and traveler reviews.
In the tourist-heavy Ballarò district, Trattoria Bersagliere stands out as a typical Palermo trattoria where locals dine. For coffee lovers, Baldo's in Palermo is a renowned institution known for its excellent coffee. Nautoscopio is another popular spot for an aperitivo in the city.
Pasticceria Cappello, hidden in the city, is a gem known for its fantastic cornetti and a wide variety of cakes. If you're in search of a traditional Sicilian dish, Coast to Coast, famous for its arancina, should not be missed.
For those seeking a unique stay, Dimora Delle Balze in Noto is an 18th-century fortified masseria offering a home-spun, lived-in feel. The hotel boasts a captivating maze of low-slung buildings and limestone courtyards, as well as a farm-to-table breakfast and poolside lunches.
Caffe Sicilia, located in Noto, is recommended for coffee and cannoli. Noto is also home to Norma Bistrot, which offers an ever-changing selection of elevated and contemporary takes on Sicilian and Northern Italian classics.
For art enthusiasts, Sergio Fiorentino's enchanting studio inside a 19th-century convent's refractory in Noto is a must-visit. SARP, a contemporary art gallery and artist studios in Linguaglossa, is inspired by the unique landscape of Mount Etna and the Mediterranean.
Vineyard visits are a must in Sicily. Vigneri di Salvo Foti in Milo, Pietracolce in Solicchiata, and Giardini ColeRinger in Randazzo are all highly recommended.
In Palermo, The Villa Sant'Andrea, a restored hotel once a haven for the Belle Epoque's aristocracy and Hollywood icons, offers a Michelin-starred restaurant and stunning views of the city. The flea market in Piazza Marina and Mercato delle Pulci are ideal for finding design objects.
For dining, Florio Restaurant at Villa Igiea, helmed by celebrated chef Fulvio Pierangelini, offers traditional yet creatively elevated Sicilian cuisine. Il Mercato del Capo market is ideal for casual bites and local treats, while Le Angeliche bistro offers homemade delicacies, and Casa Stagnitta, a historic coffee roaster, is known for its espresso.
Strolling the medieval lanes between Piazza Marina and Corso Vittorio Emanuele provides an authentic and atmospheric Palermo experience. Don't miss the lively Ballarò Market, Palace of the Normans, Cappella Palatina, and the Monastery of Santa Caterina d’Alessandria, known for its rooftop terrace view and famous cannoli pastries.
For those seeking a more secluded getaway, Hotel Signum on Salina offers a restaurant helmed by Martina Caruso, the youngest Italian chef to nab a Michelin star. Villa Sant'Andrea in Taormina Mare is a Belmond hotel with a private beach and a Michelin-starred restaurant, offering views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea.
Palazzo Previtera in Linguaglossa offers a restored palace with a colorful Italian maximalist interior, helmed by Swedish chef Elias Kvarning. Casa Diodoros in Agrigento has a menu structured around attempts to boost organic production of Sicilian staples such as pistachio nuts, saffron, almonds, and ancient grains.
Zash Country Boutique Hotel & Spa, located at the foot of Mount Etna, serves food inside an old wine press room carved out of lava stone.
By combining centrally located hotels with bar service, such as Mercure Palermo Centro, dining at Florio Restaurant, exploring vibrant markets like Il Mercato del Capo, and visiting historical sites, you'll have an excellent local Palermo experience.
- After enjoying traditional Sicilian dishes at Coast to Coast, known for its arancina, consider continuing your food-and-drink adventure at Florio Restaurant, known for its creatively elevated Sicilian cuisine.
- For home-and-garden enthusiasts, a stay at Dimora Delle Balze in Noto, an 18th-century fortified masseria, offers a farm-to-table breakfast and poolside lunches, as well as a captivating maze of low-slung buildings and limestone courtyards.
- For those interested in entertainment and general-news, Sergio Fiorentino's enchanting studio inside a 19th-century convent's refractory in Noto, and SARP, a contemporary art gallery and artist studios in Linguaglossa, serve as must-visit destinations inspired by the unique landscape of Mount Etna and the Mediterranean.
