Monreale, Palermo and street food from Cefalù

Meet the driver at your hotel in Cefalù and drive to Palermo, the capital of Sicily.

Upon arrival in Palermo meet your English speaking Guide in front of Teatro Massimo staircase to admire the imposing structure of the largest opera house in Italy (external view) and start your walking tour through the ancient center of Palermo.

Today we walk down to Via Maqueda and we reach the Four Corners (Quattro Canti) which is the junction in Palermo. Effectively, it is the centre point of the four areas of the old town centre. You will almost inevitably pass through it and it is worth stopping for five minutes to have a look at its sculptures which were commissioned by the Spanish Viceroy in 1611. The sculptures on each of the four corners depict a variety of themes, including the four seasons, four Spanish kings and the four patron saints of the old town areas. Going south-east down Via Maqueda you will come across Piazza Pretoria which is home not only to a splendid fountain but several other impressive buildings including the City Hall. The large central fountain is the focal point for sixteen nude statues of nymphs, humans, mermaids and satyrs. In Piazza Bellini you will admire the Church of San Cataldo (external view) and of the Martorana (external view).

We then continue exploring a lively open-air market, a place with strong Arab influences, resembling a souk, with picturesque stands of fresh fish, cheese, fruit and vegetables. During the tour you will have the opportunity to observe local people in their daily activities and to savor foods that real Sicilian people love to eat! A tasting of typical street food is included.

Time to say goodbye to your Guide and you will be driven to Monreale for the independent visit of the Dome (Admission fee Not included) where the Arab-Norman art and architecture reached the pinnacle of its glory. Launched in 1174 by William II, it represents the scenes from the Old and New Testaments all in golden mosaics.

In conclusion we drive you back to Cefalù.