Where to Stay in Palermo, Sicily 🇮🇹: My favorite place

Updated on September 10, 2024
by Alex Miller

City of Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily, is a captivating city that blends ancient history, stunning architecture, and a lively cultural scene. With its winding streets, bustling markets, and mouthwatering cuisine, Palermo offers an authentic Italian experience that will leave you enchanted.

However, with its diverse neighborhoods and array of accommodation options, deciding where to stay in Palermo can be a daunting task. From the historic charm of the old town to the trendy nightlife districts and beachside retreats, each area of the city has its own unique character and appeal. In this comprehensive neighborhood guide, we’ll explore the best areas to stay in Palermo, taking into account your travel interests, budget, and desired amenities. Whether you’re a history buff seeking to immerse yourself in the city’s rich heritage, a foodie craving authentic Sicilian cuisine, or a beach lover longing for sun-drenched shores, we’ve got you covered.

Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Palermo 💎

Quick Guide to the Best Places to Stay in the Palermo 📋

  • 👀 For the First Time: Centro Storico
  • 👪 For Families: Mondello
  • 🏖 For Golden Beaches: Mondello
  • 🌺 For Local Vibe: Borgo Vecchio
  • 🕊 Near the Port: La Kalsa
  • 🥂 Best Nightlife: Downtown

1. Centro Storico – Where to Stay in Palermo for the First Time 👀

🏰 Palermo’s historic center: Known as Centro Storico, is one of the best areas to stay in for first-time visitors to the city. This vibrant neighborhood is the heart of Palermo, offering easy access to many of the city’s top attractions, historic landmarks, and a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of Sicilian culture.

🗺️ Centrally Located: Centro Storico is the city center of Palermo, making it an ideal base for exploring the rest of the city on foot or via public transport. Many of Palermo’s iconic sights, such as the Palermo Cathedral, Teatro Massimo, and Quattro Canti, are located within this area, allowing you to immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and architecture.

🏯 Historic Charm: As the oldest part of Palermo, Centro Storico is a treasure trove of historic buildings, narrow streets, and charming piazzas that transport you back in time. Wander through the winding alleys and discover hidden gems like ancient churches, baroque palaces, and traditional markets that showcase the city’s vibrant culture. Here are some of the notable cultural objects and landmarks that showcase the area’s historic charm:

  • Palermo Cathedral (Cattedrale di Palermo) This magnificent cathedral, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, is a true masterpiece of Arab-Norman architecture. Its exterior features a blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles, while the interior is adorned with stunning Byzantine mosaics dating back to the 12th century.
  • La Martorana (Church of Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio): This 12th-century church is a prime example of Arab-Norman architecture, featuring a unique blend of Byzantine, Norman, and Arabic styles. Its interior is adorned with intricate mosaics and frescoes, showcasing the artistic excellence of the era.
  • Quattro Canti: This iconic Baroque square, also known as the “Four Corners,” is a stunning architectural landmark where the city’s four historic quarters meet. The four corner buildings feature intricate sculptural decorations and allegorical representations of the four seasons and the four Spanish kings who ruled Sicily.
  • Pretoria Fountain (Fontana Pretoria): This 16th-century fountain, located in the Piazza Pretoria, is a remarkable example of Renaissance sculpture. It features an intricate design with mythological figures, nymphs, and sea creatures, showcasing the artistic mastery of the era.

🍽️ Dining and Nightlife: Centro Storico is a foodie’s paradise, with a plethora of restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors offering authentic Sicilian cuisine. From traditional trattorias to upscale eateries, you’ll find a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. The area also boasts a lively nightlife scene, with bars, clubs, and live music venues catering to a younger crowd.

🚶‍♀️ Pedestrian-Friendly: Centro Storico is a largely pedestrian-friendly area, with many streets closed to vehicular traffic, making it easy and enjoyable to explore on foot. This also contributes to a more relaxed and authentic atmosphere, allowing you to soak in the sights, sounds, and smells of historic Palermo without the distraction of heavy traffic.

Centro Storico, Palermo
Centro Storico, Palermo
Centro Storico, Palermo

🚉 Convenient Transportation: While Centro Storico is best explored on foot, it is also well-connected to the rest of Palermo via public transport. The Palermo Centrale train station is located nearby, making it easy to take day trips to other parts of Sicily or travel to and from the airport.

Where to stay in Centro Storico?

⭐ Best Hotels 

  • Grand Hotel Et Des Palmes – Grand Hotel Et Des Palmes is a luxury 5-star hotel located just steps away from the iconic Palermo Cathedral. It offers elegant rooms and suites with air conditioning, free WiFi, and flat-screen TVs.
  • Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa – Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa is a 4-star hotel situated in the heart of Palermo’s historic center, overlooking the famous Piazza Borsa. It offers modern and spacious rooms with air conditioning, free WiFi, and satellite TV.
  • Cassaro261 B&B – Cassaro261 B&B is a highly-rated bed and breakfast located in the historic center of Palermo. It offers air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms.

🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels 

  • La Maison del Sole – La Maison del Sole is a budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Palermo’s historic center. It offers simple yet comfortable rooms with air conditioning, free WiFi, and private bathrooms.
  • Open Sicily Homes Residence Gran Palermo – Open Sicily Homes Residence Gran Palermo is a moderately priced aparthotel situated in the Politeama area of Palermo. It offers self-catering apartments with air conditioning, free WiFi, fully equipped kitchens, and balconies or terraces.
  • Abbanniata – Abbanniata is a budget-friendly bed and breakfast located in the historic center of Palermo. It offers simple yet comfortable rooms with air conditioning, free WiFi, and private bathrooms.

🛏️ Best Budget Hotels 

  • Villena Plaza – Villena Plaza is a budget hostel located in the historic center of Palermo, offering dormitory-style accommodations with shared bathrooms, as well as private rooms.
  • Palermo of Living Appartamento al Centro Storico – Palermo of Living Appartamento al Centro Storico is a budget-friendly apartment located in Palermo’s historic center, offering self-catering accommodations with free WiFi, air conditioning, and a fully equipped kitchen.
  • Domus Conte Federico – Domus Conte Federico is a budget hostel located in Palermo, offering dormitory-style accommodations with shared bathrooms, as well as private rooms.

2. Politeama/Libertà (Downtown) – Great Place to Stay for Nightlife and Culinary 🌃

🍷 Vibrant Nightlife: Politeama/Libertà area is home to some of Palermo’s liveliest bars, clubs, and best nightlife hotspots. The area around Piazza Castelnuovo and Via Ruggero Settimo is a hub of activity after dark, with trendy establishments like Qvivi and Vanity Night Club attracting a lively crowd.

🍽️ Culinary Delights: This neighborhood is a foodie’s paradise, offering a diverse range of dining options, from traditional Sicilian trattorias to upscale restaurants serving international cuisine. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in Palermo’s famous street food, such as panelle (chickpea fritters) and arancini (stuffed rice balls), available at local markets and street vendors. Best culinary delights:

  • Arancini: These iconic Sicilian rice balls are a staple of Palermo’s street food scene. Stuffed with ragù, mozzarella, or other savory fillings, and coated in a crispy breadcrumb exterior, arancini are a delicious handheld treat.
  • Panelle, or chickpea fritters: Are a beloved Palermitan snack. These crispy, golden fritters are often served in a sesame seed bun or enjoyed on their own with a squeeze of lemon,
  • Pane con la Milza: For the adventurous eater, pane con la milza is a must-try. This sandwich features boiled and fried veal spleen and lung, topped with cheese and lemon, all tucked into a soft bread roll.
Politeama/Libertà, Palermo
Politeama/Libertà, Palermo
Politeama/Libertà, Palermo
Politeama/Libertà, Palermo
Politeama/Libertà, Palermo
Politeama/Libertà, Palermo
Politeama/Libertà, Palermo
Politeama/Libertà, Palermo

🏛️ Historic Landmarks: Despite its modern flair, Politeama/Libertà is steeped in history, with iconic landmarks like the Teatro Politeama and Teatro Massimo gracing its streets. Visitors can admire the architectural splendor of these theaters and explore nearby attractions like the Giardino Inglese (English Garden) and Piazza Verdi.

🛍️ Upscale Shopping: Via della Libertà, one of Palermo’s main streets, is a shopper’s paradise, lined with high-end boutiques, designer stores, and chic cafés. This tree-lined avenue is the perfect spot for indulging in some retail therapy or enjoying a leisurely stroll.

🚶‍♀️ Convenient Location: Situated in the heart of Palermo, Politeama/Libertà is conveniently located near many of the city’s top attractions, making it easy to explore on foot or via public transportation. The area is also well-connected to the airport and other parts of Sicily, making it an ideal base for day trips.

Where to stay in Downtown?

⭐ Best Luxury Hotels

  • Due Passi Suite – Due Passi Suite is a boutique hotel located in the heart of Palermo’s historic center. It offers stylish and modern suites.
  • La Terrazza Palace – La Terrazza Palace is a luxury hotel situated in the Politeama area. It offers elegant rooms and suites.
  • Four Luxury Suites – Four Luxury Suites is a upscale hotel located in the historic center of Palermo, offering spacious and modern suites.

🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels 

  • Mori's – Mori’s is a budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Palermo’s historic center. It offers simple yet comfortable rooms with air conditioning, free WiFi, and a private bathroom.
  • Bonorum De Spuches – Bonorum De Spuches is a moderately priced hotel situated in the Politeama area of Palermo. It offers rooms with air conditioning, free WiFi, and a private bathroom.
  • Mama Tita Rooms and Breakfast – Mama Tita Rooms and Breakfast is a budget-friendly apartments located in the historic center of Palermo. It offers simple yet comfortable rooms with air conditioning, free WiFi, and a private bathroom.

🛏️ Best Budget Hotels 

  • B&B Superattico Bella Bellu – B&B Superattico Bella Bellu is a budget hostel located in the historic center of Palermo, offering dormitory-style accommodations with shared bathrooms, as well as private rooms.
  • Vecchio Borgo – Vecchio Borgo is a budget-friendly apartmentst located in the historic center of Palermo, offering simple yet comfortable rooms with air conditioning, free WiFi, and a private bathroom.
  • Belmonte Blu Suites – Belmonte Blu Suites is a budget hostel located in Palermo, offering dormitory-style accommodations with shared bathrooms, as well as private rooms.

3. La Kalsa – Best Neighborhood to Stay in Palermo Near the Port 🚢

⚓ Proximity to the Port: As one of the four districts that make up Palermo’s Centro Storico (historic center), La Kalsa area is located just a short walk from the city’s port area. This prime location makes it an ideal base for visitors arriving by cruise ship or those planning to explore the nearby coastal areas.

🏛️ Rich Cultural Heritage: La Kalsa was once the fortified citadel where the Arab emirs and their ministers resided during Palermo’s Islamic rule. Today, the neighborhood retains its distinct Arabic influence, evident in the architecture, narrow streets, and historic landmarks like the Norman-Byzantine Church of Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio (also known as La Martorana).

✨ Vibrant Atmosphere: La Kalsa is a lively and vibrant area, with a mix of historic sites, charming piazzas, and a thriving nightlife scene. The neighborhood is home to some of Palermo’s best bars, restaurants, and clubs, making it a great choice for those seeking an authentic local experience. Here are some of the coolest bars and restaurants in this historic neighborhood:

  • Botteghe Colletti: This charming tiny bar on one of La Kalsa’s narrowest streets is perfect for a date night. The bartender, Patrick, crafts carefully-made cocktails using unique ingredients like spicy vodka and chamomile grappa.
  • Goccio – L’arte del Miscelare: Right next to Botteghe Colletti, this beautiful bar is highly recommended for its expertly crafted cocktails.
  • Backdoor Palermo: This rustic yet industrial bar offers a great selection of beers and a friendly vibe.
  • I Corrieri Cocktail Bar & Sushi: This sleek bar with exposed brickwork and low lighting is perfect for enjoying creative cocktails and sushi rolls. 

🏙️ Friendly Streets: La Kalsa is a largely pedestrian-friendly area, with many narrow streets closed to vehicular traffic. This allows visitors to explore the neighborhood on foot, soaking in the sights, sounds, and smells of historic Palermo without the distraction of heavy traffic.

🗺️ Iconic Landmarks: Within La Kalsa, visitors can find some of Palermo’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Piazza Pretoria, with its famous Fontana Pretoria (Pretoria Fountain), and the Palazzo Chiaramonte-Steri, a former fortified palace that now houses the city’s archaeological museum.

Where to stay in La Kalsa?

⭐ Best Luxury Hotels

  • Manere Suites – Manere Suites is a modern 4-star hotel with all amentities located in the heart of Palermo’s historic center. It offers stylish and spacious suites with air conditioning, free WiFi, and a flat-screen TV.
  • Open Sicily Homes Residence Gran Palermo – Open Sicily Homes Residence Gran Palermo is a luxury aparthotel situated in the Politeama area of Palermo. It offers self-catering apartments with air conditioning, free WiFi, a fully equipped kitchen, and a balcony or terrace.
  • Zefiro Suites – Zefiro Suites is a boutique hotel located in the historic center of Palermo, offering elegant suites with air conditioning, free WiFi, and a flat-screen TV.

🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels

  • Stanze al Genio Residenze – Stanze al Genio Residenze is a budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Palermo’s historic center. It offers simple yet comfortable rooms with air conditioning, free WiFi, and a private bathroom.
  • Guascone Residence – Guascone Residence is a moderately priced aparthotel situated in the Politeama area of Palermo. It offers self-catering apartments with air conditioning, free WiFi, a fully equipped kitchen, and a balcony or terrace.
  • Khalisah – Khalisah is a budget-friendly bed and breakfast located in the historic center of Palermo. It offers simple yet comfortable rooms with air conditioning, free WiFi, and a private bathroom.

🛏️ Best Budget Hotels

  • Cartari Apartament Palermo – Cartari Apartament Palermo is a budget hostel located in the historic center of Palermo, offering dormitory-style accommodations with shared bathrooms, as well as private rooms.
  • Il Sonno dei Giusti Apartment Palermo – Il Sonno dei Giusti Apartment Palermo is a budget-friendly apartment located in Palermo, offering self-catering accommodations with free WiFi, air conditioning, and a fully equipped kitchen.
  • B&B Novecento – B&B Novecento is a budget hostel located in Palermo, offering dormitory-style accommodations with shared bathrooms, as well as private rooms.

4. Mondello – Best Area in Palermo to Stay with Family 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

🏖️ Stunning Sandy Beaches: Mondello is one of Palermo’s best places renowned for its beautiful sandy beach, which stretches for over a mile along the coast. The crystal-clear waters and soft white sand provide a perfect playground for families, where children can safely swim, build sandcastles, and enjoy various water sports activities. Here is best beaches in Mondello:

  • Mondello Beach (Spiaggia di Mondello): This is the main beach and the highlight of Mondello. It’s a long stretch of soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, framed by the dramatic backdrop of Monte Pellegrino and Monte Gallo.
  • Capo Gallo Beaches: Part of the Capo Gallo Nature Reserve, these small coves and beaches are located just north of Mondello Beach.
  • Rendezvous Bay Beach: This hidden gem is a secluded beach accessible only by hiking trail or four-wheel drive. It features pristine white sands, turquoise waters, and a tranquil atmosphere away from the crowds.
  • Galleon Beach: Located within the Capo Gallo Nature Reserve, this small sandy beach is a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling, offering stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and clear waters.

🎡 Family-Friendly Attractions: In addition to the beach, Mondello offers a variety of family-friendly attractions, including playgrounds, parks, and recreational areas. The nearby Parco della Favorita, a vast green space with walking trails and picnic areas, is a great spot for families to spend quality much of your time in Palermo together.

🥂 Dining and Entertainment: Mondello boasts a lively dining scene, with numerous restaurants, cafes, and gelaterias catering to families. From traditional Sicilian cuisine to international fare, there’s something to satisfy every palate. The area also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, providing entertainment for both children and adults.

📍 Convenient Location: While Mondello offers a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, it is conveniently located just a short drive from Palermo’s city center. This proximity allows families to easily explore the city’s historical and cultural attractions while enjoying the tranquility of a beachside retreat.

Mondello, Palermo
Mondello, Palermo
Mondello, Palermo
Mondello, Palermo
Mondello, Palermo
Mondello, Palermo
Mondello, Palermo
Mondello, Palermo

🛡️ Safe and Pedestrian-Friendly: Mondello is considered one of the safest areas in Palermo, with a pedestrian-friendly environment that makes it easy for families to navigate the neighborhood on foot. The area’s wide streets and well-maintained sidewalks provide a comfortable and secure setting for families with children.

Where to stay in Mondello?

⭐ Best Hotels 

  • Mondello Sabrina Apartments – Mondello Sabrina Apartments is a beachfront property located in the Mondello area of Palermo, offering self-catering apartments with free WiFi and air conditioning.
  • Villa Cinzia – Villa Cinzia is a charming villa situated in Mondello, just a 2-minute walk from the beach. It offers apartments with free WiFi, a private bathroom, a living room, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a terrace or balcony.
  • La Maison de Provence Mondello Palermo – La Maison de Provence Mondello Palermo is a stylish apartments located in Mondello, just a short walk from the beach. It offers air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom.

🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels

  • Il Glicine sul Golfo – Il Glicine sul Golfo is a budget-friendly hotel in Mondello, offering rooms with air conditioning, free WiFi, and a private bathroom.
  • Villa Flora Mondello – Villa Flora Mondello is a moderately priced villa situated in Mondello, offering self-catering apartments with free WiFi, air conditioning, and a fully equipped kitchen.
  • Il Glicine La Piana dei Colli – Il Glicine La Piana dei Colli is a budget-friendly bed and breakfast located in the La Piana dei Colli area of Palermo, offering rooms with air conditioning, free WiFi, and a private bathroom.

🛏️ Best Budget Hotels 

  • Al Baglio – Al Baglio is a budget hostel located in Palermo, offering dormitory-style accommodations with shared bathrooms, as well as private rooms.
  • La Casa di Andreina Palermo – La Casa di Andreina Palermo is a budget-friendly apartment located in Palermo, offering self-catering accommodations with free WiFi, air conditioning, and a fully equipped kitchen.
  • Casa Nina Palermo – Casa Nina Palermo is a budget hostel located in Palermo, offering dormitory-style accommodations with shared bathrooms, as well as private rooms.

5. Borgo Vecchio – Perfect Area to Stay in Palermo for Local Vibe 💕

😎 Authentic Local Experience: Borgo Vecchio is a neighborhood where locals go about their daily lives, providing visitors with a genuine glimpse into the heart of Palermo. The narrow streets are lined with traditional shops, cafes, and family-run businesses, offering a stark contrast to the more touristy areas of the city. List of interesting places:

  • Historic Churches: Borgo Vecchio is home to several historic churches that reflect the area’s rich cultural heritage.
  • Piazza Beati Paoli: This charming square is a popular gathering spot for locals, surrounded by traditional cafes and restaurants.
  • Palazzo Chiaramonte-Steri: This impressive 14th-century palace, once a residence of the Chiaramonte family, now houses the city’s archaeological museum.
  • Quattro Canti: While not technically in Borgo Vecchio, this iconic Baroque square, also known as the “Four Corners,” is just a short walk away.

🛒 Bustling Markets: One of the highlights of staying in Borgo Vecchio is the opportunity to explore the neighborhood’s famous markets, such as the Ballaro Market. This lively outdoor market is a true sensory experience, with vendors selling fresh produce, street food, and local handicrafts, all while engaging in lively banter and haggling.

💘 Historic Charm: As part of Palermo’s old town, Borgo Vecchio is steeped in history and boasts a wealth of architectural gems. From the 9th-century Norman Palace to the ornate Quattro Canti square, this neighborhood offers a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Borgo Vecchio, Palermo
Borgo Vecchio, Palermo
Borgo Vecchio, Palermo
Borgo Vecchio, Palermo
Palazzo Chiaramonte-Steri
Palazzo Chiaramonte-Steri
Ballaro Market
Ballaro Market
Ballaro Market
Ballaro Market

🍸 Vibrant Nightlife: While Borgo Vecchio may be quieter during the day, the neighborhood comes alive at night with a vibrant nightlife scene. Local bars, clubs, and restaurants offer a lively atmosphere where visitors can mingle with locals and experience the city’s famous hospitality.

Where to stay in Borgo Vecchio?

⭐ Best Hotels

  • Ibis Styles Palermo President – Ibis Styles Palermo President is a 4-star stylish hotel located close the harbor, offering a terrace with sea views, a rooftop restaurant, and air-conditioned rooms with satellite TV.
  • Vecchio Borgo – Vecchio Borgo is a charming boutique hotel situated in the historic center of Palermo. It features elegantly decorated rooms with exposed stone walls and wooden beams, a terrace, and a shared lounge area.
  • Ucciardone Home Palermo – Ucciardone Home Palermo is a modern 4-star hotel located in the heart of Palermo. It offers stylish and spacious rooms with air conditioning, a bar, and a shared lounge area.

🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels

  • B&B Amaris – B&B Amaris is a budget-friendly bed and breakfast located in the historic center of Palermo. It offers simple yet comfortable rooms with air conditioning and free WiFi.
  • Dàrre – Dàrre is a moderately priced hotel situated in the heart of Palermo’s old town. It features modern rooms with air conditioning, a shared lounge area, and a terrace.
  • Serendipity Room & Relax – Serendipity Room & Relax is a cozy apartments located in the Politeama area of Palermo. It offers comfortable rooms with air conditioning, free WiFi, and a shared kitchen.

🛏️ Best Budget Hotels

  • Al Politeama – Al Politeama is a budget hostel located in the Politeama area of Palermo. It offers dormitory-style accommodations with shared bathrooms, as well as private rooms.
  • Rabbad Apartments – Rabbad Apartments is a budget-friendly apartment-style accommodation located in the historic center of Palermo. It offers simple yet comfortable apartments with kitchenettes and free WiFi.
  • La Casa del Moro 2 – La Casa del Moro 2 is a budget hostel located in the heart of Palermo’s old town. It offers dormitory-style accommodations with shared bathrooms, as well as private rooms.

FAQs about Trip to Palermo ❔

Which is the best part of Palermo to stay?

Many of the best places to stay in Palermo today are found in the old historic centre, amongst the domes, cupolas, Baroque churches and Gothic palaces. Some of our recommendations have been converted from a single building, a palazzo or villa, while others are clusters of buildings.

Is Palermo a walkable city?

Yes, Palermo is very walkable and pedestrian friendly. The main streets such as Via Maqueda or Via Vittorio Emanuele are pedestrian areas and if you need to rent a car to drive around town, it won’t be a problem.

What is the safest part of Palermo?

La Kalsa. Dubbed one of the coolest places to stay in the city, La Kalsa is one of the districts or neighborhoods that make up the historical center of Old Town in Palermo.

How many days is enough for Palermo?

If you’re only headed to Palermo, you can enjoy a comfortably-paced trip in about five days. With less time, it’s still possible to see the highlights in as few as four days.

Can you walk around Palermo?

Explore one of 4 easy walking routes in Palermo, with child-friendly routes for your next family outing. Venture outdoors and learn more about the area’s historic sites or take a break from the hustle and bustle along the many tree-lined paths surrounding Palermo.