Excursion to the Cathedral of Monreale and Palermo

Palermo, the capital of Sicily, is a vibrant city where traces of Arab, Norman, Byzantine and Spanish domination coexist, visible in its monuments, churches and historic buildings. Its lively market, narrow medieval streets, and the imposing Palermo Cathedral are just some of the attractions that make this city a must for every tourist.

Its historic center is made up of four historic districts called “mandamenti”: Kalsa, Albergheria, Seralcadio and La Loggia.

The key point of the route takes place in the historic area of Ballarò, where the oldest and still most popular market in Palermo is held: the Mercato Ballarò. It welcomes a mix of merchandise from all over the world, offering a very broad offering to locals and tourists. Another key point is Villa Giulia, a public garden in Palermo and the city's botanical garden.

Among the oldest attractions we can include the Palazzo dei Normanni, the oldest royal residence in Europe, the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of Santa Vergine Maria Assunta and finally the majestic opera complex: the Teatro Massimo Vittorio Emanuele, also known as Teatro Massimo, the largest theater in Italy.

Palermo, being a large metropolis, welcomes attractions of all kinds and for any need.

A short distance from Palermo, the Cathedral of Monreale - whose name is Santa Maria Nuova - is one of the greatest testimonies of Norman art and architecture in Italy. Also known as the Cathedral of Monreale, this monument is famous for its incredible gold mosaics, which cover an internal surface area exceeding 6,000 square meters, making the Cathedral of Monreale one of the most significant religious buildings in Europe. Since 2015 it has become part of the world heritage site (UNESCO).

The excursion program is defined as follows:

1. 1

   Meeting in Trapani in Via Ammiraglio Staiti 73 at 08.50 sm Meeting in San Vito lo Capo in via Duca degli Abruzzi 60 at 8.50 am

2. 2

   Departure for Palermo at 9.00 am

3. 3

   Arrival at the Cathedral of Monreale at approximately 10.30 am and free visit of the Cathedral Basilica of Maria la Nuova, the cloister, its outdoor spaces and the historic center of Monreale

4. 4

   Meeting with the driver at 12.00 am and transfer to Palermo

5. 5

   Arrival in Palermo at 12.20 am and free visit of the Basilica Cathedral of Palermo, the Norman palace and the historic center of Palermo

6. 6

   Meeting with the driver at 03.15 pm minibus ride to Palermo and return.

7. 7

   Arrival at destination scheduled for 05.00 pm and end of excursion

The fee includes transport in very comfortable minibuses round trip, professional and qualified driver, parking, fuel and VAT. It does not include meals and drinks or entrance tickets to the sites

Entrance to the Cathedral of Monreale is free, upon request with an extra ticket, it is possible to climb the dome which offers a breathtaking view of the golden basin of Palermo, and visit some reserved areas of the dome.

In Palermo we recommend visiting the Norman Palace (Palazzo dei Normanni), the current seat of the Sicilian regional assembly, the Cathedral of the Holy Virgin Mary of the Assumption, a visit to the historic center on Via Vittorio Emanuele, “I Quattro Canti”, Piazza Pretoria and all the historic buildings, the port and the historic cove of Palermo

Your excursion from San Vito lo Capo to Palermo and Monreale awaits you!

The Cathedral of Monreale, also known as the Basilica of Monreale, is a true architectural symphony, where Byzantine, Arab and Norman elements blend into a single, extraordinary masterpiece. Inside, the basilica reveals itself to be a theater of shining mosaics that tell biblical stories with such vivacity and grandeur that it leaves visitors speechless. The Church of Monreale welcomes the faithful and admirers with a majestic entrance door, towers that stand proudly and a cloister that enchants, inviting reflection and exploration.

Visiting the Monreale Cathedral in Palermo offers a complete overview of not only the external magnificence of this historic cathedral, but also its astonishing internal decorations. The Monreale Cathedral in Palermo is an obligatory point of passage for anyone on the island. The majesty of Monreale Cathedral, with its meticulous detail and aura of solemnity, leaves a lasting impression on all who cross its threshold.

Perfectly integrated into the life of Monreale, the Church of Monreale is not only a place of worship, but also a lively community centre. Located in the heart of the town, the Cathedral of Monreale is surrounded by cafés, craft shops and offers spectacular views of the “Conca d'Oro”, the enchanting valley that embraces Palermo. This context, rich in culture and natural beauty, makes the Cathedral of Monreale an even more memorable experience.

Visiting Palermo and the Monreale Cathedral offers a unique overview of the complexity and beauty of Sicily, a region that continues to enchant and surprise. Don't miss the opportunity to explore these Mediterranean jewels, which represent a unique fusion of history, culture and art.