Palermo

Why Palermo?

In Palermo, there is something for every student. Thanks to the Byzantine, Greek, Arab and Norman empires – and not forgetting Garibaldi – the capital of Sicily has a colourful past and an even more vibrant present. Explore the historic centre under the Mediterranean sun, use street food to navigate you through its cobbled lanes and party into the night at Vucciria until the market opens the next morning. Thanks to the disobedient drivers, loud shouting and dramatic gesticulation nothing quite compares to this city, and we have compiled an insider’s guide to prove it.

Highlights

Accommodation

Entertainment

Transport

Our Community

Highlights

"The Sicilian capital is a great place to start exploring everything the beautiful island has to offer."

Niki

Student

Il Cattedrale di Palermo

Visit Palermo’s Cathedral for free, or nab yourself a student discount on the roof-top tour where you there is an amazing 360° view of the entire city. Prepare yourself for a spiral staircase, and perhaps think twice before going up here if you have vertigo.

Teatro Massimo

Palermo's Opera House is a stunning building inside and out. A week before some of the shows start running, tickets to the final dress rehearsal are released at a very reduced price for students. You can get tickets through the ESN, or enquire directly at the theatre.

La Spiaggia di Mondello

Mondello is the city’s most popular local beach and is just a short bus ride away from the city centre. Catch the bus from via Roma, but make sure to buy tickets from a newsagents or tobacconist beforehand and validate it when you get on board. Vendors patrol the beach selling beer & snacks so don’t worry about packing lunch.

Monte Pellegrino & La Grotta di Santa Rosalia

Climb 606m of Mount Pellegrino for stunning views of the city and coast. If you can wake up early enough, it’s the perfect place to watch the sun rise. Whilst you’re up there, make sure to visit the Grotto of Saint Rosalia, a church built into the mountain face in which the bones of the patron saint - Saint Rosalia - are buried.

Explore these unique experiences and amazing tours

Accommodation

Looking for long term stays? Read our guide below.

Accommodation in Italy

Destinations > Italy Our Guide to Accommodation in Italy Watch out for agency fees and always read the contract when signing for a flat with

If you’re looking for short-term stays:

Booking.com

Looking for long term stays? Read our guide below.

Blog

Accommodation in Italy

Destinations > Italy Our Guide to Accommodation in Italy Watch out for agency fees and always read the contract when signing for a flat with

If you’re looking for short-term stays:

Booking.com

Entertainment

Five of the Best Series to Learn and Improve your Italian

Five of the Best Series to Learn and Improve your Italian Language Learning Italy Share on facebook Share on twitter Share on

Overall
Public Transport

Palermo has a foot-friendly city centre!

There's a (fairly) reliable bus service, so be sure to check timetables when you arrive. For getting around the island, I recommend trains or buses but prepare yourself for southern-italian style delays.