Palermo in one day

Begin at Monreale for the church and cloisters. Hop off the bus back in Palermo to see the cathedral there. Walk down past Palazzo dei Normanni and the Cattedrale - visit if you have the time. Turn left into via Maqueda which renames itself via della Liberta when you go past the Teatro Massimo opera house - also worth a visit. Via della Liberta is full of fine shops and eateries. Or if you like markets, visit La Vucciria or Ballaro. Or there is the beach at Mondello, about half an hour by bus from Palermo.

There is a hop-on/hop-off tour bus in Palermo, as well.

Begin with Palermo’s markets since they are only open in the morning. Then take the bus to Monreale. The Palazzo dei Normanni-Cappella Palatina is a must-see. Enjoy the trattorias and restaurant around Piazza Marina and the waterfront at night, like Kursaal Kalhesa.

The Hop On Hop Off bus is a good way to get a quick look at Palermo. There’s actually two lines, so see which itinerary you prefer.
http://www.viator.com/tours/Italy/Palermo-City-Hop-on-Hop-off-Tour/d57-2916PALM

Self-guided walking tours are always a good way to experience the city as well.
http://www.planetware.com/do-it-yourself-tour/palermo-harbor-district-walking-tour-i-plhdwt.htm
http://www.frommers.com/destinations/palermo/0135010008.html

Thank you Giovanna. Great advice.