Palermo, Sicily question

I was about to recommend a trip to Monreale and its magnificent cathedral. Then I looked at your itinerary and saw that it is included in the tour itinerary already. Since you’ve been busy touring in the Sorrento area, may I suggest you use the “free” time doing what Rick sometimes suggests - taking a vacation from your vacation. Just walk around Palermo, a fascinating city. Wander about and freely explore with no real objective. No set plan. Discovery is always fascinating. And there will be no shortage of places to rest, enjoy some good Sicilian food and an occasional “adult” beverage. I have no particular places in mind.

You will love Sicily. I recall my visits there fondly - great food, lovely people, and a history enriched by so many varied cultures.

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187890-d1420025-Reviews-Palazzo_Butera-Palermo_Province_of_Palermo_Sicily.html

We went to Palazzo Butera on recommendation of a colleague of mine who is from Palermo. It was one of our unexpected delights in Palermo.

There is lots to see and do in Palermo. The Regional Archeological Museum Antonio Salinas is interesting. It is not a big and overwhelming museum. A visit to the Capuchin catacombs is interesting in a weird sort of way. As suggested stroll the streets and see what catches your eye. See if there are any operas or concerts going on during your visit. If you like religious things, hire a driver to take you up to the Sanctuary cave of Santa Rosalia, patron saint of Palermo, on Mt. Pellegrino. There are some beautiful scenic viewpoints up that way overlooking the city. If you have a driver maybe combine it with a visit to Mondello. Church of the Gesù Casa Professa near Ballarò market in Palermo is famous for its ornate Baroque interior. The Church of San Giuseppe dei Teitini at the Quatro Canti intersection is very pretty. There is a flea market not far from the Palermo Cathedral, “Mercato delle Pulci”. Since your tour doesn't take you to Cafalù that town is well worth a visit. Easy to get to from Palermo by train or bus. Very pretty and easily walkable.

Thank you all for your time and great suggestions! It’s very helpful!

Palermo is just a fantastic city to wander around in. The two main drags are largely pedestrianized. Santa Caterina church is amazing, on the lovely Piazza Bellini. Not clear if the tour goes in there. Ballaro market is on your tour, but Vucciria is also a fun one. Almost any church is worth checking out, with at least some chapels decorated in an intense baroque style. Oratorio di San Lorenzo is a hidden gem, and quick visit.

In the evening, La Kalsa neighborhood is both hip and local. Lots of characteristic little cocktail bars and neighborhood restaurants. Palermo feels very untouristy, especially so over here. Try a pane con milsa at Nni Franco U Vastiddaru, then brag to your fellow tour members about what adventurous eaters you are!

Have a look for restaurants and eateries offering Apericena.
You pay a bit more for a drink or cocktail, maybe E9 or E10, and get quite substantial plates of appetizer sized foods included.
Usually starting about 5 or 6 pm if I remember correctly , so before dinner service starts.
Lots of places offer this.
We found a couple in the streets of the Vucciria area.

We did the Streaty Food tour at night and loved it. Since you will have already been in Italy for a week, jet lag for an evening activity shouldn’t be a problem. It was a small group and the guide was energetic and fun.

I just finished that tour in September. I recommend the archeology museum and steps away the Oratorio di Santa Cita. The stuccoes of Serpotta were amazing! I enjoyed the Norman Palace and the Capella Palatina, as well.

We enjoyed good food throughout Sicily last September but the best was in Palermo at Procopio Pizza and La Galleria. Highly recommend both.