My husband is dying to go to Palermo (he's a mad soccer fan) this May. We will be taking 12 days, and spending 6 in Paris, then traveling to Italy. I've been to Florence and Rome (once each, eons ago) and would like to go back to both cities. My husband will, I am sure, adore both. My husband has also requested that we visit Milan, for the fashion.shoping. But - he's aching to see Palermo, as well. Something about the pinkish color of the local stone, the southern/louche/romantic vibe... I don't know. Anyway - I am completely unfamiliar with the city, and think it may be one too many Italian cities in 6 days. In fact, I think Milan/Rome/Florence is pushing it, big time. I am considering the night train from Milan to Florence, and the again from Florence to Rome, so we can travel as we sleep. And even doing that.... Palermo is so far south... Sorry - very rambling question. I guess what I am really asking is, is Palermo "all that?" Will I regret missing it? Should I pass on it this time, and program it into our next trip? What's on in Palermo? Thanks!!!!!!!
Posted by
Seattle, WA, USA
7737 posts
Can't help you on Palermo but why would you want a night train between Milan and Florence when it only take 1 3/4 hours for the trip? And it's only 1 1/2 hrs between Florence and Rome. As for how many cities to visit, my rule of thumb is at least 2 nights per location. Factor in that it's 11 hours from Rome to Palermo (no night train option). Sounds like you have some decisions to make. Good luck.
Posted by
Boise, ID, USA
2302 posts
Palermo is great. So is Naples. But unless you want to spend your entire six days in Sicily, then I'd say it's too far to just go to Palermo - too much time will be spent on travel, as another poster suggested. Save it for another trip. You'll have your hands full with Milan/Florence/Rome.
Posted by
Gaston, Oregon, USA
931 posts
Palermo and Naples are not all that great....save them for another trip...you don't have the time on this trip. BTW. Sicily is awesome in the spring...early May. You can't see all of it in one trip. You can plan a trip that uses Naples as your "jump off" to Sicily, and take the overnight ferry, or fly on the cheap flights from Naples to Sicily, and then see Palermo. We did the Sorrento area, and then hopped over to Sicily on one of our trips to Sicily.
Posted by
Cesena, Italy
791 posts
I loved Palermo and want to go back but I would agree with the others and say save it for another trip.
Posted by
Seattle, WA, USA
7737 posts
And if your husband wants high-end fashion shopping like he would find in Milan, there's plenty of that in Rome. I suggest limiting your trip to Florence and Rome. Plan for a longer trip next time. Good luck.