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Sicily

Hello,

This is our first trip to Sicily and so many questions. We will be in Palermo September 20th for 3 days. What are the must sees in Palermo? One of the days we are thinking of renting a car to drive to Monreale, Trapani, Marsala and Erice, if its worth the time going there. Or are there other towns that would be more of interest? We do know in Monreale a must see is the Duomo di Monreale. Do we need a car to go to these towns? Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Thank you,
Barbara

Posted by
16212 posts

I hope you don't plan to be in Sicily for just 3 days. Lots to see in the island. Two weeks are barely enough to scratch. Check here:
http://www.bestofsicily.com

Monreale is just on a hill above the city. No need to rent a car. Take the city bus no. 389 from Piazza Indipendenza, in front of the Palazzo dei Normanni. You need to devote at least a full day to Palermo, dawn to night. Two full days would allow a more proper visit plus Monreale.

Erice is worthwhile. Segesta is worthwhile. And so is Scopello and the Zingaro Marine Reserve. Selinunte is also a place to see. All of the above are west of the city. Cefalù is another interesting destination on the Eastern direction from Palermo. Any can be reached by public transportation. However a car will allow you to hit more than one efficiently.

Posted by
15798 posts

Do not try driving to Monreale. Traffic is awful and parking is worse. Take the bus. Day trip to Cefalu by train

Posted by
11613 posts

I would not try to see four cities in one day. Monreale can be a few hours' visit, as can Erice. Trapani is a good point from which to get to Erice and Segesta by bus.

Cefalu deserves almost a full day, including travel time.

Posted by
37 posts

Let me add to my question:

We will be in Palermo for 3 days to see the most interest things. We were thinking if we had time to see the towns west of Palermo then we could rent a car if needed. After we leave Palermo we are renting a car.

Palmero 3days
Agrigento 1 day
Outside of Catania 6 days

Thank you,

Posted by
2768 posts

Highlights in Palermo for me are the Palatine Chapel in the Norman Palace (palace rooms are closed many days but the chapel is open consistently), views from the Cathdral roof, wandering the street markets/food, and going to Monreale. By bus - but check the schedule carefully, it doesn't come all that often. We took the bus there, spent several hours, and then took a cab back because we just missed the last bus and had over an hour until the next.

Erice is lovely but I don't know that there is time for it. I'd do the 3 days in Palermo, with one morning to Monreale.

I'd also recommend a food/market tour.