Palermo is a city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. The city already offers a variety of museums, monuments and gardens to visit. But beyond the city limits lies a world of hidden gems waiting to be discovered!
In fact, departing from Palermo it is possible to explore many places a few kilometers away. And guess what? By public transportation, taking a bas or a train!
Here is a guideline to those who want to embark on exciting day trips to explore the surrounding areas, without renting a car.
Monreale and its magnificent cathedral
Located about 10 km from Palermo, the town of Monreale owes its fame to one of the most magnificent cathedrals in Italy. Since 2015 it has been part of the World Heritage Site (UNESCO) as part of the Arab-Norman itinerary of Palermo together with the cathedral of Cefalù. The Monreale Cathedral is famous for its intricate mosaics describing biblical scenes, and it will leave you breathless, especially for its Christ Pantocrator ! It is also possible to go up the terrace and admire the view over Palermo and the Conca D’Oro valley. You can reach Monreale through public trasportation taking bus 389 from Piazza Indipendenza. The ride takes about 45 minutes, depending on traffic. There is also an alternative bus (a private line called AST) that stops on the other side of the town. It runs less often than 389 and it costs slightly more, but it is faster and less crowded. You can get it in piazza Giulio Cesare, in front of a shop called World Fantasy.
Cefalù, a parardise to reach by public transportation
If you like to move with public transportation, hop on a train towards the picturesque coastal town of Cefalù, which is only 1 hour away from Palermo Centrale. Trains run often from the Central station and you will arrive directly in the heart of this charming medieval town. Cefalù has always been a famous seaside destination, with its 2 km of sand beaches and clear water, but it has more to offer.
As Monreale, also Cefalù boasts of having a stunning cathedral, which is part of the Arab-Norman itinerary.
The perfect day starts with a stroll around the narrow streets, visiting the lavatory, dating back to the medieval period, considered a symbol of the town. Stop also for a pic in front of the iconic Porta Pescara.
Have lunch in one of the restaurants around, which offer a terrace with a nice sea view. Be careful to avoid the tourist traps! After that, go relaxing on the beach until the sunset: the golden hour is absolutely stunning over there. Have a quick aperitivo in one of the bars in front of the beach and catch one of the last trains back to Palermo Centrale.
Bagheria, the city of villas
Bagheria is a charming town in Sicily, known for its historical significance and artistic heritage, offering visitors a blend of cultural attractions, as noble villas, and a coastal atmosphere. Three are the villas which are worth a visit: Villa Cattolica ( which hosts an art museum dedicated to the famous painter Renato Guttuso), Palazzo Butera ( the oldest villa in Bagheria) and Villa Palagonia (called also Villa of the monsters, due the bizarre statues that are inside the palace).
Beside the cultural aspect, Bagheria is famous also for its sfincione bagherese, a sort of focaccia with onions, anchovies, ricotta and tuma (a type of cheese).
Going there is really easy and also convenient by public transportation. The quickest way is by train from the Palermo Central Station to the city center of Bagheria. In 10 minutes you will be ready to stroll around this historical city!
Sant’Elia, a pittoreque village
Once you are in Bagheria, you cannot miss this seaside village, away from the chaos of the city and with one of the best views you can have. San’ Elia is an old fishermen village, a cluster of small houses on a little beach, and behind them, you’ll find a cove of rocks through which the water flows (Caletta Sant’Elia), a magical place that will make you feel like you’re in a living nativity scene. Take a bath in the cristaline water, and why not, jump from the cliffs from the Caletta, and after enjoy an aperitivo in one of the bars along the beach. The only downside is that you need to walk about 20/25 minutes from the train station of Santa Flavia. But it is worth a visit for sure!
Trapani and Erice by public transportation
The perfect destinations for a weekend gate-away away from Palermo. Trapani is a coastal town located on the western tip of Sicily, and it’s known for the historical charm, the stunning coastline, and the delicious seafood. The city center with its narrow streets and baroque architecture is an open-air museum. Take a walk and discover the numerous churches, towers and doors of the city. Then enjoy a meal in one of the various seafood restaurants, where you can try some specialties, like busiate (a special type of pasta) and seafood couscous.
Not far from Trapani there is the medieval town of Erice. Known for its picturesque beauty, historical significance, and stunning views, Erice is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. The town has seen influence from various cultures, including the Greeks, Romans, Normans, and Arabs, which creates an unique blend of architectural styles.
It is possible to reach Erice through a cable car (funivia) directly from the city center of Trapani (busses 21 and 23), and also enjoy the beautiful view as you go higher. After discovering the view and the monuments, stop for a traditional pastry, either a “cassatella” or a “genovese”.
Reaching Trapani by public transportation is easy: you can get on a bus or take a train. You will be there in less than 2 hours!
Those were our recommendations for a daily trip or a short gate-away around Palermo, using public transportation. Mind that although the distances are not long, reaching those destinations through trains or buses might take some time!
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