Port guide · Italy
The capital of Sicily, with an old town blending Arab, Norman and Baroque styles. It's a 15-minute walk from the port: the cathedral, the Quattro Canti and the open-air markets fill half a day or a full day.
Ships berth at the terminal in Palermo port, next to the centre. From the port exit, 10 minutes west takes you to Via Roma, and a few minutes more to the Quattro Canti and the cathedral.
Time: 15–20 min to the Quattro CantiApprox. price: Free
The whole old town is walkable
Time: About 10 minApprox. price: Fixed price before you get in
Handy for the Norman Palace, or with children and older travellers
Route 1
Teatro Massimo
Italy's largest opera house
Quattro Canti
Four Baroque facades at the crossroads that marks the centre
Fontana Pretoria
Ballarò market
Arancine and panelle; the market packs up early in the afternoon
Norman Palace and Palatine Chapel
Golden mosaics from floor to ceiling; paid entry
Palermo Cathedral
Free entry; the rooftops and treasury are paid
Route 2
Monreale Cathedral, on the hill 30 minutes away by taxi, is covered in golden mosaics and is a World Heritage Site; the seaside town of Cefalù is an hour away. An organised tour covers both.
Want it easy? Join an official MSC shore excursion, timed around the port call. If you booked your cruise with VIAJES FH, ask your advisor to add it for you.
Embarking in Palermo? The airport is north-west of the city, about 35 km from the terminal.
Time: 35–45 minApprox. price: Metered or fixed price
Easiest with luggage: it takes you to the terminal
Time: About 50 minApprox. price: Approx. €6–6.50 per person
Runs roughly every 30 minutes and stops at several points in the centre: get off at the one closest to the port and continue by taxi or on foot
Search MSC cruises calling at Palermo with VIAJES FH, with live prices.
Search cruisesYour advisor can add shore excursions, drinks packages and onboard internet.
Contact an advisor
Transport and ticket prices are approximate, checked in November 2026, and may change. The latest all-aboard time is the one announced on board.
Cover photo: Berthold Werner / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0