What to see and do

Whoever chooses Palermo for a holiday has a captivating and stimulating choice to spend the day, satisfying cultural interests, taking walks along breathtaking panoramas, or relaxing in the sun on the beautiful beaches that may be found a short distance away from the city.

For lovers of art and culture, the historical centre is a must, discovering the Siculo-Norman monuments of the city: the Cathedral of the Assumption, the Norman Palace, the Teatro Massimo, the Church and Cloister of S. Giovanni degli Eremiti (St. John of the Hermits) (however you are so spoilt for choice that we recommend that you consult our section of useful links to find all the detailed information that you need).
If all that you have seen in the city has not satiated your thirst for art and beauty, then visit the Cathedral of Monreale, which lies only 9km away from Grand Hotel Villa Igiea, and this will take you back in time to the XII century, where you will be immersed in the golden shimmers of the traditional Byzantine mosaics.

If you decided to take a walk up to the peak of Monte Pellegrino (again around 9km away from the Hotel), you can get to the Sanctuary of Santa Rosalia, the patron saint of the city, from where you will be amazed when confronted with the gulf of Palermo, which at sunset evokes unforgettable memories. We also recommend that you take a walk at sunset on the seafront promenade, in the Kalsa quarters, a really unique experience to be lulled by the sunset breeze.

For those who prefer sunny beaches, the main destination cannot be other than Mondello, seaside resort for Palermo’s well-to-do (and there are ample splendid villas to remind you of this), or Addaura beach, linked to the Hotel by an efficient shuttle service. If you are interested in archaeology, in Addaura caverns, there have been found rugged etchings dating back to the Paleolithic.

Once the day is over, replenished by relaxation or curiosity and interests, Palermo’s historical centre becomes the heart of a pulsating nightlife. A diverse mix of people fills the area round Teatro Massimo, which is full of all types of bars where you can enjoy having a drink in total relaxation, or listen to the sound of the music from the frequent concerts that are held in the open air during the summer season.