Palermo Cruise Port

The contrast between impressive mountains and slate-colored sea is the first thing that strikes visitors to this coastal town in Northern Sicily. But there’s more to this great city than spectacular views. Whether it’s a tour of Palermo’s historic center, sampling world-famous cuisine and regional wine, or wandering shops selling hand-painted ceramics, docking in Palermo will likely be a highlight on any Mediterranean cruise.

How to get to Palermo

Cruise liners berth at the Stazione Marittima, which was built in 1950. Taxis and horse drawn carriages are usually waiting at the exit of the port to take travelers around the city. The small winding streets of Palermo make it ideal for exploring on foot, but many cruise companies also offer shuttle buses to the center of town.

One Day in Palermo

Start the morning at Palazzo del Normanni, home of Sicilian parliament. It is one of the islands most historic structures and also one of the most breathtaking. Intricate mosaics and detailed gold work dating back to the 12th Century decorate its halls. Follow this stop with one of Italy’s most impressive cathedrals, Monreale Cathedral, just six miles from the port at Palermo. While beautiful from the outside, it’s the 42 biblical scenes that are detailed in mosaic on the cathedral’s walls that truly amaze visitors, and views of the bay are some of the best in the city. End the day with a trip to Tre Erre Ceramiche ceramic shop, which sells the brilliantly painted pots and dishes Sicily is known for.

Port Information

Costa Cruises, MSC Cruises, AIDA, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Crystal Cruises and Regent Cruises all make stops in Palermo. Italian is the most widely spoken language here and the local currency is the euro. ATMs are easy to find and foreign exchange bureaus are near the docks. The terminal building has a small café, convenient store and a Western Union office with Internet. It’s easy to find taxis and horse-drawn carriages just outside the terminal for those looking to venture beyond the port. Visitors can also pick up free city maps near the exit of the terminal.