Guided tour of Palazzo dei Normanni and Cappella Palatina

1.5 hours
Palermo, Italy

About this activity

Visit two absolute must-sees in the Sicilian capital with this guided tour of the Palazzo dei Normanni and Cappella Palatina. With more than 800 years of history, it’s perfect for culture vultures!
  

Highlights

  • Explore Palermo's historical gems.
  • Discover Sicily's royal history today.
  • Palazzo dei Normanni insights in Palermo.
  • Palatine Chapel's architectural marvels.
  • Norman palace tour with local guide.

Full description

Discover the rich tapestry of Sicilian history with our engaging and informative **guided tour of Palazzo dei Normanni and Cappella Palatina**. Nestled in the heart of Palermo, the **Palazzo dei Normanni** stands as the epitome of Sicily's regal past, once serving as the seat of the King of Sicily. This majestic palace, renowned as the oldest royal residence in Europe, invites you to delve into its fascinating history, beautifully captured through its Norman, Arabic, and Baroque architecture. Led by our expert local guide, this 1.5-hour tour is your gateway to understanding the cultural melting pot that Sicily once was. Inside the breathtaking **Cappella Palatina**, revel in the beauty of intricate Byzantine mosaics and traditional Islamic designs. This chapel is a jewel of medieval art and architecture, showcasing the harmonious blend of Eastern and Western culture. Your journey doesn't end here. Relish a peaceful stroll through the palace gardens!

Included / Excluded

  • Licensed guide
  • Palazzo dei Normanni complex entrance ticket
  • Cappella Palatina entrance ticket
  • Tips
  • Optional gratuities

Meeting point

Start Location

Palazzo dei Normanni, Piazza del Parlamento, Palermo, PA, Italy

Important information

Know before you book

  • Please let us know in advance any special need or impaired mobility of the clients and we will do our best to accomodate them
  • Children/teens under 18 y.o. must always be accompanied by at least one adult.
  • Please note: Palazzo dei Normani is a government venue. In case of official events or meetings the tour might be closed.

Know before you go

  • This tour runs on rain or shine.
  • On some days visit of the Royal Apartments will also be included.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity starts

48 HRS cancellation policy. Full penalty applies for cancellations in the last 48 hours prior to tour departure. Full penalty applies for no-shows. <p>This tour runs on rain or shine.</p>

Reviews

GetYourGuide
Michel
Jun 2026
5.0

On était bien encadrés par deux guides. Ils nous font passer un test avant de partir. Si on n'est pas assez à l'aise, ils nous offrent d'être passager avec l'un des guides ou de conduire une Fiat Topolino. Vous pourriez être déçus si vous vous attendez de faire de la Vespa. Dans notre groupe, près de la moitié n'était pas en Vespa. J'ai trouvé que le guide allait parfois très vite pour des touristes qui ne connaissent pas les lieux et les habitudes de conduite. Le repas et la degustation de vin se passe dans un vignoble tout près du point de départ/arrivée. C'était très bon !

GetYourGuide
Nigel
Jun 2026
5.0

Quality small van with our driver guide Haider. Only 5 of us in group so was very personal. Siena guide was excellent, very well versed and shared many interesting points. San G is a beautiful town and easy to love. Dinner at the winery after a tour and tasting was also very hospitable and good to share a meal together. Great day out.

GetYourGuide
GetYourGuide traveler
Jun 2026
5.0

Es war eine schöne und lustige Zeit. Der Kochkurs war sehr spannend und Marcello gab uns Tipps und Tricks. Sehr empfehlenswert und eine gute Abwechslung zwischen kochen und Markt.