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Things to do in Monreale

Our most recommended things to do in Monreale

From Palermo: Monreale and Cefalù Half-Day Trip

1. From Palermo: Monreale and Cefalù Half-Day Trip

Escape the hustle and bustle of Palermo city center on a half-day tour to Monreale and Cefalù. Marvel at a Norman cathedral on the slopes of Monte Caputo, and learn the Greek and Medieval history of one of Sicily’s most beautiful towns. Following a pick-up from your hotel or the port of Palermo, transfer to Monreale where you will have approximately 1-hour to tour the Duomo. An official audio guide is included to learn the history of the 12th-century building, considered one of the greatest landmarks of medieval ecclesiastical architecture in the south of Italy. Then, drive along the north coast of Sicily, on route to the beautiful town of Cefalù. Sit back and relax on the 1.5-hour journey, and on arrival go to the 12th-century Duomo. See traces of the Middle Ages at the Osterio Magno. Get panoramic views from the Porta Terra. Discover Greek and Arabic pottery in the Mandralisca Museum, and walk down some curving stone steps to a picturesque cluster of 16th-century wash basins at the Lavatoio.

Monreale: Guided tour of Cathedral, Monastery and Mosaics

2. Monreale: Guided tour of Cathedral, Monastery and Mosaics

You'll take a guided tour of Monreale, which is just 5 kilometers from Palermo, at 310 meters above sea level on the hill of Mount Caputo. The visit will start from the cathedral, the symbol of the town, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage monument in 2012. The cathedral is undoubtedly an architectural masterpiece of the 12th-century, in which different styles are linked together: the architecture of northern Europe, Romanesque art and Arabic art. Outside, it is richly decorated by two bronze doors, the first from Bonanno da Pisa and the second by Barisano di Trani, who also sculpted the doors of the cathedrals of Ravello and Trani. The interior is illuminated by magnificent gold mosaics that culminate in the Christ Pantocrator in the apsidal basin as the highest expression of figurative art. Your tour continues with the visit to the ancient Benedictine monastery and cloister, which flank the cathedral, and a look at the beautiful sight overlooking the valley and the golden basin of orange and citrus groves.

Capuchin Catacombs and Monreale Cathedral Private Tour

3. Capuchin Catacombs and Monreale Cathedral Private Tour

Explore the ghoulish remains of friars and luminaries at Palermo’s Capuchin Catacombs on a 3-hour sightseeing tour. Wander along dank corridors through a vast human library of mummified bodies. Inaugurated in 1599, when Capuchin monks discovered that their catacombs contained a mysterious preservative that could mummify the dead, the goal of the site is to reflect on the fragility of life and consider the pettiness of worldly goods. Some 8,000 bodies of men and women were ultimately buried in the catacombs, including the mummy of friar Silvestro of Gubbio, the first body to be buried in the catacombs. The corpses are divided into categories, such as friars, virgins, and professors, and often recognizable by their decaying clothing. As you walk through the corridors, you will see ghastly bodies that include the mummified corpse of the painter Velazquez. Emerge from the gruesome catacombs and travel to Monreale, 6 miles (10 kilometers) from Palermo. Here you will swap corpses for gold and marble as you visit the 12th-century Arab-Norman Cathedral, one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in the world. End your tour at the Benedictine Cloister, completed at the turn of the 13th century. Wander around the beautiful garden, surrounded by delicate arches and white marble columns.

From Palermo: Monreale and Cefalù Day Trip

4. From Palermo: Monreale and Cefalù Day Trip

In the company of our escort driver, you will leave from Palermo and your first stop will be Monreale: a majestic village located on Mount Caputo, overlooking the "Conca d'oro". Here you can visit the cloister and the majestic cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Monreale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the Arab-Norman cathedral richest in gold and lapis lazuli in the world. The next destination that awaits you will be the wonderful Cefalù; your escort will make you walk through the streets of the city, until you reach the oldest Norman cathedral dating back to 1131: the Duomo of Cefalù. You will have 2 hours to enjoy, independently, the visit of the cathedral and admire the famous gold mosaic of "Christ Pantocrator" that dominates the presbytery . In addition to historical monuments, in Cefalù you can visit the endless beach on which stands the ancient medieval village, populated since ancient Greece.

Palermo: CruiserCar, Driven Cabriolet Tour

5. Palermo: CruiserCar, Driven Cabriolet Tour

Welcome to CruiserCar, the Premier Tour Company in Palermo. We offer a unique and personalized experience that combines the best of both worlds - a luxurious and exclusive Cabriolet Tour with an expertly guided exploration of Palermo's most famous landmarks and hidden gems. Our world-first 9-seater cabriolet ensures a panoramic view of the city and the sea as we take you on a journey that you will never forget. ich history, culture, and cuisine. Our knowledgeable local guides are passionate about their city and are committed to providing you with an unforgettable tour experience. We are dedicated to ensuring that you get the most out of your time in Palermo and are happy to answer any questions that you may have. During the tour, we'll take you to the Quattro Canti, one of Palermo's most famous landmarks, a Baroque square located at the intersection of two main streets in the historic center of Palermo. Each of the four corners of the square is adorned with a statue representing one of the four seasons, the four Spanish kings of Sicily, and the patron saints of Palermo. We'll also take you to the Cattedrale, a magnificent cathedral that is located in the heart of Palermo. The cathedral was built in the 12th century and features a mix of architectural styles, including Norman, Gothic, and Baroque. Inside the cathedral, you can admire the stunning mosaics and frescoes that depict scenes from the Bible and the lives of the saints. Our tour also includes a visit to Mondello, a charming seaside town just outside Palermo. Mondello is famous for its beautiful beach, which is one of the most popular destinations in Sicily. During the tour, you'll have the opportunity to relax on the beach and enjoy the stunning views of the sea and the mountains. We'll also take you to the famous markets of Capo, Vucciria, and Ballarò, where you can immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of Palermo's vibrant street life. The markets are a feast for the senses, with stalls selling everything from fresh produce to local handicrafts. If you're interested in exploring the surrounding areas, we also offer transportation to other towns and cities outside of Palermo, such as Cefalù and Monreale. Our personalized service means that we can customize the tour to your preferences, ensuring that you get the most out of your time in Sicily. One of the unique features of CruiserCar is the complimentary selection of food and beverages that we offer during the tour. This allows you to sample some of Palermo's finest local cuisine while taking in the sights and sounds of the city. Our knowledgeable local guides will provide you with valuable information about the history and culture of Palermo, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of the city. Our drivers are licensed, experienced, and passionate about sharing their love of Palermo with visitors from around the world. Book now and discover the beauty of Palermo with CruiserCar!

From Sciacca: Palermo and Monreale Day Trip

6. From Sciacca: Palermo and Monreale Day Trip

Program: Authentic Palermo: First stop is at the Catacombs, you will have about 30 minutes, ask for Massimo for an explanation, very helpful person. We continue further to the center of Palermo from where the free walking tour will begin, after which we will leave you in front of the Palatine Chapel where you can also ticket to the Royal or Norman Palace. Further on, a few hundred meters away, you will find the beautiful Cathedral and then continue through the streets of the center of Palermo where you will still have 3 hours, enough time to visit the points of greatest interest that you will find marked on your map such as: The 4 Canti, the Church of the Martorana, Piazza Pretoria (or Piazza della Vergogna), Palazzo Steri, Teatro Massimo and Politeama and above all the nearby markets that are very characteristic of Palermo such as the Capo, the Vucciria where you can taste typical Sicilian street food. Monreale: Later, at 2:30 pm, you are scheduled to Depart from Piazza Politeama for the magnificent Cathedral of Monreale and on the way you will have a chance to admire other aspects and beautiful places of Palermo. Second is the visit to Monreale, which takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, where you will visit the Cathedral and its magnificent Cloister. Finally, we recommend a good ice cream with brioche at Bar Italia and, before returning, a look from the Belvedere, it has a beautiful view of the whole of Palermo and, if you are lucky, you will be able to see the Aeolian islands as well.

From Palermo: Monreale Visit with Round-Trip Shuttle Service

7. From Palermo: Monreale Visit with Round-Trip Shuttle Service

An everyday transfer from Palermo city center to Monreale, one of the most beautiful and prestigious locations in western Sicily. Only 8 kilometers away from Palermo, the town enjoys a truly enviable panorama: from its 310 meters of height it is possible to admire Palermo in all its extension. Famous throughout the world for the magnificent Norman cathedral, intact in all its splendour. You have approx 2,5 hour at disposal to explore Monreale and enjoy its beauties: The Cathedral of Monreale, The Cloister, the beautiful view that can be enjoyed from the Belvedere and Civic Gallery of Modern Art. Then, the shuttle drive back to Palermo at 12:00.

Private Transfers: Palermo Airport - Trapani City

8. Private Transfers: Palermo Airport - Trapani City

Benefit from an easy private transfer from Palermo airport to Trapani city. You will travel in either an 8-seater black Renault Trafic Minivan or a 5-seat Mercedes E-Class car, all new, comfortable, and spacious vehicles. Transfers can be made from Trapani Birgi Airport, Palermo airport to all destinations in western Sicily. Feel comfortable, as your driver has been working in the industry for several years, and will take care of your transfer in a professional way. Your drivers are qualified and ready to give advice on locations. Service is quick, convenient and economical, moving easily and absolutely safe and comfortable. Should you need to make transfers to and from the Sicilian airports of Trapani and Palermo, this transfer service is the best choice. 

Palermo, Monreale and Mondello Private Tour with Street Food

9. Palermo, Monreale and Mondello Private Tour with Street Food

On this full-day tour visit the magnificent sights in the city of Palermo before moving on to the town of Monreale, where you will visit the fabulous cathedral. Finish off the day with a visit to the beach resort of Mondello. Your private chauffeur will first take you into the center of Palermo to explore its magnificent sights. Here you will visit Ruggiero VII Square (Piazza Politeama), the Theater Massimo, Quattro Canti (Piazza Vigliena), the Royal Palace and the Palatine Chapel – a beautiful chapel representing the best example of Arab-Norman art. After seeing the interesting sights in Palermo, visit the town of Monreale. Here you can admire the magnificent cathedral and cloister, one of the most stunning Norman churches.  Also visit Mondello, a popular beach resort near Palermo which was originally a small fishing village. Here you can enjoy the sight of the small fishing boats before returning to Palermo port, train station, or city center in the late afternoon. This tour will introduce you to some of Palermo's renowned and diverse, local street food.

Private Transfers from Palermo Airport to San Vito Lo Capo

10. Private Transfers from Palermo Airport to San Vito Lo Capo

Benefit from an easy private transfer from Palermo airport to San Vito Lo Capo. You will travel in either an 8-seater black Renault Trafic Minivan or a 5-seat Mercedes E-Class car, all new, comfortable, and spacious vehicles. Transfers can be booked from Trapani Birgi Airport and Palermo Airport to all destinations in western Sicily. Feel comfortable, as your driver has been working in the industry for several years, and will take care of your transfer in a professional way. Your drivers are qualified and ready to give advice on locations. Service is quick, convenient and economical, moving easily and absolutely safe and comfortable. Should you need to make transfers to and from the Sicilian airports of Trapani and Palermo, this transfer service is the best choice. 

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What people are saying about Monreale

Overall rating

4.3 / 5

based on 368 reviews

Awesome trip. We were picked up and dropped off at our Airbnb. I love hands-off tours where the driver gives you a few tips and then you're off on your own. I had my two children with me and we were able to explore on our own and enjoyed some playtime. I would definitely recommend if you're more of a hands-off traveler.

This was a great half day trip from Palermo. Monreale had great views over the cities and a lovely church. Cefalu was beautiful on the water. It was during the holidays/off season, so my was closed, but it was fun to visit.

I recommend the excursion because the visit to the cathedrals is really worth it. A compliment to the driver Adriano who acted as our guide, always available and very kind

Unforgettable experience. Two enchanting places. Furthermore, the explanations and advice from Adriano, our driver, were excellent. Recommended!

The tour was great, beautiful sites and the transportation was comfortable