Exploring Palermo’s treasures is best done through organized full-day tours, each revealing Sicily’s ancient heart. The Segesta-Erice-Trapani combination stands out as a favorite, packing three fascinating stops into one day – you’ll see pristine Greek temples, a mountaintop medieval town, and historic salt pans where locals still harvest sea salt.
For coastal charm, the sailing tours along Palermo’s shoreline are a fabulous choice, offering breaks at authentic fishing villages where you can sample the catch of the day. The Monreale and Cefalù private tour is particularly special, combining Sicily’s finest Norman cathedral with a perfect medieval coastal town – ideal for travelers who prefer intimate, off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Let’s look at our recommended full-day tours that showcase the best of Palermo and its surroundings.
Key Points
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Segesta, Erice & Salt Pans Excursion: A full-day tour featuring archaeological sites, medieval towns, and salt harvesting, with knowledgeable guides and air-conditioned transport.
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Sailing Tour in Palermo: An 8-hour sailing tour along Palermo’s coastline, offering a unique perspective of Sicily’s beauty, with a light lunch and regional wines.
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Cefalù & Castelbuono Excursion: A full-day trip from Palermo to medieval Castelbuono and picturesque Cefalù, with round-trip air-conditioned transport and knowledgeable guides.
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Exclusive Excursions to Monreale & Cefalù: A private full-day tour from Palermo to Monreale and Cefalù, showcasing historical sights and cultural experiences with air-conditioned transport.
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Full Day Boat Tour in Palermo: A 7-hour boat tour exploring Palermo’s crystal-clear waters, with snorkeling, swimming, Sicilian cuisine, and Aperol Spritz.
Segesta Erice and Salt Pans Full Day Excursion
The Segesta Erice and Salt Pans Full Day Excursion offers travelers an opportunity to explore some of Sicily’s most captivating historical and natural sites.
Starting from Palermo, this full-day tour takes visitors to the archaeological site of Segesta, the medieval hilltop town of Erice, and the Trapani Salt Pans.
With an impressive 3.9-star rating from 80 reviews, the excursion provides knowledgeable guides, air-conditioned transportation, and inclusions like lunch and entrance fees.
While some travelers suggest more time at certain locations, the tour’s highlights, such as the stunning views from Erice and the salt harvesting process, make it a well-rounded experience for visitors seeking to enjoy the region’s rich history and natural wonders.
Read our full review: Segesta Erice and Salt Pans Full Day Excursion Review
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Palermo: Sailing Tour With Light Lunch (Full Day)
Set out on a captivating full-day sailing tour along Palermo’s stunning coastline and experience Sicily’s natural beauty from the sea.
This 8-hour small-group tour takes you on a relaxing journey, including a light lunch. Sail past the picturesque fishing villages, hidden coves, and dramatic cliffs that dot the shoreline.
Stop for a refreshing swim and enjoy a delicious Sicilian lunch with regional wines. With 5-star reviews, this tour offers an unforgettable way to explore Palermo from a unique perspective.
Priced at $99.73 per person, or $89.76 with a discount, it’s a must-do activity for those seeking a leisurely day on the water.
Read our full review: Palermo: Sailing Tour With Light Lunch (Full Day) Review
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Great Full Day Excursion in Sicily to Cefalù and Castelbuono From Palermo
Departing from Palermo, this full-day excursion takes travelers on a captivating journey to the medieval village of Castelbuono and the picturesque town of Cefalù.
With a 96% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this tour offers round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned minivan and the option to choose between luxury or regular van based on budget.
Highlights include exploring the Castle of Ventimiglia, visiting local pastry shops, and discovering the UNESCO-listed cathedral, Old Town, and beach in Cefalù.
Knowledgeable guides, like Umberto and Cristian, are praised for their expertise, and travelers can savor the local cuisine and regional products during their free time.
Read our full review: Great Full Day Excursion in Sicily to Cefalù and Castelbuono From Palermo Review
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Full Day Boat Tour in Palermo With Palermo in Boat
This full-day boat tour with Palermo in Boat offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the crystal-clear waters surrounding Palermo.
The tour lasts 7 hours and costs €199 per person. Highlights include stops at Vergine Maria Beach, Mondello Beach, Isola delle Femmine, and Grotta Regina, where visitors can snorkel, swim, and enjoy Sicilian cuisine.
The tour includes an Aperol Spritz for adults, Coca Cola for children, and a savory aperitif with Sicilian street food, as well as a lunch of baked pasta.
Snorkeling equipment is provided, and the tour operates on comfortable vintage-style or modern boats.
With an overall 5/5 rating, this tour is a great way to experience Palermo’s beautiful coastline.
Read our full review: Full Day Boat Tour in Palermo With Palermo in Boat Review
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Full Day City Tour in Palermo , Monreale and Mondello, From Palermo
Where can travelers explore the rich history and stunning landscapes of Palermo, Monreale, and Mondello in a single day?
The Full Day City Tour offers an immersive experience, visiting these three iconic Sicilian towns. Operated by Apetour N.C.C. di Peritore Cristian, this tour boasts a 90% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence.
Priced from $267.31 per person, the tour includes hotel/port pickup, air-conditioned transportation, and an English-speaking driver who provides commentary. Highlights include leisurely stops at each site, allowing time to take in the beautiful scenery.
While a licensed guide isn’t included, the driver offers insights into the local culture. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a convenient and customizable way to discover the wonders of Sicily.
Read our full review: Full Day City Tour in Palermo , Monreale and Mondello, From Palermo Review
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Best Full Day Exclusive Excursion in Sicily to Cefalù & Castelbuono From Palermo
Travelers seeking an immersive Sicilian experience can embark on a Best Full Day Exclusive Excursion from Palermo to the captivating towns of Cefalù and Castelbuono.
This small-group tour offers a personalized journey, with a professional English-speaking driver and private transportation. Guests will explore the medieval lanes and Castle of Ventimiglia in hilltop Castelbuono, then visit the seafront town of Cefalù, renowned for its magnificent cathedral and sandy beach.
The tour is highly recommended, with 100% of travelers rating it 4.9 out of 5. While food, drinks, and tickets aren’t included, hassle-free pickup from Palermo accommodations ensures a seamless experience.
Read our full review: Best Full Day Exclusive Excursion in Sicily to Cefalù & Castelbuono From Palermo Review
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Full Day Exclusive Excursion to Segesta, Erice & Trapani Salt Flats From Palermo
For those seeking to enjoy the rich history and natural wonders of western Sicily, the Full Day Exclusive Excursion to Segesta, Erice & Trapani Salt Flats from Palermo offers an unparalleled opportunity.
Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars, this private tour promises an unforgettable exploration of iconic sites like the Greek theater and temple in Segesta, the medieval town of Erice, and the captivating Trapani salt flats.
Alongside professional guides, guests can sample local wines, almond sweets, and traditional cuisine.
With round-trip transportation from Palermo, this exclusive experience allows travelers to make the most of their time, whether marveling at ancient ruins or wandering charming coastal towns.
Read our full review: Full Day Exclusive Excursion to Segesta, Erice & Trapani Salt Flats From Palermo Review
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Etna and Taormina Full Day Excursion From Palermo
Offering a captivating blend of natural wonders and cultural exploration, the Etna and Taormina Full Day Excursion from Palermo takes travelers on an unforgettable journey.
Beginning at 6:00 AM, the tour departs from Palermo, whisking participants to the iconic Mount Etna and the picturesque town of Taormina.
Despite the long day, travelers can expect scenic vistas, friendly drivers, and an enjoyable experience, though some may find the organization and timing lacking.
With moderate fitness required, the tour includes hotel pickup, lunch, and entrance fees, though additional activities like the cable car and jeep tours come at an extra cost.
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Full Day Exclusive Excursion to Monreale & Cefalù From Palermo
Embarking on a captivating journey, this full-day private tour takes visitors from Palermo to the renowned destinations of Monreale and Cefalù.
Discover the historical sights, including Monreale’s 12th-century cathedral with its breathtaking mosaics and Cefalù’s picturesque seaside beauty.
Travel in air-conditioned comfort, with bottled water provided. Enjoy free time to explore local boutiques, and benefit from hotel pickup and drop-off.
The tour operates exclusively for your group, with a professional English-speaking driver at the helm.
While food, drinks, and tickets aren’t included, a licensed guide is available upon request.
This immersive experience showcases the best of Sicily’s cultural and natural wonders.
Read our full review: Full Day Exclusive Excursion to Monreale & Cefalù From Palermo Review
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Medieval Castles Guided Tour of Caccamo and Cefalù, Full Day From Palermo.
On this full-day guided tour, visitors will explore the medieval wonders of Caccamo and Cefalù, departing from Palermo.
The tour includes a visit to the UNESCO-listed Duomo in Cefalù, along with free time to wander the medieval houses and shops.
Travelers will also embark on a guided tour of the well-preserved Castello di Caccamo.
The tour provides round-trip transportation from the Hotel Politeama in Palermo, with an air-conditioned vehicle and a professional guide.
While food and drinks aren’t included, the tour covers entrance fees and offers the flexibility of direct meeting or pickup options.
With a maximum of 35 travelers, this experience is suitable for most visitors to Palermo.
Read our full review: Medieval Castles Guided Tour of Caccamo and Cefalù, Full Day From Palermo. Review
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The Sum Up
Palermo offers a variety of full-day tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s rich history and natural beauty. From sailing tours and city tours to excursions to nearby towns and landmarks, there’s something for all. Whether you’re interested in ancient ruins, picturesque seaside villages, or stunning natural landscapes, Palermo has a full-day tour that’ll suit your interests.