A local’s guide to the best things to do in Palermo, Sicily

What is it? Full of small boutique shops and al fresco dining tables, Via Maqueda is a fully pedestrianised street connecting the Massimo Theatre – the third biggest opera theatre in Europe – to the breathtaking Quattro Canti square.

Why go? Palermo comes to life on this buzzing street. The hum of people chatting as they sip their aperitivo is often accompanied by street performers busking. As you stroll along, you will see beautiful baroque facades and wiry balconies overflowing with garden plants.

What is it? There is a reason why this world-renowned beach is featured on every single local postcard. With about a mile of fine golden sands meeting shallow, turquoise waters, Mondello beach is about as close to the Caribbean as it gets in the Mediterranean.

Why go? Mondello is the best place to enjoy the seaside while experiencing local colour. You will see residents from all walks of life sunbathing and playing cards under beach umbrellas, and street vendors tempting you with a selection of snacks, from freshly fried donuts and coconut slices to ice-cold beer and lemonade. When it’s 35 degrees, it’s hard to resist.

What is it? Palermo’s UNESCO walking route is an ideal way to start exploring the city’s many historical and architectural wonders. It is made up of eight monuments that date as far back as the 8th century, and can be done in one afternoon. A stone’s throw from the Cathedral is the unmissable Palazzo Reale dei Normanni which contains the Cappella Palatina, a quaint chapel made unique by its intricate mosaics set against a golden background.

Why go? Palermo is the only place in the world where Arab and Norman culture merged as closely, creating a unique style. The trail’s unique combination is symbolised by the city’s bright-red Arabesque domes atop Catholic churches.

What is it? Small but mighty, Palermo’s most vibrant street market is a sensory smorgasbord. Stalls filled with fresh fruit, vegetables, spices, fish and meat, make a splendid patchwork of colours, smells…and sounds, as the vendors tout their wares in the traditional Sicilian sing-songy lilt.

Why go? You can’t leave Sicily without stepping into a street market. Here you will also find the best street food. Follow your senses to be enraptured by a fragrant, round arancina, some deep-fried crunchy squid, or a pillowy slice of sfincione pizza.

What is it? The Cala is the historic harbor of the city. Once used for commerce and fishing, today its sleek, modernised wharf is used by small private boats and sailboats.

Why go? This is where it all started. When the Phoenicians laid down the foundations of the city in 734 BC, they picked this spot because of the strategically-located harbour. Stroll to the Chiesa della Catena, with its unique naval decorations, before stopping in Palermo’s newest chic place, the Molo Trapezoidale, for a drink while enjoying a sunset over the harbour.

What is it? Everything tastes better deep-fried. This is a mantra taken very seriously, and no place better embodies it than I Cuochini. It is a kitchen serving traditional savoury ‘rosticceria’, a type of hand-held food including calzone, arancine, and ravazzata. Tucked in an alleyway, this blink-and-you-miss-it spot is a bit of a locals’ secret.

Why go? If you’re planning to visit the city centre and want to stop for a quick bite, this is the best place to go. It’s only five minutes away from the Massimo Theatre, and it makes delicious food to eat on the go.

What is it? A traditional restaurant serving fresh seafood daily and traditional pasta dishes, decorated in a white-and-blue nautical style.

Why go? Mercede is known for shelling out the freshest and most delicious seafood in the city centre. It may not be a budget place (mains start at £20 and catch of the day around £17), but it’s well worth it.. The restaurant also serves a wide array of pasta dishes, from aubergine-filled pasta alla norma to busiate Trapanesi with fresh tomatoes and garlic.

What is it? Palermo’s hikeable peak, with a beautiful cave where, according to folklore, the city’s patron Saint Rosalia used to live.

Why go? You can see the city and a wonderful stretch of coast from this 600m-high hill. Though you can reach the peak by car, hiking all the way to the top truly rewards the senses. Mesmerising coastal vistas aside, you can immerse yourself in the lush Mediterranean colours of shrubs and bougainvillaea, all while the sea breeze keeps you fresh. And did I mention there is a tiny museum inside a cave at the top?