Palermo: Norman Palace & Palatine Chapel – Small Group or Private

In Palermo

From
£37 pp
1h 30 mins · 4.7 (89)
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Palermo: Norman Palace & Palatine Chapel – Small Group or Private
Visit two absolute must-sees in the Sicilian capital with this guided tour of the Palazzo dei Normanni and Cappella Palatina, including entrance tickets. With more than 800 years of history, it’s perfect for culture vultures! Of all the incredible attractions in Palermo, the Palazzo dei Normanni is one that you can’t miss off your itinerary. Once the seat of the King of Sicily, it is the oldest royal residence in Europe and you can learn the history of all the dynasties who had their thrones here - as well as visiting a stunning and sublime channel. You’ll get exclusive entrance into the palace and its gardens Though not as well known as Rome’s Sistine Chapel or Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, the Cappella Palatina (or Palatine Chapel) is one of the most spectacular in all of Italy. Not only do your tickets allow you entrance to the palace and chapel, but you can explore the gardens too with your expert guide!
Free cancellation

What's included

  • See the remains of a melting pot of eastern and western history in the Cappella Palatina
  • Tickets and guided visit of Palace, Gardens and Cappella Palatina
  • Be ready to visit one of the most ancient palaces in Europe
  • Marvel at the Byzantine mosaics on the walls
  • Licensed English or Spanish Speaking Guide
  • Private Tour Guide (if Private option purchased)

What's not included

  • GRATUITIES
  • Hotel pick up and drop off

Itinerary

  1. The Norman Palace. Construction on the palace started in the 9th century when Sicily was under Islamic rule, though it was renovated by the Normans in 1072 when their empire spread across Europe. Now, it’s the home of the Sicilian Regional assembly. You’ll get exclusive entrance into the palace and its gardens. Though not as well known as Rome’s Sistine Chapel or Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, the Cappella Palatina (or Palatine Chapel) is one of the most spectacular in all of Italy. The chapel, on the second-floor of the palace, was built in 1140 and gives an insight into the arts, science and philosophy of the dominant Western and Middle Eastern cultures at that time. See traditional Islamic designs, Byzantine mosaics, and golden decorations in one of the best examples of the Arab - Norman - Byzantine style. Not only do your tickets allow you entrance to the palace and chapel, but you can explore the gardens too with your expert guide (1h 0min) Admission included
  2. The Palatine Chapel (Italian: Cappella Palatina) is the royal chapel of the Norman Palace in Palermo, Sicily. This building is a mixture of Byzantine, Norman and Fatimid architectural styles, showing the tricultural state of Sicily during the 12th century after Roger I and Robert Guiscard conquered the island. (30 min) Admission included

Meeting & end point

Meeting point
Piazza del Parlamento, Palermo. Look for our tour guide in front of Palazzo dei Normanni main entrance. TIME: CLIENTS ARE REQUIRED TO BE AT THE MEETING POINT 15 MINUTES PRIOR TO THE SCHEDULED DEPARTURE TIME
End point
Piazza del Parlamento, Palermo. Look for our tour guide in front of Palazzo dei Normanni main entrance. TIME: CLIENTS ARE REQUIRED TO BE AT THE MEETING POINT 15 MINUTES PRIOR TO THE SCHEDULED DEPARTURE TIME

Practical information

Operated by
Towns of Italy
Max group size
16 travellers
Travellers per booking
1–15
Languages
en, es
Confirmation
INSTANT

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation available.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Important notes

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Please note: Palazzo dei Normani is a government venue. In case of official events or meeting the tour could be subject to cancellation
  • The tour runs rain or shine
  • We are sorry to inform you that pets are not permitted on our tours

Frequently asked questions

This tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes. Allow a little extra time at either end if you need to transfer between the ship and the excursion meeting point.

The excursion price typically covers transport, a qualified guide, and the activities listed in the description above. Meals, gratuities, personal shopping, and any entrance fees not mentioned in the description are usually paid separately on the day.

Age and fitness guidance for this excursion is not specified in the data we hold. The tour description above is the best guide — if you have any specific concerns, contact your cruise line's excursion desk before departing the ship.