Things to do in Palermo

Not really. Etna and Taormina are on the eastern side of the island, a long drive away. From Palermo they are possible only as very long days; if Etna is the main goal, a base in Taormina or Catania makes more sense.

Not in the centre. The sandy beach most visitors use is Mondello, about 11 km north of the centre and reachable by city bus or taxi. Mondello is also where several boat tours start, so check the meeting point on each booking page.

Palermo's airport lies west of the city. Bus and train links to the centre exist and take roughly 40 to 70 minutes depending on traffic and service; taxis and private transfers are the fast option. Timetables and fares change, so check the operator's current page.

Yes. Monreale is a short bus ride from the centre, and Cefalù is a direct regional train of roughly 40 to 60 minutes. Tours pay off for places with slow public transport, such as Segesta, Erice and Agrigento, or when you want a guide.

Access rules and opening days change, and parts close on certain days and during religious services or parliamentary sessions. Check the official opening page or the booking page of the ticket before you plan the day around it.

It has no resort-style beach in the centre, no Etna on the doorstep and a limited-traffic zone in the old town. It is a city for walking, eating and day trips, and in high summer it is very hot in the afternoon.