Palermo Sicilian Street Food Tour: Small Group by Do Eat Better

Palermo , Italy

Palermo Sicilian Street Food Tour: Small Group by Do Eat Better

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About this experience

The Do Eat Better Experience food tour is a walking tour around the historical center of the city. The tourist is guided by a Foodie, a local buddy able to explain every detail of the selected restaurants, their preparations, and the relevant history/curiosities.

Do Eat Better Experience tours are a mix of high-quality gastronomy as a way of showing Italian culture and lifestyle and a walking experience together with a local friend. This is the reason why we accept small groups only: we want to focus on a genuine exchange and give to each tourist the highest attention possible.

Please, note that the tour is always run in English and Italian; other languages upon request.

Available options

Palermo Sicilian Street Food Tour: Small Group by Do Eat Better

Deal

Surprise

What's included

English-speaking local tour guide

Water

At least one alcoholic drink is included (only for over 18-year-old guests)

This is an itinerant full meal. At the end of the tour, you will have eaten the equivalent of a full meal in at least 4 stops

Detailed itinerary

In our Palermo street food tour, you will taste the best of Sicilian Street Food, walking in the loud and colorful historical city center, escorted by our local food experts.

You’ll kick off the food tour in Palermo with two absolute must-tries that give a true overview of Sicily’s rich, bold street-food culture: panino ca’ meusa and the classic panino with panelle and crocchè.
All of this unfolds in the vibrant atmosphere of the historic center, especially along Via Vittorio Emanuele, where centuries-old palazzi, bustling markets, and the constant hum of local life create the perfect backdrop. The smells of frying panelle, the calls of street vendors, and the mix of locals and travelers make this stretch of Palermo an unforgettable introduction to the city’s soul.

We will taste some of the following Sicilian street-food specialties, like the famous sfincione and rice arancina. Tucked between the historic streets of Palermo, this area feels more local and authentic, where small bakeries and street vendors carry on traditions passed down for generations. The scent of freshly baked sfincione and sizzling rice fills the air, giving you a delicious glimpse into everyday Palermitan life.

Along Via Maqueda, one of Palermo’s most vibrant and energetic streets, you’ll pause to enjoy Sicilian cannoli, a colorful, irresistible explosion of sweetness and crunch. Surrounded by music, lively crowds, historic façades, and the constant buzz of city life, this stop adds a joyful, indulgent moment to the tour, perfectly capturing Palermo’s passion for both tradition and celebration.

In the heart of the city center, you’ll take a refreshing break with Sicilian granita, a timeless local favorite. Whether enjoyed while strolling through sunlit streets or pausing in a lively square, this cool, velvety treat offers a perfect contrast to Palermo’s warm energy. Surrounded by historic buildings, everyday city rhythms, and the relaxed pace of local life, granita becomes more than a dessert, it’s a moment to slow down and savor the essence of Sicily.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

58 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

862 reviews

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Please be aware that the guide may speak both in English and Italian during the tour

Minimum drinking age is 18 years

For safety reasons, guests with severe or life-threatening food allergies are unfortunately unable to participate in this experience.

Meeting point

Meet your guide for the Do Eat Better Experience Palermo Food Tour in front of the church "Santa Maria della Catena"

About Palermo

Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily, is a city of rich history, stunning architecture, and a unique cultural blend. Known for its Norman-Arab-Byzantine influences, Palermo offers a mix of grand palaces, bustling markets, and delicious street food that will captivate any traveler.

Top Attractions

Palermo Cathedral

A stunning example of Norman-Arab-Byzantine architecture, Palermo Cathedral is a must-visit for its historical significance and beautiful interior.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours €7 for the cathedral and cloister

Palermo Cathedral

This grand palace was the seat of the Norman kings of Sicily. It houses the Palatine Chapel, known for its stunning mosaics and Arabic-Norman architecture.

Historical/Architectural 1.5-2 hours €12 for the palace and chapel

Ballarò Market

One of Palermo's most famous street markets, Ballarò offers a vibrant atmosphere with fresh produce, street food, and local crafts.

Cultural/Shopping 1-2 hours Free to explore

Monreale Cathedral

Located just outside Palermo, Monreale Cathedral is famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Historical/Religious 2-3 hours including travel €6 for the cathedral and cloister

Teatro Massimo

The largest opera house in Italy and one of the most famous in the world, Teatro Massimo is a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture.

Architectural/Entertainment 1 hour for a tour €7 for a guided tour

Must-Try Local Dishes

Arancini

Fried rice balls stuffed with ragù, mozzarella, and peas.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Panelle

Chickpea fritters, a popular street food in Palermo.

Snack Vegan

Pasta alla Norma

Pasta with tomato sauce, fried eggplant, ricotta salata, and basil.

Main Course Vegetarian

Cannoli

Crispy pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Swimming and snorkeling at Mondello Beach Beach lounging at Mondello Beach Enjoying a leisurely meal at a seaside restaurant Visiting museums and historical sites Attending local festivals and events Boat tours to the nearby islands Swimming and water sports at the beach

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. It's ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: Sicilian, English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time), GMT+2 during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Palermo is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you

Getting there

By air

Palermo Falcone-Borsellino Airport • 32 km from city center

By train

Palermo Centrale

By bus

Palermo Centrale Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is the primary mode of public transport in Palermo. It's affordable but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: FreeNow, ItTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kalsa Vigàta Mondello

Day trips

Monreale

7 km • Half day

Monreale is famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics and the Benedictine Abbey.

Cefalù

70 km • Full day

A charming coastal town known for its beautiful beach and medieval cathedral.

Erice

120 km • Full day

A medieval hilltop town with stunning views and well-preserved architecture.

Festivals

Festa di Santa Rosalia • July 10-15 Sagra del Mandarino • January to February Palermo Pride • June

Pro tips

Visit the markets early in the morning for the best selection and freshest produce
Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
Take a food tour to discover the best street food and local specialties
Explore the city on foot to discover hidden gems and charming streets
Visit the cathedral and other religious sites early in the morning to avoid crowds