Palermo Private Food Tour: 10+ Tastings of Arancini, Wine & More

Palermo , Italy

Palermo Private Food Tour: 10+ Tastings of Arancini, Wine & More

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About this experience

On our Secret Food Tour: Palermo, you'll explore the best known sights in Palermo as well as some secret hidden gems providing a local's perspective on our food culture. Navigate the maze of historical streets filled with delicious sights and smells as your expert guide leads you through the beautiful chaos of Sicily's markets.

Discover the best flavours of Sicily alongside other dishes many visitors would miss as you learn about the city's rich culinary history. From the hundreds of years of nfluence from around the world to how Sicilian food was brought to other countries
around the world.

By the end of your tour you will have tasted some of Palermo's most delectable dishes and gained a deeper appreciation of our culture and heritage.

As a private tour, everything works around you! Our start times are much more easy going, dates can open up. It's a much more intimate and cozy experience. No need to shout over other tourists, you will have every question answered!

Available options

Palermo Private Food Tour: 10+ Tastings of Arancini, Wine & More

What's included

Classic Arancina | Sicilian olives, Cheese and Charcuterie

Palermitan Spiced Sausage (not spicy) | Local Mix of Vegetables

Coffee | A Glass of White Wine | A shot of Zibibbo Sweet Wine

Pasta alla Norma | Real Cannoli

Our Signature Secret Dish!

Panelle and Crocché (locals' favourite)

Detailed itinerary

It is the oldest street of the city of Palermo. It was Phoenicians who traced the road that divided the city in two parts and connected the old port to the necropolis that was out Palermo.

The cathedral church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Palermo, located in Palermo, Sicily, southern Italy. It is dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.

You will savor the authentic flavors of traditional Italian cuisine, renowned for its rich variety and beloved by locals across the entire country. Each dish reflects the heart of Italian culinary traditions, offering a true taste of Italy's vibrant culture and heritage.

You will have the opportunity to visit and explore some of the most ancient places and landmarks in all of Europe, places rich in history and culture, dating back centuries or even millennia. These locations offer a unique glimpse into the continent's deep and fascinating past.

Vucciria market at the beginning was a butchers' area, where meat was cut and sold. In fact, the name Vucciria comes from the French word boucherie, that means butcher's shop. Then they also started to sell fish, fruit and vegetables.

Ballarò is one of the oldest street markets in Palermo, one of the most lively and surely picturesque of Sicily. Its name, Ballarò indeed, recalls its ancient arab origins, as it is Sicily’s outdoor market tradition, which explains their similarity to Arab suqs.

Enjoy a cup of locally brewed coffee, crafted from fresh, high-quality beans, which will not only revive your energy but also provide a rich, authentic taste of the region. The aromatic coffee will help you recharge and ensure you're fully prepared for the exciting adventures that lie ahead.

What's not included

Transportation

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

29 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

WE CANNOT ACCOMMODATE VEGAN, VEGETARIAN OR GLUTEN-FREE DIETS

Please note: the itinerary and menu is subject to change, based on the locations’ availability, weather, and other circumstances.

Please ensure to contact us in advance of the tour for any dietary requirement, to ensure we can cater for them the best we can.

This tour involves a fair amount of walking; comfortable shoes are recommended.

Meeting point

In the morning time the meeting spot is in Porta Nuova, Palermo. We meet right in front of the Arch, on the Corso Calatafimi side.

In the afternoon tours from 5pm is in Via Maqueda 172, right in front of the entrance to the Università degli Studi di Palermo Scienze Giuridiche ed Economico-sociali

Important notes

• We kindly ask our guests to be at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the departure time to check-in with their guide.
• Our Secret Food Tours Guide will have an orange umbrella at the meeting point for easy recognition.

• Please ensure to contact us in advance of the tour for any dietary requirement, to ensure we can cater for them the best we can. [palermo@secrettours.com]
• This tour involves a fair amount of walking; comfortable shoes are recommended.
• We regret that we are unable to accommodate guests with wheelchairs or any impairments requiring special assistance.
• Gratuities to guides providing excellent service are appreciated.

• The legal minimum age for drinking alcohol is 18 years old.
• Please note: the itinerary and menu is subject to change, based on the locations' availability, weather, and other circumstances.

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