Entertainment In Palermo

Palermo has an impressive array of different entertainment options. A great way to spend an evening is to enjoy the atmosphere of a busy Sicilian pizzeria, or to view one of the traditional Sicilian street or puppet theatres. The city also has a number of lively bars and a good classical and opera music scene.

Eating out

Lovers of good food wont be disappointed in Palermo and the wonderful aromas of typical Sicilian cooking can be had all over the city. There is a wide range of different eateries, as you would expect in a city with a rich cultural heritage. Alongside the many traditional Sicilian restaurants are American diners, German restaurants and French crperies as well as Chinese, North African and speciality seafood restaurants. Visitors to Palermo will certainly have no problem finding a restaurant to suit both their hunger and their wallet.

For seafood, head to one of the many restaurants close to the sea, and for something special, some of the citys top hotels have excellent restaurants. For a reasonably priced Sicilian experience, a trip to a local pizzeria with wood-fuelled ovens is a must. The antipasti are usually excellent in the pizzerias, and the atmosphere is something to savour.

Local cuisine

Sicily was conquered and influenced by many different cultures over the centuries and this is reflected in the local cuisine. Specialities to sample include; pasta con le sarde (pasta with sardines, anchovies, pine nuts and fennel); panelle (small, fried snacks made from chickpea flour); caponata (aubergine salad) and some delicious deserts, notably: cassata (a sugary cake); frutta di martorana (marzipan pastries) and of course, lots of delicious ice cream.

Theatre and music

The two main theatres in Palermo - Massimo and Politeama - have an excellent and diverse programme reflecting the cultural history of Sicily. Sicily is also known for its street and puppet theatre, and this is well worth seeing if you get the chance. As is true of many Italian cities, Palermo has numerous options for fans of opera or classical music. The Massimo Theatre has the largest stage in the world and frequently plays host to some of the most renowned names in opera. There are numerous smaller music venues offering a range of musical styles, from chamber music to jazz; the theatres Golden, Biondo, Don Orione and Crystal are some of the more notable venues.

Shopping

The most famous of traditional Palermo craftwork are the pupi (puppets) that are a real part of Sicilian culture and have been declared masterpieces by UNESCO. Some of the best workshops, where skilled craftsman make these marionettes, are on corso Vittorio Emanuele.

Vucciria Market is one of the citys key attractions and shouldnt be missed. If you are interested in shopping for smart Italian labels and designer clothes then make you way to the sophisticated via Libert, where you will find all the top Italian and European labels represented.