archive.php

Destination: Palermo

Mild weather, alleyways scented with citrus and squares filled with locals: in spring, Palermo reveals its authentic side, luminous and surprisingly accessible. The perfect time to discover it slowly — and with a smart budget.

The Perfect Season to Experience the City (Without the Crowds)

There is a sunny and vibrant Palermo that fills with visitors in summer. And then there’s a more intimate Palermo that, between March and May, regains its natural rhythm.

In spring, temperatures are mild — ideal for walking for hours without the intense heat of the summer months — and the city invites slow exploration. Terraces glow with golden light, markets return to being neighbourhood hubs rather than just tourist attractions, and squares become everyday meeting places.

monumento palermo tramonto

For low-cost travellers, seniors or Europeans seeking an authentic urban escape, this is the best time: more affordable prices, fewer queues and a significantly higher quality of experience.

Walking Between History and Light: Culture Without the Extreme Heat

Spring is the ideal season to discover Palermo’s Old Town, one of the largest in Europe.

The Cathedral of Palermo can be visited at a relaxed pace, without the scorching sun that in summer makes even the climb to the panoramic rooftops demanding. The Teatro Massimo, the city’s cultural symbol, often offers a rich programme during the spring months: attending a performance here is an elegant and accessible experience.

Cattedrale di Palermo
Cathedral of Palermo

At Quattro Canti, the Baroque crossroads that marks the heart of the Old Town, you can pause without being swept away by the constant flow of tourists. The spring light enhances the golden façades and invites you to slow down.

Walking becomes a pleasure: no suffocating heat, just a light breeze coming from the sea and the scent of jasmine beginning to spread through hidden courtyards.

Less Tourism, More Authenticity

In spring, Palermo residents get their city back.

At the Ballarò Market, you mostly hear Sicilian spoken. Vendors shout out the prices of fresh fish and seasonal produce: broad beans, artichokes, late citrus fruits. The Vucciria regains a more authentic atmosphere in the morning hours, far from the summer nightlife.

mercato palermo

This is the time when you can truly observe daily life: elderly people sitting on benches in the sun, university students meeting in courtyards, families strolling along the seafront of the Foro Italico.

For those travelling on a budget, this authenticity also means greater availability of accommodation, better flight deals and cheaper rates than in high season.

Spring at the Table: Fresh Flavours and Tradition

Palermo’s cuisine has no season, but in spring it is enriched with fresh and lighter produce.

It is the perfect time to taste arancine, crispy panelle or a caponata prepared with the first vegetables of the season. In historic bakeries, cannoli are filled on the spot, while in downtown cafés a coffee accompanied by a little slice of cassata becomes a slow ritual.

Eating in Palermo can be surprisingly affordable. Quality street food, neighbourhood trattorias and daily set menus allow you to enjoy the local cuisine without breaking the bank. For those who prefer a calmer pace, having lunch al fresco in a sunny square is one of the season’s simple yet memorable pleasures.

The Sea, Without the Summer Rush

Just a few kilometres from the centre, Mondello beach in spring is a small luxury.

It is not yet the time for rows of umbrellas and crowded beach clubs: the sea is clear, promenade strolls are peaceful and you can enjoy the view without the chaos. Even without swimming on the agenda, the sight of Monte Pellegrino and the turquoise water is well worth the trip.

mondello dall'alto

For those seeking a break from the urban dimension, this combination of city and sea — in the same day — makes Palermo a complete and versatile destination.

Some Tips for Enjoying Palermo in Spring

  • Visit the splendid Cappella Palatina at the Palazzo dei Normanni: the golden mosaics shine with a soft light and queues are significantly more manageable than in summer.
  • Treat yourself to a comfortable yet informal stop at Antica Focacceria San Francesco.
  • For something sweet, head to Pasticceria Cappello: their cannolo filled on the spot is worth the journey.
  • In Mondello you will find simple trattorias where you can enjoy pasta with sardines, swordfish rolls and crisp Sicilian white wine. Prices remain accessible off-season and the atmosphere is relaxed.
  • For an affordable aperitif with a view, pick a terrace bar overlooking the sea in the Kalsa neighbourhood.
  • Just 30 minutes from Palermo lies Monreale, with its extraordinary Monreale Cathedral. In spring it can be visited at a leisurely pace, and the cloister is a shaded corner perfect for a contemplative pause.
  • Alternatively, take a trip to Sferracavallo — a seaside village less touristy than Mondello. Here you can eat fish as fresh as it comes in family-run trattorias, often with fixed-price daily menus.

Palermo All Year Round: The Delights of the Low Season

Visiting Palermo in spring means discovering a city that is bright but not scorching, lively but not chaotic. It is the time when its cultural heritage can be explored with pleasure, its cuisine savoured slowly and local life observed unfiltered.

Palermo is not just a summer destination: it is a city that offers authentic experiences all year long. Spring, however, reveals its most balanced and accessible side.

And if you love discovering cities through their flavours, culture and daily rhythm, let yourself be inspired by the other Volare articles dedicated to food, wine and urban travel: new destinations, new seasons, new stories to experience outside of the peak season.

In this month of March dedicated to women, we explore European cities through the women who have shaped them — and continue to shape them: goddesses, writers, artists, chefs and pioneers who inspire our journeys.

Exploring a city is never a neutral act. We walk along streets shaped by centuries of history, we look at monuments, museums and squares… but for a long time, that history was almost always told from a male perspective. Today, travelling with a female lens means broadening our focus: discovering the women — real or symbolic — who have helped to build the character, culture and identity of the places we visit.

On the occasion of 8 March, International Women’s Day, we invite you to embark on a different kind of urban journey. Six European cities, six female perspectives, and six ways of understanding travel as an homage to, a discovery and a recognition of women. Because cities can also be understood through them.

Athens, under the protection of Athena

It is impossible to understand Athens without Athena — not only as a mythological figure, goddess of wisdom, strategy and the arts, but also as a founding concept. Athena embodies a form of power that was unusual in the classical imagination: not based on strength, but on intelligence, speech and strategy. Her selection as the city’s protector — over Poseidon — was no coincidence. By offering the olive tree, a symbol of life, work and balance, she defined the values upon which the city would be founded.

Her presence extended far beyond the temples. Athena shaped civic and social life through celebrations such as the Panathenaia, a grand urban festival combining ritual, sport, music and craftsmanship that involved the entire community. During these celebrations, Athenian women played an essential role: they were the ones who wove the sacred peplos offered to the goddess, a collective gesture that united femininity with the city’s very identity.

The Temple of Athena Nike, dedicated to victory understood as intelligence and foresight, encapsulates this vision perfectly. Walking through Athens with Athena as your guide means viewing the city from a female perspective that values reflection, creativity and shared responsibility — an invisible yet profound legacy that continues to shape the Athenian spirit.

Templo de Atenea Niké Atenas
Temple of Athena Niké

In a more contemporary vein, there is a figure who perfectly represents Greek female artistic excellence of the twentieth century: Maria Callas. Although born in New York, she trained in Athens and always maintained a deep connection with the city. To connect with her legacy, you can visit the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre, home of the Greek National Opera.

Palermo, popular soul and female voice

Palermo is a city best experienced through the senses: in its markets, its music, its layered and contrasting streets. One of the female voices who best captured this vibrant, popular Palermo was Rosa Balistreri, an iconic singer and figure of Sicilian culture. Through her songs, Rosa gave voice to everyday life, intense emotions and the indomitable character of the island, transforming tradition into a living identity.

ollowing in her footsteps means discovering an authentic and deeply Mediterranean Palermo. The Kalsa district, with its squares opening onto the sea and its creative energy, reflects the free and popular spirit that shaped her work. Historic markets such as Ballarò or Vucciria allow you to understand the city through its bustle, aromas and daily life — elements that inspired so many of her songs. And the Teatro Massimo, the city’s grand cultural temple, symbolises that Palermo where music and emotion occupy a central place.

Visiting Palermo through the eyes of Rosa Balistreri means embracing passion, authenticity and the pride of a city that expresses itself through song.

Florence, power and refinement with Catherine de’ Medici

Born in Florence in 1519 and later Queen of France, Caterina de’ Medici was one of the most notable female figures of the European Renaissance. Raised in the refined humanist environment of the Medici family, she grew up surrounded by art, politics and power — an education that would deeply influence her approach to governance. In France, she not only exerted decisive political influence, but also acted as a patron and ambassador of Italian Renaissance taste, promoting the arts, architecture and cultural life at court.

Today, her Florentine story unfolds through specific places. Palazzo Medici Riccardi, her birthplace, helps us understand the context of power and sophistication in which she was formed. The Le Murate complex, where she took refuge after being orphaned, speaks of a childhood marked by political instability. The Medici Chapels symbolise the historical significance of the family to which she belonged and their artistic legacy.

Florence, seen through Caterina, is a city where power, culture and strategy also had a female face.

Palazzo Medici Riccardi

Curiosity: when Caterina left Florence to settle in Paris, not only did she bring artists and craftsmen with her, but also the refinement of Florentine cuisine. She is credited with introducing new habits, ingredients and a more sophisticated culinary vision to the French court, leaving a lasting influence on the country’s gastronomic culture. Further proof that the Florentine spirit travelled far beyond Italy with her.

Barcelona and the literary voice of Mercè Rodoreda

Mercè Rodoreda is one of the great voices of Catalan literature and a key figure for understanding 20th-century Barcelona. Through novels such as La plaça del Diamant, she portrayed everyday life, memory and the city’s wounds, giving a voice — with unprecedented sensitivity — to female experiences in a Barcelona marked by war and post-war hardship. Few writers have captured the city with such delicacy, and La plaça del Diamant transformed this corner of the Gràcia neighbourhood into a universal literary symbol.

Plaça del Diamant is today a quiet, everyday, deeply Barcelonian place. Walking through the area means stepping into an intimate, feminine and resilient city, far from the major tourist icons.

colometa plaça diamant
Detail of the monument la Colometa, plaça del Diamant

Through Rodoreda, Barcelona reveals itself in details and emotions.

“And I went into Plaça del Diamant (…) and I covered my face with my arms to protect myself from I don’t know what and I let out a hellish scream. A scream I must have been carrying around inside me for many years, so thick it was hard for it to get through my throat, and with that scream a little bit of nothing trickled out of my mouth, and that bit of nothing that had lived so long trapped inside me was my youth and it flew off with a scream of I don’t know what…letting go?”
— La plaça del Diamant, Mercè Rodoreda

Madrid, a creative capital in the feminine

Madrid is a city constantly reinvented through its female creators. Painters, illustrators and writers dialogue with tradition while driving the cultural scene towards new forms of expression. A good starting point to understand this energy is the Museo Reina Sofía, where female presence in contemporary art is increasingly visible, as well as creative districts such as Barrio de las Letras or Carabanchel, which have become true artistic laboratories.

Among the most recognizable voices of this creative Madrid is Valeria Palmeiro, artistically known as Coco Dávez, a multidisciplinary artist based in the capital whose work revolves around colour as an emotional language and identity as her creative territory. Her renowned Faceless series, begun in 2015, proposes featureless portraits where the absence of a face allows us to project ourselves onto others using collective memory and chromatic intuition. Her work has been exhibited in galleries and cultural spaces across different countries and she has collaborated with international brands and institutions.

Madrid is where her work has grown and evolved. The city is not only her home but also her creative laboratory: here she has a studio in Carabanchel, where she develops her artistic practice, offers mentorships and occasionally opens her doors to the public for meetings, visits and cultural events. For her, Madrid represents movement, diversity, community and a constant energy that directly dialogues with her way of understanding art.

Lyon and the flavour of Eugénie Brazier

Lyon is synonymous, among other things, with outstanding gastronomy, and much of this reputation is owed to women. Pioneer chef Eugénie Brazier, the first to earn three Michelin stars, paved the way for the famous Mères lyonnaises. These popular cooks were mostly women of humble origin, who, between the late 19th and early 20th centuries transformed domestic cooking into unpretentious haute cuisine. Having worked as cooks for bourgeois families, many of them lost their jobs due to economic crises or wars and went on to open their own small restaurants.

Their cooking was sincere, generous and product-based, rooted in traditional regional recipes: hearty, well-executed dishes, without artifice. Over time, these establishments became must-stop destinations for travellers, politicians and food lovers, establishing Lyon’s international fame as a culinary capital. Among the most famous were the aforementioned Eugénie Brazier, Marie Bourgeois and Mère Fillioux, who was the mentor of the legendary Paul Bocuse.

During your visit to Lyon, you should not miss a dinner at the restaurant once owned by Eugénie, La Mère Brazier, where traditional cuisine is celebrated as cultural heritage. This local excellence proves that Michelin-starred chefs are not only men.

credits: lamerebrazier.fr

A wish for 8 March

Travelling with a female lens means broadening the narrative, recognising voices have long been overlooked, and celebrating the women who have shaped — and continue to shape — the cities we love to visit.

This 8 March, Volare wishes to see every trip as an opportunity to discover new female role models and that there will be more and more outstanding women shaping the cultural pulse of our cities in the future.

Happy International Women’s Day to everyone!

The days are getting shorter, temperatures are dropping, rain, snow, and grey skies are back, and outdoor plans are becoming less and less attractive. If the bleak winter weather gets you down and you feel like spending some time out of your coat and gloves, here are some destinations for a sunny New Year 2026.

Some people don’t care about the cold and want to spend New Year’s Eve in a lively European capital, see 2025 out on the slopes, or are already thinking of big dinners with friends and family. Then, there are those who miss the summer, keep their suitcase always packed and ready to go, and have decided to end the year in an above-freezing location and wonder off into the sunset. So if you are lucky, you will say goodbye to 2025 with your feet in the sand!

Here are our suggestions for a cozy and warm New Year’s Eve.

New Year’s Eve 2025 in Marseille

marseille port winter

Although it may not reach the 25 °C of other warmer capitals for New Year’s Eve, Marseille has a special charm: being by the Mediterranean, its climate remains relatively mild even in winter, and its urban atmosphere —young, lively and cosmopolitan— helps to “warm up” the festive spirit. For instance, on New Year’s Eve a spectacular fireworks display lights up the Vieux-Port, where thousands gather to welcome the new year.

There are also themed parties in iconic spots such as the rooftop of the  Les Terrasses du Port shopping centre (“Masquerade” event) or lively bar-crawl routes for a fun and social night. At the same time, Marseille lets you “breathe the Mediterranean” even in December: strolls through the old town, panoramic views from the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, and outdoor activities in the nearby Calanques National Park (not for swimming anymore, but perfect for enjoying the scenery).

If you’re looking for a New Year’s destination that combines city life, the sea, good vibes and mild weather —without giving up on an urban celebration— Marseille is a safe bet to close out 2026.

Useful information:

  • Find cheap flights to Marseille with Volotea
  • Average temperature in December–January: 12-7 °C
  • Must-see: the Vieux-Port with its fireworks display, the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, Le Panier district, and the Calanques National Park (scenic walks).

New Year’s Eve 2026 in Cagliari

Who said Sardinia is only nice in the summer? With a youthful, relaxed atmosphere, a people-friendly centre and, above all, mild temperatures and an almost ever-present sun, Cagliari is an amazing place to see in the New Year. Concerts in the square, Christmas markets, all kinds of performances and trips are more than enough to please both party animals and those who prefer a bit or shopping or exploring nature.

This year it will be Copeland, the historic drummer of the band Police, who will liven up the New Year’s Eve concert in Piazza Yenne, which will be followed by a DJ set until 1:30 a.m. We’d also recommend the Christmas markets in the old town, a panoramic walk along the bastions and venturing out of town to enjoy the wonders of the sea in winter.

And if you want to spend New Year’s Eve in Sardinia but already know Cagliari, you will be happy to know that both Alghero and Olbia have prepared unbelievable concerts for the last night of the year, with artists Gabry Ponte and Marco Mengoni, respectively.

Useful info:

New Year’s Eve 2026 in Malaga

panorama notturno malaga

The Andalusian city of Malaga is the perfect destination for those who seek a lively and urban atmosphere, a mild climate, and a beach to take long, relaxing walks. The gorgeous Christmas lights are the perfect backdrop to go shopping and bar hopping down calle Larios. At the port, the restaurants loved by the locals serve the best New Year’s Eve dinners, usually a fish dish. Get your tastebuds ready for the grape-eating tradition, las uvas, when the clock strikes midnight, you swallow a grape with every strike of the clock! If you are fast and concentrated (or sober) enough to succeed, your wishes for the new year will have come true, or at least that’s what they say…

The best place to wait for the campanadas and raise a toast to the new year in Malaga’s Plaza Constitución, a quick walk from beach where you can watch the fireworks.

And if you are still in the city on 5 January, you can’t miss the traditional Wise Men’s parade (Los Reyes Magos), beloved by Spaniards and a favourite for kids.

Useful info:

New Year’s Eve 2026 in Fuerteventura

spiaggia fuerteventura

If you decide to spend 31 December in the Canary Islands, you will feel that you are experiencing an exotic early summer just a few hours from home. Any island in this archipelago in the Atlantic ocean, across from Northwestern Africa, is perfect to enjoy the sun, sea, nature, do sport and leisure activities, or relax during your new year’s holidays. And they all have their own peculiarities that travellers love.

Today, we will tell you about an island that has become famous among young people for its fantastic beaches, ideal surfing conditions, relaxed atmosphere, and its beautiful wild landscapes. We are talking about Fuerteventura, a natural paradise that attracts so many visitors every year, drawn by its unique rhythm.

While the south of the island is the area most visited in the summer by beach lovers, the north side is home to Corralejo, a tourist resort that has retained its fishermen’s village soul. We recommend using it as your base and renting a car to explore the area once you have recovered from the New Year’s Eve dinner and drinks. Other two island towns with a high level of fun (even if you won’t find Tenerife-level excesses here) are Jandia and Puerto Rosario.

corralejo fuerteventura
Corralejo

The grape-eating tradition is also sacred in Fuerteventura, so grab a bottle of sparkling wine and celebrate by the sea as the clock strikes midnight with your friends or better half.

Useful info:

New Year’s Eve 2026 in Athens

panorama Atene

Spending New Year’s Eve in Athens is a great idea for three reasons: its unique art heritage, mild climate that is ideal for cultural visits and outdoor celebrations, and its low prices, which make it one of the most low-cost European capitals. It’s a great destination for Christmas traditions: the Greek Orthodox Church celebrates differently from Catholics, and, even though Christmas decorations are everywhere, you will experience the traditions associated with Saint Basil, whose feast is 1 January and is the most important day for the Greeks. Saint Basil is the equivalent of Santa Claus, and in New Year’s Eve Athens children go door to door signing carols (calanda) and are given Christmas sweets.

Even though many Greeks spend New Year’s Eve at home with their family, Athens is a lively metropolis which offers tonnes of entertainment to visitors. If you’d like to toast outdoors, go to Syntagma o Thisseio Square, where DJ parties and concerts are held every 31 December. If you prefer to stay indoors, no problem: you’ll find dozens of parties in discos, bars, and pubs.

Useful info:

  • Find low-cost flights to Athens with Volotea
  • Average temperature December-January: 15-8ºC
  • What you shouldn’t miss: the Acropolis, the Agora, Plaka and Monastiriki districts, Filopappo and Licabetto hills, and the National Archaeological Museum.

New Year’s Eve 2026 at Palermo

palermo tetti

Palermo is one of those destinations oozing with personality which are impossible to ignore. It’s an inspired choice for New Year’s Eve, because it combines the weather and atmosphere of the Mediterranean seaside and the stimulating, fascinating appeal of a large European city full of history, culture, and nightlife. In addition to its gorgeous Baroque and Art Nouveau wonders, visiting Palermo in New Year’s Eve is also a gold mine for the foodies, because the local gastronomy alone is worth the trip!

It’s easy to find the perfect activity to spend New Year’s Eve in the best way possible in Palermo, whose fascinating lanes, churches, theatres, and venues host concerts and all kinds of events. In particular, the four districts in the historic centre, Kalsa, Vucciria, Capo, and l’Albergheria, are full of little squares, corners, and nooks where you will find music, parties, and street food. And if you feel like enjoying the sea and fresh fish on New Year’s Day, you can always take the bus to Mondello, a few kilometres from the city, which offers a gorgeous beach and so many delicious eateries.

Useful info:

New Year’s Eve 2026 at Marrakech

Spending New Year’s Eve in Marrakech is a great idea for three main reasons: its fascinating mix of culture and tradition, its mild climate, ideal for enjoying the outdoors, and its lively nightlife, which offers unique experiences to greet the year. It is also an inexpensive destination compared to other tourist cities, making it an attractive option for travellers with different spending options. At this time of year, Marrakech is filled with lights, markets and music, offering a special version of festivities in which Berber, Arab and international influences merge.

Although New Year’s Eve is not a traditional celebration in Moroccan culture, the city adapts to welcome visitors with offerings ranging from dinners in luxurious riads, where traditional dishes such as couscous and tagine are served, to dance and music performances in the famous Jemaa el-Fna square. Those who prefer a more exotic setting can opt for a desert tour, with dinner under the stars and fireworks in a Berber camp.

Useful info:

  • Search for cheap flights to Marrakech with Volotea
  • Average temperature in December-January: 20-10ºC
  • Attractions not to be missed: the Medina, the Majorelle Gardens, the Bahia Palace, the Koutoubia, the souks and the Atlas Mountains.

We hope you have found our suggestions useful and you have a wonderful New Year’s Eve travelling. If you are looking for ideas for your Christmas trips, take a look at our top 10 European cities to visit at Christmas.

A corner of paradise with turquoise waters and green paths: the Zingaro Nature Reserve is the perfect day out for visitors to Palermo in search of the more authentic side of Sicily.

Palermo: a jewel of the Mediterranean embedded in art, flavours and the sea

Visiting Palermo in the summer is like opening a window onto a world of amazing contrasts: from ancient alleyways to beautiful beaches, from bustling markets to the peacefulness of baroque churches. Sicily’s capital is a unique mix of culture, colours and flavours. As you stroll through Ballarò or Il Capo market, you’ll soak up the heady aromas of Sicilian cooking, before you’re stunned by the magnificence of the Cathedral, the Norman Palace and the Palatine Chapel, all testimony to the city’s Arab, Norman and Spanish heritage.

But one thing that makes Palermo so popular in the summer is its strategic location: it’s only a few kilometres away from idyllic beaches such as Mondello and Sferracavallo, or iconic towns such as Cefalù. And for those seeking to immerse themselves fully in the island’s unspoiled nature, there’s one place that embodies all its untamed beauty: the Zingaro Nature Reserve.

spiaggia riserva zingaro palerm

Riserva dello Zingaro: a natural gem between sea and sky

Lying between San Vito Lo Capo and Scopello, the Riserva Naturale Orientata dello Zingaro is one of the most spectacular spots in the west of Sicily. Founded in 1981, it became the first protected area on the island, created to preserve a unique site, where the mountains meet the sea and biodiversity reigns supreme.

No surfaced roads, no cars, no concrete; just walking, filling your lungs with the pure air and returning to the slow pace of nature. The coastal path, around 7km long, takes you past rock faces, caves, stunning views and turquoise coves straight out of a picture postcard.

Idyllic beaches: dive into the magic

One of the reserve’s main attractions is its small beaches, wedged between the rocks and accessible only on foot. Here are some of the prettiest:

  • Cala Capreria: the first one you come to when approaching from the south (Scopello). Easy to get to and clear waters; perfect for your first dip.
Cala Capreria
  • Cala del Varo: a bit more secluded, in a private, wild setting.
  • Cala Marinella: charming with its transparent waters and beautiful views.
  • Cala Berretta and Cala della Disa: less busy, ideal if you fancy a bit of peace and quiet.
cala della Disa
Cala della Disa
  • Cala Tonnarella dell’Uzzo: one of the most iconic beaches, great for snorkelling.

Every cove is a mini paradise, where you can relax, go for a swim or just enjoy the nature around you.

A peaceful nature walk with breathtaking views

Three main paths run through the reserve:

  1. The Coastal Path (easy, 7km): the most scenic, it skirts the sea from Scopello to San Vito Lo Capo. A perfect walk for beginners and anyone wishing to cool off in the water along the way.
  2. The Mezza Costa Path (medium difficulty, 8.5km): this runs across the central part of the reserve, with amazing views from above.
  3. The High Path (difficult, 17km): for expert walkers, it leads into the innermost, wildest part of the reserve, with stunning views of the Gulf of Castellammare.
sentiero alto zingaro

Along these walks you may well spot eagles, buzzards, peregrine falcons and a wide range of native plants. This is a true paradise for photography and birdwatching enthusiasts.

Useful info: how to get there and when to go

How to get there:

From Palermo, you can get to the reserve in around 1hr and 30 mins by car. There are two main entrances:

  • South/Sud (Scopello): the most convenient when coming from Palermo.
  • North/Nord (San Vito Lo Capo): the best if you’re staying in the Trapani area.

You can leave your car in the car park at the entrance to the reserve. As there are no bars or refreshment facilities within the reserve, remember to take water and a packed lunch, as well as your walking shoes.

When to go:

Spring and autumn are the best times of year, with a mild climate, vibrant colours and fewer people. It can get quite crowded in the summer, so it’s best to set off early in the morning to avoid the heat and enjoy the beaches before they get too busy.

Insider tips:

  • Take your snorkelling gear with you; it’s a great place for this activity.
  • Visit on a weekday if you can, to avoid the weekend crowds.
  • Don’t forget your suncream, hat and spare swimwear to change into.
  • If sunsets are your thing, go in through the north entrance and admire the golden light reflected on the water in the late afternoon.

Why visit the Zingaro Reserve this summer (or even in autumn)?

The Zingaro Reserve is much more than just a day trip: it’s a journey into the wilderness of Sicily. It’s where the magnitude of nature will make you feel small, where every step will give you a new perspective, where time seems to stand still.

panorama riserva zingaro

In the summer it boasts crystal-clear waters and coves perfect for a wonderful day out. In the autumn it becomes a peaceful haven for those in search of peacefulness and a true connection with nature. Whatever the season, it’s a great way to finish off a visit to Palermo, a city that sweeps you up with its energy, then invites you to wander off into its treasures of nature.

So get your backpack ready, put on your comfy shoes and soak up the charms of Zingaro. Volotea will take you to Palermo, but your adventure starts there, on your way to a corner of Sicily that you’ll never forget.

Below the sun-baked streets of Palermo hides one of Europe’s most intriguing (and unsettling) places: the catacombs of the Capuchin friars. Shall we descend into the silence together?

Palermo, the city you weren’t expecting (and that wins you over)

Anyone who comes to Palermo immediately gets it: life has a fuller flavour here. With its chaotic markets such as Capo and Ballarò, baroque palaces reflected in the sea and the heady aroma of chickpea fritters and cannoli freshly filled, you realise that the city is a kaleidoscope of stories, flavours and colours.

But Palermo is not just about joie de vivre, ancient culture and stunning beaches like those in Mondello or the Zingaro Nature Reserve. It’s also a place where history adopts surprising and even macabre forms, as in the case of the Capuchin Catacombs, the only place of its kind in the world and one that manages to combine the sacred and the profane, mystery and wonder.

The Capuchin Catacombs: a museum of death… but very much alive

Beneath the monastery of the Capuchin Friars in the Cuba district, lies one of Europe’s most extraordinary sights: the Catacombs of the Capuchins of Palermo, a vast underground labyrinth and the resting place — if you can call it that — of over 1,200 mummified corpses. But don’t expect a dark and bare crypt: here the dead are dressed, displayed, almost posing, and divided into categories — friars, women, men, noblemen, children, professionals — like a theatre performance of life… after life.

This all started back in the late 16th century, when the friars decided to mummify the body of a much loved brother, Fra Silvestro da Gubbio. Following his perfect preservation, they began to do the same to other friars and, eventually, also to members of Palermo’s nobility and bourgeoisie. It wasn’t simply a question of faith: being “seen” after death was a way of leaving a sign, a memory.

A place that tells a different story of Palermo

Walking through the long passageways of the catacombs is a surreal experience. The corpses — some still with hair, moustaches and elegant clothing — seem to silently watch over their visitors. There’s nothing macabre about it in the usual sense of the word, it’s more of a powerful testimony of the bond between the living and the dead in Sicilian culture.

catacombe cappuccini palermo

As the Sicilian saying goes, A’ morti sula nun c’è riparu, there is no remedy for death. Here the dead aren’t hidden inside tombs; their memory is etched in their faces, in their clothes and in their pose. Some are kneeling, some appear to be sleeping, others stare at you with a gaze suspended between eternity and earthly vanity.

Rosalia Lombardo: Palermo’s sleeping beauty

Among them all, one body moves and astonishes more than the others: Rosalia Lombardo, a two-year-old girl who died in 1920 and was embalmed using a technique that still remains something of a mystery today. Her features are still unbelievably intact, and she looks as if she’s just sleeping. She became known as “the sleeping beauty” and attracts thousands of visitors every year, intrigued by her serene appearance and the legends surrounding her.

It is said — and some swear to have seen it — that Rosalia opens and closes her eyes depending on the humidity of the atmosphere. Is this true? A myth? Magic? In Sicily, some things can’t be explained; they’re simply handed down.

A ritual rather than a tomb

But why mummify the bodies? And why display them? Because in Sicily, especially in the Baroque period, death was not taboo, but simply a part of life, a milestone like birth or marriage. Family members would often visit their loved ones in the catacombs, bringing flowers, praying, and in some cases asking to change the deceased’s clothing: a way of keeping them as part of the family even after death.

This ritual, which may seem strange to us today, reflects a deep understanding of time and identity: the dead don’t disappear, they stay among us. Maybe not sitting at the table, but they’re present, visible, tangible.

scheletri catacombe cappuccini palermo

Strange and curious facts: “behind the scenes” in the Catacombs

There are plenty of curious anecdotes. For example, in the catacombs there are the bodies of certain artists, doctors, lawyers, even children dressed as little angels, a symbol of innocence and celestial hope. Some mummies still have polished shoes, white gloves, walking sticks.

There are also women in their bridal gowns, perhaps young noblewomen who died before their wedding day. And there are some who say that, on certain nights, when Palermo is silent and the monastery sleeps, you can hear faint footsteps coming from the underground passageways.

So, if you’re expecting the usual sightseeing experience, you’re in for a shock: you’re entering another world here, where time is suspended and the barrier between life and death is just a thin veil.

scheletri bambini catacombe cappuccini

Useful information for your visit

The Catacombs are at Piazza Cappuccini, 1, just a few minutes from the old town. They’re open all year round (except for 25 December, 1 January and Easter) from 9:00 until 13:00 and from 15:00 until 17:30. Entry costs 3 euros — a modest sum for a truly unique experience.

You are not permitted to take photos inside (respect and silence are essential), but we can assure you that the images you take away will be much more vivid than any on film.

Visiting the Capuchin Catacombs is not just a tourist stop; it’s stepping right into the depths of an ancient, spiritual and theatrical Palermo. A place where the dead still have a voice, not through words, but through their presence.

If you’re someone who likes to discover the unusual and authentic side of places, if you’re not scared by the idea of exploring mystery with respect and curiosity, then this is the place for you. Because, as we say in these parts: “Cu avi cuscenza, s’arricorda puru quannu dorme”, those with a conscience remember even when they’re asleep. And here, sleep is eternal… but memory is alive more than ever.

In June-July 2025, the streets of many European cities will be packed with people, colour, music and the drive to party and protest during Pride, a mix of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transsexual, asexual, intersex, and queer pride demonstrations. Here are some ideas on how to spent this Pride in Volotea destinations, from Italy to Greece and right through to France. Break out the rainbow flags!

World Pride Day, celebrated on 28 June all over the world to reclaim the rights of LGBTQI+ people, is the real core of Pride, i.e. all those festivals and parades that aim to give visibility to homosexual, bisexual, queer, trans and other people and promote the freedom and social acceptance of every individual regardless of their sexual orientation and gender identity.

Taking part in Pride is a unique opportunity to celebrate the wealth of diversity and demand greater protection for all and that more rights be recognised. But we also need to have some fun along the way!

Euro Pride 2025

In Europe, the biggest event of the year is being held in Lisbon (Portugal) for EuroPride 2025. This luminous Portuguese capital, cradle of history, culture and coastal life, becomes the capital of LGBTQ+ Pride, hosting the most eagerly awaited EuroPride. The dates for your calendar are 14 to 22 June 2025, with a special mention to Saturday, June 21, the day on which the grand parade will take place, marking the peak of an amazing week full of activities, including shows, theatre performances, concerts and conferences. This year’s theme is Proudly Yourselves, a call to celebrate authenticity, unity, and love in a world that often tries to divide us.

In addition to EuroPride, the most popular events in Europe are held in Madrid and Paris.

One of the largest Pride events in the world is held in Madrid, a major LGBTQIA+ destination and a diversity capital. More than 2 million people take part every year, and there many concerts, festivities, and cultural events. The Orgullo festivities start on June 27 and end on the first Sunday of July, with the high point being the vibrant Pride Parade of Saturday 5 July.

bandera pride ayuntamiento madrid

Paris is also getting ready for a colourful invasion. Every year the French capital welcomes over half a million people who take part in the largest Pride event in France: in 2025, it will be held from 21-28 June. Don’t miss the fantastic Marche des Fiertés parade on Saturday 28 June. It’s a mix of party-vibes, unruliness, and activism that you cannot miss!

gay pride parigi

But in addition to these two main celebrations, it’s also worth discovering other events in different European cities that you can reach on a Volotea flight. Don’t forget to pack your party gear and rainbow t-shirts!

Salento Pride

Salento is one of the most popular summer destinations in Italy, particularly among young people and the gay community. From June to September, towns in Salento are filled with tourists, music, festivities, and events for every taste. During the Salento Pride, more and more important over the years, the LGBTQIA+ community, the locals, and tourists come together to have fun and demonstrate.
This year, Pride will be celebrated in the splendid city of Lecce, just a few kilometres from Brindisi, on Saturday 12 July 2025. The event will be organized around the theme of “family”: Salento Pride aims to encourage the coexistence of all forms of relationships, highlighting the importance of a future in which all families are respected and valued, always remembering that: “WE ARE FAMILY.”

Naples Pride

Napoli Pride is one of the most interesting and vibrant Pride events in southern Italy. This year, the activities are being held the 5th of July and include a Pride Parade and numerous initiatives focusing on the themes of freedom and civil rights. 

The parade will cross the city to raise awareness about key issues for the LGBT+ movement such asmarriage equality, citizenship by birth, and legislation against homophobia and transphobia. And, of course, it’s a call for peace, a great opportunity to discover a wonderful city, Naples, that carries creativity, openness, and extravagance in its DNA.

piazza plebiscito illuminazione colori

Palermo Pride

You probably associate Sicily with good food, beaches, and the island’s millenary history. But a big Pride parade is also held every year in Palermo, promoted by various movements and organisations; a very lively event that all can join. In the city, people return to the square to have fun and make their voices heard on Saturday 21 June. And if between one fashion show and the next you get hungry, take a look at our tips on what to eat or have for a delicious snack in Palermo, a real mecca of street food and delicious Sicilian gastronomy.

bandiere pride centro città

Marseille Pride

Marseille has a reputation for being a proud, confrontational and somewhat anarchic city. What better place to celebrate Pride? If you visit this city, known for its strong character, the oldest and second largest in France, between end of June and beginning of July, you will be able to take part in many activism, cultural, and festive events run by the associations and companies on the Marseille Pride Committee. The grand parade on 5 July will close the event in style.

gay pride marsiglia

Bordeaux Pride

To start experiencing the festive and rebellious atmosphere of Pride, your trip around Europe may just start in Bordeaux. This southern French city will be one of the first to celebrate gay pride on Saturday 31 May 2025. Organised by the Lesbian & Gay Pride Bordeaux association, which fights for the rights of LGBT people, thousands of activists and supporters take part in the parade every year. An event not to be missed if you too want to participate in the fight for equal rights and against discrimination due to sexual orientation. And all in a fairy-tale setting: the historic centre of Bordeaux, a World Heritage Site whose local wines are famous all over the world!

strisce pedonali colorate bordeaux

Bilbao Pride

Anyone who wants to take part in Pride events in Spain is spoilt for choice: from Madrid to party-central, gay-friendly Sitges, Barcelona and Ibiza; there are tonnes of events for whatever floats your boat. In the north, one of the most interesting and growing destinations for “Pride tourism” is Bilbao. Behind its industrial, artistic and foodie exterior, the capital of the Basque Country hides a rainbow soul that it unveils every year during Pride. This year, Bilbao is waiting to welcome the varied crowds ready to party the 19, 20, 21 and 22 of June, that between a pintxo, a visit to the Guggenheim and a ride on the surfboard, will participate in an eventful festival that supports LGBT visibility and diversity. The highlight of Bilbao Pride is the Saturday 21 June parade, where a fleet parades! The party boats are decorated in bright rainbow colours and leave from the Bilbao estuary to sail down the river. It’s a once in a lifetime experience!

bandiera pride bilbao

Athens Pride

The Greek capital is a fantastic destination for all types of travellers: those looking for history and culture, beach lovers, families, and young people who can’t wait to go out at night. If you choose to visit Athens between 13 – 15 June 2025 you will be able to take part in their Pride 2025 (the main event of the year for the Greek LGBTQI + community) and enjoy the city at its best: in June temperatures are very pleasant and the days are very long! The main Athens Pride parade will take place on Saturday 14 June and, as stated on the event website , the goal is to continue to fight strongly for the community’s rights, now more than ever.

statua atene pride

Have we convinced you to go and discover the best Pride events in Europe? If you are looking for other great plans for the summer, get inspired by our articles on the best beaches and outdoor activities!

Welcome to Palermo, a kaleidoscope of colours, sounds and smells, capable of enchanting anyone who steps foot on its streets. Here, past and present intertwine in a timeless embrace, between architectural wonders steeped in centuries of history and the pure energy and buzz of everyday life.  

There’s more to Palermo than its Cathedral, the Norman Palace with its splendid Palatine Chapel, or the Teatro Massimo; it’s also a city that celebrates life with a passion, especially when it comes to food.

piatti pesce mercato palermo

The locals take good food seriously, and they do so in that nice, chatty way that you see in every corner of the city, particularly in its historical markets. These are the real beating heart of Palermo, the place where popular culture is expressed in its most authentic and vibrant form.

La Vucciria: the timeless charm of the most iconic market

La Vucciria is perhaps Palermo’s best-known market, made famous also by the works of the painter Renato Guttuso. It’s located right in the centre of the old town, between Via Roma and Corso Vittorio Emanuele. The name “Vucciria” comes from the French word “boucherie” (butcher’s shop), but in Palermitano dialect it also means “confusion” – and there couldn’t be a more appropriate word for it! Here, the shouting of the stallholders, the laughter, and the aromas of the spices create a unique atmosphere.

vucciria palermo

Once the realm of fresh fish, meat and spices, it’s now more a place where past meets present. In the daytime it’s quieter, but in the evening La Vucciria is quite a different place: the stalls make way for tables, and the market becomes a place where people gather for appetisers and street food. Make sure you try a “sfincione” (a kind of soft pizza with tomato, onion, anchovies and cheese), or a plate of “stigghiola” (roasted lamb intestines).

Opening time: Open every day from morning to evening, but it’s in the evening when it truly comes to life.

Where to go for something to eat and drink: Try “Taverna Azzurra“, an institution for lovers of good wine at affordable prices, or “Basquiat Cafè” for a cocktail in a more alternative ambience.

Ballarò: the most authentic and multi-ethnic market

Ballarò is the oldest and most authentic market in Palermo. It’s located between Piazza Casa Professa and Corso Tukory, and is open every day, from early morning until late afternoon. Here it’s as if time has stood still, and yet it has a contemporary feel, thanks to the presence of ethnic communities that enhance the range of goods and food available.

At Ballarò you can find a bit of everything: fresh fruit and veg, fish, meat, spices, local cheeses and cured meats. But its street food is the real star of the show. You can’t say you’ve visited Palermo without trying an arancina (take note: in Palermo they say arancina, not arancino!), a spleen bun (“pane ca meusa”), or the famous panelle e crocchè (chickpea fritters and potato croquettes).

Pane ca meusa

Opening time: Open every day, from 7:00 until 19:00.

Where to eat: if you want to sit down, “Trattoria Al Vecchio Club Rosanero” is a great choice for a traditional meal. For a quick snack, look for the “Nino u’ Ballerino” kiosks, legendary for their spleen buns.

Il Mercato del Capo: history and flavours

Mercato del Capo is close to the Teatro Massimo, on Via Carini. Not as busy as Ballarò and La Vucciria, Capo market offers an authentic, less touristy experience. Here you can stroll among the stalls selling fruit, fresh fish and spices, with the stallholders attracting your attention with their “abbanniate” (the traditional bellowing of the market traders).

Il Capo is also famous for its sweets and pastries: cannoli, cassate and “sfince di San Giuseppe” are just some of the delicacies to be found here.

Opening times: Open from Monday to Saturday, from 7:00 until 14:00.

Where to eat: “Osteria Ballarò” is a hidden gem, where you can try some typical dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.

What you just have to try in Palermo

  • Arancine: deep-fried balls of rice, filled with ragù or cured ham and mozzarella.
  • Pane e panelle: fritters made with chickpea flour and served in a soft bun.
panelle arancina street food palermo
Arancini and panelle
  • Pane ca meusa: a bun filled with veal spleen and lung, for the more adventurous.
  • Sfincione: a kind of thick pizza with tomato, onion, anchovies and cheese.
  • Cannoli and cassate: the ultimate Sicilian sweets.

Palermo is a 360o sensory experience. By wandering around its markets you’ll soak up the very essence of the city, where old and new exist in perfect harmony. Whether you’re a foodie, a history lover or just a curious traveller, Palermo’s markets will capture your heart. Prepare your palate for a journey led by aromas, colours and the warmth of the locals: this is where you’ll find the true heart of the city.

Whether you’re a fan of rock, pop or electronic music, here’s everything you need to know about the best 2025 summer music festivals in Volotea destinations.

If you can’t wait to get moving to the beat in the top European locations, pick the event that suits you best, find your flight and get ready to soak up the festival atmosphere and explore some of Europe’s most charming destinations!

The best 2025 festivals in France

Les Nuits Sonores

Nuits Sonores calls itself a “cultural, artistic and urban laboratory”, focusing on the world of electronic and digital culture. An unmissable event for lovers of electronic music, taking place on four different sites in Lyon from 28 of May to 1 of June, turning the city and its different districts into one vast club. During the day, emerging artists will be performing in an industrial site, whilst at night, iconic names such as Jeff Mills, Peggy Gou and BICEP will take their turn on the other stages. 

les nuits sonores
© Nuits Sonores

LES PETITES FOLIES

Les Petites Folies is an essential music festival in Brittany, offering a unique experience for 12 years. Nestled on the beach with a view of the sea, it offers a diverse program of national and international artists, in a friendly and family atmosphere. This year, the event will take place from June 6 to 8, 2025 in Lampaul-Plouarzel. The first artists announced: Philippe Katerine, The Avener, Hoshi.

More than 30,000 people are expected over 3 days.

Marsatac

The Marsatac festival has been taking place for 26 years and is the perfect event for kicking off summer with some music and fun; it’s held every year in mid-June in a large park covering an area of 12,000m2, Parc Borély, in Marseille, drawing artists from the worlds of electronic music and rap. Emerging talent mixes with more famous names from the urban scene, such as Brutalismus 3000, Laylow, Fonky Family.

You can buy 1-day, 2-day and 3-day tickets on the festival’s website.

Hellfest

Founded in 2006 and based in the town of Clisson, Hellfest has established itself as one of the main European festivals dedicated to hard rock. A real marathon of rock, hardcore, punk, grind, death metal and trash, just a few minutes from Nantes by train. Over four days, metal legends will take to the stage (of which there are six), to literally raise hell. There are 180 acts in total, including Korn, Muse, Linkin Park, Scorpions.

hellfest nantes

La Nuit de L’Erdre

La Nuit de l’Erde is a diverse music festival featuring artists from different genres and styles; the event is held every summer between the end of June and the beginning of July in the Atlantic Loire region, around 25km north of Nantes. French headliner acts, Julien Doré, and international artists, including Sting and Mika, take their turn on the stage throughout the three days of the festival, which also aims to raise awareness of important social and environmental issues. 

2025 marks the 25th staging of the festival, and 1-day tickets can be purchased from the website.

la nuit de l'erdre
Bon Entendeur – La Nuit de L’Erdre © Nicolas Lebeouf

Garorock

“The Garorock Experience is impossible to explain, you have to be there”, say the organisers of this French festival, which promises to welcome the summer with a long weekend of madness!

From 3 to 6th of July 2025, Garorock returns to Marmande with an exclusive line-up of 60 artists, performing on four stages in over 20 concerts a day. The line-up for the largest festival of contemporary music in south-west France is unmissable, with acts such as The Black Keys, Afrojack and Meute. You can also camp at this event and enjoy all kinds of entertainment, including a funfair.

Calvi On The Rocks

The magical setting of Calvi Beach, one of the most popular tourist spots in Corsica, is hosting the 22ND Calvi on the Rocks festival at the beginning of July, an unmissable event where electronic music comes together with rock and pop, as well as local culture. French and international artists will get the audience on their feet beneath the sun and the stars of Corsica, not only on the official stages, but also at the beach parties or in the town’s clubs, which during the festival offer an extensive calendar of events. This year’s line-up is yet to be announced, but you can get an idea by taking a look at the past acts: Agoria, Barbara Butch, Andy4000… 

calvi on the rocks
© Calvi On The Rocks

Vieilles Charrues

Les Vieilles Charrues is the largest summer music event in France, a huge festival of indie rock and pop, lasting four days and held in the town of Carhaix, in northwest France. The festival will take place for the 33 time from 17 to 20 of July and aims to get thousands of festivalgoers singing and dancing to the beat of songs by the Alanis Morissette, Macklemore, The Kills and many more acts.  You can camp on site if you like.

Delta Festival

Are you looking for a festival that combines electronic beats with culture, art, sport and beach life? The Delta Festival, held at Les Plages du Prado, the beaches to the south of Marseille, is a cracking five-day event full of music and entertainment that could be just what you need.

Three festival stages will host a line-up of big names in techno and electronic music: Nina Kraviz, Kavinski, Acid Arab and many more; and between one session and the next, you can enjoy some water sports and beach parties. With the sea as your backdrop, the beach vibes and shows by acclaimed artists from the worlds of house, hardstyle, hip-hop and everything that gets your heart racing, Delta is without doubt an event to mark in your calendar of summer dates.

delta festival marsella
Delta Festival © Laurine Bailly

The best 2025 festivals in Italy

Firenze Rocks

Calling rock fans from all over Europe: this event is for you! After the success of past events, 12, 13, 14 and 15 June 2025 sees the return to Florence of one of Italy’s largest music events: Firenze Rocks. Two unmissable evenings at Visarno Arena, with a line-up of international rock acts, such as Guns n’roses and Green Day.

firenze rocks
© Firenze Rocks

Ypsigrock

A lovely, welcoming Sicilian town, the wonderful sea nearby, Sicilian food and hospitality and the best music of the moment. What more could you want? The most popular indie festival in Italy, Ypsigrock, returns for the 28th time to the amazing location of Piazza del Castello in Castelbuono, close to Palermo, between the Madonie mountains and the coast. 

This year’s line-up has not yet been announced, but some of the big names featured in the past are The National, Editors, Mogwai, Beach House, Belle & Sebastian, Caribou and numerous other international and Italian acts.

The festival also has camping facilities in the San Focà pine forest. Tickets and passes are available from Dice.

ypsigrock
© Ypsigrock

Red Valley Festival

Following the huge success of the 2024 event, the largest August public holiday (ferragosto) music event in Italy is returning this year: we’re talking about the Red Valley Festival in Olbia, taking place on the large stage of the Olbia Arena for four nights, and featuring some of the best artists on the Italian music scene. So put 13 to 16 August in your calendar for some singing, dancing and all-night fun to the sounds of Alan Walker, Lazza, Morad and many more, with a total of 30 artists and over 40 hours of music.

red valley olbia
© Red Valley Festival

The best 2025 festivals in Spain

Primavera Sound

A total of 200 acts spread across this three-day festival in Barcelona, at the Parc del Fórum. An amazing and varied line-up, including artists of the calibre of Charli XCX, Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan and LCD Soudnsystem, and always welcoming all genres and new trends in music, full of innovative, bold and surprising acts. The Barcelona venue, just outside the city overlooking the sea, has made Primavera a hugely popular event among European festivalgoers.

primavera sound barcelona
Primavera Sound © Eric Pamies

Bilbao BBK live

For some years now considered one of the top festivals both nationally and internationally, Bilbao BBK Live in 2025 will once again, for three days, be home to the most interesting current trends in music. The line-up for this summer is now complete and features some great artists, including Kylie Minogue, Pulp, Nathy Peluso. Besides the quality of the music, the festival is also unique in terms of its exceptional natural setting, Mount Cobetas, in the heart of Bilbao.

The best 2025 festivals in Greece

Rockwave festival

The Rockwave Festival, held at the Terra Vibe Park in Attica, was first staged in 1996, and since then has established itself as one of the top European rock festivals, managing to attract some of the world’s greatest bands. More than 300 acts have appeared at the festival so far, and this year’s line-up includes Mika and Pink Martini.

The best 2025 festivals in Croatia

Ultra Europe

Ultra Europe is a great gathering of artists from the worlds of house, trance, dubstep, electronic music and many other genres with a common goal: to get the crowds dancing ‘til dawn! DJs from all over the world make sure that they’re in Split from 11 to 13 July to play their most explosive sets at Park Mladezi. Confirmed for this year are Hardwell, Maddix, Armin van Buuren and many more. 

ultra europe split
© Ultra Europa

Looking for other ideas for the summer? Get some inspiration from the Volare magazine articles on the top Volotea destinations for your holiday!

Today I’ll take you for a dip into the breath-taking waters of Palermo and Trapani, where I go swimming every summer, topping up my tan and enjoying a well-deserved break.

Palermo is the capital of the amazing microcosm that is Sicily, which was described as “a continent” in early 2021 due to its priceless historical and artistic treasures! Speaking of the wonders of Palermo, we’ve already told you about its famous theatre and endless gastronomic delights!

But when you need to escape from the city, the blue waves that connect Palermo to nearby Trapani will welcome you to their stretch of beaches and coves suitable for all tastes and budgets.

Continue reading if you want to know my favourite beaches and how to reach them!

beaches IN PALERMO

MONDELLO AND CAPO GALLO

About 10 km from Palmero city centre, you can find the renowned Mondello beach, a local favourite!

spiaggia mondello palermo

The gulf, about a kilometre and a half long, is sheltered by Mount Gallo and Mount Pellegrin, and surrounded by the greenery of Parco della Favorita. To reach it, you go down a beautiful road where you can admire amazing Art Nouveau villas. Splash around in its crystal-clear waters right next to the city!

HOW TO GET THERE AND WHERE TO PARK

You have two choices: leave your car in one of the four parking areas (Galatea, Mongibello, Tolomea, Palinuro and viale Aiace), where you can hop on one of the free Amat ferries that arrive every 10 minutes to take you to the beach ; or you can take the 806 bus from Palermo city centre.

SERVICES AND CATERING

There are plenty of bars along Mondello beach to have a nibble or a drink at. You can reserve a table on the website, at an average price of 22 euros for two sunbeds and a parasol, choosing whichever area or lido you prefer.

For real nature lovers who are not looking for comfort, there is also the Capo Gallo Nature Reserve at the end of the Mondello coast, near a small village full of bistros and small fish restaurants. You can get there in three different ways, two of which start at Mondello. But forget about bars and market stalls here, bring your own water and snacks, and get ready to reach your dream beach on foot!

riserva di capo gallo palermo

BAIA DEI FRANCESI

This is a small bay between Aspra and Capo Zafferano, about 20 km from Palermo. It’s a hidden gem, which can only be accessed through a private gate open between 8 am and 8 pm during the beach season. Walk down a steep slope alongside the locals’ homes until you find yourself stood in front of an idyllic view: a little beach with rocks, sand, pebbles, and a crystal-clear turquoise sea.

baia dei francesi palermo

I really recommend bringing everything you need so you don’t end up starving. It’s really worth the trip, even if you only stay for a few hours. Also, Arco Azzurro is a beautiful natural landscape and only a few minutes away on foot.

HOW TO GET THERE AND WHERE TO PARK

The easiest way is to take road 113 and then SP74, driving along the coast from Palermo and Aspra. Once you get there, you can just park on the road.

CEFALÙ

cefalu palermo

Now we’re leaving Palermo for Cefalú, a gorgeous medieval fishing village that has a unique allure. It has a world-famous Cathedral and lots of brilliant fish restaurants.

Cefalù is also known for its beach, which stretches out along its beautiful Promenade: it’s suitable for those looking for fun, who want to have their aperitif on a lively beach, where the lidos often turn into outdoor discos in the evening.

HOW TO GET THERE AND WHERE TO PARK

You can drive from Palermo along 70 km of the Palermo-Messina motorway, taking the exit after Buonfornello. You can leave your car in the Lungomare Giardina car park for a daily rate of six euros.

Another good option is the direct train for eight euros both ways, from Palermo central station, which drops you off at Cefalú central station in about 45 minutes.

SERVICES AND CATERING

Out of the many lidos on the Promenade, I’d recommend Lido Angeli del mare and Lido Apollo for having lunch or an aperitif as the sun goes down. 

ISOLA DELLE FEMMINE

isola delle femmine palermo

This swimming area is about 20 km from Palermo and is named after the small island around 88 m from the coast, opposite the small town. It’s a protected natural oasis. There are beaches with facilities and rocky areas, but you can make use of the decks with bar areas, showers, and music.

HOW TO GET THERE AND WHERE TO PARK

Take the motorway to Trapani, and then the Capaci/Isola delle Femmine exit after 20 km. Parking isn’t difficult here: every lido on the promenade has its own private car park for about three euros per day. You can also park in the blue-line areas for 50 cents an hour. The train from Palermo is another option: it will take you directly to Isola delle Femmine station, very close to all the lidos.

SERVICES AND CATERING

I’d recommend two extraordinary lidos: Lido Miramare is the best if you love sand, want to rent a pedalo, or want to go to lively beaches and eat the freshest of fish.

Go to Rosa dei Venti if you’re dreaming about a crystal-clear sea that stands out against the rocks and the idea of comfy beach umbrellas and sunbeds not too close to each other, a young atmosphere, great music, and extremely friendly owners who offer aperitifs on the decks and make you feel at home, even gastronomically! I spend a good part of my summers in the city here!

BEACHES IN THE TRAPANI AREA

Let’s move a little further away to the Trapani area: when we Palermitans think of a trip out of town, probably the first places that come to mind are Castellammare del Golfo beach, Faraglioni di Scopello beach, and the Zingaro Nature Reserve.

Take the E90 motorway towards Trapani and, after 65 km, take the Castellammare del Golfo exit. From this point on, the world’s your oyster!

CASTELLAMARE DEL GOLFO

castellammare del golfo palermo

Once you take the exit, keep driving towards Playa.

Here you’ll find a golden, wide, pristine beach with good facilities next to Alcamo Marina beach. The seabed is shallow here, so it’s kid-friendly. All the lidos have their own car parks for five euros per day: all of them also offer showers, bar service and meals (often fish-based).

Another good point? The town is a great place to walk in the evening or have an aperitif looking out onto its little port.

Would you rather spend a day looking for great landscapes with a touch of local history and tradition? Then drive an extra 10 km on SS187 towards Scopello.

FARAGLIONI DI SCOPELLO BEACH

faraglioni scopello palermo

You will see the amazing cliffs in a small bay where an old tuna seller’s shop remains.

The beach is actually the shop’s concrete deck. Pay seven euros to park and seven euros to access the area, including a deckchair and a guided tour of the old shop.

Bring your own food and drink, because there are no lidos or bars at the end of your hike to reach the deck! But also be ready for an astonishing view.

Is a wild day more your thing? Then drive another 3 kilometres on the SP63 until you reach the mesmerising Zingaro Nature Reserve!

ZINGARO NATURE RESERVE

Last but not least, I have a magical place to tell you about: probably the clearest and brightest sea in all of western Sicily. Yes. I like to end with on a high note!

The name alone – Zingaro (gypsy) – makes you want to go on holiday. You can imagine yourself wandering from cove to cove across an untouched natural landscape. This is exactly what you will have the opportunity to do here. Leave the car at the South or North entrance, pay five-euros entry per person, put on your hiking boots and follow one of the paths that lead to each of the seven coves in the Reserve.

The most fascinating and popular cove is Cala Tonnarella dell’Uzzo, which is easily accessible from the North entrance after walking just 700 metres. Bear in mind that there are no bars, showers or refreshments available here.

riserva zingaro palermo

There are many other enchanting views between Palermo and Trapani, but I think I’ve chosen the right ones, because there’s already a glint in your eye! You’re already raring to go on holiday!You’re ready to book a flight with Volotea!

If you haven’t missed even one of our articles, you’ll already know that Palermo is a many-faceted city with a wealth of delicious food options and arts. But if the urge to escape the urban buzz is irresistible, then this is the article for you: keep reading if you want to plan a trip to explore the unmissable towns and villages around Palermo!

UNESCO World Heritage towns around Palermo: Monreale

  • Distance between Monreale and Palermo: 30 minutes (10km)
  • How to get to Monreale: by bus no.389 from Piazza Indipendenza; by car (30 minutes).
  • Reason for visiting Monreale: Monreale is world famous for its Arab-Norman cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The very first place that springs to mind is Monreale, the famous town and comune just 10km outside of Palermo, overlooking the entire Conca d’Oro (golden shell) valley from 300m asl. Monreale is practically an extension of Palermo, easily reachable by car or bus.

Its highlight is the Cathedral of Santa Maria Nuova, known locally as the Duomo, a fine example of Arab-Norman architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with the sites between Palermo and Cefalù.

monreale palermo

Its wonderful architecture and its 6,000m2 of Byzantine mosaics depicting stories from the Old and New Testaments, all around the perimeter of the building, are worth the trip alone, but there’s also a beautiful cloister with a garden to further embellish one of the best preserved medieval monastery complexes in the world.

Once there, you’ll find two other gems not to be missed: the view of Palermo and the Conca d’Oro plain from the breath-taking viewpoint by the Palazzo del Municipio, and tasting the legendary Monreale bread, which we are still waiting to be added to the World Heritage List!

The prettiest seaside towns around Palermo: Cefalù

  • Distance between Cefalù and Palermo: 1hr 10min (70km)
  • How to get to Cefalù: by train from Palermo Centrale station or by car on the E90, in around 50 minutes.
  • Reasons for visiting Cefalù: the beautiful sea, excellent cuisine, and a wonderful cathedral.

Oh yes! You already heard about this charming coastal town, the “gateway” to the Madonie Park, when we told you about the unmissable beaches around Palermo!

You can get there by train or by car in around 50 minutes. Cefalù is not just about the sea and delicious seafood: to get a full picture of the Arab-Norman sites in and around Palermo, you just must visit its Duomo, which dominates a charming square with its two towers. Another fascinating place to visit is the Mandralisca Museum, which houses artworks and archaeological finds belonging to the private collection of Baron Enrico Pirajno.

cefalu palermo

If hiking is your thing, then a nice walk on the Rocca (rock) overlooking the town is a must: you’ll enjoy stunning views from there and pass the remains of the Temple of Diana, reaching the top around a couple of hours later, with the ruins of the Castle.

In my view, the two unmissable sights in Cefalù are the Medieval Wash House and Porta Pescara. Whilst the Wash House will immerse you in the everyday life of times past, Porta Pescara, with its gothic arch and views of the bay, will give you that truly instagrammable photo!

porta pescara cefalu

Because of its amazing reputation, anyone staying in Palermo usually plans a day trip to Cefalù at the very least. You wouldn’t want to miss it, would you?

Towns to visit around Palermo: the villages of the Madonie Regional Nature Park

We’re staying within the wonderful area of the Madonie UNESCO Global Geopark, where charming villages emerge like mushrooms: from Gangi, the Most Beautiful Village in Italy in 2014, to famous Castelbuono, and on to Polizzi Generosa, Petralia Sottana and Soprana.

Here you can combine art, nature, sport and fine food. My favourite two villages are: Pollina and Geraci Siculo.

Rural villages around Palermo: Pollina

  • Distance between Pollina and Palermo: 1hr 30mins (95km)
  • How to get to Pollina: by car on the E90 in around 1hr 20mins.
  • Reason for visiting Pollina: a small, picturesque hilltop village full of charm, just 15km from Cefalù.

This village is often overlooked but is well worth your time, standing on a rock 750 metres high, from where you can enjoy the stunning views of the bay of Finale di Pollina and the Aeolian Islands. The network of paved streets going up and down will take you to the Torre Maurolico, surviving from the Ventimiglia Castle. In 1979, the Teatro Pietra Rosa was built at its foot, emulating Greek architecture, with amazing views of the Madonie mountains.

Lose yourself among the delightful little alleyways, until you reach the Chiesa Madre (main church) and don’t forget to pop into the Manna Museum, to find out more about a precious product (the sap from the ash tree) from this wonderful area.

Ready for a challenge? Did you know that just 30km from Pollina, in the area of San Mauro Castelverde, is a Zipline 1600m long and 300m high, which can take you to 130km/h in just two minutes? If you’re up for extreme experiences, then you really can’t miss this one!

pollina palermo

Rural villages around Palermo: Geraci Siculo

  • Distance between Geraci Siculo and Palermo: 1hr 45mins (117km)
  • How to get to Geraci Siculo: by car in less than 2hrs on the E90
  • Reason for visiting Geraci Siculo: one of the prettiest villages in Italy, with stunning views and the gateway to the Madonie Regional Nature Park

In 2021 it just missed out on the title, taking third place in the list of Most Beautiful Villages in Italy, helped by the reputation gained from the Ventimiglia Joust, a tournament held on horseback, usually in August.

Put on your comfy shoes for a walk from the ruins of Ventimiglia Castle to the Chapel of Sant’Anna, and on to the Bevaio della SS. Trinità (an ancient drinking trough) and the Church of Santo Stefano with its colourful belltower. Also of interest is the MUSeBarch, a museum that tells the story of the Madonie region.

Be sure to visit the Salto dei Ventimiglia, a panoramic viewpoint made from glass and steel, which juts out three metres over a cliff from a wall of rock: it will give you the sensation of stepping into the void, whilst surrounded by a view stretching from the Nebrodi mountains as far as Mount Etna.

To keep the thrills going, also treat yourself to a day at the Madonie Adventure Park just 20 minutes from Geraci Siculo.

geraci siculo

Charming villages around Palermo: Sant’Elia and Borgo Parrini

  • Distance between Sant’Elia/Borgo Parrini and Palermo: approx. 45 minutes (28km)
  • How to get to Sant’Elia and Borgo Parrini: by car on the SS113 or by local train in around one hour (Sant’Elia); by car on the E90 (Borgo Parrini).
  • Reasons for visiting Sant’Elia and Borgo Parrini: the former for its amazing beaches and the latter for the famous mural of Frida Kahlo

Here are two gems that are now fully entitled to be considered among the most iconic places, thanks to their visibility on social media: Sant’Elia and Borgo Parrini.

Just 27km outside of Palermo, you’ll find Sant’Elia, not much more than a cluster of houses overlooking the sea.

A meander along the shore will lead you to the famous inlet and you can also reach the overhanging rock where there’s a shrine dedicated to the Madonna, known as the “Madonnina”, a stunning viewpoint overlooking the small bay. A short walk from the small centre is the charming Cape Zafferano, the fishing village of Aspra, in Bagheria, and the famous Spiaggia dei Francesi beach.

sant'elia palermo

Borgo Parrini, meanwhile, is a small rural town in the area of Partinico, around 50km from Palermo.

Visitors are enchanted by a row of houses and a small church, restored to their original splendour thanks to the work of a local entrepreneur, imitating the style of Gaudí and Greek, Sicilian, Portuguese and Arab traditions, with a series of majolica tiles and murals, where blue and yellow alternate with messages of hope and love. Join the queue for a photo in front of the Frida Kahlo murals!

There are plenty of pizzerias in the village and agriturismo farms in the surrounding countryside to finish off your walk with some nice food.

borgo parrini palermo

TOWNS to visit around Palermo in the province of Trapani

Medieval towns around Palermo: Erice

  • Distance between Erice and Palermo: 1hr 45mins (118km)
  • How to get to Erice: by car on the E90.
  • Reasons for visiting Erice: it’s one of the most charming towns in the whole of Sicily, thanks to its views, monuments, pastries, and ceramics.

Let’s move on to the province of Trapani, reaching the top of Mount San Giuliano, to explore a medieval town with its own unique and authentic charm. It’s around 115km from Palermo and can be reached by car, perhaps combined with the panoramic funicular from Trapani.

Erice is a warren of alleyways and small squares, with an almost fairytale atmosphere, and even more so when enveloped by its characteristic fog. To finish off, you can enjoy the picture postcard view of the Aegadian Islands and Trapani from its height of 750 metres. Starting from Porta Trapani, you’ll immediately come across the charming Duomo, with its beautiful “lacework” on the ceiling, then climb the 108 steps of the Torre di Re Federico for an amazing view from the top!

Now you can truly lose yourself in the city of a hundred churches! There aren’t really a hundred, but you’ll see one on every corner as you make your way to the Castello di Venere and the Balio Gardens above. Then go down to the Piazza della Loggia and the Cordici Museum. All the time taking in the charms of the countless artisan workshops: carpets, ceramics and coral artefacts will colour your stroll with hues of red, yellow, blue and green.

erice trapani

But Erice is not just about places, views and wonderful medieval buildings: it’s also steeped in legend and tradition, brought to life by characters who have made, and continue to make, its history. Of all these, I can’t fail to mention Maria Grammatico, who has now become the queen of almond paste. Her patisserie on via Vittorio Emanuele is almost a place of pilgrimage for treating yourself to perfection at the end of the day, after a good couscous or some excellent ‘busiate’ (local pasta) with pesto alla trapanese!

maria grammatico pasticceria

An unforgettable break in and around Palermo

Palermo and its surroundings make for a wonderful holiday destination, at whatever time of year you decide to visit Sicily. If you’re coming in the summer, take a look at our guide to the most beautiful beaches in the province; if, on the other hand, you can’t wait to try the local cuisine, you may be interested in where to eat in Palermo and the best places for an appetiser, whilst for culture vultures, Palermo Cathedral and the Teatro Massimo are a must.

To find out more about the area of Palermo, we suggest you also read our post on three unmissable destinations: Scopello, the Marsala Salt Pans and Parco della Fiumara.

It’s been so hard to choose and you could go on forever, but I’m now confident I’ve aroused your curiosity and made you want to explore the unmissable towns and villages around Palermo!

SHALL WE INSPIRE YOUR NEXT TRIP?