Things To Do
in Monreale
Monreale sits on a hill above Palermo, where Norman-Sicilian history meets spectacular Gulf of Palermo views. Its crown jewel is the UNESCO-listed Cathedral of Monreale, famed for its radiant gold mosaics. Narrow, sunlit lanes, lemon trees, and a tranquil pace define the town, complemented by a rich religious and culinary heritage.
The surrounding countryside and easy access to Palermo make Monreale an ideal base for exploring western Sicily.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Monreale and settle into your chosen accommodation. After unpacking, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring delicious Italian pastries and coffee. Take a stroll around the quaint streets to absorb the charming atmosphere and get your bearings.
Visit the stunning Monreale Cathedral, renowned for its breathtaking mosaics that depict biblical stories. Spend some time exploring the adjacent Cloister of the Benedectine monks, which showcases exquisite arches and serene gardens. Grab a light lunch at a nearby trattoria, indulging in local Sicilian dishes.
As the sun sets, enjoy a romantic dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city. Savor authentic Sicilian cuisine while listening to traditional music in the background. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, soaking in the night's ambiance.
Start your day with a visit to the Diocesan Museum of Monreale, which houses a collection of art and artifacts from the cathedral. Engage with the history and artistic legacy of this beautiful town. Enjoy a coffee break at a nearby gelateria, letting the locals go about their day.
Head to the Royal Palace of Monreale, where you can admire magnificent architecture and learn more about the history of the Norman kings. Enjoy lunch in the nearby Carruba Square, where you can savor fresh pasta dishes. After lunch, take a scenic hike on the surrounding hills to enjoy panoramic views of the valley.
Discover Monreale's vibrant culinary scene by participating in a cooking class, learning to make traditional Sicilian dishes. Enjoy the fruits of your labor as you share a meal with your class participants. Wind down with a glass of local wine while reflecting on the day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍝Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $80-150 |
| 🚆Local transit day pass | $3-6 |
| 🍰Dessert or pastry | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich religious and architectural heritage with stunning mosaics
- Picturesque hill town with panoramic views of Palermo
- Relaxed pace and walkable historic center
- Excellent base for day trips to Palermo and western Sicily
- Nightlife is quiet compared to larger cities
- Some areas involve steep hills and cobblestones
- Seasonal crowds can vary; transport options may be limited on Sundays
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Il conto, per favore" - The check, please
- "Vorrei un tavolo per due" - I'd like a table for two
- "Un momento, per favore" - One moment, please
Places to Visit in Monreale
Visit one of these nice places.
The exterior and grand interior mosaics are iconic; best early in the morning or late afternoon light.
Iconic arcades, stone carvings, and a tranquil courtyard ideal for photography.
Terraces and angles that showcase the gulf and the city with the cathedral's silhouette.
Narrow, flowering alleys with hanging laundry and sun-dappled stairways make atmospheric pictures.
Food in Monreale
Monreale Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pasta tossed with sardines, fennel, raisins, and saffron; a classic Sicilian flavor profile.
Must-Try!
Crisp fried shells stuffed with sweet ricotta and chocolate chips.
Fried rice balls filled with ragù, peas, and melted cheese.
A pinnacle eggplant-tomato relish with olives and capers.
A festive ricotta- and sponge cake dessert scented with citrus.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market with fresh produce, bread, cheeses, and local snacks; best on weekends.
Try arancine, panelle, brioche con gelato, and fresh fruit from vendors around the town center.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say buongiorno or buonasera on arrival and use polite language with elders and staff.
Dress modestly and speak softly when visiting churches and mosques. Do not touch sacred mosaics.
Shake hands; maintain personal space; avoid loud conversations in churches; use right hand to greet.
Safety
Tipping in Monreale
Ensure a smooth experience
In Italy, a service charge is often included; if not, a tip of 5-10% in cash is appreciated in restaurants. For cafés or bars, round up the bill or leave small change.
Cash is widely accepted; most places also accept credit/debit cards; ensure you have local currency for small purchases and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and dry; expect long afternoons. Plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late evenings; stay hydrated and seek shade.
Mild and pleasant; haze over the sea can be dramatic; great for hiking and outdoor photography.
Milder than much of Europe; occasional rain; fewer crowds; good light for cathedral interiors.
Blooming orchards and lemon trees; comfortable temperatures for walking tours and hill hikes.
Monreale at Night
Hiking in Monreale
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Relatively easy trails along the hillside offering views of Palermo and the coast.
Moderate walks through agricultural terraces around Monreale.
Airports
How to reach Monreale by plane.
Located near Palermo, about 20-30 km from Monreale; connected by highway, airport shuttle, or train to Palermo and onward transport to Monreale.
Sicily's main airport in the east; about 2.5-3.5 hours by car or train to Monreale; used for many international flights.
Smaller airport in the west; longer transfer to Monreale but serves budget carriers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Sicilian families and long-term residents reflecting a traditional Italian town.
Visitors drawn to the cathedral, views, and hill town atmosphere.
Some international residents and seasonal workers attracted by the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The island's most popular sport, with local clubs and informal games throughout the year.
Scenic routes along coastal areas and hillside roads around Monreale.
Common recreational activities in local parks and seaside areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Monreale.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Opt for pasta with tomato and basil, grilled vegetables, caponata, cheeses, and legume-based soups. When dining out, ask for sauces to be prepared without meat and choose seafood options if you eat fish.