Palermo Sicily, Italy Travel Guide
No specific vaccinations are for entry to Italy from most countries. Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTaP, Varicella, Polio, Influenza) up-to-date. Depending on travel style and duration, Hep A and B, and Rabies might be considered. Consult a travel health professional 4-6 weeks ahead of time to your trip for tailored guidance.
Common health concerns in Palermo include sunburn and sunstroke in summer. Use High SPF sunscreen, wear hats, and seek shade. Stay hydrated. Mosquitoes exist in warmer months; use insect repellent. Practice good food hygiene to avoid gastric distress. Consume food from reputable sources.
Tap water in Palermo is generally safe unless explicitly stated otherwise ("acqua non potabile" signs). Public fountains often potable water. Food hygiene standards are generally high. Choose clean and busy establishments. Seafood should be fresh and properly cooked.
Petty crime a concern.
Palermo is typically safe for visitors. Petty theft and purse snatching a concern in crowded areas.
Kalsa, La Loggia, Capo, Ballarò markets: increased vigilance. Areas near Palermo Centrale train station: less safe at night.
Seasonal hazards.
Sicily lies in an active seismic zone. Minor earthquakes are infrequent but possible.
Periods of extreme summer heat can be extreme. Localized flooding during heavy rains in autumn/winter possible. Bushfire risk in dry summers.
Highly recommended.
Comprehensive coverage for medical emergencies, evacuation, trip cancellation, luggage that goes missing, personal liability. Check World Nomads or SafetyWing.
Ensure your policy covers any planned activities like hiking or water sports.
Store emergency numbers in your phone and keep a written copy. Share your itinerary with a trusted contact in your home country. Keep contact details for your country''s foreign office throughout Italy (most in Rome). They assist with lost passports or serious emergencies.
Pay attention to your surroundings. Avoid overtly displaying valuables. Avoid carrying significant amounts of cash. Secure your bags. Use licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing services, specifically at night. Avoid walking alone late at night in poorly lit areas.
112 (connects to police, ambulance, fire)
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Falcone Borsellino Airport (PMO) Palermo’s main air gateway.
Numerous airlines operate flights to and from Palermo. Full-service carriers (ITA Airways, Lufthansa, France's National airline, British Airways) connect to primary European hubs. Low-budget airlines (Ryanair, easyJet, Wizz Air, Vueling) budget-friendly options. Palermo connects to major Italian cities (Rome, Milan, Naples) plus European hubs (London, Paris, Frankfurt, Barcelona, Berlin, Madrid). Check Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for deals.
Palermo Airport provides car rental agencies, ATMs, currency exchange, duty-free shops, restaurants, tourist information, and free Wireless internet-Fi. Transfers include the Prestia e Comandè bus service, Trinacria Express train, taxis (fixed fares ~€35-€45 into the city's core), or pre-booked private transfers.
Palermo Port a significant hub for sea travel. River transportation is not applicable. No specific exit fees or taxes levied directly on departing travelers from Italy; these are usually included in your ticket price.
