palermo sicily free walking tour

Free Walking Tour Palermo

Join the free welcome tour of palermo, get to know the city led by a local tour guide.

Join our free walking tour of Palermo , follow your Freely guide through the shady backstreets and the bright elegant squares of the city center, learn about stories and facts that make this city so unique. Twenty-six centuries of glorious history and fine culture impressed on every single stone of the old city centre. What better way to feel this if not… by walking!

We run a Palermo free walking tour that combines history & art with daily life, traditions and cuisine . A full bouquet of Palermo shades and scents. Our itinerary is purely a Palermo Welcome Tour. We will be happy to introduce you to our culture without filters of any kind which means that we won’t only show you and talk about the bright side of the city but also about its dark shadows. You wanna see the main historical attractions of Palermo? This is the right tour! You want to see a food market? Freely’s Palermo Welcome Tour is still the right answer! “Beauty and Decay, Death and Resurrection” this is how we better describe our beloved city. A place that never dies, that never succeeds, that never fails. Palermo needs love. And talking about love, we Freely guides are 100% Palermitans , we love our city and we want you to love it too! Trust us: a Palermo tour by locals is what you need to get in touch with the real, authentic soul of this lively city.

Read and Reserve

• When? Check calendar!
• Meeting point Via Maqueda 453 (opposite Teatro Massimo). Find your guide with the badge and the FREELY sign
• Duration 2 hrs
• Type Introductory tour of Palermo city center
• Price Free tip!

Free Palermo walking tour: What to Expect

The itinerary covers different type of attractions:  backstreets, main monumental squares. We will show you the place where the patron saint of Palermo was born, only few steps away from our favorite bars of Palermo. We will walk you to the main crossroad of the city center where you will learn some fun street stories.   The free guided tour of Palermo starts from the Bar Ruvolo , situated right opposite the opera house Teatro Massimo and ends at the Cathedral. 

During the Free Palermo Welcome tour you will get all the directions and tips you need to enjoy the rest of your stay like a real local. We will recommend you our favorite wine bars, restaurants. We will give you the right contacts to do fun activities in Palermo doing so build up a memorable experience in town! This Free Walking tour of Palermo is the ideal activity for travellers who want to learn and understand our culture without filters.

Highlights of our Palermo free walking tour

• Orientation walk around the city center (ideal for newcomers!
• Main information about Palermo’s history and art
• Insights on Sicilian traditions, habits and social issues
• Tips for restaurant and leisure moments
• Presentation of other activities (events, tours, excursions)

Is this tour free? Like all free walking tours around the world, this Palermo Welcome Tour does not require the purchase of a ticket for a specific amount. However, “ free ” stands for “ free tip ” , so you can leave your guide any amount based on your appreciation of the guide’s performance and also the overall quality of the tour. Reserve your spot to make sure you live the Palermo experience with Freely!

The free walking tour of Palermo is a great introductory activity to the city. First of all it will make you relax and shake off all the stereotypes that affect the reputation of the Sicilian capital. Secondly, it will give you a local perspective and filterless understanding of its people. What else? Come join us, you will be more than Welcome to Palermo!

Private tour option

We can also arrange private tours of Palermo on request. We will design an itinerary based on your interests! Private walking tours are delivered for a specific price based on average Sicilian tour guides’ hourly rates. To request a private tour go to “contact us” page. And…If you want to have a deeper dive into the local cuisine, book with our partner Streaty a Palermo street food tour!

Best things to do and see in Palermo

Palermo is a city located in the northwestern part of the region of Sicily , and it is also the province’s capital. It is a town that lies on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea in southern Italy and it abounds with great beauty in terms of art, architecture, culture, and gastronomy. This enchanting place to visit and enjoy is ideal to do a free tour and discover its most iconic landmarks. It is a port city that connects with other islands and other destinations in the Mediterranean (Naples, Valletta ...) and it is quite common to see cruise ships traveling in and out to other destinations.

Palermo can be visited in a few days, and there are several different free guided tours with routes that will take you through neighborhoods and points of interest such as Norman Palace, the Palermo Cathedral, the Massimo Theater, the Monreale Cathedral, the Quattro Canti, the Capuchins Catacombs, the Fontana Pretoria, the markets of Palermo (Capo, Ballaro), the International Puppet Museum, Corso Vittorio Emanuele, Zisa Castle, or Villa Palagonia. You can check out all of these interesting tourist destinations in Palermo by doing a guruwalk. 

All free walking tours in Palermo have been rated with the opinions of other walkers who have already done the tour you are interested in. This way, you will be able to see what each one is like and what impressions other tourists have had about both the route and their guide.  You can choose from tours that are available in the morning, afternoon, or in the evening. Normally, tourists who are thinking about doing a tour here also look at cities like Rome, Venice, Florence, Genoa or Milan.

Others cities to visit after Palermo

Free walking tour near palermo.

• Free walking tour in Venice
• Free walking tour in Ljubljana
• Free walking tour in Barcelona
• Free walking tour in Zadar
• Free walking tour in Bologna
• Free walking tour in Pula
• Free walking tour in Sarajevo
• Free walking tour in Nice
• Free walking tour in Skopje
• Free walking tour in Catania
• Free walking tour in Syracuse
• Free walking tour in Mdina

Free Walking Tour Palermo

General information.

Starting time

11:00 am / 4:00 pm

Tip only basis

Free walking tour Palermo is the best way to discover the city of Palermo, located on the northwestern coast of Sicily, is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture. The city is home to numerous historic landmarks, including the Palermo Cathedral, the Norman Palace, and the Oratory of the Rosary of the Holy Trinity. Visitors can also explore the city’s charming markets, sample the delicious local cuisine, and take a stroll along the beautiful promenade to enjoy the stunning coastal views. Palermo is a vibrant and lively city with a rich history and plenty of attractions for visitors to enjoy.

Meet your guide at Piazza Pretoria.

Tip only basis. You must tip your guide at the end of the tour. It is recommended to tip from 10 to 20 euros per person.

Free walking tour Palermo starts at the heart of Palermo’s historic center, Piazza Pretoria. This stunning square is surrounded by beautiful buildings, including the Palazzo Senatorio, a former royal palace that now houses the city’s museums and cultural institutions.  

Next, head to the Cathedral of Palermo, a beautiful Norman cathedral that is one of the most important landmarks in the city. This stunning cathedral is known for its stunning mosaics, intricate carvings, and beautiful stained glass windows.

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From the Cathedral, make your way to the Palermo’s markets, a vibrant and colorful area that is a great place to experience the city’s culture and cuisine. Here, you can sample delicious local dishes, buy fresh produce, and explore the street vendors selling handmade goods and souvenirs.  

Next, visit the Church of Santa Maria degli Alemanni, a beautiful Gothic church that is one of the most important landmarks in Palermo. This stunning church is known for its intricate carvings, stunning stained glass windows, and beautiful frescoes.  

As you continue your tour, be sure to stop by the Teatro Massimo, a beautiful opera house that is one of the largest in Italy. This stunning building is a great place to experience the city’s cultural heritage, and is known for its stunning architecture and intricate details.  

Finally, end your tour at the Piazza Marina, a beautiful square that is surrounded by elegant buildings and is a great place to relax and take in the sights. This square is also home to the Fountain of Neptune, a stunning statue that is one of the most iconic landmarks in Palermo.

Frequently asked questions

What is the maximum of participants.

The maximum of participants is 15 people.

Can I book a private walking tour?

Yes, you can book a private walking tour by contacting us straight via email.

Can I bring my children?

Yes, in Free Tour Palermo everyone is welcome.

What should I bring?

Check out the weather on the day of the tour to make sure you bring an umbrella in case it’s raining. Bring comfortable shoes, cash and a big smile.

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Palermo Free Original Walking Tour

Discover Palermo, Sicily’s capital, which has easily won Italian Capital of Culture and will be the place where you will encounter the most open arms. Palermo is a city where palm trees are everywhere, the food and wine are delicious and reasonably priced, the history is fascinating, and the architecture is stunning. The underrated city is the perfect place to experience authentic Sicilian cuisine and culture and learn about the amazing history of the ancient city.

We will take you on a walking tour of Palermo’s streets, where you will notice that each monument, each name, and even each souvenir has a reason for being there and a backstory that deserves to be told. You will undoubtedly want to sample the local street food and learn how much is true about the Sicilian mafia. It’s time to learn new things and discover where to find the best of the city.

• Explore all that Turin has to offer including its most important and evocative sites
• Visit the Royal Palace, Palazzo Madama, the Duomo, and Piazza San Carlo
• Walk along the city’s most characteristic streets and less-known but beautiful squares
• Witness Turin’s nobility, Madame Reali, and the city’s many curiosities

Why Travelers Choose This Tour

The Original Palermo Free Walking Tour includes the city’s most significant monuments. We’ll meet in front of the entrance to the Cathedral, Palermo’s most powerful and visited landmark. We’ll also see the Cathedral’s interior. Then we’ll walk down Corso Vittorio Emanuele, the city’s oldest street, until we reach Four Corners Square, the heart of the old town. We’ll go after seeing the magnificent Pretoria fountain and Piazza Bellini.

What’s Included

✔ Professional guide

✘ Gratuities

✘ Food and drinks, unless specified

Departure & Return

Departure Point: Via Vittorio Emanuele, 90134 Palermo PA, Italy

Return Details: Via Vittorio Emanuele, 90134 Palermo PA, Italy

What To Expect

We’ll take you on a free walking tour of Palermo’s historic center, combining history and art with daily life, traditions, and cuisine. A bouquet rich in Palermo nuances and aromas. Our itinerary is strictly a “Welcome to Palermo Tour.” The tour begins at Teatro Massimo and concludes at the Cathedral. Palermo’s soul is found in its backstreets. The tour will spend a significant amount of time in its shadow. However, we will also highlight the bright and elegant architecture of the main historical squares, including Quattro Canti, Piazza Vergogna, and Piazza Bellini.

Additional Info

• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Transportation is wheelchair accessible
• Not recommended for travelers with back problems
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Most travelers can participate

Cancellation Policy

This experience requires good weather. If the tour is canceled because of poor weather, you’ll be offered or you can also choose a different date. This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If the tour is canceled because the minimum numbers of participants aren’t met, you’ll be offered or you can also choose a different date.

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One Day in Palermo – A Free Walking Tour Itinerary

Discover Palermo’s UNESCO churches and vibrant street food on a one day visit to this historic Mediterranean city.  On our detailed walking tour through the ancient city visit ornate, Arab-Norman churches, bustling food markets and more in the capital city of Sicily.

Table of Contents

One Day in Palermo Itinerary

This one-day itinerary hits all the Palermo must-sees. The perfect itinerary for cruise passengers.

• Enjoy our self-guided Palermo Walking Tour of the ancient city beginning at the impressive Massimo Theatre .
• Explore the unique intersection Quattro Canti .
• Visit the Palermo Cathedral and the Church of San Cataldo , two of Palermo’s UNESCO-protected Arab-Norman churches.
• Don’t miss the Ballaro Market , the city’s oldest and most authentic outdoor market.
• Visit the Regional Art Gallery of Sicily or any of Palermo’s museums .
• In the evening, enjoy a walk on the Palermo waterfront or take in the city’s nightlife in the bustling Vucciria Market .

On a 2nd day in Palermo, visit anything missed on Day 1 OR visit the city’s markets more fully.

Palermo Walking Map

What to See in Palermo

The bulk of the things to see in Palermo are located in the old section of this 2700 year old city.  Our walking tour covers this city’s UNESCO churches , food markets and museums .

Palermo: A brief history

The city was founded in the 8th century BCE. Over the centuries the city has become a mix of cultural styles and religions.  A number of different architectural styles can be seen in the palaces, monasteries and churches of the city.  The city first developed around the intersection of Via Maqueda and Corso Vittorio Emanuele, known as Quattro Canti.  This part of the city is often a maze of winding, narrow streets.  The city’s 19 th -century expansion to the north has wider, straighter streets with larger buildings.  WWII bombing damaged or destroyed much of the city but slowly the beauty of the city is re-emerging.

UNESCO Churches of Palermo

The UNESCO World Heritage Site is officially called the ‘ Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalú and Monreale’ and includes a collection of structures built or renovated during the 12 th century.  The Normans had conquered Sicily and their kings made the city of Palermo their Sicilian seat of power.  Seven buildings in Palermo are part of this World Heritage Site.  All are worth a visit.  Our walk passes these five:

• Palermo Cathedral ,
• Church of Saint John of the Hermits ,
• Norman Palace with its popular Palatine Chapel ,
• Church of San Cataldo , and
• Church of St. Mary of the Admiral .

Street Food Culture – The Markets of Palermo

The ancient city was home to four open-air street markets.  Three of these markets still flourish today and are well worth visiting:

• Capo Market – the local’s produce and meat market,
• Vucciria Market – the spot for nightlife, and
• Ballaro Market – the oldest and most authentic market.

These markets made Palermo famous for its street food culture .  Discover bakeries, pizzerias and street food stands that sell an amazing variety of foods.

Try Palermo’s most famous street food, Sfincione .  Also known as Sicilian pizza, it has a focaccia-like crust that is typically topped with tomato sauce, oregano and onions.

Palermo Museums

There are five unique museums in Palermo:

• Antonio Salinas Regional Archeological Museum – archeological treasures of Sicily
• Sant’Anna Modern Art Gallery – art of the 19 th and 20 th centuries
• Regional Art Gallery of Sicily – art from the Middle Ages to the 18 th century
• Inquisition Museum – prison cells, graffiti and history of Inquisition
• Antonio Pasqualino International Puppet Museum – Sicilian puppetry

Self-Guided Palermo Walking Tour

The best way to explore the historic district of Palermo is on foot.  This 5-kilometre walking route takes about 1.5 hours to walk without entering any of the buildings.  Depending on the time spent at each stop, this walk could easily take a day.  Follow our route from Massimo Theatre to the Church of San Cataldo in Piazza Bellini to catch the city’s must-sees, if you are short on time.

Our walking tour begins on the informal northern boundary of the ancient city in Piazza Giuseppe Verdi (Via Maqueda and Via Volturno).  We start at the Teatro Massimo.

Massimo Theatre

Palermo’s grandest theatre, known for its perfect acoustics, was completed in 1897.  Opera, ballet and musical concerts are staged throughout the year in its ornate auditorium, which seats over 1000 people.  Golden stuccoes and decoration, red velvet and glittering chandeliers add sumptuous elegance.  Guided tours are available every day.

In this part of the city, the street Via Maqueda separates the city quarters of Capo and Vucciria.  Both quarters have open-air markets, but if you are ready for a snack or looking for some fresh produce to enjoy while you explore, walk west along Via Volturno to the busy Capo Market (Mercato del Capo).  This is where the locals shop for fruit, vegetables, meats and local specialties.  Vucciria Market, further along this walk, is a great place to grab lunch or enjoy Palermo’s nightlife.

Walk east across Via Maqueda on Via Bara All’Olivella to Piazza Olivella (about 150 metres) into the city’s Vucciria quarter .  The Museo Archeologico Regionale Antonino Salinas is on the far corner on the right.

Antonio Salinas Regional Archeological Museum

This museum, in a former monastery, holds some of Italy’s most valuable archaeological treasures, illuminating Sicily’s Greek and Roman past. See Greek and Roman sarcophagi and votive urns, sculptures, statues and more. The highlight is the Palermo Stone, an ancient Egyptian artifact inscribed with a partial list of the kings of Egypt.  Take a moment to enjoy the quiet inner courtyard.

Continue east on Via Bara All’Olivella to Via Roma, a popular shopping street.  Turn right and walk to Piazza San Domenico , on the left.  The Column of the Immaculate Conception stands in the centre of the square.  Look up to the bronze statue of the Madonna at the top.  Statues of the four archangels are on pedestals around the base.  Chiesa di San Domenico is the beautiful twin-towered church behind it.

Church of Saint Domenico

The front of this church was completed in the Baroque style with two bell towers.  Niches contain statues of Dominican saints and popes.  Many precious works of art are displayed inside the church.

In the 13 th century, a Dominican church was built on this site with a convent and cloister adjacent.  The community outgrew the first church and also a second one built in the 15 th century.  The current church was completed in the 18 th century. 

Walk across the Piazza San Domenico and south on Via Maccherronai.  This entire street is Mercato della Vucciria.

Vucciria Market

If it is time for some food, this is the place to enjoy it.

This popular market is a loud, somewhat chaotic, place stretching between Piazza San Domenico and Piazza Caracciolo.  The market was originally a meat market but these days everything from meat, fish, vegetables, full meals to souvenirs is on offer. 

When the food stalls close for the day (typically around 2 pm), bars and restaurants continue to fill the market with food options and happy people until the wee hours.  No matter when you arrive, there is always something to experience. 

From Piazza Caracciolo, at the south end of the market, continue for one block on Via Pannieri to Corso Vittorio Emanuele.  Turn right and walk for 250 metres to Via Maqueda and the intersection known as Piazza Vigliena or Quattro Canti. 

Quattro Canti

This is the historic heart of the old city.  The intersection has 8 equal sides; 4 contain streets and the balance contain building fronts.  Each building façade has a fountain at ground level with statues in niches above.  If you can, visit this intersection at different times during the day.  As the sun moves through the sky, each building is sunlit, giving the intersection the nickname Theatre of the Sun (Il Teatro del Sole).

Continue on Corso Vittorio Emanuele for about 500 metres.  The Cattedrale di Palermo sits to the right across a beautiful, green courtyard.

Palermo Cathedral

The 12 th -century cathedral impresses with its unique Arab-Norman architectural style, still visible after many reconstructions over the centuries.  Admire its façade, Neoclassical dome, and once inside, the sets of Moorish arches.

Below the sanctuary, see the royal Norman tombs and crypts containing sarcophagi dating back to the Roman era.  The treasury with Constance of Aragon’s gem-encrusted, 13 th -century crown is also a highlight.  Climb to the roof terrace for great city views.

Continue on Corso Vittorio Emanuele.  The area to the left is the Albergheria quarter.  This district once housed the Norman King’s officials and advisers.  Like most of the city, it was damaged by WWII bombing.  Today its buildings house many of Sicily’s Regional government offices. 

After a short walk, the beautiful Villa Bonanno park, in Piazza della Vittoria, is on the left.  Walk through it to the UNESCO-recognized Palazzo dei Normanni and Cappella Palatina.

Norman Palace and Palatine Chapel

The palace was built in the 9 th century.  When the Normans took control of the city in the 12 th century, it became the seat of the Norman kings.  Today, it is the seat of the Sicilian Regional Assembly.

The Normans added gold-highlighted Byzantine mosaics to the Royal Apartments and the Palatine Chapel.  The chapel is a masterpiece with Arabian arches, inlaid marble floors, and a wooden ‘muqarnas’ ceiling demonstrating the marriage of cultures under Norman rule. 

Next door is the Chiesa di San Giovanni degli Eremiti, another of Palermo’s UNESCO churches.

Church of Saint John of the Hermits

This 12 th -century, Arab-Norman church was built atop a mosque which was built on the site of a 6 th -century Benedictine chapel.  Five, red domes cap the church.  The church is surrounded by a lush garden of citrus trees and exotic plants and includes the ruins of the cloister.

Walk northeast on Via Antonio Mongitore.  The street ends at Piazza F Baronio Manfredi.  Turn right and then immediately left to stay on Piazza F Baronio Manfredi.  Continue straight onto Via Tesauro Francesco Paolo.  The street ends at Via Ballaro and Mercato di Ballaro.

Ballaro Market

The always-bustling market stretches along most of the pedestrian-only Via Ballaro.  This is the oldest and most authentic of the city’s street markets.  Enjoy bargaining for fresh produce, cheese, olives, and seafood just like the locals.  Don’t miss street food like chickpea fritters and marzipan fruits.  In the evening, restaurants spill onto the streets.  Any time of day, it is a mix of noises, smells and street life.

Via Casa Professa begins at the northwest end of Via Ballaro.  Turn right and walk to Chiesa del Gesù (about 150 metres).

Church of the Jesus

This was our favourite church in Palermo.  See twisted columns, sculpted angels, and marble draperies.  It seems like frescos adorn every flat surface.  We almost walked past this church, but were so glad we went inside. 

The stunning Baroque church, also known as Casa Professa, was built during the 17 th century.  Over the next century, its predominantly marble, interior décor was completed. 

Via Casa Professa becomes Via del Ponticello to the northeast of the church.  Walk to Via Maqueda.  Turn left and walk about 80 metres.  On the right is Piazza Bellini and Chiesa di San Cataldo, the second last UNESCO-protected church on our tour.

Church of San Cataldo

The red domes and square, blocky shape of this 12 th -century church are a simple yet striking blend of Arab and Norman architecture.  The interior is stark with its bare, stone walls and little decoration. 

The UNESCO-recognized Chiesa di Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio is next door to San Cataldo Church.

Church of St. Mary of the Admiral

The rather unique name of this church honours the Grand Admiral of the Kingdom who ordered its construction in the 12 th century.  Later the church was added to the nearby monastery of Martorana and is now often referred to simply as La Martorana. 

The church floor plan is typical of Byzantine churches where the congregation faced the east to pray.  Although many of the Byzantine mosaics have disappeared, the upper part of the walls and the dome are still covered with mosaics, thought to be the oldest in Sicily.

Across the Piazza Bellini is the Chiesa e Monastero di Santa Caterina d’Alessandria.

Church and Monastery of Saint Catherine of Alexandria

A Dominican monastery began here in the 14 th century.  The current church was added in the 16 th century by purchasing and expanding a nearby church building.  Both the monastery and the church suffered considerable bomb damage during World War II.  The monastery welcomed cloistered nuns until 2014. 

In 2017, the property opened as a museum of sacred art .  A sweet shop sells desserts from monasteries in Palermo reproduced according to ancient recipes.  Visit the terraces for a bird’s eye view of the area.

Don’t miss the Pretoria Fountain in the centre of Piazza Pretoria which is just a short walk along the west wall of the church.  The intricate fountain is known for its sculptures of naked nymphs.  In the 16 th -century, the city’s church-goers called it the Fountain of Shame.  The building on the left, Pretorio Palace, houses Palermo City Hall . 

For another look at Quattro Canti’s Theatre of the Sun, continue through Pretoria Square to Via Maqueda, turn right and the intersection is straight ahead.

Otherwise, from Piazza Bellini walk east on Discesa dei Giudici, across Via Roma and continue on Via Sant’Anna for 300 metres. 

This is the Kalsa quarter which was left untouched for decades after World War II’s destructive bombings.  The area finally received some love and attention. Art galleries, restored churches and palaces , and other tourist attractions are now open in Kalsa.

The Galleria d’Arte Moderna is in the convent of the Church of Sant’Anna, on the left.

Sant’Anna Modern Art Gallery

The gallery exhibits both paintings and sculptures showing the evolution of Italian art in the 19th and the 20th centuries.  The huge building includes exhibition spaces, a bookshop, cafeteria/restaurant and more.

The building was built in the 15 th century.  It became the Modern Art Gallery’s home in 2006.

Walk east on Via Sant’Anna, continuing along Piazza Croce dei Vespri, Piazza Aragona and Via Alloro, a distance of about 500 metres to Galleria Regionale di Sicilia.

Regional Art Gallery of Sicily

The 15th-century, Gothic-Catalan, Palazzo Abatellis houses one of Palermo’s top art museums.  Originally the home of an important city official, it became a monastery after his death.  

The gallery displays artwork by Sicilian artists from the Middle Ages to the 18th century. Treasures include Antonello da Messina’s dramatic Annunciata , painted in 1473, and the fresco Triumph of Death , painted in the mid-15 th century.

Walk back on Via Alloro to Via del Quattro Aprile, turn right and walk to Piazza Marina and the Palazzo Chiaramonte Steri (on the right).  It’s about 120 metres.

Inquisition Museum

The museum is on the lower floors of the 14th-century palace, Palazzo Chiaramonte-Steri.  From 1600 to 1782, it held the tribunal of the Holy Inquisition and its prison. 

Wander through restored jail cells and see the graffiti artwork of inquisition prisoners.  Learn about the fates of accused heretics, jailed here by the thousands.  

Continue on Piazza Marina and edge to the right onto Salita della Intendenza.  The 2 nd lane on the right is Piazza Antonio Pasqualino.  The Museo Internazionale delle Marionette Antonio Pasqualino is about 60 metres down the lane on the right.

Antonio Pasqualino International Puppet Museum

Sicily’s traditional puppet theatre, which began in the 18 th century, thrives at this delightful, unique museum.  It is a combination of museum and stage for live theatrical shows.  Whimsical puppets with elaborate costumes enact tales of life from long ago.  Exhibits show the wooden puppets’ mechanics, costumes and scripts.

Return to Salita della Intendenza and cross the boulevard to Piazza Marina.  Giardino Garibaldi is straight ahead.  The only entrance is on the northwest corner.  Follow the Piazza to the right then turn left and walk to the corner.

Garibaldi Garden and the Palermo Waterfront

Opened in 1863, these lush gardens honour national hero, Giuseppe Garibaldi, who played a role in the unification of Italy.  Stroll beside palm trees and statues of illustrious Italians.  The stars of the garden are the huge ficus trees , some of the largest in Italy.

In the evening, enjoy the waterfront .  Sip a drink at a bar on the nearby esplanade.  Watch the port’s twinkling lights.  Join the locals for an evening passeggiata along the waterfront promenade of Foro Italico Umberto I .  There are lots of options.

The easiest way to reach the waterfront is by walking east on nearby Via Vittorio Emanuele and through the former city gate, Porta Felice .  Built in the late 16 th century, these imposing, Renaissance-and-Baroque-style gates, marked the water entrance to ancient Palermo.

Know Before You Go – Visiting Palermo

Can i drive in the old city of palermo  where can i park in palermo.

Driving within the historic city is not recommended.  It’s a busy area.  The number of pedestrians in the area makes driving an uneasy and stressful event.  There is limited parking in these areas and in most cases, you’ll need a special pass to park there.

We recommend parking your vehicle outside of the historic area.  We parked our vehicle to the north, in the Politeama – Libertà neighbourhood.

When trying to park your vehicle, note the colour of street parking lines.

• White lines are FREE.
• Blue lines are pay.  Depending on the area, you can pay for your parking by: using an online application, using a street machine, or purchasing a ticket from the local tobacco shops.

Is Palermo a walkable city? 

Yes, Palermo is definitely walkable.  All of the major sites in Palermo (the markets, churches and museums) are concentrated in the historic district.  We covered our 5-km walking route in one full day.

Sicily Road Trip

Palermo is just one great destination on a Sicily road trip.  Be sure to check out our article, 7-14 Day Sicily Self-Driving Tour , for even more places to visit.

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(No spam. Just great travel tips.)

Valerie Vanr

Valerie is the Co-founder of AvrexTravel.com. Val enjoys travel photography and writing informative City Walking tours.

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Palermo Free Tour

• 9.50 / 10 8,108 reviews | 67,401 travellers Rossana very competent, professional and friendly Thank you 10 Giulio
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Discover the Italian city full of charm and a mix of cultures with this Palermo Free Tour. Explore the most symbolic locations and hidden corners around the Sicilian capital's historic centre.

We'll meet at the Sant'Ignazio all'Olivella Church entrance, in the district of Champagneria and head towards Piazza Verdi , where the Teatro Massimo is located. We'll admire the facade of this imposing architectural complex surmounted by a hemispherical dome. Did you know that it's one of the largest theatres in Europe?

Our next stop will be the Galleria delle Vittorie , an ancient commercial area inaugurated in 1935, which hides many secrets. Nearby, we'll reach Quattro Canti , the octagonal square located at the intersection of Via Maqueda and Via Vittorio Emanuele, one of the most photographed locations in Palermo.

The route will continue towards Piazza Bellini , to see the church of Santa Maria dell'Ammiraglio, better known as La Martorana , whose current appearance is the result of the mixture of various styles covering the original Norman building. Its façade is a reflection of Palermo's eclecticism!

Following on, the guide will lead us to Corso Vittorio Emanuele , where we'll find the Cathedral of Palermo , built in 1184 on the area of a basilica transformed into a mosque by the Arabs, and then returned to Christianity by the Normans. We'll admire the magnificent Arab-Norman style temple of worship, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site , while our guide reveals interesting information about this important monument in the Sicilian capital.

Finally, after 2 hours, the tour will come to an end.

• Groups can be no more than 4 people. If you're a large group, please contact us .
• We won't enter the monuments along the route.

Also, please keep in mind that we will not be entering inside at all, we'll only get to see it from the outside.

More Information

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

English–speaking guide

Not included

Food and drinks

Access inside monuments visited during the tour

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You can book up until 10 hours before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.

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Most areas are accessible. An accompanying person is required.

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All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code .

Our providers commit to:

• Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
• Reduce, reuse, recycle.
• Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
• Uphold fair employment standards.
• Foster the growth of local communities.
• Preserve the integrity of local culture.
• Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
• Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
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• Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

• No printing of documentation required.

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Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities .

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A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

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Free cancellation

Meeting point.

Church of Sant'Ignazio all'Olivella

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• Reggio Emilia
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• City: Palermo
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Once one of the most beautiful and richest capital in Europe, Palermo has kept his splendor and past legacy. Indeed, its glorious and culturally mix past can still be recognized in the magnificent architecture, people, tradition, food. Though it would be worth to visit Palermo only because it is the capital of the Sicilia, one of the most amazing italian region and island you will ever visit in your life.

Palermo as a magic atmosphere: as you get here you can almost touch it. It is that strong that it is almost tangible. So get ready to visit a city with an incredible soul, built under several different dominations. Hopefully you are not on diet because it would be impossible to mantain it while here!

Free Walking Tour Palermo | Myths, Markets and the Sea

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Palermo Anti-Mafia Tour

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Palermo is full of buildings and squares that remember victims of mafia and anti-mafia heroes. We will retrace the history of mafia and the stories...

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Walk the Old Town to discover the Albergheria District

There are a lot of attractions that you really should see when you are walking through this quarter.

Some of the general highlights of this free walking tour in Palermo will be the Palatine Chapel , Quattro Canti and the Ballarò Market . This area is rich with history, such as this being originally the Kemonia River, where 7th century Phoenicians settled.

While the walking through this area is completely free. Even with Europe’s unbelievable taxes, they haven’t managed to find a way to tax walking around yet. It goes without saying that many of the monuments and attractions will require an admission fee, but much of this tour will be free.

While I, as a proud and honest Sicilian can only offer you a hot espresso and my wealth of information for free, it should be noted that none of the attractions later listed are going to run you out of money.

But before we get off track, let’s look at a quick breakdown of the day’s events.

Palermo Walking Tour: Albergheria District Highlights

Get an early start to your day and get a light breakfast to get you going. You are going to have a lot to eat later, so there is no need for overeating to start your day.

You are going to start this tour in the Ballarò Market . You will soon be lost (in a good way) among the stalls and vendors that line the streets here. Around 10 am or so, grab a slice of Sfincione and appreciate the magnificent view from above the bell tower ( San Nicolò di Bari all’Albergheria ).

This is the place where Cagliostro was born. Then you are going to check out Casa Professa before you notice it’s time for lunch.

There are a couple of places to get lunch in the area, but the two you really should choose between are Da Carlo a Palazzo Prestipino or Osteria Ballarò .

You could choose a cheaper route for lunch and get a Pezzo or sandwich in a supermarket cafeteria.

You really don’t have time to sit and relax if you want to get this all done in a day, so get an espresso in your system and gear up for part 2 of your journey.In this latter half of your day you will see some of the main attractions of the whole city, the Palazzo dei Normanni and its amazing Cappella Palatina .

From here you will check out the beautiful Villa Bonanno Park , and then you will see the impressive Quattro Canti and the richest church in the whole city – the San Giuseppe dei Teatini .

Walking Itinerary for Albergheria District

Most of these attractions that you might hope to see offer very little in explanation or information for English speakers . Too often I see tourists confused before the monuments here hoping that someone can explain the significance to them.

  START: Ballarò Street Market

• Location : Via Dalmazio Birago
• Hours of Operation : 8:30 am – 5:30 pm Monday through Saturday
• Admission : Free
• Average Total Time Spent : 1 hour

You don’t need to get all glammed up for this walking trip. Get your mind focused on the history and culture of the area.

The marketplace where this journey begins is unlike any other it is beautiful and it is loud. It is colorful and it is dirty. There is very little that you cannot find in this area, offering everything from fresh vegetables and fruits to meats and fish.

All of the other walking tours I’ve written offer their own 👉 markets for you to check out , but Ballarò is the biggest and oldest of them all. It rivals the look and feel of an old time medieval market , complete with the unhygienic conditions and its unwillingness to change with the times.

There are people of all types and backgrounds selling goods in this market place. Everywhere you turn you will have countless vendors attempting to attract you to their merchandise with their own dialect and mannerisms.

Due to its generally dirty appearance , you aren’t going to see the high class Italians frequenting the Ballarò Market . You will however see a lot of bargains for the penny pinchers, and a genuine look at Palermo from a new set of eyes.

As unnerving as it might seem, this is a formidable and odorous introduction to Old Town.

Combinations of soiled roots, fish and tomatoes offer a mixed scent that might very well turn your stomach. But alas, the history of this city isn’t something that Dolce and Gabbana are going to bottle up one day.

Now it is important to note that not all of the smells here are nauseating. Fresh baked items from the local bakeries can make your stomach growl in a good way, and you will want to give in to their tempting aromas.

Even with all of the mixtures of smells , it all seems to work with each passing stall that you come across. Wet roots offer a unique smell, but also present the image of a cornucopia of fresh vegetables carefully arranged.

There is something to be said about the sounds that you can hear when you close your eyes in the market as well.

You can isolate the sounds of rushing water over the fish stock, the howling from all of the merchants, and the clattering of countless wooden crates. When you have your eyes closed, you can visualize this same array of sound a thousand years ago.

On second thought, don’t close your eyes. There are plenty of would-be criminals all throughout the market, and you don’t want to return from your journey through the sounds to find your wallet missing. Trust me it happens.

That’s part of why I suggested not to wear any jewelry on this day trip of yours.

 STOP #2: San Nicolo di Bari all’Albergheria Tower

• Location : Via Nasi Nunzio, 18
• Hours of Operation : 10.30 am – 2.30 pm Tuesday through Saturday
• Admission : 3€
• Phone : +39 091 651 2820
• Average Time Spent : 30 min

Once you have had your fill of all the poignant smells of the marketplace, it is time to get some fresh air. In Piazza Ballarò , the heart of the entire quarter, you will see a tall building adjacent to the San Nicolo di Bari Church .

This 14th century belfry was originally constructed to help defend the city.

While it might not be quite as tall as the over 2700 ft tall Burj Khalifa in Dubai, it is worth a climb to the top to appreciate the 🔥 spectacular view of Palermo that the rooftop vantage point offers.

You can visit the Tower of San Nicolo all’albergheria from Tuesday through Saturday. The hours of operation are from 10:30 in the morning until 2:30 in the afternoon . All you need to do is to show up and pay an entrance fee. There are some special occasions, like the Via dei Tesori (an event which lasts throughout October to promote Sicilian heritage), where you can book visits just as the sun is setting. There is no better way to experience the beauty of Palermo than this.

You should take some time read up on the history of this tower and some of its interesting facts, as there are no English explanations written anywhere. Sadly, many of the guides here are just teenage volunteers who can offer modest commentary in broken English.

Given that the admission cost is only 3€ per ticket , it is really an affordable way to get a truly breathtaking view of the city. With some assistance from your tour escort, you can identify the famous monuments that the sun is gorgeously setting upon.

For those that suffer from claustrophobia: it is not recommended to do this part of the trip as the stone staircase up to the rooftop terrace is very narrow.

 STOP #3: Church of the Gesù or Casa Professa (Chiesa del Gesù)

• Location : Piazza Casa Professa, 1
• Hours of Operation : 6:30 am – 1 pm and 4 pm – 7 pm Weekdays 6:30 am – 12:30 pm and 5 pm – 6:30 pm on holidays
• Admission : Minimum contribution of €4

Only a short 200 meters from the tower where you got your amazing view of Palermo, you will find Chiesa del Gesù . No matter what your religious beliefs, or whether you enjoy the sight of a church or not, this is one of the must see locations for all of Palermo. You will be a believer here.

You might not be completely awe-struck by the baroque era exterior of this church. This is even discussed briefly in The Leopard – a novel by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa .

Once inside the walls, the interior of this church will leave you breathless. Your jaw might literally drop lower than you thought possible just from walking inside.

This was a 16th century creation by the Jesuits, but it would be redesigned in the 1600s by Natale Masuccio, a Sicilian architect. There are key areas to see within this massive place, including the crypt beneath the church, the Oratorio del Sabato and the Museum of Applied Arts .

The locals tend to frequent this church for marriages, which is a testament to its intimate and amazing décor.

You might even find yourself lucky enough to catch a wedding taking place when you visit, and it is sure to add even more to how you feel about this magnificent place.

There is nothing like true love and devotion, the dedication to sacred rites of the church, and the interior that will literally sweep even you off your feet.

 STOP #4: Palazzo dei Normanni (Palace of the Normans or Royal Palace)

• Location : Piazza Indipendenza, 1
• Hours of Operation : 8:15 am – 5 pm Monday through Saturday 8:15 am – 12:15 pm Sundays and Holidays
• Admission : €8.50 (€6.50 reduced priced ticket available)
• Average Time Spent : 1 hour

No doubt you are getting a little tired by now, but hopefully you have enough in the tank to appreciate all of the details here.

This is literally the most important stop of your entire day, and it gives you one of the most comprehensive looks at the 👉 history of Palermo .

At one time this used to house famous kings of Sicily . It was even the imperial seat with both Frederick II and Conrad IV . These days, this facility houses the Sicilian Regional Assembly.

While they claim to create helpful initiatives for the island, they seem to bring about more corruption than anything else.

All of these political things to the side for a moment, this is one of the most precious treasures of the entire city.

You should take the time to appreciate everything that there is here, but most importantly the Cappella Palatina . Even I might tell you that the Palatine Chapel trumps the rest of the Royal Palace in main tourist attractions, you should not rush through the Palace and miss all it has to offer.

Porta Nuova

You will find this adjacent to the Palazzo dei Normanni. This monumental city gate frames the entrance to Via Vittorio Emanuele Street. This is one of the grandest entrances that you will make onto any street in the whole city, so bask in it for a second.

This was commissioned originally to celebrate the arrival of Charles V who was instrumental in defeating the Turks.

Following an accidental explosion of a nearby gunpowder store in 1667, Gaspare Guercio was tasked with rebuilding the impressive structure.

There are four telamons on the façade that depict the defeated dead , and they are eerie and scary, but truly impressive works of art. This is on your way to the Palazzo Reale, and it really only takes a few minutes of your time to take it in.

Royal Apartments

This palace was originally constructed in the 9th century , even before the Normans were owned by Arabs.

Every prevalent power that the city has ever seen has been stationed here: Arabs, Normans, Sveva, Aragones, Spanish, Bourbons, and the present day Sicilian Regional Assembly.

When you visit the apartments on the second floor, you will find the influence of each of these eras. This begins when you see the Sala d’Ercole room which was painted by Giuseppe Velasco in 1812.

This is where the Assembly currently meet. You will then go through the Sala di Ruggero room and eventually end up in the Sala dei Vicerè  room.

Cappella Palatina

The Palatine Chapel is perhaps one of the greatest wonders of all of Palermo, but most certainly the biggest draw to the Palazzo dei Normanni.

You will find this within the walls of the Palace, and it is truly a piece of art all on its own.

While you might be greeted by a plethora of ugly wooden chairs right away when you enter, these are to seat those waiting to be married within these hallowed halls. Even with this, you will be overtaken with a sense of wonder.

I don’t want to be the person to have to tell you this, but there is always a chance of tourists not being allowed through due to a private ceremony taking place at that time. There is no way to plan around this, so you kind of have to roll the dice and try to maintain your composure if you are turned away for a specific period of time.

The low lighting within the main areas of this chapel offer an ambiance that sweeps you up in the golden mosaics that surround you.

These mosaics all tell critical parts of the life of Christ, namely those that played significant roles throughout His life.

There is a gigantic Christ under a dome with two beautifully constructed marble columns at its entrance.

This golden mosaic of Christ was created in 1132, and depicts Christ amongst his angels, prophets, saints and evangelists.

  UNSCHEDULED OPTIONAL STOP: Villa Bonanno

• Location : Piazza della Vittoria
• Hours of Operation : Reservation Only (For Roman remains)
• Average Time Spent : 20 min

Now that you have the view of Capella Palantina fresh in your mind, you should stop by Villa Bonanno to process this and get some fresh air.

These gardens rest just beyond the Norman Palace , and are quite hard to miss with their abundance of palms.

Within the inner portion of this area, you will find a lot of statues and busts of famous Sicilians . You will also see a monument to King Philip IV and even some of the remains from an original Roman city wall.

The Villa Bonanno was originally created for the mayor of Palermo in 1905, Pietro Bonanno. The engineer that took on the task was Giuseppe Damiani Almeyda.

Apart from some of the relics of the past, there are few other draws to this location, beyond its beautiful gardens that offer a nice backdrop and peaceful spot to have a bite to eat before continuing on.

 STOP #5: Quattro Canti

• Location : Piazza Vigliena

This is one of the most polluted works of art in all of Italy, maybe in all of Europe. The 👉 Quattro Canti (Four Corners) is a true marvel , but even the green peace activists can’t seem to stop people from smogging up the atmosphere here, which is a shame.

This is not officially called the Quattro Canti . The official name for this location is Piazza Vigliena , and it is an octagon shaped area at a crucial intersection between two of Palermo’s main roads.

This used to be the very heart of all of Palermo in the 18th century, serving as a divider between all of the four districts. This is where they would all converge. While this might have at one time been revered for live performances, today the octagon is more overtaken by hectic motorists.

The air pollution has literally caused the color of the buildings to change over time, which is a testament to progress not always being the best for historical sites.

There might be a benefit to having an actual tour guide here to show you each nook and cranny of this important area. There is a lot of history jammed in this little space, and having some background on it could certainly help you to appreciate it even more.

For the sake of time and space, I will give you a short version of Quattro Canti’s history. This began with the creation of a perpendicular street running through Via Vittorio Emanuele (at that point it was Cassaro) named Via Maqueda .

Over the 12 years that would follow this creation, four beautiful buildings at each of the corners of this intersection were adorned with statues depicting Spanish saints and kings.

This was the square of course, before vehicle emissions slowly pulled the beauty out of these creations. All four of these street facing facades are getting slowly darker and darker with each passing year.

Tip : You will find all kinds of horse drawn carriages throughout this area offering an hour long trip through Quattro Canti for around €80. This is way overpriced. If you really want the experience of a carriage ride in this area, seek out a specialized tour which will educate you and will be significantly cheaper.

This is truly a circus with the carriages, crazed automobiles, garbage and more. You can step over the garbage and past the carriages fairly easily, but be truly mindful of the motorists . Most of these drivers would sooner run you down where you stand than tap their brakes to allow you to get to safety.

I have been hopeful that the municipality with make this section for foot traffic only, but I also imagine that it would only make matters worse in the long run.

San Giuseppe dei Teatini Church

Within the Quattro Canti (in the southwest corner) you will see the San Giuseppe dei Teatini Church overlooking the square.

The first thing that you notice about this impressive building is the massive statue of Saint Joseph – which was created in 1738 by Baldassarre Pampilonia.

The inside of this church is really what will impress you, though. There is nothing about the interior that isn’t ornate. In the nave you will find frescoes from both Giuseppe Velasquez and Filippo Tancredi, as well as art pieces from Pietro Novelli, Guglielmo Borremans and Ignazio Marabitti.

While you will never be allowed to see it, legend has it that the crypt houses a miracle . This miracle is in the form of a mysterious gushing water source.

Now you have your path through Palermo’s Old Town. If you follow these directions, you will find each location rather easily from the last, and won’t even notice that you have traveled a total of nearly 3 km.

If you have more days yet to plan out, check out the walking plan for the 👉 historic Capo District for another dose of culture and history.

About Don Tano

I’m full-blooded Sicilian born from the noise of the Vucciria market and the gentle sound of the waves of Mondello. I grew up eating “pane e panelle” and “pasta con le sarde”. But most of all, I grew up with an awareness: Palermo is a beautiful city to live intensely and to love without question!

4 thoughts on “Walk the Old Town to discover the Albergheria District”

Buongiorno Don Tano! We will be in Palermo 4-6 Ottobre, and want to do la prima passegiata you describe. You mention that the best time to climb the tower is at sunset, yet this is the second stop of the day… Would it be best to skip it and then come back closer to sunset or is it just as bella in the mattina?

Ciao Deborah, si it would be best to come back at sunset but everything depends on Terra di Mare which is the organization in charge of the tower. Try to contact them and see if you can book at sunset during your stay as they might not be available. In the mattina it’s different but bellissima anyway!

Grazie mille gentile Don Tano per la sua risposta. Ho escrito la chiesa per fare una prenatazione ma mi ha detto che non è necessario! Fantastico! Prenderò la suo suggerimento è vederla a tramonto!

Grazie a te Deborah, per qualsiasi altra domanda o dubbio non esitare a contattarmi. Ciao

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Palermo No Mafia Walking Tour

Overview of the tour in Palermo

The Teatro Massimo, the open-air market "Il Capo", Piazza della Memoria, Piazza Beati Paoli, the Cathedral, the City Hall, Piazza Magione: every stop is a cause for reflection, a chance to mull over the realities of the Mafia and consider the civic movement against Mafioso power. Along the Cassaro, you will come across an orange sticker on their windows. Their owners have said NO to paying the extortion racket, or 'pizzo', and have joined the mafia-free critical consumption campaign promoted by the grassroots movement Addiopizzo. The tour ends in Piazza Pretoria, in front of the City Hall. Here you will have the opportunity to discover some curiosities about how over the course of years the Mafia has related to politics.

This activity includes:

• Accompaniment by antimafia guide
• Small contribution to the Addiopizzo charitable organisation

Meeting point

Piazza Verdi, in front of Teatro Massimo

You will recognize our team as they wear a "NO MAFIA" backpack or an Addiopizzo t-shirt.

Things to note

Please wear comfortable shoes.

Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity starts. Late cancellation or your non-arrival is not refundable.

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Cefalu Free walking tour in English with a local guide

When: Every week Where: Cefalu train station Language: English/Spanish/Italian

Time: Ask via Whastapp Duration: 2 hours Price: Pay what you think is worth

Originally Arab-Norman , considered one of the most scenic medieval villages in Italy, Cefalù is located at the base of the mountain that guards it, La Roccia .

Film lovers will recognize this location from Giuseppe Tornatore’s famous movie: Nuovo Cinema Paradiso .

If you are a fan of travel guides like Lonely Planet you will realize that the cover photo of the Sicily edition is nothing more and nothing less than the beautiful Cefalù.

Our walking tour with a local guide in Italian will introduce you to this small village. Things to do in Cefalù , where to eat and much more. Walking through its narrow streets you will discover the history , flavors and aromas of this beautiful place.

Some of our stops are:

• Cefalu station
• Roger Course
• Piazza Duomo
• Megalithic walls
• Porta Pescara
• Medieval wash house.

After the tour, you will be able to enjoy the beach, do a bit of trekking, and have an aperitif while watching the sunset over the sea. Book this Cefalù Free Walking Tour now!

Meeting Point

Any question? Contact us

If you need further information about the tour you can contact us.

We will get you back in a few minutes

Why Kairós Tours

Authorised guides, responsible tourism, local experience, what is a free walking tour.

Unlike regular tours , the tours are ‘free’ because  there is no set price  for taking a tour, no prescribed fee to pay regardless of the tour experience itself. Instead,  you are free to ‘tip’ your guide as you see fit after your tour .

Tipping your guide at the end of the tour means  the power is yours . You decide what the tour was worth. The  word “free” stands for no risk  of being ‘ripped-off’,  free to enjoy  your vacations in Sicily and  free to live Palermo’s beauty . 

All in all the  free tour concept is a win-win scenario  for both the traveller and local guide. Making authentic local experiences  accessible to everyone  regardless of budget. Free walking tours are an exciting alternative way to discover cities and  support passionate local guides and regional touristic initiatives .

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Survivor of Yacht That Sank Off Sicily's Coast Recalls How She Used 'All My Strength' to Save Her 1-Year-Old

"I held her afloat ... my arms stretched upwards to keep her from drowning,” Charlotte Golunski said

A mom aboard the luxury superyacht that sank after what officials called a "violent storm" off the coast of Sicily this week is speaking out about how she was able to save her young daughter from being swept away by the water.

The mother was identified to PEOPLE by local authorities as Charlotte Golunski — who, along with her partner, was so shocked about how bad the weather had gotten that they went above board just before disaster struck the Bayesian early on Monday, Aug. 19, the sources say.

After going into the water, Golunski lost her grip on her 1-year-old daughter, Sophie, when a wave smashed against them, taking the child out to sea, according to the local sources.

The same wave returned the girl a short time later in what was described as something of a miracle.

In an interview with Italian newspaper la Repubblica , Golunski said that she briefly lost her daughter for about two seconds due to the intensity of the sea but was then was able to retrieve the child. 

"I held her afloat with all my strength, my arms stretched upwards to keep her from drowning,” Golunski told the newspaper, according to a translation.

Charlotte Golunski/Instagram

She added: "It was all dark. In the water I couldn't keep my eyes open. I screamed for help but all I could hear around me was the screams of others."

The Italian coast guard said in a statement obtained by PEOPLE that the Bayesian , a 56-meter yacht flying the U.K. flag, sank near Poritcello around 5 a.m., local time on Monday after the storm.

According to Italian news service ANSA, Golunski and her child were safely rescued via a lifeboat, per the Associated Press . 

Salvo Cocina, an official with Sicily's civil protection agency, said that the baby’s father, James Emsley, survived the incident, according to Sky News. 

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The Guardian reported that a doctor with the hospital in Palermo where Sophie and her mother were taken in, Domenico Cipolla, said, “The baby is doing well. The mother is also in good condition, albeit with some minor abrasions. The father will also be discharged from the hospital soon.”

BBC News reported that Golunski is a colleague of Mike Lynch, the British tech entrepreneur who is one of the people — including his 18-year-old daughter Hannah — who is still missing following the sinking of the 184-foot yacht. 

Also among the disappeared are two Americans.

Lynch’s wife, Angela Bacares, was one of 15 people saved out of a total of 22 who were originally aboard the Bayesian , the Italian coast guard and local sources said. Eight of the rescued were taken to local hospitals

According to Italian media outlets, a man's body was found after the sinking and later identified as the yacht’s chef, per Reuters . 

Witnesses said the yacht was moored in front of a port in Porticello when the storm hit, the local newspaper Giornale di Sicilia reported. 

"That boat was all lit up," a man in Porticello told the outlet. "At about 4:30 in the morning it was gone. A beautiful boat where there had been a party. A normal day of vacation spent happily at sea turned into a tragedy.”

Search and rescue efforts continue, the coast guard said, as does an investigation into the incident.

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Who is Mike Lynch, the tech entrepreneur missing in yacht sinking?

Just weeks ago, Mike Lynch was walking out of a San Francisco court room a free man with tears in his eyes.

The technology tycoon known as “Britain’s Bill Gates” had improbably beaten the odds in a bitter US legal dispute with technology giant HP, convincing a jury that he was not guilty of claims of massive fraud.

Cleared after a 13-year legal fight, the entrepreneur vowed to fight to reform Britain’s extradition laws after he was flown to San Francisco to face trial and kept under house arrest.

Yet tragedy has now struck the 59-year-old so soon after his victory. Mr Lynch and his daughter are understood to be missing after his yacht sank off the coast of Sicily in the early hours of Monday morning.

The 56-metre Bayesian sank to the seabed off the coast of Palermo after locals reported a freak tornado.

Angela Bacares, Mr Lynch’s wife, was also on board and is reported to have been among 15 passengers rescued.

Searches continue for four Britons, a Canadian and two Americans, the coast guard said. One dead body has been found.

Who is Mike Lynch?

Mr Lynch is one of Britain’s best-known and most controversial technology entrepreneurs.

Born to an Irish immigrant family and raised in London in the 1960s, Mr Lynch had a modest upbringing but won a scholarship to the private Bancroft’s School aged 11.

He went on to graduate from Cambridge University and subsequently founded the business that would make his name: Autonomy. The software company, set up in 1996, used complex statistical analysis to help businesses manage their data.

Autonomy grew rapidly and joined the ranks of Britain’s blue chips on the FTSE 100 before being sold to HP for more than £8bn in 2011.

Mr Lynch used his wealth to become a founding investor in Darktrace, the FTSE 100 cyber security company, and set up venture capital firm Invoke Capital to back other start-ups. His successes once led him to be lauded as “Britain’s Bill Gates”.

For 13 years, however, Mr Lynch was dogged by claims that his success was built on the back of fraud. HP wrote off much of the value of Autonomy shortly after acquiring the business and accused Mr Lynch of exaggerating the business’s success to get HP to overpay.

In 2022, Mr Lynch lost a $5bn (£3.9bn) fraud civil dispute against HP in the British High Court over the sale and was later charged with multiple counts of criminal fraud by the US government for his alleged role.

Last year, he was extradited from Britain to stand trial before a California court. He faced up to 25 years in prison.

In the run up to the trial, the entrepreneur spent months under house arrest with constant monitoring by an armed security detail. Mr Lynch was forced to wear a GPS tag and subject to a $100m bail bond.

Few observers gave Mr Lynch much hope of beating the charges, given the high conviction rate in such cases. The US government had spent years and large amounts of money to prove Mr Lynch had masterminded a scheme to artificially inflate the revenues of Autonomy.

But on June 7, after an 11-and-a-half-week trial, Mr Lynch was acquitted and walked from court a free man – a remarkable moment of vindication for the technologist who had always denied wrongdoing.

In a last-minute gambit, Mr Lynch had taken to the witness stand to defend his record , denying he had been the “driving force” behind the complex fraud. He told the jury that while he had been in charge of the technological vision, he was not involved in the minutiae of the company’s accounting.

The high-risk defence paid off and Mr Lynch was acquitted by the jury after three days of deliberation. Moments after he was declared “not guilty” to each of the 15 charges, his wife rushed over to embrace him.

“I am elated with today’s verdict and grateful to the jury for their attention to the facts over the last 10 weeks,” Mr Lynch said at the time.

“My deepest thanks go to my legal team for their tireless work on my behalf. I am looking forward to returning to the UK and getting back to what I love most: my family and innovating in my field.”

Having returned to the UK, Mr Lynch was preparing to campaign against what he viewed as Britain’s one-sided extradition treaty with the US.

In 2023, he had been escorted from his country home in handcuffs to a waiting plane and spirited across the Atlantic after then-home secretary Priti Patel signed off on his extradition. This was despite the UK’s Serious Fraud Office dropping a case against him years earlier.

“The system can sweep individuals away,” he said in a recent interview.

Mr Lynch owns a home in west London but lived primarily at a farm in Suffolk, where he raised rare breeds of pigs and cows.

He had suffered from health issues including a lung condition for much of the past few years.

Last month he told a newspaper in his first interview since being found not guilty: “Now you have a second life. The question is, what do you want to do with it?”

Over the weekend, Mr Lynch was aboard his personal yacht off the coast of Sicily. The boat, Bayesian, was named for the branch of statistics which was the subject of Mr Lynch’s Cambridge PhD.

Built in 2008, the 56-metre, 473-tonne superyacht is reported to have had capacity for 12 guests and 10 crew members with a top speed of 12 knots. Its listed owner is Ms Bacares, Mr Lynch’s wife.

On board with the couple were Charlotte Golunski, a partner at Invoke Capital, and her husband, James Emsley. Others on the vessel are reported to include business associates and legal advisers to Mr Lynch as well as the ship’s crew.

Ms Golunski, who was rescued from the vessel with her husband and baby daughter, told Italy’s Corriere Della Sera newspaper they were “all guests of our boss” who she described as an “extraordinary person”.

The vessel was reported to have travelled from Aeolian Islands to Milazzo and Cefalù before arriving at Palermo.

There it was reportedly hit by a freak storm, described by local fisherman as a tornado. Fifteen passengers were reportedly rescued by Italy’s coast guard helicopters. Six people are still missing.

A local fisherman told Corriere Della Sera: “At about 3:55 we saw the whirlwind. A quarter of an hour later we saw a rocket 500 metres from the dock. At about 4:35 we went out to sea to provide assistance, but we only saw the remains of the vessel floating.

“There were no men in the sea. So we immediately called the port authority.”

Who is Mike Lynch’s wife Angela Bacares?

Mr Lynch and Ms Bacares have had two daughters, aged 18 and 21, students at Oxford and Imperial College London respectively. His younger daughter, Hannah, is understood to be among those missing after the superyacht sank.

His personal net worth was estimated at $450m by his US lawyers last year, although a lot of the couple’s wealth is held by Ms Bacares.

A private couple, public records suggest Ms Bacares, 57, and Mr Lynch married in 2001 in London. 

The millionaire’s wife stood by Mr Lynch throughout his legal trials, attending every day of his US criminal court battle in San Francisco.

To keep Mr Lynch company during his house arrest, Ms Bacares bought her husband a sheep dog named Faucet.

Having survived the disaster on the Bayesian, Ms Bacares was reportedly using a wheelchair after sustaining cuts to her feet during the escape. 

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