Backpacking in Palermo

If you visit Sicily, make sure you Palermo sits at the top of your list. A city known for its rich history and culture, Palermo is one city in Italy you shouldn’t miss.

Palermo gained international fame for its biggest social event held every July 15th, the feast day of Saint Rosalia, the city’s patron saint. Every year, tourists flock to the city to enjoy the colourful fruit, vegetables and the freshest fish which can only be bought at the market known as the Vucciria.

Unlike other cities in Italy, Palermo is a great destination for the budget traveller. Thanks to its numerous transportation options and hostels in Palermo, you don’t need spend a fortune in order to visit the most beautiful sights.

In most cases, travellers don’t need to spend a huge sum of money for transportation. In Palermo, getting from one place to another is easy because the whole city is serviced by public buses, so you won’t have to walk far with your luggage in tow before you find a bus stop. Also, the Falcone Borsellino Airport offers direct flights from all major cities in Italy and has some low-cost links with other European cities such as Amsterdam, London, and Barcelona. To get to the town centre from the airport, one can ride the Trinacria Express, which connects with Palermo’s central station.

When it comes to budget accommodation, there are several Palermo hostels that you can take advantage of. In Via Schioppettieri one will find one of the top rated Palermo hostels, the Palazzo Savona. Located right in the heart of the city, it is a few minutes’ walk from the historical centre where the main monuments can be found. The rooms are comfortable, spacious and clean.

A Casa di Amici is another Palermo hostel, which can be found behind the historic Teatro Massimo. This Palermo hostel is housed in a 19th century building, with a lounge complete with an original Maiolica ceramic floor. With its collection of art pieces and sculptures, the A Casa di Amici is a haven for art enthusiasts and young artists. The best thing about this Palermo hostel is that it offers a number of facilities and services such as internet access, luggage storage, bicycle storage, and a free breakfast.

Located a few minutes away from the historic centre, Student's Hostel San Saverio has a large garden patio, and a nice café bar, which is perfect for people who want to spend a quiet day alone. All rooms are large and bright and there are showers in each one.

Considered as the first real hostel in Palermo, Hostel Firenze was reborn from an old elegant hotel. It is located in Via Candelai and is surrounded by Palermo’s bustling nightlife.