Hop-on Hop-off-Tour Palermo

OK. The vast cathedral, dating from Norman times (12th C) is a must-see attraction, but considering you pay close to 20€ for visits to the ‘interesting bits’, there are a few things to bear in mind. Firstly, the cathedral itself is free to enter. So go at a time when the cruise ships haven’t just disgorged hundreds of people. Then seriously weigh up if you want to visit the crypt and treasury, or roof. The crypt has about a dozen old white carved tombs, but the descriptions of who’s in ‘em is scant and poorly lit. There’s little of merit in the ‘treasury’; you’ll find more of interest in Palermo’s 100+ other churches. However, the roof views are stunning, although it can be arduous climbing up the stone spiral steps. What’s really disappointing is the arrogant, cursory, dismissive and downright rude attitude of the unsmiling, busy-on-their-mobile staff. Unhelpful, bored and brusque, even when asked polite questions. No doubt the cathedral authorities have no idea the employees are so surly… but they need to inject some positivity and also make the signage better. It took us ages to find the ticket office. Top tip - view the free cathedral interior, and just do the roof trip on a fine day for the stunning views.

Not as spectacular interior as exterior, but certainly beautiful piece of architecture made of local stone and one of symbols of Palermo.

Gorgeous building on the inside! The rooftop view and catacombs are worth the price (€18 per person). There are lots to look at!

This is an awe-inspiring building within Palermo. So much to see, everywhere you turn. That is just outside! Once you are inside, there is lots to see, with some descriptions inside. Access to roof but payment needed. Do visit if you are in Palermo!

While the exterior of the cathedral is unique, the inside is NOT and looks very much like many other older churches. I would walk around the outside, take pictures and skip the inside. It is true many kings of Palermo were crowned here but visually not exciting.

Nice cathedral. Very white and cliean inside. Cosy as well.

Beautiful and that is not doing justice. Make sure you go to Crypt and roof. Well worth. Roof was great give great view of city.

A good experience here. You feel stepped within so much history. The front gardens are epic. Fees could be overpriced but we were just amazed being inside.

Nice big, you can walk on rooftop.

This is a controversial view, but I didn't think the inside was worth seeing. I've travelled all over Italy & Spain, seen some of the most spectacular & amazing churches/ cathedrals so I suppose my expectation is high. If you've similarly seen aged cathedrals with high quality art works, incredible windows, mosaics & painted frescoes then this will disappoint you. However if you haven't seen these things, you should definitely go & see this Cathedral. The outside of the building is beautiful, wonderful architecture & the courtyard gardens in front were nice.