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Visit | February 2010
About an hour east of Palermo, the town of Cefalu has a wealth of treasures, from its Norman cathedral to its wonderful sandy beach. Climb the exhausting set of stairs to the top of La Rocca (a gigantic rock overlooking the town), where Sicily's mythical giants once lived.
Address: CEFALU.
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See | February 2010
Topped by five beautiful red domes, this church exemplifies Palermo's Arab- Norman architecture and was built by Moorish craftsmen in 1132. Escape the city traffic with a walk around its lush gardens, then explore the cloisters of the abandoned monastery next door.
Address: 3 VIA DEI BENEDETTINI.
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Sitting on the Via Roma, this grand old dame is the stuff of legend, murder and ghosts. Rooms feature luxurious fabrics and antiques, while public spaces are all marble and glittering chandeliers.
Address: 398 VIA ROMA. | Tel: +39 091 602 8111
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Grab a table by the window in this rustic restaurant and admire the views of the ancient churches on the square. Try a wellhoned Sicilian classic such as casarecce alla norma (pasta with aubergines and salty ricotta) or a delicious pizza.
Address: 6 PIAZZA BELLINI. | Tel: +39 091 616 5691
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See | November 2009
Find a quiet spot if you can to observe these 17th-century statues and reliefs that adorn buildings on the four corners of Palermo's main crossroads. Gazing inwards
Address: VIA MAQUEDA AND CORSO VITTORIO EMANUELE.
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Visit | November 2009
Built in 1143 and altered extensively over the centuries, La Martorana combines Norman, Byzantine and Baroque elements. Flowing sculptures of cherubs adorn the interior, accompanied by stunning blue and gold mosaics.
Address: 2 PIAZZA BELLINI.
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Hotels | November 2009
A proper part of old Palermo, this 12th-century palazzo is built into the city walls just a few steps from the cathedral. Presided over by a real-life count and countess, it offers just one master bedroom (with adjoining children's rooms) and fi ve holiday flats.
Address: 4 VIA DEI BISCOTTARI. | Tel: +39 091 651 1881
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Tucked down a side street, this family-run restaurant (pictured) is a real locals' joint. Start with a selection of Sicilian antipasti from the heavily laden buffet, move on to pasta with sardines or fresh swordfish, and leave room for the bulging dessert trolley.
Address: 79 VIA VENEZIA. | Tel: +39 091 334 714
