Ballarò is the oldest and most popular neighborhood among tourists, and is also considered a multicultural symbol of Palermo. It’s a lively place where you can shop for produce (fruits and vegetables) but also immerse yourself in the most authentic sounds of this region. On Sunday mornings, it transforms into a large flea market, a sort of antique fair.
The historic center is very large, and for the past few years, you’ve finally been able to stroll around peacefully thanks to pedestrian zones like Corso Vittorio Emanuele and Via Maqueda, which will lead you to discover monuments (Ballarò Market, the Cathedral, the Norman Palace and the Palatine Chapel, Villa Bonanno, Porta Nova, Quattro Canti, the Pretoria Fountain, Teatro Massimo, and Politeama). If you decide to visit other parts of the city, such as Palazzo della Zisa, Monreale, or Mondello, I recommend using public transportation. Other options include taxis or bicycles. For those traveling by car, be aware of the ZTL (Restricted Traffic Zone); you’ll need a permit. For all information: ZTL Palermo
Other places of interest (Children’s Hospital, Civic Hospital, ISMETT Hospital, Policlinico Hospital, University of Palermo)