Palermo: Norman Palace & Palatine Chapel – Small Group or Private
Overview
Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Visit two absolute must-sees in the Sicilian capital with this guided tour of the Palazzo dei Normanni and Cappella Palatina, including entrance tickets. With more than 800 years of history, it’s perfect for culture vultures! Of all the incredible attractions in Palermo, the Palazzo dei Normanni is one that you can’t miss off your itinerary. Once the seat of the King of Sicily, it is the oldest royal residence in Europe and you can learn the history of all the dynasties who had their thrones here - as well as visiting a stunning and sublime channel.
You’ll get exclusive entrance into the palace and its gardens
Though not as well known as Rome’s Sistine Chapel or Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, the Cappella Palatina (or Palatine Chapel) is one of the most spectacular in all of Italy.
Not only do your tickets allow you entrance to the palace and chapel, but you can explore the gardens too with your expert guide!
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please note: Palazzo dei Normani is a government venue. In case of official events or meeting the tour could be subject to cancellation
The tour runs rain or shine
We are sorry to inform you that pets are not permitted on our tours
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
See the remains of a melting pot of eastern and western history in the Cappella Palatina
Tickets and guided visit of Palace, Gardens and Cappella Palatina
Be ready to visit one of the most ancient palaces in Europe
Marvel at the Byzantine mosaics on the walls
Licensed English or Spanish Speaking Guide
Private Tour Guide (if Private option purchased)
Gratuities
Hotel pick up and drop off
What To Expect
Norman Palace
The Norman Palace. Construction on the palace started in the 9th century when Sicily was under Islamic rule, though it was renovated by the Normans in 1072 when their empire spread across Europe. Now, it’s the home of the Sicilian Regional assembly. You’ll get exclusive entrance into the palace and its gardens. Though not as well known as Rome’s Sistine Chapel or Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, the Cappella Palatina (or Palatine Chapel) is one of the most spectacular in all of Italy. The chapel, on the second-floor of the palace, was built in 1140 and gives an insight into the arts, science and philosophy of the dominant Western and Middle Eastern cultures at that time. See traditional Islamic designs, Byzantine mosaics, and golden decorations in one of the best examples of the Arab - Norman - Byzantine style. Not only do your tickets allow you entrance to the palace and chapel, but you can explore the gardens too with your expert guide
The Palatine Chapel (Italian: Cappella Palatina) is the royal chapel of the Norman Palace in Palermo, Sicily. This building is a mixture of Byzantine, Norman and Fatimid architectural styles, showing the tricultural state of Sicily during the 12th century after Roger I and Robert Guiscard conquered the island.
Options
Private Royal Palace Tour
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Full Attention, Richer Insight: Enjoy your own expert guide for an intimate, in-depth visit. Exclusive access, no solitude but total focus on you.
Small Group Royal Palermo Tour
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Palace, Chapel & Garden Walk: Discover Palermo’s royal past with a licensed guide in a small group. Entrance tickets and gardens included.
Reviews
54 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
A great tour
CatherineAponte,
Jul 24, 2025
- Viator
5.00This is a well done tour with enough information shared to walk away feeling like you have an understanding of everything you see. The tour is done with a small group which makes it easy to move from one activity to the next.
Stunning chapel and excellent Guide!
John G,
Jul 21, 2025
- Viator
5.00Stunning place with very interesting history. The guide was very friendly and knowledgeable and even managed to keep our 7 year old daughter interested on a very hot day! Up front communication was also good and the guide met us right outside the main entrance so was easy to find.
Great tour , lots of information and history !
russdaniels20,
Apr 27, 2025
- Viator
5.00This was a very informative tour and our guide was fantastic . Claudio our guide was so knowledgeable and answered all of our questions.
Knowledgeable guide.
Gerald D,
Apr 16, 2025
- Viator
5.00It was a good tour with Debbie, who knew her stuff. She explained the details about the Palace and Chapel that we would not gave known otherwise. It enhanced our visit.
Thorough, knowledgeable...
Karen L,
Apr 12, 2025
- Viator
5.00Thorough, knowledgeable guide! This tour is well worth the money to skip the lines and learn details about the palace and chapel. It is just the right of time; highly recommend.
Related Experiences
Operated by Towns of Italy