Palermo Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Palermo
This itinerary focuses on a mix of free outdoor activities and exciting ticketed attractions loved by kids, ensuring a budget-conscious yet enriching experience. It's designed for families with children aged 3-12, offering flexibility and local flavors.
Friday Evening - Family Fun
Friday, February 20Playground Adventure
Let the kids burn off some energy at Parco della Salute Livia Morello, a spacious playground right on the waterfront.
It features swings, climbing structures, spring toys, balance beams, and even a small soccer pitch, making it a favorite among local families.
Ideal for children aged 3-12. The park has toilets and benches for parents. Be mindful that there isn't a fence directly between the playground and the water.
Easily accessible by foot, and public transportation options are available nearby. Limited parking might be available in the surrounding area, but walking or using public transport is recommended for city center locations. Stroller-friendly paths.
Casual Family Dinner
Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a family-friendly restaurant.
Palermo offers many options that cater to children's tastes, often with delicious pasta dishes and a welcoming atmosphere.
Suitable for all ages. Sicilian cuisine often includes kid-friendly options like simple pasta or arancini.
Many restaurants are centrally located and walkable. Public transport is available. Check specific restaurant locations for parking availability.
Saturday - Adventure Day
Saturday, February 21Interactive Children's Museum
Explore MiniMuPa (Mini Museo Palermo), an interactive children's museum in the historic Kalsa district.
It offers hands-on activities and exhibits designed for young visitors to learn about Sicilian art, history, and traditions through play.
Ideal for children aged 3-12. The experience is approximately 1.5 hours and is wheelchair accessible. Booking in advance is recommended.
Located in the city center, easily reachable by walking or public transport. Limited parking in the Kalsa district, which is often a ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone).
Street Food Market Lunch
Immerse yourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Ballarò Market, one of Palermo's oldest and liveliest street markets.
Enjoy authentic Sicilian street food like 'arancini' (fried rice balls) and 'panelle' (chickpea fritters), which are often a hit with kids.
A fantastic cultural experience for all ages. Kids will enjoy the sights, sounds, and tasting local snacks. Cash is recommended for market purchases.
Located in the historic center, best explored on foot. Public buses serve the area. The market can be crowded, so strollers might be challenging.
Botanical Gardens & Villa
Wander through the Orto Botanico dell'Università degli Studi di Palermo, home to a vast collection of exotic plants and large trees.
Afterward, enjoy a peaceful stroll in the adjacent, free-to-enter Villa Giulia, a historic public garden perfect for relaxation.
Children can enjoy exploring the diverse flora and open spaces. The Botanical Garden is open from 9 AM to 5 PM in February. Expect to spend 1.5-2 hours.
The gardens are near the seafront, accessible by public transport (e.g., bus route 231 or 107 from Palermo railway station). Parking is available.
Traditional Puppet Show
Experience the magic of 'Opera dei Pupi,' traditional Sicilian puppet theater, at the Antonio Pasqualino International Puppet Museum.
This UNESCO-recognized art form features captivating stories of knights and battles, brought to life by intricately crafted puppets.
Shows typically run for about 45 minutes and are engaging for children aged 3-12. The show ticket includes admission to the museum, which can be explored before or after.
Located in the Kalsa district, walking distance from many central areas. Public transportation (bus line N5) is also an option.
Sunday - Relaxed Day
Sunday, February 22Seaside Stroll & Play
Enjoy a leisurely morning at Foro Italico, the scenic seaside promenade.
It's an excellent spot for families to walk, run around on the grass, play soccer, or even fly kites, offering beautiful views of the Gulf of Palermo.
Perfect for children aged 3-12 to enjoy open space and fresh air. A great picnic spot if you pack snacks or a light lunch.
Easily accessible by foot from central areas, or by public transport. Parking might be available along the promenade.
Indoor Play Fun
Head to an indoor play center like Boom Zone for some active fun, especially great if the weather is cool.
It offers inflatables, adventure courses, trampolines, and other games, providing a safe and exciting environment for children to play.
Suitable for children aged 2-12. There are different play areas for various age groups. Supervision by staff ensures safety.
Often located in more suburban areas, so a short taxi or bus ride might be necessary depending on your starting point. Parking usually available at these types of venues.
Early Family Dinner
Conclude your weekend with an early dinner at a highly-rated family-friendly restaurant, offering a chance to relax and reflect on your Palermo adventures.
Many establishments offer traditional Sicilian dishes in a cozy setting.
Suitable for all ages. Enjoy classic Palermitano cuisine known for its authentic flavors.
Located in a central area, accessible by walking or public transport. Check for specific parking options.
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