Live the Sicilian lifestyle in this historic city, and soak up the Mediterranean vibes in Palermo, Italy
More than just a vacation, a month-long immersion in Italian culture. Experience firsthand the Sicilian way of life. You’ll learn to speak Italian, make new friends, and discover new passions.
Centrally Located Apartments
Community Activities
In-Person Palermo Support Staff
Optional Activities & Tours
Get Palermo Details
Request a digital catalog with dates, prices, housing, and activities for our experience in Palermo.
As Seen On:
Live like a local and enjoy a variety of activities with like minded people in Palermo
Craving a taste of la dolce vita, with a dash of fiery Mediterranean passion? Immerse yourself in Palermo, Italy! Explore ancient alleys whispering stories of Phoenicians, Arabs, and Normans. Savor sun-kissed beaches, vibrant street markets, and mouthwatering feasts. Wander baroque palaces, climb Mount Pellegrino for breathtaking views, and lose yourself in the city’s infectious rhythm. Live like a local, learn Italian over espresso, and soak up the warm Sicilian spirit.
Your experience always includes
Exclusive Apartments
Live in a sumptuous mid-eighteenth century palace located near the Port of Palermo. Relax in the palazzo's internal courtyard with a fountain in the style of a rocaille, or walk 20 minutes to the famous Teatro Politeama.
Local Community Manager
Your Sicilian host who organizes community activities, and can connect you to local events that you might be interested in. Whether you want to study Italian, volunteer, or just connect with locals, our Community Manager can guide you.
Cultural Experiences
Wander through bustling markets, haggling for vibrant spices and seasonal delights, your senses alive with the intoxicating aroma of freshly baked cannoli. Your Community Manager curates the best local events and experiences and can connect you to happenings particularly suited to you.
Health & Wellness
Palermo's sunshine begs for exploration! Embrace your inner local by exploring hidden piazzas and soaking up the Mediterranean breeze. Sign up for optional yoga or a gym membership. Travel medical insurance included in program fee.
Your Home in Palermo
Just across from the working waterfront of the Port of Palermo, the Port Site sits in a residential neighborhood — a bit removed from the historic center, but with its own authentic character. You'll stay in a beautifully restored historic palazzo full of architectural detail and part of the local history. The historic center, with its bustling markets, cafés, and cultural landmarks, is about a 25 minute walk on foot or a short taxi or bus ride. It's a natural fit for travelers who prefer coming home to calm at the end of a full day, and most members find the neighborhood rhythm a welcome part of the Palermo experience.
TGLA also provides return transfers to and from the city center: multiple trips per day on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday (event days), and one trip daily on all other days, including Saturday and Sunday.
All apartments are located within a restored historical palazzo, and include the following:
Fully equipped kitchenette (pots, pans, utensils, plates)
Dishwasher
Central air conditioning system
High speed internet
Smart TV
Coffeemaker
Weekly cleaning
Elevator
Communal washing machine and dryer on premise
Authentic Palermo Experiences
Immerse yourself in Palermo’s soul with authentic experiences beyond tourist traps. Dive into the cacophony of a centuries old market while haggling for fresh produce. Witness the magic of a traditional marionette show breathing life into epic tales. Unearth hidden mosaics tucked away in ancient churches.
Palermo is a foodie’s paradise, and our Tuesday Lunch Club will have you sampling everything from its famous street food, to learning the secrets of pasta and savoring the fruits of your labor with laughter and local wine.
Included Community Activities:
Welcome reception & farewell party
Weekly "Tuesday Lunch Club"
Percussion workshop
Cooking workshop
Traditional pottery workshop
Intro to Italian language workshop
Excursion to Cefalù
Weekly “Happy (to be 55+) Hour”
*Included community activities are subject to change based on season, group size and availability. Travelers will receive their finalized schedule of events 60 days prior to their program start date.
Optional Activities:
Unique personal experiences that can be arranged at an additional cost with your Community Manager.
Day trip to Marsala
Sicilian wine country day trip
Yoga studio or gym membership
Private Italian language study
Palermo Community Manager
Federica G.
Federica was born and raised in Palermo by a tribe of restaurant keepers, but fell in love with travel through her grandfather’s stories. After graduating from university with a degree in Foreign Languages, she set off for a decade of travel around Europe. During this time, she worked in a variety of roles in the hospitality industry, including a stint at Hilton. Eventually, she returned to Sicily to work as a guide and has been leading tours across the island, and enjoying being close to her family. Besides sharing her hometown with visitors, Federica also loves jazz, cats, and the Eolian Islands.
Spotlight on Palermo
Ever dreamed of experiencing life in one of Sicily’s most timeless and iconic cities? Join us for an exclusive webinar where Federica, our Palermo Community Manager, sits down with TGLA founder Andrew Motiwalla and one of our past participants to share what makes our Palermo program truly unforgettable.
Getaway with Day & Weekend Trips
Settle in Palermo as your home base and explore the charm of nearby Sicilian towns and coastal cities, all within 1-2 hours by car or train. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, you’ll find endless opportunities to immerse yourself in the rich culture, history, and flavors of Sicily.
Upcoming Sessions
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Date Feb 17 - Mar 18, 2027 |
Site Port |
Type
Signature
Our flagship month-long program — live abroad in a private apartment with a full calendar of included activities. |
Price $3,895 /person |
Available
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Book Now |
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Date Apr 19 - May 19, 2027 |
Site Port |
Type
Signature
Our flagship month-long program — live abroad in a private apartment with a full calendar of included activities. |
Price $4,195 /person |
Available
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Book Now |
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Date May 20 - Jun 19, 2027 |
Site Port |
Type
Signature
Our flagship month-long program — live abroad in a private apartment with a full calendar of included activities. |
Price $4,195 /person |
Limited (4 left)
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Book Now |
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Date Aug 31 - Sep 30, 2027 |
Site Port |
Type
Signature
Our flagship month-long program — live abroad in a private apartment with a full calendar of included activities. |
Price $4,195 /person |
Available
|
Book Now |
|
Date Oct 1 - Oct 31, 2027 |
Site Port |
Type
Signature
Our flagship month-long program — live abroad in a private apartment with a full calendar of included activities. |
Price $4,195 /person |
Available
|
Book Now |
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Date Nov 1 - Dec 1, 2027 |
Site Port |
Type
Signature
Our flagship month-long program — live abroad in a private apartment with a full calendar of included activities. |
Price $3,595 /person |
Available
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Book Now |
Your Month-Long Palermo Experience
More than just a vacation, immerse yourself in Italian culture and experience firsthand the Italian way of life. You’ll learn to speak Italian, make new friends, and discover new passions.
Your Tailored Experience Includes:
30 Nights Stay
Furnished Exclusive Apartment
Weekly ‘Tuesday Lunch Club’
Weekly Happy Hour
Weekly Walking Tour or Workshop
Included Extras
Percussion workshop
Cooking workshop
Traditional pottery workshop
Intro to Italian language workshop
Excursion to Cefalù
Get Your FREE Catalog from The Good Life Abroad
Unlock valuable insights and make your next experience abroad even better by requesting your free digital catalog.
What Our Community is Saying
Sharon shares about building community during her and Paul's travels with The Good Life Abroad.
From Redondo Beach, CA
Experienced Lisbon, Portugal
"What we've really enjoyed about The Good Life Abroad is the community and the people within it that we've gotten to know and spend time with. That's been a really rich experience."
From Pittsburgh, PA
Experienced Florence, Italy
“As a solo traveler, I expected to explore venues and dine alone, trying to connect with people around me. However, having this group with us was so unexpected and the best part about it. It felt like a built-in community.”
Experienced Florence, Italy
Frequently Asked Questions
Palermo, the capital of Sicily, is a fascinating blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty. Known as a melting pot of cultures, the city is famous for its diverse architecture, vibrant street markets, and delicious Sicilian cuisine. Whether you're exploring the grand Teatro Massimo, relaxing at Mondello Beach, or discovering hidden gems like Quattro Canti, Palermo offers something for every traveler.
With a month-long stay in Palermo, you’ll have plenty of time to truly immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture and history. Spend your first week visiting iconic sites like Palermo Cathedral and the Palatine Chapel, then take time to relax at Mondello Beach. Dedicate time to exploring local markets, trying Sicilian wines, and indulging in the city's famous street food. Throughout the month, you can mix cultural activities, like an opera at Teatro Massimo, with leisurely strolls through historic neighborhoods such as Piazza Marina.
Palermo is home to many breathtaking historical sites, including the Capuchin Catacombs, where you can see mummified remains dating back centuries. Don't miss Santa Caterina, a stunning Baroque church, or the iconic Palatine Chapel, which boasts incredible mosaics. The city’s rich history is reflected in its architecture, from Vittorio Emanuele street to the diverse styles seen throughout Palermo Cathedral.
Palermo's food scene is a highlight of any visit. The city is renowned for its authentic Sicilian cuisine, including dishes like arancini, panelle, and fresh seafood. Don't forget to try the iconic Sicilian wines during your stay. For a deeper dive into Palermo’s culinary delights, explore its bustling markets or join a local cooking class.
Palermo is welcoming and safe, though it’s wise to stay cautious in busy markets and tourist areas. Keep your belongings secure and enjoy exploring the city’s vibrant culture.
Cefalù and Monreale are fantastic options, offering historic architecture and scenic charm. Both are easily accessible by train or bus.
The best way to experience Palermo’s culture is by taking a mix of guided tours and independent exploration. Start with a visit to Teatro Massimo, one of Europe’s largest opera houses, or join a walking tour to discover the rich architectural heritage, including the beautiful Quattro Canti. If you're staying longer, build a personalized itinerary that includes both famous landmarks and lesser-known treasures.
Alumni Experience in Palermo
Elizabeth B.
June 9th, 2025
Love the community manager and the idea of really getting to know a place.
Sharon G.
June 9th, 2025
Very active city with lots to see and do. I took a ferry over to Salina Island which was the highlight for me.
Marilyn S.
June 5th, 2025
Federica made it all worthwhile.
Marilyn S.
May 30th, 2025
Great experience living with others who value travel-having a competent local guide - having an apartment with a kitchenette
Debby A.
May 30th, 2025
We were the third group to visit Palermo. We had a positive experience overall.
Laura G.
May 23rd, 2025
TGLA has figured out how to make a month’s stay in an interesting European locale both affordable and delightful- with the best community managers, scheduled activities, and free time to explore on our own. It’s an ideal scenario!
Cindy (cynthia) S.
April 30th, 2025
The built-in community, the community manager, Frederica, lots of fun and interesting activities
Gary C.
April 29th, 2025
The program is exactly what it says it is. The Community Mgr. is key to its success and invaluable in helping members get adjusted to the location and culture. Having someone from GLA on the ground/in country was invaluable. Our apartment key card quit working late one night shortly after we arrived and we were locked out. Being able to call Frederica was a life saver. It was nice too to have some regular scheduled social activities on the calendar and a HUGE plus to have the shuttle services which were really needed due to Palazzo location. We also appreciated the weekly housekeeping and the beds and apartment were comfortable and clean. Having an onsite laundry room w/washers, dryers, and iron & ironing board was a plus. Having all participants (apartments) in the same building/Palazzo was a big plus.
Diane C.
April 29th, 2025