Is Palermo Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

If you are wondering whether Palermo is worth visiting, we have to say that it is Sicily’s cultural, economic and tourism capital and due to its rich history, culture and art it is the city that has so many things to offer.

This can be proved by the fact that the city attracts significant numbers of tourists each year.

Palermo is a fantastic city with the most to see and do in all Sicily.

You should not miss the Palermo Cathedral, originally constructed in 1185 as well as The Palatine Chapel located in the center of Palermo.

Warnings & Dangers in Palermo

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

The overall risk of traveling to Palermo is medium, meaning that the city is neither too dangerous nor fully safe. Actually, vigilant travelers would spend their holidays without having to worry about their safety.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

When transport safety is in question, you are suggested to travel in groups and make a deal with the taxi driver about the price of the ride. When in public transport, do not display expensive electronics.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

Palermo is a city full of tourists and they are the main target of pickpockets and bag snatchers. These petty crime acts usually happen in front of famous landmarks and in public transport.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

Sometimes, a series of earthquakes and earth tremors are affecting the pleasant staying of tourists, but you should not worry too much about that.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

Muggers would use a variety of methods to distract their attention so you should be extra watchful and take much care on public transport and in crowded areas. Incidents of street muggings have been reported at some main stations.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

In the majority of cases, the terrorist attacks are aimed at official Italian targets, but tourists might be affected if they happen to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.

SCAMS RISK: LOW

Italian restaurants are known for informing the customer of the prices being charged before he/she orders and not making any cover charge which is not very common in some other countries.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Palermo is a city full of tourists throughout the year and the instances of women being assaulted are quite rare, even though it cannot be said that they have never happened.

So... How Safe Is Palermo Really?

All travelers should know that they should not sit on monuments, or eat and drink near the historic buildings, as it is considered offensive in Italy.

Furthermore, having a bath in a public fountain can also cause you trouble.

We believe that you would not throw litter on the street, but if you do that, you can expect to be fined in Palermo.

Also, if you buy goods from illegal traders on the street, you can be stopped by the local police and fined.

Major cities, especially those covered by tourists, impose a small tax on tourists which is usually not included in the travel arrangement, so do not think that the hotel staff will try to deceive you.

If you are one of those people who like driving, make sure you have your passport with you, being that the police might ask for your full passport if they stop you.

Our suggestion is not to leave the passport in the vehicle when you get out of it, as automobiles tend to be broken into and valuables stolen from them.

Passports and other expensive things should be left in a hotel safe when you go for a walk.

How Does Palermo Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

Residents of the European countries do not need a visa to enter Italy. However, if you are planning a stay longer than 3 months, you will need to get a visa.

Currency

When coming to Italy, you will have to pay in euros, which is the official currency of Italy. It is important that you exchange your money in banks and licensed exchange offices.

Weather

The climate of Palermo is a Mediterranean one with very mild, rainy winters and hot summers. Winters are rarely very cold, but the wind is very frequent there.

Airports

Tourists coming to Palermo usually use Falcone Borsellino Airport or better known as Palermo Airport which is located at Punta Raisi, about 35 km away from Palermo.

Travel Insurance

Being that medical expenses are high for foreigners, all travelers are suggested to take out travel insurance prior to starting the journey which will cover the services, as well as other unexpected occurrences.

Palermo Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Italy - Safety by City