The temperatures keep rising and the rainfall keeps dropping when May rolls around in Palermo, found on the island of Sicily in Western Europe. During this time of the year, the average daily temperature reaches 19°C (about 65°F), almost near perfect springtime weather. Like nearby Altofonte, the highs get up to 21°C (around 70°F), approaching hot after the moderate and mild winter temperatures.
The lows generally only go down to 16°C (about 61°F), still a nice temperature for evenings out on the town or for spending time on the beach. By this time of the year, you can get away with wearing short-sleeved shirts most days, especially with the increased sunshine. You can expect nearly 8.8 hours of sunshine each day, more than ample time to get out and about, and an 80 percent chance of a sunny day. With that much sun, you'll also want to bring along sunglasses, a hat, and plenty of sunscreen.
During this time of the year, the chance of rain is very low, with only 30 mm falling on average. That amount of rain typically falls over 6 days in the month. So, even when it does rain, it's generally short-lived and light, letting you get back to your outdoor activities. The chance of rain on any given day is only 20 percent, so don't worry if you forget your umbrella; more than likely you won't need it at all during your holiday this month.
The ocean temperatures make a decent jump this month, averaging 19°C (about 66°F). While still pretty chilly for most, the water might feel fine to the brave or those with a high cold tolerance. Thanks to the warm air temperatures, you'll definitely want to at least take a walk on the beach and maybe just dip your toes in.
Stately and elegant, the Hotel Columbia Palermo provides guests with a friendly and helpful staff and high-end accommodations. The 24 guest rooms are tastefully decorated and you can choose from a single room, double room, double room with single, king room, and triple room. You'll enjoy a private bathroom, safe, mini bar, and air conditioning in your room. Each morning, take advantage of the complimentary breakfast with pastries, croissants, cakes, and international choices.
The Ambasciatori Hotel sits in the heart of Palermo so that you can enjoy the historic sites, delicious restaurants, and awesome nightlife the area has to offer. Each morning, enjoy a traditional Italian breakfast on the outdoor terrace with views of the city. In the cooler months, breakfast is served in a cosy breakfast nook. Hotel amenities include free internet, coffee bar, fitness centre, and rental services for car, minibus, or scooter to tour around.
Steeped in history, the Grand Hotel Wagner is a sophisticated and classy setting for your stay in Palermo. The rooms feature ornate furnishings and décor, as well as modern amenities like large-screen televisions and laptop hook-ups. You can choose from the superior or deluxe room, or upgrade to the junior or senior suites with separate sitting areas and more space. As a guest, you'll enjoy a fitness room, library, newspapers each day, taxi service, and rooftop garden to enjoy the warm May days.
Found an hour west of Palermo, San Vito Lo Capo Beach is nicknamed the "Caribbean of Italy" thanks to its crystal-clear blue waters. Because it's a popular beach, especially during the summer months, get there early to grab a spot on the sand. There are several restaurants and bars in nearby San Vito Lo Capo from which to grab a bite to eat after a day in the sun.
The Isola Delle Femmine Beach is an enormous public beach in the village of Isola Delle Femmine near Palermo. The white sand invites visitors to spend hours in the sun and splashing around in the warm waters, which average 19°C (about 66°F) this month. Thanks to its close location to the town centre, the beach has access to numerous restaurants and bars.
Mexico Lindo serves up Mexican food and drinks near the centre of Palermo. All of the dishes on the menu are homemade and the chef uses fresh and local ingredients whenever possible. You'll want to start your meal with fresh-made guacamole and chips. For drinks, check out the Mexican wines and of course, you can't go wrong with a margarita.
Consistently ranked as one of Palermo's best restaurants, Il Ragno offers guests a menu full of Sicilian favourites. The restaurant's pizzas are some of the best on the island, with naturally-proofed dough and fresh toppings. On the weekends, you can try the buffet of appetizers for a flat price, a nice way to start your meal. Take out is available if you'd rather enjoy your meal back at your hotel.
The Bye Bye Blues restaurant is led by Chef Patrizia Di Benedetto, who was born and raised in Palermo. When you dine at the restaurant, you'll be treated to a traditional four-course menu that includes an appetizer, first course, second course, and dessert. The large wine list includes reds, whites, blushes, and sparkling varieties from Sicily, Italy, and around the world.
Like other Italian cities, Palermo is known for its outdoor street markets, which take place almost all year round. The most famous is the La Vucciria, which takes place on the side streets surrounding the Piazza San Domenico. It's open from dawn until midday all week long and includes all kinds of seafood, herbs, and local produce. You can also find souvenirs, knick-knacks, and homemade goods.
Escape from the crowds in Palermo and take the ferry across the Tirreno Sea to the island of Ustica. The volcanic island is peaceful and quiet and provides a great place to swim, snorkel, or just spend time on the sandy beaches in the warming May temperatures. You can explore the tiny town with shops and restaurants on your own, or hire a local to give you a tour the island and all it has to offer.
Palermo is set up so that it's easily walkable to see all of its history and culture. If you want to go more in-depth, consider taking a walking tour with a company like Walking Tour Palermo. Company owner and tour guide, Domenico Aronica, leads you on a 3.5-hour walking tour of the city, seeing the palaces, churches, markets, and other attractions of the area.
