Palermo, on the island of Sicily, is a lively and exciting Italian city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious food.
However, the Palermo nightlife scene is equally as impressive, offering visitors a chance to experience the city in a new and exciting way.
Whether looking for a chic rooftop bar, a trendy nightclub, or a cozy lounge, Palermo nightlife has something for everyone.
Where to Party in Palermo
Palermo is known for its seaside ambiance and cultural attractions, but it also has somewhat of a lively nightlife scene.
Here are some of the best areas to party in Palermo:
Old Town
The Historic City Center of Palermo, also known as the Centro Storico or Old Town, is a fascinating destination that draws visitors worldwide. This historic area is a hub for the nightlife scene in Palermo, offering a wide range of options for those who want to drink, dance, or simply explore the area’s old buildings and alleys.
The area is filled with bars, clubs, and cafes, making finding a spot that suits your style easy.
Politeama / Libertà Area (Downtown)
The New City Center is a newer area of the city that boasts a great variety of bars and restaurants, making it a popular destination for those seeking a more stylish and posh nightlife experience than what can be found in the more relaxed Old Town. While not as large as the Old Town, this area offers a vibrant scene with plenty of options to explore.
Mondello – Addaura and Sferracavallo Seafront
While the seafront may offer cooler temperatures, the nightlife in this area can still get red hot, particularly during the summer months. Mondello Beach, Addaura, and Sferracavallo Coasts are trendy destinations for locals looking for fun.
The seafront is generally deserted during the off-season months from October to April. However, as May rolls around, locals flock to the seafront bars to sip authentic Italian wine while enjoying the stunning sea views. It’s a breathtaking sight that will surely get anyone’s heart racing.
Palermo Nightlife & Safety Tips
When enjoying the vibrant nightlife scene in Palermo, it’s important to take precautions to ensure your safety.
Top tips to follow when partying in Palermo:
- Stick to crowded areas: Some areas of Palermo can be dark and quiet at night, so it’s essential to stay in well-lit and congested areas. Famous squares like Piazza Verdi and Piazza Politeama are usually busy and safe.
- Watch your belongings: As with any tourist destination, pickpocketing can be a problem in Palermo. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items.
- Don’t drink too much: It’s easy to get carried away with the fun and excitement of Palermo’s nightlife, but be sure to pace yourself and not overdo it with alcohol. This will help you stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
- Dress appropriately: Some clubs and bars in Palermo have dress codes, so it’s best to check beforehand to avoid disappointment. Dressing in layers is also a good idea, as Palermo can get chilly at night.
- Use official taxis: If you need to take a cab at night, use an official taxi service and avoid unlicensed taxis. You can find official taxis at designated taxi stands throughout the city.
By following these tips, you can enjoy Palermo’s nightlife while staying safe and having a great time.
How Expensive is it to Party in Palermo?
If you’re planning a night out in Palermo and wondering about the costs, here’s a breakdown of how expensive it can be to experience the Palermo nightlife:
Here is a basic overview of what you can expect to pay to enjoy the Palermo nightlife scene:
Nightclub cover: 10-20 euros (reduced cover charge on certain days of the week or during certain hours, so it’s always a good idea to check in advance)
Bottle of beer: 3-5 euros (less touristy areas and bars can range from 2-4 euros)
Cocktail: 8-12 euros (keep eyes open for bars offering happy hour specials)
Bottle Service: 100-300 euros (usually includes a reserved table and a bottle of premium liquor, as well as mixers and garnishes)
*1 Euro = 1.07 USD
Best Bars in Palermo
Luppolo l’Ottavo Nano
Discover the hidden gem of Palermo’s beer scene at Luppolo, where one man’s passion for hops has ignited a revolution. Inspired by Milan’s beer culture, owner Gioacchino Purpura has created a lively spot where craft beer reigns supreme. Luppolo offers a tantalizing selection of IPAs, stouts, and lagers on tap, as well as bottles from breweries across Europe and beyond, making it the perfect destination for any beer enthusiast looking for something unique and refreshing.
Caffè del Corso
Caffè del Corso is a trendy lounge bar in the city’s heart, perfect for a cozy night out. With its plush armchairs, dim lighting, and elegant decor, this bar is ideal for sipping on a delicious cocktail and enjoying quiet conversation.
Bocum
Bocum, Palermo’s pioneering cocktail bar, remains a top-notch destination for bar-hoppers. Their eclectic decor is sure to captivate, but their cocktail menu is not to be missed! Try their seasonal beverages and sample their delectable Asian-fusion bar snacks.
Ferramenta
Ferramenta, a gastropub in an old hardware store, is renowned for its exquisite cocktails in Palermo. However, if cocktails aren’t your thing, you can also savor some of the finest wines from the Sicily region. Indulge in a perfect pairing of wine and charcuterie board at Ferramenta.
Hic! La Folie du Vin
Hic! La Folie du Vin is a popular bar among middle-aged locals and tourists. It has a lively atmosphere, but if you’re in your 20s, you may want to consider other options. If you’re in your 30s or 40s, this wine bar is perfect for unwinding and enjoying yourself. Don’t miss their Sunday night acoustic performance.
Enoteca Buonivini
Enoteca Buonivini is a wine lover’s paradise in Palermo’s heart. This charming bar offers a wide variety of Italian and international wines that you can enjoy in a fun and relaxing atmosphere, both inside and outside.
With a great selection of Italian wines, sit back and relax in their outdoor seating area with a glass of your favorite wine that perfectly suits your taste buds.
Qvivi
Step into the lively place of Piazza Rivoluzione, where a colorful spot awaits. Qvivi attracts a lively crowd with the promise of a free early-evening buffet with every drink purchase and thrilling performances to come.
Guitars lining the walls serve as a constant reminder that the owners of this place are passionate about music. As the night goes on, the battered piano by the bar gets a workout, and live music takes over, creating an infectious energy that sweeps through the crowd, carrying everyone away in its spell.
Enoteca Picone
Enoteca Picone is a must-visit for wine lovers in Palermo. This historic wine bar has been serving up glasses and bottles of wine since 1946, and its expertise in local Sicilian wines is unparalleled. The bar has a cozy and traditional ambiance, with wooden furniture and shelves lined with bottles of wine.
Bottiglieria Massimo
La Battiglieria Massimo is the perfect spot to start or end your night in Palermo. Located near the Teatro Massimo, it’s the ideal place to enjoy a glass of champagne before or after a show. This bar boasts an impressive selection of champagnes and sparkling wines worldwide, making it a must-visit for any champagne lover.
Pair your bubbly with some of their delicious snacks for the perfect combination. The chic and sophisticated atmosphere makes Bottiglieria Massimo an excellent spot for a special occasion or a romantic evening out.
Nightclubs in Palermo
Cantavespri Vini e Vinili
Step back in time and immerse yourself in a unique sensory experience at Cantavespri, the concept nightclub, and bar located in the 16th-century Palazzo Lucchesi Palli in the historic center. Wine and vinyl come together seamlessly as you sip on generously poured cocktails and enjoy live music performances during the early evening aperitivo.
As the night progresses, the club transforms into a vibrant dance floor where live DJs take over and keep the party going until dawn. Don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate the stunning mural by Palestinian artist Emily Jacir that adorns the club’s walls.
Fabric Club House
Get ready to party all night long at this ultimate destination for weekend fun! With its buzzing atmosphere, exciting music, and affordable drinks, this nightclub is the perfect place to let loose and dance the night away. The go-go dancers will keep you entertained and energized, while the lively crowd creates an electric vibe that will make you feel alive. Whether you’re looking to hit the dance floor, socialize with friends, or simply let off some steam, this club has it all.
Vinoverso
In the early evening hours, typically from 8:00 pm to 11:30 pm, patrons can enjoy a delicious dinner or aperitif while entertained by live music performances, especially on weekends.
As the night goes on, the atmosphere gradually shifts, and the music transitions to more dance-oriented beats, signaling the start of the nightclub experience. With a spacious dance floor and state-of-the-art sound system, Vinoverso attracts a lively crowd of party-goers who are ready to dance the night away.
Vanity Night Club
This nightclub has everything you need for an unforgettable night out with a state-of-the-art sound system, dazzling light displays, and an electric atmosphere. Whether dancing to the beats of the hottest DJs in town or sipping on expertly-crafted cocktails at the sleek bar, Vanity Nightclub is the perfect place to let loose and indulge in the city’s vibrant party scene.
Palermo Nightlife Summary
Palermo is a seaside city that offers a decent nightlife scene, with a range of bars, clubs, and lounges to suit all tastes and budgets—but the biggest draw is the people.
Go become part of the nightlife and discover how the locals like to party after the sun goes down.
It’ll be a night to remember.
