Palermo is one of those cities that has truly taken a special place in my heart. I've been there so many times now that I've lost count, and every time I experience something new and exciting. Every time I come to Palermo it feels a bit like coming home. Maybe not so strange - my amore mio lives in Mondello, the beautiful beach town just outside Palermo.
Of course, that makes the city extra special to me, but the truth is that Palermo itself is completely unique. It is vibrant, a bit chaotic, full of history, and not to mention a paradise for all food lovers. Precisely because Palermo has the best food experiences in all of Italy
History, architecture and exciting museums
Palermo is a city where history meets you on every street corner. Arab, Norman, and Italian culture have merged to create a city full of character.
I especially enjoy visiting some of the museums in the city when I'm there. They give a fantastic insight into both Sicily's history and the artistic heritage that exists here. And every time I have to pass by the Massimo theater, it's especially beautiful during Christmas time with Christmas palms and the staircase full of poinsettias. And on New Year's Eve, the new year is written with white poinsettias among the red ones.
But you can also experience a lot of history by just wandering aimlessly around the old town. Here you will find churches, palaces and small squares that suddenly appear between narrow streets. Palermo is a city worth getting lost in.
Small streets and real Sicilian atmosphere 
One of the things I love most about Palermo is the atmosphere.
Small streets with balconies full of flowers, laundry hanging between the houses, the smell of freshly baked bread and espresso, people talking loudly and lively - that's real Sicily.
Here you can wander around for hours without a plan. Plus, you'll find a small piazza, a wine bar or a nice little osteria, a trattoria or a restaurant that serves fantastic food.
And if you want to experience the real Palermo, you have to visit the city's markets. They are full of life, colors, sounds and wonderful smells.
My favorites are;
Ballarò - the largest, most lively and authentic market in the city.
Capo - Perfect for street food and local produce, they also have some very, very good restaurants where you are served fresh fish and good pasta dishes.
La Vucciria - a historic market that turns into a social gathering point in the evening.
World-class cuisine 
Palermo is known as one of Europe's best street food cities, and you quickly understand that when you visit the markets.
Some of the things you must try are;
Arancini, panelle, sfincione (Sicilian pizza) and cannoli with ricotta.
The food is simple, tasty and made with pride, just as Sicilian food tradition should be.
Mondello - the beach paradise 
Just a short drive from the city center is Mondello, one of the most beautiful beaches in Sicily.
My amore mio also lives here, so this place has of course become extra special to me.
Mondello has turquoise, crystal-clear waters, a white sandy beach and a relaxed atmosphere, but in high season you are not alone here. There are beautiful old villas along the seafront.
Modello is the perfect place to take a break from the city life of Palermo.
Briefly summarized 
Palermo is definitely a city with soul.
Palermo is not a perfect, polished tourist city - and that's exactly why I love it. Palermo is real, intense, historic and incredibly vibrant.
The combination of food culture, exciting markets, beautiful streets and proximity to Mondello means that Palermo will always be a city I look forward to returning to.
And when my amore mio is waiting for me there, it probably feels even more like home.
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