Palermo Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Palermo.
Healthcare System
Palermo operates under Italy's national healthcare system (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale - SSN), which provides universal coverage. EU citizens with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) can access public healthcare at reduced or no cost. Non-EU visitors will need to pay for services or have travel insurance.
Hospitals
Main hospitals include Policlinico Paolo Giaccone (university hospital with emergency services), Ospedale Civico (large public hospital), and Villa Sofia-Cervello. Private options include Buccheri La Ferla and Casa di Cura Candela. Emergency rooms (Pronto Soccorso) are available 24/7.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (Farmacie) are marked with green crosses and widely available throughout the city. Many pharmacists speak some English and can provide advice for minor ailments. Pharmacies operate on rotation for night and weekend service (farmacia di turno). Common medications may have different names than in your home country.
Insurance
Travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage is strongly recommended for non-EU visitors. EU citizens should carry their EHIC card. Insurance should cover medical evacuation, as specialized treatment may require transfer to mainland Italy.
Healthcare Tips
- Keep a copy of your EHIC card or insurance details on your phone and in physical form
- For minor issues, visit a pharmacy first - pharmacists can prescribe some medications without a doctor
- Bring sufficient supplies of prescription medications in original packaging with a doctor's letter
- The emergency number 118 should only be used for serious emergencies; for non-urgent care, visit a Guardia Medica (medical guard) or pharmacy
- Private clinics can provide faster service with appointments; ask your hotel for recommendations
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Opportunistic theft is the most common crime affecting tourists, particularly in crowded areas. Thieves often work in pairs or groups, with one creating a distraction while another takes valuables. Motorcycle-riding bag snatchers (scippatori) operate in some areas.
Palermo's traffic can be chaotic with aggressive driving, frequent disregard for traffic signals, and many scooters weaving through traffic. Pedestrian crossings are not always respected by drivers.
Rental cars and vehicles with foreign plates are targets for break-ins, especially when parked in isolated areas or overnight on streets.
Theft from unattended belongings on beaches, particularly at Mondello beach during peak season.
Unlicensed street vendors selling counterfeit goods, flowers, or trinkets can be persistent. While generally not dangerous, they can be annoying and purchasing counterfeit goods is illegal.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Some tourist-oriented restaurants add unauthorized items to bills, charge inflated coperto (cover charge), or bring unrequested items then charge for them. Bread and water brought to the table may not be complimentary.
Unofficial 'parking attendants' approach drivers offering to watch their car or help find parking, then demand payment. They may become aggressive if refused or imply harm could come to the vehicle.
Some taxi drivers take longer routes, claim the meter is broken, or quote inflated flat rates to tourists, especially from the airport or port.
Card games or shell games on the street that appear easy to win but are rigged. Accomplices may pose as winners to lure tourists.
Someone approaches offering a 'free' friendship bracelet or rose, ties it on your wrist, then aggressively demands payment.
People with clipboards ask tourists to sign petitions (often for deaf/disability charities), then demand donations or use the distraction for pickpocketing.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Money and Valuables
- Use hotel safes for passports, excess cash, and valuable jewelry
- Carry only what you need for the day in a secure, cross-body bag
- Keep a photocopy of your passport separate from the original
- Use ATMs inside banks during business hours when possible
- Split your money and cards between different locations on your person
- Be discreet when handling money; count it privately, not on the street
- Consider using a money belt or hidden pouch for backup cards and cash
Accommodation Safety
- Choose accommodations in well-reviewed central areas like Kalsa, Politeama, or near Teatro Massimo
- Verify the legitimacy of vacation rentals through established platforms
- Keep doors and windows locked, even when inside
- Don't open doors to unexpected visitors; verify identity through hotel reception
- Know the location of emergency exits in your hotel
- Report any suspicious activity to hotel management immediately
Transportation
- Use official white taxis with meters and taxi signs on the roof
- Download transportation apps like Free Now or Uber for reliable rides
- Validate bus tickets immediately to avoid fines; buy from tabacchi shops or newsstands
- Keep belongings secure on public transport; buses can be crowded
- Avoid unlicensed 'gypsy' cabs; they're illegal and potentially unsafe
- If renting a car, get comprehensive insurance and photos of any existing damage
- Walk facing traffic to avoid motorcycle bag snatchers approaching from behind
Night Safety
- Stick to well-lit main streets at night; avoid poorly lit alleys
- Travel in groups when possible, especially late at night
- Be aware that some neighborhoods are less active after dark
- Keep phone charged for emergencies and navigation
- Limit alcohol consumption to maintain awareness of surroundings
- Know your route back to accommodation before going out
- Use official taxis or rideshare apps rather than walking long distances at night
Market and Shopping Safety
- Keep bags zipped and in front of you in crowded markets
- Don't carry large amounts of cash when shopping
- Be cautious of people bumping into you or creating distractions
- Bargain respectfully at markets but know that most shops have fixed prices
- Avoid buying counterfeit designer goods; it's illegal and you can be fined
- Keep receipts for purchases; you may need them for customs or returns
Food and Water Safety
- Tap water is generally safe to drink in Palermo but may taste different; bottled water is widely available
- Choose busy restaurants with good reviews; high turnover means fresher food
- Be cautious with seafood in very hot weather; ensure it's properly refrigerated
- Street food from established vendors is generally safe and part of the Palermo experience
- Wash hands frequently, especially before eating
- Avoid ice in drinks if you're unsure of water quality
Communication
- Learn basic Italian phrases; locals appreciate the effort and it aids safety
- Keep emergency numbers saved in your phone
- Have your accommodation address written in Italian for taxi drivers
- Download offline maps of Palermo before arrival
- Consider purchasing an Italian SIM card or international plan for reliable connectivity
- Register with your embassy if staying for an extended period
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Palermo is generally safe for women travelers, including solo female travelers. Italian men may be flirtatious or make comments (catcalling), which while annoying is typically harmless. Serious harassment is uncommon, and violent crime against tourists is rare. Women should exercise the same precautions as in any major city: stay aware of surroundings, avoid isolated areas at night, and trust your instincts.
- Dress modestly when visiting churches (covered shoulders and knees); otherwise, dress as you would in any Mediterranean city
- Catcalling or compliments from men are cultural and usually not threatening; a firm 'No, grazie' and ignoring further comments is effective
- Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or empty areas late at night; use taxis or rideshare apps
- Consider staying in accommodations in busier, well-lit neighborhoods like Politeama or near Teatro Massimo
- Wear a wedding ring (real or fake) if you want to discourage unwanted attention
- On public transport, don't hesitate to move away from anyone making you uncomfortable
- Join group tours or activities to meet other travelers if traveling solo
- Keep phone charged and easily accessible for emergencies or navigation
- Don't feel obligated to be polite if someone is making you uncomfortable; be assertive
- Women-only accommodations or female-friendly hostels are available if preferred
- Beach harassment can occur; beach clubs offer more privacy than public beaches
- Trust your instincts; if a situation feels wrong, remove yourself from it
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Homosexuality is legal in Italy with an age of consent of 14 (same as heterosexual relations). Same-sex civil unions are recognized nationally since 2016, though same-sex marriage is not yet legal. Discrimination based on sexual orientation is illegal.
- Exercise discretion with public displays of affection, particularly outside known LGBTQ+-friendly areas
- Palermo has a small but growing LGBTQ+ scene; research LGBTQ+-friendly venues and events before visiting
- The annual Palermo Pride typically occurs in June and has been growing in attendance
- Central areas and tourist zones are generally more accepting than outlying neighborhoods
- Some hotels and B&Bs specifically advertise as LGBTQ+-friendly; consider booking these for peace of mind
- Younger Sicilians tend to be more open and accepting than older generations
- If experiencing discrimination, contact the Tourist Police who are trained to assist
- Connect with local LGBTQ+ organizations like Arcigay Palermo for advice and community
- Beach clubs at Mondello may be more welcoming than some public beach areas
- Use LGBTQ+ travel apps and forums to find current information and recommendations
- As with any destination, trust your instincts about when and where to be open about your identity
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is essential for visiting Palermo, particularly for non-EU citizens who won't have access to subsidized healthcare. Medical treatment can be expensive, and evacuation to mainland Italy or your home country for serious conditions could cost tens of thousands of euros. Insurance also protects against trip cancellations, lost luggage, theft, and other common travel mishaps. Given the prevalence of petty theft in Palermo, having coverage for stolen belongings provides valuable peace of mind.
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