In this video I will share some of the problems with Palermo Sicily and what tourists don’t see when they visit the Sicilian capital.
These are my pet-peeves that drive me crazy when I walk through this town that has so much to offer.
Palermo dazzles with vibrant culture, centuries-old history, breathtaking architecture, and an unbeatable food scene. Forbes magazine recently ranked Palermo as the fifth-best street food spot in the world.
However, there is a side of Palermo that many tourists do not see. Once you venture outside the main tourist zone, which is Quattro Canti, to the Politeama theater, the downtown district, you will encounter many of the problems that plague the residents of Palermo (Palermitani).
Not far from Porta Nuova, where my family resides, I regularly observe these issues firsthand.
In the city, items such as used mattresses, furniture, and sinks are often left along roadways. This reflects a prevailing attitude among some residents who, feeling they pay local taxes, see no issue with dumping unwanted items.
Palermo, Sicily Sanitation Issues
Additionally, many people do not curb their dogs. As you walk around, be aware—you may step in some dog crap (merda).
Garbage is another challenge. You will see bins overflowing with trash. The city sanitation department usually picks it up early in the morning, but strikes (scioperi) are common, causing garbage to pile up until an accord is reached.
Alongside these visible issues, political corruption is suspected. There are probably many crooked politicians skimming funds meant for public sanitation. While the mafia may not be as powerful as it was, lingering problems persist.
The Traffic in Palermo
Moving on from public sanitation, traffic in Palermo is very chaotic, with very narrow streets and limited parking. Often, you need to double-park, even though it is illegal, but somewhat tolerated. Many cars are parked on the sidewalk, hindering foot traffic. Luckily, the main tourist area from Porta Nuova to Quattro Canti to Teatro Massimo is a ZTL zone (limited traffic zone) and is pedestrian-friendly. You will not need to rent a car if your stay in Palermo is brief.
Jaywalking in Palermo – An Adventure in Crossing the Street
Addressing another urban challenge, many intersections outside the city center have few traffic lights and crosswalks, so the only way to cross the street is to jaywalk. You will need to make eye contact with the driver, who will usually acknowledge you and allow you to pass. It is somewhat of an art.
Mafia Crime in Palermo
Turning to crime, Palermo made many notorious headlines from the 1960s through the 1980s for violence stemming from mafia crimes. It earned the reputation as a dangerous city, even though these crimes were targeted against mafia families and operations, not tourists per se.
Petty Theft in Palermo
Despite this history, if you are visiting Palermo today, you can rest assured that it is generally a safe city, and most problems can be avoided by using common sense. Petty theft and pickpockets can be prevalent in crowded areas, along with purse snatching along isolated roads. If you rent a car, do not leave valuable items out in plain sight, like a laptop—you will invite trouble.
The Noise in Palermo
I once read that Palermo is the noisiest city in Europe. I am not sure how they figured that out, but the sounds of honking horns, music blasting from cars, ambulances, etc., will make you believe that fact.
It is not a place to visit if you are looking for peace and quiet.
Peaceful Daytrips from Palermo
Luckily, there are places in Sicily that are a day trip from Palermo and offer peace and quiet if you prefer. Some of these peaceful places include:
- Monreale
- Cefalù
- Bagheria
- Erice
In summary, Palermo is a city very near and dear to my heart. It pains me to see these problems and the attitude of some of its citizens. I practically grew up in that city, and I know that it has a lot to offer today’s traveler. I do not want to discourage you from visiting that great city. Because the city does have a lot to offer.
The Problems with Palermo Sicily and What Tourists Don’t See – Italian Vocabulary
Signore e Signori – Ladies and Gentlemen
Rifuiti – Refuse, Waste
Spazzatura – Garbage
Possessori – Owners
Luoghi – Places
Bisogni – Needs
Merda – Crap, Shit
Rispetto – Respect
Macchine – Cars
Motociclo – Motorcycle
Mattina – Morning
Marciapiede – Sidewalk
Lavori – Jobs
Periferie – Suburbs
Traffico – Traffic
Monopattino – Scooter
Origini mafiose – Mafia origins
Matterasso – Mattress
Fruttivendolo – Fruit Vendor
Alberi – Trees
Il Ricicolo – Recycling
La Raccolta – Waste Separation
Fare la differenziata – To sort waste, recycle
Attraversamento pedonale – crosswalk
Cagnolini – Little dogs
Cane – Dog
Pazzesco (a) – Craziness
Vestiti – Clothing
Negozi – Stores
Rumoroso (a) – Noisy
Affollato (a) – Crowded
The Italian Sign in the Video Translated to English
Si avvisano i Signori, di non abbandonare rifiuti per stradella, ed i possessori di cani, di portarli nei luoghi appositi per i loro bisogni.
Approximate Italian Translation
The public is requested not to litter on the streets, and dog owners are asked to take their dogs to designated areas appropriate for their specific needs.
Other Links of Interest Related to Palermo, Sicily
The historical center of Palermo, the Quattro Canti
A walk through the beautiful center of Cefalù, Sicily
Why Palermo is a Great City to Visit
Travel Book for your Palermo Vacation on Amazon
