8 Best Palermo Street Food Tours for Foodies in 2024
Impatient to book one of the top-rated food tours in Palermo? I got you covered! This guide highlights the 8 best Palermo street food tours for you to dive into the local cuisine and make the most of your trip.
Palermo is a gastronomic paradise that plays your taste buds with its rich and diverse culinary offerings. Renowned for its vibrant street food scene, traditional dishes, and fresh ingredients, Palermo is a haven for food lovers from all over the world.
From the iconic arancine and panelle to the mouthwatering sfincione and cannoli, the city’s food delights are a true reflection of its cultural heritage. Whether you explore bustling markets, hidden food shops, or charming restaurants, you will end up satisfied.
Taste the best food in Palermo with the top food tours that Palermo has to offer. Let’s discover local flavors, try some authentic recipes, and eat our way through Sicilian cuisine. That is the true essence of Sicily and you don’t want to miss out!
*Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking one of these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Don’t have time to read the whole article?
The best street food tour in Palermo is the Street Food and Local Market Tasting Tour with a constant 5-star rating. It has a Badge of Excellence and it offers the best of the Sicilian cuisine.
8 best Palermo street food tours
Street Food and Local Market Tasting Tour
⭐️ Rating: 5 | ⌛️ Tour Length: 3 hours | 📆 Check rates and availability
If you’re a real food enthusiast and yearn to experience the authentic flavors of Palermo, look no further. This one-of-a-kind culinary adventure takes you off the beaten path, away from the typical touristy spots, and immerses you in the heart of Palermo’s vibrant food scene.
Led by a knowledgeable and passionate local food expert, this tour promises to be a feast for your senses. You’ll wander through the bustling markets and hidden backstreets, discovering hidden gems and venues beloved by the locals.
Get ready to surprise your taste buds with an array of traditional street food bouquets, carefully selected by your guides to showcase the city’s culinary heritage. From veggie fritters to soft ravazzata with spinach and even a daring offal sandwich.
Beyond the gastronomic delights, this tour offers you a chance to engage with the local street food vendors and colorful characters who add life and charm to the city’s culinary scene.
An integral part of the experience is a visit to the oldest working-class bar downtown, where you’ll have the opportunity to share a drink with the friendly Palermitans, immersing yourself even further in the local culture.
This is truly one of the best street food tours in Palermo and it will be a great addition to your time in the Sicilian capital.
Food that you will get to try during this Palermo street food tour:
- 7 street food tastings (arancini, veggie fritters, soft ravazzata with spinach, offal sandwich, etc.);
- 2 drinks (1 wine, 1 beer);
- seasonal dessert (cannoli or ice cream).
Other things to note:
- small-group tour limited to 10 people;
- bring your own water;
- not suitable for vegans, people with gluten or/and lactose intolerance;
- inform your host if you are a vegetarian or pescatarian.
“Thank you to Angelo for a great tour! He kept us well-fed and hydrated throughout the whole tour. The arancini we had was by far the best we tried in Sicily! Angelo speaks impeccable English and shared a lot of great information on the food, history, and culture of Palermo. We were stuffed afterward due to all the great food.”
Street Food and History Walking Tour
⭐️ Rating: 5 | ⌛️ Tour Length: 3 hours | 📆 Check rates and availability
If you’re seeking the best-rated food tours in Palermo that combine history, architecture, and mouthwatering gastronomy, this is the one.
As you wander through the streets, your eyes will be treated to a visual feast of landmarks such as the Opera dei Pupi, the fascinating Piazza Beati Paoli, the majestic Cathedral, the splendid Quattro Canti, and the alluring Pretoria fountain.
The journey doesn’t end with architectural marvels; it extends to the vibrant Capo Street markets. This is the place to indulge in the lively atmosphere, where local meats, seafood, produce, and a variety of Sicilian bites play your senses.
And what better way to truly understand the essence of a place than through its cuisine? This tour seamlessly integrates history and foodie exploration, offering you the opportunity to savor five delectable local food specialties accompanied by a refreshing drink.
Indulge in the mouthwatering delights of Palermo as you taste the sfincione, panelle, crocché, arancine, cannolo and so much more. Don’t miss this opportunity to savor the flavors of Palermo and sample the best street food in Palermo, Sicily.
Food that you will get to try:
- 5 street food tastings including sfincione, panelle, crocché, arancine, cannolo and so much more;
- cannoli;
- 1 drink (a beer, a glass of wine, water, or cola).
Other things to note:
- small-group tour;
- A dress code is required to visit the cathedral
- Men cannot wear shorts, and tank tops
- Women cannot wear shorts, miniskirts, and tops
- Bermuda shorts and T-shirts are allowed
- At the entrance of the cathedral, you can buy a light jacket (1€) to cover your shoulders and legs
“Fantastic guide with just the right amount of history and humor. It’s clear, Sicilians don’t take themselves seriously which is a great quality. The selection of food and vendors was very good with an emphasis on quality, freshness, and good hygiene. Intro into Palermo and culture with a good dose of myths to make the belly ache.”
Small Group Night Street Food Tour
⭐️ Rating: 5 | ⌛️ Tour Length: 3 hours | 📆 Check rates and availability
For an unforgettable and immersive experience in Palermo, this is a must-do! This is one of the top food tours in Palermo and for a good reason.
As you traverse the charming streets of Palermo, you’ll be treated to a delightful welcome toast featuring a glass of fresh Sicilian wine and a selection of intriguing bites that reveal the city’s authentic flavors, not often found in touristy places.
As you make your way toward the old port, your guide will share interesting stories about the city’s history, art, and social issues, providing a rich context to understand Palermo’s vibrant soul.
One of the highlights of the tour is the visit to the heart of Vucciria, where street food stalls beckon with aromas and flavors. Here, you’ll sample the best bites curated by your guide, including the famous spleen sandwich.
Most of the items on the menu for the night remain a secret, however, I can guarantee that you will leave this best Palermo street food tour satisfied and with a full belly.
The tour culminates at the old port of Palermo, where you’ll savor one last sweet treat – a Brioche with ice cream – a delightful finale to your gastronomic journey.
Food that you will get to try during this Palermo street food tour:
- special street food including spleen sandwiches;
- 2 drinks (1 wine, 1 beer);
- seasonal dessert (cannoli or ice cream).
Other things to note:
- small-group tour limited to 10 people;
- bring your own water;
- not suitable for vegans, people with gluten or/and lactose intolerance;
- inform your host if you are a vegetarian or pescatarian.
“This is a MUST DO when you are in Palermo. It was such a fun night. Our guide was so good at creating a fun & relaxed atmosphere for the group. We learned so much & ate & drank so many good things. I had a friend with me but even if I was alone, this would be a perfect & fun thing to do. Do not miss out on this tour!”
Palermo Traditional Food Tour
⭐️ Rating: 5 | ⌛️ Tour Length: 3.5 hours | 📆 Check rates and availability
Get ready to savor the authentic flavors of Sicily on this street food tour in Palermo. During this Italian culinary experience, you’ll discover an array of dishes that truly capture the essence of Sicilian cuisine.
Picture yourself savoring arancini, those delectable golden-fried rice balls, stuffed with a variety of sumptuous fillings, ranging from ragù to cheese and even seafood. Each bite bursts with a combination of flavors that will have you craving more.
Next on the menu, you’ll find some typical dishes like panelle and crocchè, sfincione and pasta alla norma. And no Palermo street food tour would be complete without sampling the famous cannoli.
Throughout the tour, knowledgeable guides will regale you with stories and insights into the history and culture behind each dish. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the culinary heritage of this vibrant island as you walk through the bustling streets of Palermo.
Book your spot now and get ready to indulge in an unparalleled Italian gastronomic experience. Buon appetito!
Food that you will get to try:
- panino with panelle and crocchè;
- sfincione;
- rice arancina;
- pasta alla norma;
- anelletti al forno;
- parmigiana di melanzane;
- cannoli, granita, cassata.
Other things to note:
- small-group tour;
- wear comfortable shoes;
- children under 5 years old go free of charge and 6-10 years old get a 50% discount.
“Carlo was amazing! We enjoyed the tour, the atmosphere, and the conversation, and the food was phenomenal! Would definitely recommend it!”
Palermo Street Food Tour
⭐️ Rating: 4+ | ⌛️ Tour Length: 3 hours | 📆 Check rates and availability
This Palermo food tour is a delectable journey that allows you to truly discover the heart of Palermo through its incredible flavors and longstanding street food tradition.
Palermo’s rich culinary heritage comes alive as you venture through the vibrant streets and delve into the local food shops, some of which have been serving delicious treats for centuries.
One of the highlights of the tour is undoubtedly the iconic sfincione, a thick-crust pizza that showcases the harmonious blend of fresh tomatoes, onions, anchovies, and caciocavallo cheese. This flavorful masterpiece will leave you yearning for more and more.
And then you will get to try other iconic things like panino with panelle and crocchè, rice arancina, cannoli, and granita. For adventurous food connoisseurs, the Panino ca meuza is an absolute must-try. This unique sandwich is filled with tender pieces of boiled spleen, fried to perfection in lard.
Not only will you depart from this Palermo culinary tour with a satisfied appetite, but you’ll also carry along joyful memories and newfound knowledge.
Food that you will get to try during this Palermo street food tour:
- panino with panelle and crocchè;
- sfincione;
- rice arancina;
- panino ca meuza;
- cannoli, granita.
Other things to note:
- small-group tour;
- wear comfortable shoes;
- water, wine, or beer/soft drinks (in fixed amounts) will be served.
“We visited 5 ‘restaurants’ and I tasted a vast variety of Sicilian food which was great. She is very knowledgeable, and a great host. The arancini was definitely my favorite. So good!!”
Palermo Walking Tour and Street Food
⭐️ Rating: 5 | ⌛️ Tour Length: 3 hours | 📆 Check rates and availability
This is one of the best street food tours in Palermo with constant 5-star reviews and satisfied customers. Prepare to indulge all your senses as you embark on a guided walking tour through the historic heart of the city and its vibrant outdoor markets.
You’ll get to savor ‘panelle’ and ‘meusa,’ two delicious specialties that exemplify the city’s culinary heritage. The combination of flavors and textures in these dishes is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.
The tour also takes you through the bustling outdoor markets of Ballarò and Vucciria. The sights, sounds, and aromas of the markets add an extra layer of authenticity to this unforgettable journey.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply someone with an adventurous spirit, this Palermo street food tour caters to all. It’s a perfect blend of cultural exploration, culinary delight, and an opportunity to create cherished memories.
Food that you will get to try:
- panelle;
- meusa;
- arancini;
- stop at friggitoria;
- street food at the Capo Market.
Other things to note:
- free child applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults (2 adults with 2 free child maximum);
- inform the tour guide if you are a vegetarian or gluten intolerant;
- group tour limited to 12 people.
“We loved this tour. It was a small group and there was so much information about the food and the people of Sicily. The food on the tour actually made us full for the rest of the day as there was a bit of it – so was very generous. It was the best arancina we had the whole week and went down beautifully with a cold beer and ended with a limoncello.”
2-Hour Small Group Private Walking and Tasting Tour
⭐️ Rating: 5 | ⌛️ Tour Length: 2 hours | 📆 Check rates and availability
Whether you’re a seasoned food enthusiast or just someone looking to discover the authentic taste of Sicily, this Palermo street food tour is an absolute must-do. It’s an adventure for your palate and a journey into the heart of Sicilian culture and cuisine.
What sets this tour apart is the focus on uncovering hidden specialty food shops that only the locals know about. Your guide will lead you to these culinary gems, where you can taste authentic dishes and experience the true essence of Palermo’s gastronomy.
For the more adventurous foodies, the tour includes a taste of the infamous pane ca meusa at Vucciria Market. This unique sandwich, filled with boiled spleen and fried in lard, is a true delicacy that showcases the city’s bold and daring culinary traditions.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to create unforgettable memories and sample the best of Palermo’s street food scene. Book one of the best street food tours in Palermo right now!
Food that you will get to try during this Palermo street food tour:
- arancine;
- calzoni;
- spiedini;
- frittola;
- pane ca meusa.
Other things to note:
- group tour limited to 12 people;
- wear comfortable shoes.
“Excellent guided tour in French of the city with Maria-Luisa. She made us discover the important monuments of Palermo. We then had the right to taste Sicilian products which were excellent.”
Palermo Street Food Tour, Market & City Centre
⭐️ Rating: 5 | ⌛️ Tour Length: 2.5 hours | 📆 Check rates and availability
The newest addition to the list of the best Palermo culinary tours has quickly become a guest favorite. This experience is already receiving rave reviews and promises to be a delightful and fun time in Palermo.
The tour begins with a visit to the lively and colorful Capo Market. Your expert guide will provide valuable insights and recommendations about the rich food traditions in Sicily, making this experience not only delicious but also educational.
Prepare to indulge in some of Palermo’s most beloved street food specialties, each bite delivering a burst of authentic Sicilian flavors. From the savory sfincione to the crispy crocché and panelle, every taste will transport you to the heart of Sicilian culinary tradition.
Of course, the tour wouldn’t be complete without trying the iconic arancine, delightful rice croquettes stuffed with your choice of meat or butter. And to end on a sweet note, you’ll savor a delicious Sicilian dessert that will leave your taste buds singing with delight.
As you stroll through the city streets, you’ll also have the opportunity to admire some of Palermo’s most famous landmarks, such as the impressive Teatro Massimo, the stunning Cathedral, and the spectacular Quattro Canti Square.
This Palermo street food will be the highlight of your trip!
Food that you will get to try:
- sfincione;
- crocché;
- panelle;
- arancine;
- sicilian dessert.
Other things to note:
- group tour limited to 14 people;
- wear comfortable shoes.
“This food tour was wonderful! Our guide was very knowledgeable, funny and made the tour very enjoyable. We loved Capo Market with its authentic atmosphere and absolutely delicious, local food. Definitely the best choice for a first morning in Palermo!”
Further reading for the best Palermo, Sicily food tours
Or read more about: Palermo | Sicily | Italy
Other popular regions of Italy
Dolomites | Liguria | Lombardy | Piedmont | Puglia | Tuscany | Veneto
Other useful tips for visiting Italy
🏠 Need a place to stay? Browse Booking or Agoda
💃 How about fun experiences? GetYourGuide and Viator have it all
🚗 Considering renting a car in Italy? Use Rentalcars
✈️ Looking for the best flight deals? Check WayAway
🔒 Don’t forget about travel insurance from HeyMondo
In conclusion…
This is the end of the best Palermo street food tours and I am sure you have found one (or more!) that you will join during your time in Palermo. Make sure you secure your spot and book now because these top-rated food tours sell out fast!
I would love to hear your thoughts, so if you have any feedback or additional tips, leave a comment below. Also, check out my Instagram for regular travel videos and travel inspiration. Or explore other destinations on this travel blog.
These food tours in Palermo are so mouth watering 😀