Private tour in Palermo Gaetano S

Half Day Palermo Art Tour in five masterpieces

5.0

(4) reviews

-
Hours icon 3 hours 30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-8 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 3 hours 30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-8 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

Gaetano S.

5.0

Guide rating

21

Reviews

Tours delivered

12 hrs

Avg. response time

Ciao, I'm Gaetano an authentic Sicilian. I was born in a small town in the heart of Sicily, studied foreign languages at the Univeristy of Catania (east coast of Sicily) and moved to Palermo (west coast) 21 years ago. This enabled me to live, study and understand the island in all its aspects as Sicily is much more than an island, it's a continent. And that's exactly what I like to share with my guests: the many different layers of an unbelievable island full of history, art, excellent food, amazing wine and friendly people. For several years I have also tried to make people fall in love with Sicily by giving lectures on Sicilian history and culture abroad, in high schools and universities. Palermo, the city where I have chosen to live and give tours can easily summerize 3 thousand years of history: it has the elegance of Paris in certain quarters, it is as colorful as Marrakech in its arab markets, exaggerated and rich in its Spanish baroque architecture and unbelievably modern in its huge murals. Being an historian in spirit and a great story teller (this I owe to my grandpa), I love to share with my guests the major events that made Sicily the rich and beautiful island that it is today, but also the minor events and even the little gossips, if not funny local stories that will make everything at the end look more real and authentic. Finally, being a wine and food lover I will always find an excuse to tempt you with the most delicious delicacies that the island can offer. Are you ready to have a great time in one of the most incredible place in the world? Sicily is very well known for its hospitality so please be my guests! All my tours can be customized, please feel free to contact me if you have any questions I have been a licensed tour guide in Sicily since 2014 and a tour manager since 2007 I have a degree in foreign languages and a deep passion for art and history I have given lectures on Sicilian history and culture at Caldwell University for 7 years I am not a driver. I can accompany you in your vehicle or I can arrange for a separate car and driver.

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Gaetano S.

Overview of your Palermo tour

Stolen, donated, disappeared, removed. . . The story of 5 incredible masterpieces of art history revealed during a 3 hours walking tour of Palermo. We will start with the "Spasimo of Palermo" by Raphael and discover how it ended up at the Prado museum in Madrid. We will then discover one of the most incredible fresco dipicting the Triumph of Death at Palazzo Abatellis which inspired Pablo Picasso for his Guernica. we will understand what's behind the enigmatic eyes of Antonello da Messina's Annunciata. We will then move on to the 20th century painting examining the Vucciria by Guttuso where life and death are expressed through the produce of a Palermitan fresh market. We will finish with the stolen Nativity by Caravaggio and its connection with the mafia. Art has always hidden a mysterious side, let's unveil it together. A new and fascinating way to discover Palermo through its masterpieces.

Recent Reviews

Charles D.
July 2025

Absolutely spectacular. We’d rate 10 Stars if we could - the depth of Gaetano’s knowledge and ability to convey it is unlike any other guide we have found. He possesses a unique ability to step back and offer the broader context while also zeroing in on the smallest detail to show how social, economic, political, and cultural influences have shaped Sicily’s past and present. Brilliant.

Jay L.United States
January 2024

Knowledgeable about Sicily's history and art—Gaetano was articulate, engaging and enthusiastic —I can't think of a better way to begin a visit to Palermo

Stephen W.United States
November 2022

What a pleasure to be guided by someone who so enjoys the art and history of Palermo—Gaetano is a delight. He brought us into the sights and shared much more than just basic histories (and he answered every question with threw at him.)

Elisabeth E.United States
October 2021

Excellent! One of the best guides we have ever had. Our family has travelled the world (Europe, Africa, India) and Gaetano is exceptional. We signed up for an art tour of Palermo, but found that walking the streets of Palermo he was able to answer our questions about the history of the city and Italy in an in-depth way that highlighted connections between the art, wars, religion and cultural influences that have shaped the city of Palermo. Plus, he brought us to one of the best gelato places in town!

Your Palermo tour itinerary

• Spasimo • Palazzo Abatellis (Regional Art Gallery) • Palazzo Chiaramonte Steri • Oratorio di San Lorenzo * Due to the museums opening hours the tour cannot take place on Mondays or Sunday afternoons. * Please note "The Vucciria" by Guttuso is not always visible, in that case another masterpiece will be shown All my tours can be customized, please feel free to contact me if you have any questions

Want to customize this tour?

Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.

Transport details
Type: Walking

Walking tour

What's included
Other
Private Guide
What's not included
Other: Personal expenses.
Food Drinks Snacks
Meeting location

Airport: ,Cruise: ,ByGuide:

  • You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
Architecture
History
Religious Sites
Art And Culture
Tour reference number
843484
Languages
English
Italian
French
Activity level
Minimal
Accessibility
Kid Friendly

Traveller reviews

5.0

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Palermo best suited for?

This private tour in Palermo is perfect for art enthusiasts and history buffs who are eager to explore the stories behind some of the world's most incredible masterpieces. It's also suitable for families, as it is kid-friendly, and for those who prefer a minimal activity level. With Gaetano S. as your guide, you'll gain deeper insights into the art and history of Palermo.

Can this private tour in Palermo be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?

How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?

Where does the tour start and end?

How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?

What languages is this tour offered in?

What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?

Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 3 hours 30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-8 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 3 hours 30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-8 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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