Santa Caterina d'Alessandria Church
A magnificent Sicilian Baroque church and former monastery, offering ornate interiors, a charming garden bakery, and panoramic city views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Santa Caterina d'Alessandria Church
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent Sicilian Baroque church and former monastery, offering ornate interiors, a charming garden bakery, and panoramic city views.
"The monastery of Santa Caterina is the perfect option to start your day in Palermo."
🎯 Don't Miss the Rooftop!
Ascend for stunning panoramic views of Palermo's historic center.
🍰 Taste the Famous Cannoli
Visit 'I segreti del chiostro' bakery inside the monastery for authentic Sicilian sweets.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Baroque Splendor
Immerse yourself in the opulent Sicilian Baroque architecture, adorned with marble inlays, frescoes, and gilded stucco.
Monastery Garden & Bakery
Monastery courtyard
Enjoy a sweet treat from 'I segreti del chiostro,' known for its traditional cannoli and cassata.
Panoramic City Views
Rooftop access
Ascend to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of Palermo's historic cityscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Beyond the Altar: Views and Treats
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Don't Miss the Rooftop!
Ascend for stunning panoramic views of Palermo's historic center.
🍰 Taste the Famous Cannoli
Visit 'I segreti del chiostro' bakery inside the monastery for authentic Sicilian sweets. +1
🚶♀️ Explore the Monastery
The monastery grounds and garden offer a peaceful escape and historical insights.
💰 Consider Combo Tickets
Tickets for the church, monastery, and rooftop offer a comprehensive experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Don't Miss the Rooftop!
Ascend for stunning panoramic views of Palermo's historic center.
🍰 Taste the Famous Cannoli
Visit 'I segreti del chiostro' bakery inside the monastery for authentic Sicilian sweets. +1
🚶♀️ Explore the Monastery
The monastery grounds and garden offer a peaceful escape and historical insights.
💰 Consider Combo Tickets
Tickets for the church, monastery, and rooftop offer a comprehensive experience.
📸 Capture the Details
The intricate baroque details, frescoes, and stucco work are a photographer's dream. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Santa Caterina d'Alessandria Church for its breathtaking baroque architecture and the delightful experience of its monastery garden and bakery. The panoramic city views from the rooftop are a significant highlight. However, some note that parts of the church may be under construction, and the bakery can feel touristy, though the pastries are generally well-loved.
"The monastery of Santa Caterina is the perfect option to start your day in palermo. There is garden with free access where you will find the bakery with the famous canoli and other local sweets. Apart from the garden you can get in the church, which I totally recommend and also go to the top of the church for the beautiful panoramic view of the city."
Τάκης Χονδρός
"For me the view from the roof was great. The stewards in the church and monastery were helpful and polite. I wish I could say the same about the ladies serving behind the counter at the bakery. Perhaps it’s too busy. Other than the physical location at the monastery I found the bakery touristic. To buy pastries I would personally recommend to try and find a more genuine bakery. The small garden in the courtyard is lovely, though."
Shelley Ber
"so beautiful place 🤍 we took tickets to see Church, Monastery and rooftop, really beautiful and peaceful place.
Good to see, and very tasty patisserie cafeteria inside after the tour 😜"
Jenny liVa
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is centrally located in Palermo's historic center, making it easily accessible by foot from many popular areas. You can also reach it via local buses or taxis. Many visitors find it convenient to combine a visit with nearby attractions like Fontana Pretoria and Piazza Bellini.
Parking in Palermo's historic center can be challenging. It's advisable to use public transport or a taxi. If you are driving, look for paid parking garages in the vicinity, but be prepared for narrow streets.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The church and monastery typically have set opening hours, often from morning to late afternoon. It's best to check the most current hours before your visit, as they can vary seasonally or for special events. Some areas might be under construction, affecting full access.
There is an entrance fee for the church, often around €3. For access to the monastery and rooftop, separate or combined tickets are available, typically costing around €8. These tickets often include access to the bakery area as well.
Yes, combined tickets usually grant access to the church, the monastery's garden and bakery, and the rooftop for panoramic city views. This offers a more complete experience of the complex.
Some reviews mention ongoing construction, which might limit access to certain areas like the altar. It's advisable to inquire about the current status upon arrival to manage expectations.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the church, but it's always a good idea to be respectful of other visitors and any posted signage. The intricate details of the baroque art make it a popular spot for photographers.
The main church interior, with its ornate decorations, is a primary photo opportunity. The monastery garden offers a tranquil setting, and the rooftop provides stunning cityscapes of Palermo.
🍽️ 🍰 Food & Dining
The 'I segreti del chiostro' bakery, located within the monastery of Santa Caterina, is highly recommended for its traditional cannoli and cassata, made with an ancient recipe.+1 While some find it a bit touristy, many rave about the authentic taste.
The primary food offering within the monastery is the bakery, 'I segreti del chiostro,' specializing in Sicilian pastries. For a wider range of dining options, you'll find numerous restaurants and cafes in the surrounding streets of Palermo.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Capture the dramatic play of light and shadow within the church, the tranquil beauty of the monastery garden, and the sweeping panoramic views from the rooftop.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel: Sicilian Baroque
+1 Designed by Francesco Camilliani, its grandeur reflects the wealth and artistic fervor of Palermo during that era. The sheer detail and craftsmanship are designed to inspire awe and devotion, making it a significant artistic achievement.Visitors often describe the interior as stunning and breathtaking.
+1 The intricate decorations cover almost every surface, creating a sense of overwhelming beauty. While the altar area might be partially obscured by construction fencing,A Taste of Tradition: 'I Segreti del Chiostro'
While the bakery is a popular stop, some reviewers suggest it can feel a bit touristy.
Beyond the Walls: Monastery and Rooftop Views
For those seeking a different perspective, the rooftop access is a significant draw.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit