Visit the Palermo Theatre: tickets, prices, schedules

How to visit the Palermo Theatre, what to do and what to see in this spectacular historical monument? Welcome, we'll tell you everything.

The theatre of Palermo ( Teatro Massimo Vittorio Emanuele for our Italian friends) is a Palermo opera in Sicily. It is the largest in Italy, one of the largest in Europe, but above all one of the most majestic. It can accommodate 1,640 spectators and the scene can gather up to 700 actors!

Visibly inspired by ancient Sicilian architecture, the exterior was designed in the neoclassical style: Ancient Rome is not far away. In the city of Palermo, the Teatro Massimo connects the old town and the new one.

Visiting the Palermo Theatre is a major cultural space. Wanderlix tells you more: follow the guide!

History of the Palermo Theatre

This spectacular building was built from 1875 under the aegis of Giovan Battista Filippo Basile, a famous architect. The latter wanted to create a colossal space initially designed to accommodate 3,000 people. A big challenge for the time!

The architect’s son, Ernesto Basile, took over the project after his father’s death and finally completed it in 1891. At its inauguration, its 7,700 m2 impressed the public, especially the king Humbert I of Italy .

All designed according to the precepts of the Renaissance style, the building is one of the most beautiful in Sicily Island. It is also the largest opera in Italy: in its current format it can accommodate up to 1,381 seats spread over seven floors. Here you can admire sumptuous performances taking life on its iconic tilted scene. An authentic splendour!

Our tips to visit the Palermo theatre

Duration of the visit of the Palermo Theatre

We have to count half an hour for a complete visit to the points of interest of the Palermo theatre. It is interesting to note that tickets are valid only one day from the date of purchase.

Ideal season to visit the Palermo theatre

Welcome to Sicily, one of the most meridal territories in Europe! Offering a ticket for the Palermo theatre can be tempting during the summer season. However, it is the one where tourists are the most numerous and warmest temperatures. We therefore recommend you to opt for Autumn or spring to visit the Palermo theatre in the best conditions.

Additional information

• People with reduced mobility can visit the Palermo theatre without any problems. ;
• Reservation is recommended not to waste time especially in high tourist season;
• Our friends animals are not welcome inside the building. Besides, he is forbidden to eat, drink or smoke in the chamber of the theatre;
• It is the theatre of Palermo that serves as a decor to the moving final scene of the film “Le Parrain 3”;
• Ah, one last thing: the Palermo theatre would be haunted by the ghost of a nun...

What to do during your visit to the Palermo Theatre?

Visiting the Palermo theatre is a wonder of a Renaissance architecture inspired by the splendour of the Roman Empire. From the entrance, one is surprised by the colossal staircase escorted by two bronze lions and overlooked by Corinthian columns. The Massimo Theatre is crowned with a remarkable dome which makes it one of the most beautiful in Europe.

The interior is just as splendid with its famous auditorium in the form of horse iron. More than 1,300 spectators can attend unique performances in Olympian comfort. Velours, chandeliers and frescoes in stucco are at the rendezvous and contemplate the stage of the show which is proud to host 700 actors.

The Palermo Theatre is also equipped with a first-rate acoustic. For more than a century, the classics of opera and ballet have been played. Here are the works of Wagnériennes, Figaro, La Traviata... If you choose an opera in particular, the waiting list can be long but it is not impossible for you to attend the rehearsals of a show during your visit.

The Massimo Theatre is a large Sicilian cultural place, it also includes a cafeteria, a library and a library.

How much does a ticket cost to the Palermo theatre?

The ticket buys in the bookstore on the left side of the theatre .

If you are lucky to be a permanent resident in Palermo, it will only cost you 3€ to visit the place. This rate will also be reserved for spectators attending a show in the evening: it is interesting to combine the two activities.

Less than 26 years old will only pay 5€ .

For children under the age of six, entry is simply free . Ideal for a family outing!

How do I book a ticket for the Palermo Theatre online?

Book your ticket online for the Palermo Theatre, it’s easy, quick and smart. Go to the official website, here To buy your ticket.

Are there guided tours of the Palermo Theatre?

Yes, it is even the only possible option to penetrate this building. During the visit, your guide will make you discover the Grande Salle and many other majestic places. The living room before the Royal Lodge, the superb fire hall, the emblem room and the fireplace.

Opening hours

You will have the privilege of visiting the Palermo Theatre every day 9:30 to 6 p.m. .

How to get to Palermo Theatre?

Where to park near the Palermo Theatre?

If you have your own vehicle or have rented one, a car park is located on the Piazza Verdi at the corner of via Favara. Attention : traffic in the city is, say... typically Sicilian and can dentenance the user accustomed to a quiet traffic.

Where to stay near the Palermo Theatre?

Palermo is a joyful southern city where you will find several types of accommodation each with their own benefits. Those with a comfortable budget will opt for a hotel room in a chic establishment within the centro storico di Palermo . You can also choose the hotel that is best suited to your budget by learning about a hotel comparison .

And you can obviously rely on the accommodations to rent on Airbnb in order to enjoy a foot-to-ground that looks like you. In this case, choose Borgo Vecchio, near the port, or the arrondissements of Mondello and Addaura. They promise you an authentic stay to immerse yourself in the popular heart of this city with a affirmed character.