Day 1 in Palermo: A Warm Welcome to Sicily

We touched down in Palermo this afternoon and were whisked straight to our seaside hotel. Out one window I can see fishing boats bobbing in the bay; out the other, rows of cafés, bakeries, and gelato shops that make you want to wander and taste everything in sight. To the left of the hotel are family-run trattorias serving grilled seafood; to the right, a bakery whose scent of warm bread drifts into the street. But my favorite stop sits just across the way—a cozy café overlooking the water, perfect for a morning cappuccino or late-night limoncello.

Tonight, our group gathered for the Welcome to Italy Dinner, raising glasses to the adventure ahead. The laughter around the table reminded me why I love these tours so much—the blend of new friendships, authentic cuisine, and the Italian rhythm that instantly makes you slow down. Our photos from tonight capture it all: the group sharing toasts, plates of mozzarella and vine-ripe tomatoes, and a joyful snapshot with the chef who helped create our feast. Dessert? A picture-perfect gelato and cannoli that ended the evening on a sweet note.

Palermo itself is a mix of grit and grace—a vibrant port town filled with street music, scooters, and students weaving through narrow lanes. The red and gray Vespas parked under massive banyan trees are as iconic as they come. I love exploring the open-air markets here, where locals cook whatever was caught or picked that morning. My must-have dish? Squid-ink pasta, glossy and rich, served with a side of laughter and a carafe of local wine.

Every corner of this city holds a story—ancient churches beside lively bars, fresh produce beside handmade jewelry stands. Palermo may be small, but it bursts with life, color, and character. For first-time travelers, this tour is the easiest way to see Italy: every detail handled, every transfer arranged, every moment relaxed. For seasoned explorers, it’s a chance to rediscover Italy through the eyes of locals I’ve known for years—my “Italian cousins,” as I like to call them. You never lift a suitcase, and the transportation itself becomes part of the joy. Breakfast at leisure, meet in the lobby at 8:45, and off we go to discover something new.

If you missed this departure, don’t worry—I’ll host the Sicily to Amalfi Coast tour five more times over the next two years. A few are already full, so reach out soon to save your spot. Email me at Chuck@CocosItalianMarket.com or text 615-474-5989, and I’ll send you the full list of available tours.

These journeys sell out fast for good reason: effortless travel, elegant experiences, and friends who feel like family.

Grazie and ciao for now,
— Chuck