Orto Botanico Palermo
A serene botanical paradise in Palermo, featuring ancient trees, diverse flora, and a peaceful escape from the city.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Orto Botanico Palermo
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene botanical paradise in Palermo, featuring ancient trees, diverse flora, and a peaceful escape from the city.
"A lovely, peaceful garden to spend a couple of hours, especially in the summer heat."
🦟 Mosquito Repellent is Key!
Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, especially in shaded areas. Bring your own repellent or buy some at the shop .
💰 Affordable Entry Fee
Entrance is around 8€, with a reduced price of 5€ for visitors under 25 .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Plane Trees
Throughout the garden
Towering, centuries-old plane trees create a refreshing, shady canopy, offering a cool respite from the Sicilian sun.
Mediterranean Flora Collection
Various sections
Explore a diverse array of Mediterranean plants, succulents, and unique species, showcasing the region's rich botanical heritage.

Italy's 'Tree of the Year 2022'
Map #20
Witness the awe-inspiring 'Tree of the Year 2022', an unforgettable natural spectacle unlike anything you've seen before.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and the Crowds
Affordable Natural Escape
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🦟 Mosquito Repellent is Key!
Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, especially in shaded areas. Bring your own repellent or buy some at the shop.
💰 Affordable Entry Fee
Entrance is around 8€, with a reduced price of 5€ for visitors under 25.
🚶♀️ Peaceful Afternoon Stroll
Spend a relaxing 90 minutes wandering the well-maintained paths and enjoying the tranquility.
☕ On-site Cafe
Enjoy a refreshing drink or snack at the charming cafe with outdoor seating.
Tips
from all over the internet
🦟 Mosquito Repellent is Key!
Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, especially in shaded areas. Bring your own repellent or buy some at the shop.
💰 Affordable Entry Fee
Entrance is around 8€, with a reduced price of 5€ for visitors under 25.
🚶♀️ Peaceful Afternoon Stroll
Spend a relaxing 90 minutes wandering the well-maintained paths and enjoying the tranquility.
☕ On-site Cafe
Enjoy a refreshing drink or snack at the charming cafe with outdoor seating.
🌿 Plant Lover's Paradise
Discover a wide variety of unique plant species, perfect for botany enthusiasts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Orto Botanico Palermo as a beautiful, tranquil oasis perfect for escaping the heat and city bustle. Its diverse plant collections, ancient trees, and affordable entry make it a highly recommended spot for a relaxing and educational visit. However, be prepared for mosquitoes, especially in shaded areas.
"A perfect place to escape the midday heat and enjoy the beauty of nature. Centuries-old plane trees and cacti create a refreshing oasis in the heart of the city. The botanical garden is a lovely spot for a peaceful walk — even in the summer heat, it’s cool and shady. There’s also a charming café on the grounds. Plant enthusiasts might notice rare species, but for me, it was simply a beautiful and relaxing garden to spend a couple of hours."
Mariia Glazunova
"This garden is a wonderful place to explore, especially on a warm day. The shaded paths and lush environment offer a peaceful spot to cool off. There’s an impressive variety of Mediterranean plants, trees, and succulents—perfect for nature lovers or anyone curious about regional flora. The on-site café with outdoor seating adds to the relaxing atmosphere.
Tip: Bring some insect repellent, as mosquitoes can be present in certain areas.
Highly recommended for a tranquil and affordable break!"
Chris Nickolson
"We loved wandering around this garden. Spent about 90 minutes there. At 17:30 on a Thursday it was super quiet, only a few other visitors, so a good time to go.
If you go, make sure you see Italy's "Tree of the Year 2022" - it's #20 on the map and we have never seen anything quite like it - it's incredible."
Adam
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Orto Botanico is conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from Palermo's Central Station and close to the Kalsa neighborhood.
It's easily accessible on foot from many central areas of the city.While there isn't dedicated parking for the garden itself, street parking can be found in the surrounding areas. However, given its central location, walking or using public transport is often more convenient.
Yes, several bus lines stop near the Orto Botanico. Checking local bus routes upon arrival in Palermo is recommended for the most up-to-date information.
Absolutely! The Orto Botanico is a perfect addition to a day exploring Palermo, offering a peaceful escape within the city.
A leisurely walk is the best way to experience the garden. Allow at least 90 minutes to fully appreciate its beauty and diverse plant collections.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or social media pages for the most current information before your visit.
The general entrance fee is around 8€, with a discounted rate of 5€ for visitors under 25 years old.
Advance booking is generally not required, but it's always a good idea to check their official channels, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Yes, there is a reduced entrance fee for visitors under 25 years old.
Keep an eye out for any special event pricing.Your ticket grants you access to explore the entire botanical garden, including its diverse plant collections, ancient trees, and any temporary exhibitions.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the magnificent centuries-old plane trees, the impressive collection of Mediterranean flora and succulents, and Italy's 'Tree of the Year 2022'.
Yes, the garden offers numerous beautiful spots for photography, from lush greenery and unique plants to architectural elements and the 'Tree of the Year'.
While not always advertised, special events and guided experiences, like Teresa Mannino's 'Gita all'Orto', sometimes take place.
It's worth checking their schedule for any available tours.You'll find a wide variety of Mediterranean plants, ancient trees, cacti, and unique species from around the world, creating a rich botanical tapestry.
Yes, there is a charming cafe on the grounds where you can enjoy refreshments and relax amidst the greenery.
🎫 🦟 Health & Safety
Yes, mosquitoes can be present, particularly in shaded or damp areas. It's highly recommended to bring insect repellent or purchase some from the on-site shop.
The garden has many paved paths, but some areas might be uneven. It's advisable to check accessibility details with the garden directly if you have specific mobility concerns.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Lightweight clothing is recommended, and consider wearing long pants to protect against mosquitoes.
Yes, the garden is generally considered safe for solo visitors. It's a peaceful environment, and many people enjoy exploring it independently.
While there's a cafe on-site, it's generally best to consume your own food and drinks outside the main garden areas to help preserve the environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring mosquito repellent to ensure a comfortable experience for everyone. The on-site cafe provides a convenient spot for a break, and the generally tranquil atmosphere makes it a pleasant environment for a family stroll. The affordable entry fee also makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious families.
🌿 Plant Enthusiasts & Garden Lovers
Take your time to explore the different sections and greenhouses, and appreciate the scientific and horticultural significance of the garden. The well-maintained grounds and the sheer diversity of plant life offer a rich and rewarding experience for any garden lover.
📸 Photography Buffs
Don't miss capturing the unique textures of succulents, the vibrant colors of flowers, and the sheer scale of specimens like Italy's 'Tree of the Year 2022'. The garden's tranquility, especially during off-peak hours, allows for unhurried composition and creative exploration with your camera.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Living Museum of Flora
One of the most striking features is the collection of ancient trees, including the magnificent centuries-old plane trees that provide a cool, shaded canopy, making it a perfect escape from the midday heat. The garden also houses a significant herbarium and various greenhouses, offering a deeper dive into botanical research and conservation efforts. For plant enthusiasts, it's a treasure trove of rare and unique species.
Beyond its scientific importance, the Orto Botanico offers a serene and beautiful environment for all visitors. The well-maintained paths, the diverse flora, and the tranquil atmosphere create a truly immersive experience. It’s a place where you can learn, relax, and appreciate the wonders of the natural world.
Experiencing the Orto Botanico: Tips from Visitors
A recurring piece of advice from visitors is to bring insect repellent. Mosquitoes can be prevalent, particularly in shaded or humid areas, and can significantly impact the experience if not prepared for. Some visitors noted that a small sign about repellent was present but easily missed, leading to them being 'eaten alive'. The on-site shop does sell repellent, but having your own is a good precaution.
For those interested in unique natural wonders, seeking out Italy's 'Tree of the Year 2022' is a must. Marked as #20 on the garden map, this extraordinary tree is described as an unforgettable spectacle. The garden also offers a delightful on-site cafe with outdoor seating, providing a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a refreshment after a leisurely stroll.
Immersive Plant Experiences
These special events transform the botanical garden into a dynamic space, going beyond traditional botanical displays. They combine science, art, and wonder, making the garden accessible and exciting for a wider audience, including families and those who might not typically visit a botanical garden. Such experiences highlight the garden's commitment to innovative engagement with its visitors and the natural world.
Keep an eye on the Orto Botanico's official channels for announcements about upcoming events. These immersive experiences offer a fresh and captivating way to connect with the plant kingdom and appreciate the beauty and complexity of botanical life.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit