Palermo in November

April through June is perfect — warm but not scorching, with fewer crowds than summer. The almond blossoms bloom in March if you catch them early, painting the countryside pink and white. September through November brings the best weather. Temperatures hover around 24°C, the sea is still warm for swimming at Mondello, and locals return from August hibernation. October is particularly lovely. Avoid July and August unless you enjoy 35°C heat and melting gelato. Many locals flee to the mountains, leaving behind a ghost town of tourist restaurants and overpriced hotels. The city shuts down for ferragosto in mid-August. Winter is mild but wet. December through February sees temperatures around 15°C with frequent rain. But hotel prices drop by half, and you'll have the Cappella Palatina almost to yourself.