Polizzi Generosa is truly a hidden gem of Sicily, Italy. This little-known village of approximately 3,000 people boasts an ancient history and artistic-cultural heritage. As you drive down the winding roads of Madonie Regional Natural Park, you’ll spot the beautiful stone buildings of Polizzi Generosa situated on a hill.
If that introduction did not convince you to visit Polizzi Generosa, the rest of this article surely will.
How to Get to Polizzi Generosa
In the photo, do you see those tiny buildings on the top of the hill? That is Polizzi Generosa. Although the village is a whopping 917 meters above sea level, it is relatively easy to get to.
Palermo is the closest major city to Polizzi Generosa; this is likely where you’d set out from. Alternatively, you may be coming from the famous resort town of Cefalù. Below, I included a map and chart of the possible routes you can take from both Palermo and Cefalù to Polizzi Generosa.
Note: the map above is intended to help visualize the distance, but it is not a route map.
Palermo to Polizzi Generosa
| Route | Estimated Duration | Estimated Price | Why Choose this Route? |
| Bus | 1 hour and 15 minutes | $6-$9 USD | Cheapest (recommended*) |
| Car | 1 hour and 9 minutes | $14-$20 USD for fuel | Fastest and convenient if you have a car |
Note: the map above is intended to help visualize the distance, but it is not a route map.
Cefalù to Polizzi Generosa
| Route | Estimated Duration | Estimated Price | Why Choose this Route? |
| Bus | 1 hour and 25 minutes | $6-$9 USD | Cheapest (recommended*) |
| Taxi | 49 minutes | $100-$130 USD | Fastest |
| Car | 49 minutes | $9-$13 USD for fuel | Fastest, second cheapest, and convenient if you have a car |
Where to Stay in Polizzi Generosa
Although you can easily visit Polizzi Generosa on a day trip from Palermo or Cefalù, an overnight stay will allow you to truly soak in its beauty. Polizzi Generosa is relatively small, so anywhere you stay in the village could be considered a “convenient” location. Below are 3 of the best accommodations this hidden gem of Sicily has to offer.
Agriturismo Cuca
Although Agriturismo Cuca is located just 0.8 miles from the center of Polizzi Generosa, it will give you a taste of Sicily’s beautiful countryside. There is one restaurant that serves local Italian cuisine with products grown on-site. You’ll never be bored at Agriturismo Cuca; once you have finished marveling at the view of the hills from your room, consider signing up for a walking tour, yoga class, renting badminton equipment, going for a hike, or playing ping pong. Agriturismo Cuca is a hidden gem in itself!
B&B Sciabakè
B&B Sciabakè, set in a 16th-century building, is located in the town center of Polizzi Generosa, Sicily; it doesn’t get more convenient than that! While on this historical property, you can enjoy the flat-screen TV in your room or stroll through the private garden. As the name of the property implies, breakfast is offered and included. This accommodation is for you if you are looking for an authentic Polizzi Generosa experience.
Giardino Donna Lavia
Giardino Donna Lavia is another countryside property located 0.7 miles from the center of Polizzi Generosa. Some highlights include a spacious garden, a living area with a fireplace, an open-air bath, and a restaurant with a covered veranda. Breakfast is served daily; the on-site restaurant offers local cuisine. It is hard to turn down a stay at this peaceful escape!
Things to Do in Polizzi Generosa
Explore the Streets
I highly recommend taking a long stroll down the cobblestone streets of this ancient stone village. Polizzi Generosa will give you a taste of the authentic Italian way of life you can’t get from visiting big cities, such as Rome, Florence, and Palermo. After looking through my pictures, I am sure you will see what I mean.
City Center
While the majority of Polizzi Generosa is quiet, the city center is where this hidden gem comes to life. It is a common meeting place for the locals. When I visited the city center, it appeared they were preparing for a concert. It is a beautiful, “lively” area of Polizzi Generosa to walk through and pass some time.
Gelato!
A trip to Italy is not complete without Gelato. I had a lot during my visit, but the gelato from Pasticceria Tumasella Maria Grazia in Polizzi Generosa took the cake. If you are tired of gelato by the time you reach this hidden gem of Sicily, consider purchasing one of their delicious pastries! You will not regret it.
The Childhood Home of Domenico Dolce
Everyone has heard of the luxury fashion brand Dolce & Gabbana, but did you know Domenico Dolce was born and raised in Polizzi Generosa? If you don’t believe me, stroll past his childhood home and see for yourself. The locals told me Dolce sometimes comes back to visit; maybe you’ll run into him!
Chiesa di Santa Maria delle Grazie
Chiesa di Santa Maria delle Grazie is no ordinary church; it is the home of the famed statue of the grieving Madonna. Her robe was designed and gifted to Polizzi Generosa by none other than Domenico Dolce. Every year, on Good Friday, the grieving Madonna is taken from the church and processed through the streets; she is followed by a statue of Christ in a glass coffin.
I apologize for the picture quality; the jewels were so shiny that my camera could not handle them! I hope you visit the Madonna and see her beauty for yourself.
Chiesa Madre Santa Maria Maggiore
If you are interested in art and history, visit Chiesa Madre Santa Maria Maggiore. This church houses a painting of the Madonna and Child with angels, attributed to the 15th century Flemish Renaissance painter Rogier van der Weyden. The beautiful altar pictured above is also located in the Chiesa Madre Santa Maria Maggiore.
Saying Goodbye to this Hidden Gem: Places to Visit Near Polizzi Generosa
As you leave Polizzi Generosa, be sure to check out the nearby attractions. If you have not already, I recommend visiting Palermo and Cefalù. Palermo is the capital city of Sicily, and Cefalù is a world-famous beach resort village.
Another hidden gem of Sicily, Castellammare del Golfo, is also nearby. Although it is very quiet, I recommend you pay it a visit.
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Are you interested in visiting Polizzi Generosa, the true hidden gem of Sicily? Contact me or let me know in the comments below!
