Living in America can make Europe and its rich tapestry of cultures seem far away. However, with the introduction of new nonstop flights from New York (NYC) to Palermo, this captivating part of the world is now more accessible than ever. These direct flights bridge the gap, bringing the vibrant history, stunning landscapes, and exquisite cuisine of Sicily within easy reach. Imagine trading a long, cumbersome journey for a seamless flight that transports you straight into the heart of Italy’s enchanting charm. Now, your European adventure is just a flight away.
Italian leisure airline Neos launched a new seasonal summer service connecting New York JFK and Palermo on Saturday, 8 June. This 7,160-kilometre route operates twice weekly, on Mondays and Saturdays, utilising a 355-seat Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. The service will continue until 27 September, providing a convenient and comfortable travel option for those looking to explore the beauty and culture of Sicily directly from New York. This direct route significantly reduces travel time and enhances the convenience for passengers.
Enjoy Direct Flights from NYC to Sicily with Neos Airlines
Going to Sicily from NYC used to require at least one stopover, adding time and stress. With Neos Airlines’ new direct flight you can now fly nonstop. Flights depart from JFK on Mondays and Saturdays at 5:00 PM, arrive in Palermo at 7:20 AM the next day. Return flights leave Palermo on Tuesdays and Sundays at 11:25 AM, arrive back in New York at 2:50 PM. You can relax during the overnight journey and wake up fresh and ready to go!
Neos Airlines is known for its modern fleet and service. For this route the airline uses a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, with Economy and Premium Economy seats. This aircraft is designed to make your journey more comfortable. By choosing Neos you’re not only saving time, but also a higher standard of comfort and convenience.
The new direct flights from New York City’s JFK Airport to Palermo’s Falcone e Borsellino Airport are a big deal for both leisure and business travel. Neos Airlines is the first Italian carrier to operate a direct connection between Sicily and the US. The route is expected to carry around 20,000 passengers during the summer season.
Carlo Stradiotti, Neos CEO, highlighted the importance of this new route saying it will open up travel opportunities between US and Italy. He mentioned both outgoing and incoming traffic, not only for tourists but also for the big Italian community in New York.
Vito Riggio, Gesap CEO and Palermo Airport operator, is very excited about the new route, considering it a big opportunity for Sicily. He said the flights will attract more American tourists to the region, famous for its traditions and cultural experiences. Riggio also mentioned the possibility to increase frequencies during the winter season, given the strong demand and positive outlook.
Note: Winter in Sicily is a real treat. The mild weather means you can visit historical sites and do outdoor activities without the summer crowds. It’s the season of festivals and food, so you can really get into the Sicilian way of life. And you can get off season prices too!
Why Fly with Neos Airlines?
Flying with Neos Airlines means comfort, speed, and convenience. With a modern fleet of Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, Neos offers spacious seating in both Economy and Premium Economy. Quality service means you’ll enjoy amenities to make your flight even better: in-flight entertainment, meals, and attentive staff.
Neos stands out for its routes, especially the new nonstop from New York’s JFK to Palermo’s Falcone e Borsellino Airport. No layovers, no hassle—you can spend more time at your destination and less time in transit. Whether you’re traveling for leisure or business, a nonstop flight means you can enjoy more of your trip and less of the journey.
The airline also covers all types of travelers. Families, solo travelers, and business travelers will find Neos services to be flexible and accommodating. From fast check-in to customer support, everything is designed to be seamless and hassle-free.
Neos Airlines also prioritises safety and reliability. Their modern aircraft are maintained to the highest standards, so your flight will be safe and secure. Timely departures and arrivals are key for travellers on a tight schedule or with connections.
Neos Airlines has competitive prices without compromise. This balance of price and quality is a winner for travellers who want to get the most value. Special offers and seasonal discounts make it even more appealing so more people can experience the beauty of Sicily.
The airline’s attention to detail extends from booking to landing. The user-friendly online booking system makes it easy to find and book your flights. On board, you’ll have comfortable seats with more legroom, personalised entertainment options, and high-quality food and beverage service.
Why Sicily Should Be Your Next Travel Destination
Imagine walking down cobblestone streets with each turn revealing a cute café or historic landmark. The smell of fresh bread and simmering sauces in the air and you’re tempted to indulge in Italian food at its best. Picture yourself with a creamy gelato in a sun filled piazza or a leisurely lunch at a trattoria where the pasta is handmade and the wine flows freely.
In Palermo, the beating heart of Sicily, you’ll find a city that’s history, culture and modern life in perfect harmony. The streets of Palermo are a living museum, with stunning architecture from Norman cathedrals to Baroque palaces. As you wander through the busy markets like Ballarò and Vucciria you can try local specialties and soak up the atmosphere.
Sicily itself is a Mediterranean gem, with a diverse landscape of beaches, mountains and vineyards. The history is evident in the ancient ruins, like those in Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples. Exploring Sicily means stepping into a world where every town and village has a story to tell, from the medieval streets of Cefalù to the baroque splendour of Noto.
Sicily’s cultural fabric is made up of centuries of different influences, so there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful coastal retreat, the adventure of hiking up Mount Etna or the thrill of exploring the cities, Sicily will deliver. The combination of Sicily’s natural beauty, its history and its modern day culture will capture your heart and soul.
EXPLORE ALL OUR VILLAS IN SICILY
Discover Palermo
Palermo, Sicily’s capital city is a patchwork of cultures and history. A city of stunning architecture, bustling markets and delicious food. From the grandeur of the Norman Palace to the mosaics of the Palatine Chapel, Palermo has so much to show. Rent a villa in Palermo or around and you’ll have a comfortable and luxurious base to explore it all.
Palermo’s Architectural and Historical Wonders
You can’t visit Palermo without being amazed by its architecture. The mix of styles and cultures is a must see for history lovers and architecture enthusiasts. From ancient palaces to grand cathedrals Palermo has a lot to see that reflects its complex past.
Palermo Cathedral
One of the city’s most famous landmarks is the Palermo Cathedral, a beautiful example of Palermo’s architectural eclecticism. Built in 1185 this cathedral is a mix of Norman, Gothic, Baroque and Neoclassical styles. The construction started with the Normans and over the centuries various additions and modifications have given it its unique look. Inside you can visit the royal tombs including those of Emperor Frederick II and his family. The rooftop tour has stunning views of Palermo, it’s a must see.
Norman Palace and Palatine Chapel
The Norman Palace, also known as Palazzo dei Normanni, is one of the oldest royal palaces in Europe and a symbol of Palermo’s history. Built by the Arabs in the 9th century and later expanded by the Normans. Today it’s the seat of the Sicilian Regional Assembly. The real treasure of the palace is the Palatine Chapel, or Cappella Palatina. This chapel is famous for its mosaics that cover the walls and ceiling, with biblical scenes in great detail. The wooden ceiling with Arab style carvings is the cherry on the top.
Teatro Massimo
Teatro Massimo, Italy’s largest opera house and the third largest in Europe, is another beauty. Opened in 1897 it’s famous for its acoustics and architecture. The exterior with its neoclassical style and columns is a teaser for what’s inside. The interior is full of decorations, gilded balconies and red velvet seats. Even if you’re not an opera lover a guided tour of the theatre is worth it to learn about its history and design.
Quattro Canti
Quattro Canti, also known as Piazza Vigliena, is a Baroque square in the heart of Palermo. It’s located where two main streets cross: Via Maqueda and Corso Vittorio Emanuele. Each of the four corners of this octagonal square has a Baroque facade with fountains, statues and decorations. The statues represent the four seasons, the four Spanish kings of Sicily and the four patron saints of Palermo’s historic districts. This square is a great spot to take pictures and to appreciate Palermo’s Baroque architecture.
Church of San Giovanni degli Eremiti
The Church of San Giovanni degli Eremiti is a Norman church with Arab influences. The red domes and the cloister make it a beautiful and peaceful place to visit. The church was built in the 12th century and is a symbol of the coexistence of different cultures in Sicily. The surrounding gardens are a quiet oasis from the city.
Zisa Palace
The Zisa Palace, or Palazzo della Zisa, is another beauty that showcases the Arab-Norman style. Built in the 12th century it was a royal summer residence. The palace is designed following Islamic principles: symmetry, water features and geometric patterns. Inside you’ll find mosaics and stucco work. Today the Zisa Palace is the Museum of Islamic Art so it’s a must visit for those interested in the artistic and cultural exchanges between the Arab and Norman periods.
Bustling Markets and Food
Palermo’s markets are the heart of the city, full of energy and sensory overload. They are a window into Sicilian life where past and present collide with the calls of the vendors, the smell of fresh produce and the sizzle of street food. Exploring these markets is not just about shopping; it’s about Palermo itself, from its colourful history to its food.
Ballarò Market
Ballarò is one of Palermo’s oldest and most famous markets and a must-visit for anyone who wants to get to the heart of the city. In the Albergheria district, Ballarò snakes through narrow streets filled with stalls selling everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to meat, fish and spices. The market is a sensory overload with vendors shouting, colourful displays and the smell of Sicilian street food.
At Ballarò you can try some local specialities. Arancini, the famous stuffed rice balls, or panelle, crispy on the outside and soft inside chickpea fritters. Sfincione, a thick, spongy pizza topped with tomatoes, onions and anchovies is a must try. For dessert cannoli, sweet pastries filled with creamy ricotta. The market is not just a place to shop but a culinary journey where you can taste Sicily.
Vucciria Market
Another of Palermo’s iconic markets is Vucciria, in the heart of the old town. Smaller than Ballarò but equally full of atmosphere and history. The market’s name comes from the French word “boucherie” meaning butcher shop, as it was originally a meat market. Today it offers a wide range of products from fresh produce to seafood and traditional Sicilian street food.
Vucciria comes alive in the evenings when the street food vendors set up their stalls. The market is famous for its nightlife, with locals and tourists mixing to enjoy grilled meats, fresh seafood and more. Try a panelle sandwich or a sfincione slice with a glass of local wine. The market’s atmosphere and food is the perfect place to experience Palermo’s food culture.
Capo Market
Capo Market, near the Teatro Massimo, is another must-visit for foodies. Smaller than Ballarò and Vucciria but no less impressive. The stalls at Capo Market are packed with fresh fruit, vegetables, meat and fish and an array of spices and herbs that fill the air with their scent.
Capo Market is the place to find Sicilian specialities like swordfish, sardines and fresh ricotta cheese. The market also has street food. Don’t miss the chance to try fresh oranges, figs and prickly pears which are a Sicilian delight. The market is small so it’s easy to explore and find hidden culinary gems.
Il Borgo Vecchio Market
Il Borgo Vecchio is one of Palermo’s lesser known markets and a more local experience away from the tourist crowds. Near the port, this market is a favourite among locals for its fresh fish and seafood. Early morning is the best time to visit Il Borgo Vecchio when the fishmongers display their daily catch.
Besides seafood the market has fresh produce, meat and cheese. The street food here is also great with vendors serving Sicilian specialties. Il Borgo Vecchio is a peek into Palermo’s daily life and a good place to experience the real food of the city.
Explore Beyond Palermo: Wonders of Sicily
While Palermo, the capital has plenty of attractions, the real magic is beyond the city. From ancient ruins and coastal towns to mountains and countryside, Sicily is a treasure trove to be discovered. Renting a luxury villa in Sicily means comfort and being in the right place to find these hidden gems.
Ancient Wonders: Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples
Visiting Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples is like going back in time. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most important ancient Greek ruins. The valley has several temples, the Temple of Concordia being the most impressive against the Sicilian sky. Walking through these ancient ruins you can almost hear the whispers of the past. The valley also has stunning views of the surrounding countryside so it’s a must see for history buffs and nature lovers.
Coastal Beauty: Cefalù
Cefalù on the northern coast of Sicily is a lovely seaside town with history, culture and relaxation. The beaches are perfect for sunbathing and swimming, the narrow streets and medieval buildings are waiting to be discovered. The crown jewel of Cefalù is its Norman Cathedral with stunning mosaics and a grand presence. Climbing La Rocca the rocky promontory overlooking the town gives you breathtaking views of the coast and the Tyrrhenian Sea. Rent a villa in Cefalù and you can enjoy this charming town at your own pace and have a peaceful retreat after a day of exploring.
Volcanic Adventures: Mount Etna
No trip to Sicily is complete without visiting Mount Etna, Europe’s highest and most active volcano. Whether you’re an adventure hiker or prefer a guided tour Etna has something for everyone. The volcanic landscape is surreal with lava flows, craters and forests. In winter you can even ski on its slopes. The views from the top are breathtaking with a 360 degree view of the island and the sea. Rent a villa near Mount Etna and you’ll be close to this natural wonder and can explore its trails and enjoy the landscape.
Baroque Beauty: Noto and the Val di Noto
Noto in the south east of Sicily is a baroque gem. Its elegant buildings and grand churches built from local limestone shine golden in the sun. Noto is part of the Val di Noto a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its baroque architecture. The must see is the Noto Cathedral with its impressive facade and beautiful interior. Wandering through the streets of Noto you’ll find charming cafes, boutiques and piazzas to sit and soak up the atmosphere. Rent a villa in Noto area and you can fully experience the beauty and tranquillity of baroque Sicily.
Book a Villa Holiday in Sicily with Sicily4U
To truly immerse yourself in the Sicilian lifestyle and make the most of your villa holiday, consider renting a villa with Sicily4U. Our carefully chosen villas are the perfect base to explore this wonderful island. Renting a villa with Sicily4U gives you the freedom to do Sicily at your own pace. Spend lazy days at the beach, hike up Mount Etna, or visit ancient ruins and historic towns. With a villa as your base you can create your own itinerary to suit your interests and preferences.
EXPLORE ALL OUR VILLAS IN SICILY
Sicily4U offers an exceptional villa rental experience. Here’s why you should choose us:
- Expertly Curated Villas: Our portfolio features a wide range of handpicked villas, each selected for its unique charm, location, and amenities. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious seaside retreat, a rustic countryside home, or a modern luxury villa in Sicily with all the conveniences, we have something to suit every taste and budget.
- Personalised Service: Our team has in-depth knowledge of Sicily and is committed to helping you find the perfect villa for your needs. We provide personalised recommendations and are available to assist with any special requests or arrangements, ensuring your stay is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
- High Standards: We maintain high standards for all our properties, ensuring they are well-maintained and equipped with modern amenities. Our villas offer features such as private pools, spacious gardens, fully equipped kitchens, and stunning views, providing a home-away-from-home experience.
- Convenient Booking Process: Our website makes it easy to find and book your ideal villa. With detailed descriptions, high-quality photos, and user-friendly navigation, you can quickly narrow down your choices and secure your booking. Our team is also available to provide additional information and support throughout the booking process.
- Local Expertise: With extensive knowledge of Sicily, we provide insights and recommendations that enhance your villa holiday experience. Whether you need advice on the best local restaurants, hidden gems, or must-see attractions in Sicily, our team can offer valuable tips to make your stay memorable.
Types of Villas
- Luxury Villas: If you want the best of the best, our luxury villas have it all – high end amenities, beautiful interiors and prime locations. Infinity pools, private beaches and stunning views in the most exclusive areas of Sicily.
- Family Villas: Our family villas are spacious and have everything you need for a hassle free holiday. Large gardens, child safe pools and close to family attractions. Perfect for making memories that last.
- Villas for Couples: Perfect for couples, our romantic villas are secluded and intimate. Cosy interiors, beautiful gardens and stunning views make your romantic break truly special.
- Villas near the Beach: For beach lovers, our beachfront villas provide direct access to Sicily’s stunning coastlines. Wake up to the sound of the waves and enjoy the convenience of having the beach just steps away.
Booking a villa holiday in Sicily with Sicily4U promises an unforgettable experience. Our handpicked villas, personal service and high standards mean you’ll be comfortable and happy. From luxury to family friendly we have a villa to suit you. Explore Sicily’s many attractions and get lost in the island’s culture and landscape.
With the new nonstop flights from NYC to Palermo, there’s never been a better time to book a villa in Sicily with Sicily4U for an unforgettable holiday experience. Start planning your dream Sicilian holiday with Sicily4U today.
