There are tourist offices at strategic points, including the Palermo airport (tel. 091-591698) and the main train stations (tel. 091-6165914). The principal office is the Azienda Autonoma Turismo, Piazza Castelnuovo 34 (tel. 091-6058111), open Monday through Friday from 8:30am to 2pm and 3 to 6pm. When you stop in, ask for a good city map.
The Next Pocket Picked May Be Yours
Palermo is home to some of the most skilled pickpockets on the Continent, so be especially alert. Don't flaunt jewelry, cameras, or wads of bills; women who carry handbags are particularly vulnerable to purse snatchers on Vespas. Park your car in a garage rather than on the street, and don't keep valuables inside. Police squads operate mobile centers throughout the town to help combat street crime.
Where Mafia Wannabes Get Street Smarts
More and more foreigners are visiting at night, mainly to patronize some of the newly emerging restaurants -- but still keep your wits about you. It's relatively safe to visit during the day, but even then, try not to walk around alone. Leave your valuables back in the hotel safe, hang on to your wallet, and take a taxi to your destination. Finally, never wander down dark, deserted labyrinthine streets.
