- Must visit
Antonino Salinas Regional Archaeological Museum
Palermo’s top museum displays Sicilian archaeology, including the famous Punic Stone and Selinunte finds, in a former convent complex.
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Bologna to Palermo among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of CHF53 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 35m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.7kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of CHF53, while a flight costs an average of CHF249.
Distance: 393 nautical miles (729 km)
Most popular Flight | Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
CHF249 Average price | CHF101 Average price | CHF53 Average price Cheapest | CHF118 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 35m Average total duration Fastest 2h 35m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 19h 16m Average total duration 18h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 15h 35m Average total duration 15h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 10m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 0.7 - 1.8kg CO2 emissions | 0.2 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Bologna to Palermo:
A train is CHF48 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Bologna to Palermo costing on average CHF101.
A train is CHF196 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bologna to Palermo costing on average CHF249.
Other travel options to Palermo take longer:
Train takes on average 15h 5m.
Bus takes on average 18h 46m.
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Take a ferry from Bologna to Palermo and enjoy the approximately 393 nautical miles (729 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest ferry runs at 00:05, the last at 22:37.
Distance 393 nautical miles (729 km) |
First ferry 12:05 AM |
Last ferry 10:37 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Discover the best of Palermo — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Palermo trip today.
Palermo’s top museum displays Sicilian archaeology, including the famous Punic Stone and Selinunte finds, in a former convent complex.
Historic rooms and vivid majolica floors showcase aristocratic Palermo. Visit for decorative arts, period interiors and city history.
Housed in the grand Steri Palace, this museum presents the Sicilian Inquisition’s story through cells, graffiti and historical documents.
Palermo’s elegant main boulevard links major monuments, shops and theaters. Ideal for first walks and observing the city’s layered architecture.
This historic street cuts across the old center and hosts markets, churches and daily life. A lively route for exploring local Palermo.
A bustling old quarter famous for layered street life, churches and market culture. Best explored on foot for atmosphere and urban history.
Crisp fried rice ball stuffed with ragù, peas and caciocavallo. A Sicilian street food icon widely loved in Palermo.
Soft sesame-topped bun filled with spleen and lung, often with caciocavallo or ricotta. A classic Palermo street food with deep local roots.
Pasta with sardines, wild fennel, pine nuts and raisins. Its sweet-savory flavor reflects Palermo's Arab-Norman culinary heritage.
Refined Michelin-starred restaurant known for creative Sicilian tasting menus in an elegant, intimate setting.
Historic seafood restaurant near the port, praised for fresh catch, raw dishes and classic Palermo fish recipes.
Legendary no-frills street-food stop celebrated for pane con la milza and authentic local sandwiches loved by residents.
Moderate for Italy. Street food and local meals are affordable, while hotels in peak season cost more. Public transport is cheap, keeping overall tourist costs reasonable.
Service is often included or modest. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Taxis are usually rounded up. Small change is fine in cafes.
Official public transport app
Port of Palermo Termini Imerese -> Palermo Centrale, Palermo
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bologna to Palermo by ferry. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest ferry, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Palermo, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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