- Must visit
Palazzo Abatellis - Regional Gallery of Sicily
Major art museum in a Gothic-Catalan palace, known for Sicilian medieval and Renaissance masterpieces including works by Antonello da Messina.
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Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Bologna to Palermo
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 bus with prices starting from $38. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 42m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $38, and a train costs an average of $96.
Distance: 393 nautical miles (729 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$135 Average price | $82 Average price Cheapest | $143 Average price | $144 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 42m Average total duration Fastest 1h 42m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 17h 1m Average total duration 16h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 14h 56m Average total duration 14h 26m 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Bologna to Palermo is a bus with an average price of $82 (€66).
This is compared to other travel options from Bologna to Palermo:
A bus is $53 (€43) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bologna to Palermo costing on average $135 (€109).
A bus is $61 (€49) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bologna to Palermo costing on average $143 (€116).
The fastest way to travel from Bologna to Palermo is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 42m.
Other travel options to Palermo take longer:
Train takes on average 14h 26m.
Bus takes on average 16h 31m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bologna and Palermo including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna to Palermo among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets Bologna to Palermo by train, bus, or flight
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.
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Journey information
Overview: Ferry from Bologna to Palermo
ItalyItaly
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. There are 3 sailings per week.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $28 (€23)
Distance 393 nautical miles (729 km) |
Ferries per day 1 |
Average weekly sailings 3 |
First ferry 12:05 AM |
Last ferry 10:37 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $28 (€23)
Complete guide to Palermo
Things to do in Palermo
Discover the best of Palermo — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Palermo trip today.
- Must visit
Museo Archeologico Regionale Antonino Salinas
One of Sicily's most important archaeological museums, with Punic, Greek and Roman collections and notable sculpture fragments.
- Recommended
Palazzo Mirto
Historic noble residence preserved with original furnishings, offering a vivid look at aristocratic life in Palermo.
- Must visit
Ballaro Market Area
Energetic historic district centered on Palermo's most famous street market, full of everyday local life and vivid street scenes.
- Must visit
Piazza Pretoria
Striking central square framed by historic buildings and the famous fountain, a key stop in the old town.
- Must visit
Via Maqueda
One of Palermo's main historic streets, largely pedestrianized and lined with landmarks, shops and lively urban scenes.
Arancine
Fried rice balls stuffed with ragù, mozzarella, or butter and ham. Palermo is famous for its round arancine and strong street-food tradition.
Pane con la Milza
A classic Palermo street sandwich made with veal spleen and lung, often topped with caciocavallo or ricotta. It is one of the city's most iconic local bites.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Panelle
Chickpea fritters, usually served in a sesame bread roll. They are a beloved Palermo snack and a staple of the city's historic friggitorie.
Osteria Ballarò
Well-regarded restaurant near the historic center serving refined Sicilian cuisine with local ingredients in an elegant but relaxed atmosphere.
Bisso Bistrot
Popular central spot for approachable Sicilian cooking, including pasta and regional classics, with a casual and lively atmosphere.
Corona Trattoria
Established seafood-focused trattoria appreciated for traditional Palermo and Sicilian dishes in a classic local dining room.
Euro
Moderate by Italian standards: street food is cheap, while central hotels and tourist restaurants cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 6-12 for street food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.20-2.50 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or minimal. Rounding up or leaving EUR 1-2 at cafes is common; about 5-10% for very good restaurant service. Taxis are usually rounded up.
Palermo AMAT
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.40 EUR
- Day pass
- 3.50 EUR
To the city center
Port Of Palermo Termini Imerese -> Palermo Centrale
- Distance
- 38 km
- Travel time
- 45 min
- AMAT tickets must usually be validated when you board buses or trams; keep the ticket until the end of the trip.
- Card payment may not be available on every bus or tram, so buy AMAT tickets in advance via app, machines, or authorised retailers.
FAQs: Ferry from Bologna to 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.
The earliest ferry from Bologna to Palermo leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest ferry from Bologna to Palermo leaves at 10:37 PM.
No, there are no cabins on ferries from Bologna to Palermo.
No, there are no vehicle options on ferries from Bologna to Palermo.
Yes, travelling as a foot passenger from Bologna to Palermo is possible with with . We recommend arriving at least one hour before the trip if you are travelling on foot but please check specific times for each route. If you need book your travel to the departure port check our trains, buses and flight options on Omio.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bologna and Palermo including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Palermo are:
- Palermo Cathedral, a stunning architectural blend of Norman, Moorish, and Baroque styles
- Teatro Massimo, Italy's largest opera house known for its grand performances and impressive acoustics
- Palazzo dei Normanni, a historic palace featuring the exquisite Palatine Chapel with its Byzantine mosaics
- Quattro Canti, a Baroque square at the intersection of Palermo's two main streets, known for its symmetrical fountains and statues
- Orto Botanico di Palermo, a lush botanical garden showcasing diverse plant species.
The best things to do in Palermo include:
- Capuchin Catacombs, an eerie yet fascinating underground cemetery with mummified remains
- Ballarò Market, a bustling street market offering a taste of local Sicilian produce and culture
- Explore the vibrant street art in the Vucciria district
- Take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Sicilian dishes
- Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Foro Italico promenade.
Since both Bologna and Palermo are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna to Palermo among Omio's users.
Italy uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most payments, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small shops, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Palermo, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially pickpocketing in crowded areas like markets and public transport. Scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and vendors, as well as unofficial guides offering overpriced tours. It's advisable to use authorized services and stay vigilant in busy tourist spots.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
More options for your journey from Bologna to Palermo
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular ferries to and from Palermo and Bologna
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