- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest ferries from Catania to Palermo
Showing times and prices for Jul 17
Cheapest price
$68
Average price
$68
Fastest journey
5 h 5 m
Average duration
5 h 5 m
Ferries per day
1
Distance
166 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap ferry ticket from Catania to Palermo is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Catania to Palermo will cost around $68 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $68.
Fast ferries
Of the 1 ferries that leave Catania for Palermo on Fri, Jul 17, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jul 17 the direct ferries cover the 166 km distance in an average of 5 h 5 m but if you time it right, some ferries will get you there in just 5 h 5 m .
On Fri, Jul 17 the slowest ferries will take 5 h 5 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
LIBERTY LINES6:30 AM5h05Port of Milazzo11:35 AMPort of Palermo$681One-way0 transfers
- LIBERTY LINES6:30 AM5h05Port of Milazzo11:35 AMPort of Palermo$681One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and ferry for Catania to Palermo
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Catania to Palermo among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $11. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 48m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $11, and a ferry costs an average of $67.
Distance: 89 nautical miles (166 km)
Compare ferry with
| Ferry | Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$69 Average price | $16 Average price Cheapest | $22 Average price | $48 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 5m Average total duration 5h 5m Onboard + 1h 0m Additional time* | 3h 18m Average total duration Fastest 2h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 46m Average total duration 3h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 30m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular ferry company |  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 Catania to Palermo is a bus with an average price of $16 (€13).
This is compared to other travel options from Catania to Palermo:
A bus is $5 (€4) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Catania to Palermo costing on average $22 (€18).
A bus is $53 (€44) less than a ferry for this route with tickets for a ferry from Catania to Palermo costing on average $69 (€57).
The fastest way to travel from Catania to Palermo is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 48m.
Other travel options to Palermo take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 16m.
Ferry takes on average 5h 5m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Catania and Palermo including taking a train, bus, and ferry.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Catania to Palermo among Omio's users.
Catania to Palermo Ferry Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Sailing Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Liberty Lines | Departure Time 04:30AM | Arrival Time 09:35AM | Duration 5h05 | Sailing Days Thu |
Operator Liberty Lines | Departure Time 06:30AM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 5h05 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun |
Live departures
Catania to Palermo ferry times
The table below shows live departures for Catania to Palermo ferries for tomorrow, Friday, July 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated ferry journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LIBERTY LINES | 6:30 AM Port of Milazzo | 5h05 | 11:35 AM Port of Palermo | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last ferry of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Catania to Palermo by train, bus, or ferry
Compare train, bus, and ferry 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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Why should you book Catania to Palermo ferries with Omio?
Liberty Lines operates all ferries services from Catania to Palermo.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Catania to Palermo.
Why book with Omio vs Liberty Lines?
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Liberty Lines with all available travel options, which are train, bus and ferry to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Catania to Palermo.
Why book with Omio over Ferryhopper?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and ferry to find the ideal travel option from Catania to Palermo.
How far in advance should I book ferry tickets from Catania to Palermo?
The best time to book your ferry from Catania to Palermo is 56 days before departure. See how prices for ferries change on the Catania to Palermo route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Catania to Palermo per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your ferry from Catania to Palermo.
Ferries
from $81Trains
from $22Buses
from $17Journey information
Overview: Ferry from Catania to Palermo
ItalyItaly
Ferries from Catania to Palermo run on average 1 times per day, taking around 5h 5m. Cheap ferry tickets for this journey start at $67 (€55) but you can travel from only $11 (€9) by bus.
There are 1 ferries per day. The earliest ferry runs at 06:30, the last at 13:30. The fastest ferry covers the 89 nautical miles (166 km) distance in 5h 5m. There are 5 sailings per week. Ferries from Catania to Palermo are available to foot passengers.
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
Bus from $11 (€9)
Official Omio partners on this route
Distance 89 nautical miles (166 km) |
Average sailing duration 5h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price $67 (€55) |
Ferries per day 1 |
Direct ferries Available |
Average weekly sailings 5 |
Fastest ferry 5h 5m |
First ferry 6:30 AM |
Last ferry 1:30 PM |
Foot passengers Available |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 70 days |
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
Bus from $11 (€9)
Ferry operators: Liberty Lines from Catania to PalermoYou can travel by ferry between Catania to Palermo with Liberty Lines for as low as $11 (€9). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey.
Liberty Lines
About
Liberty Lines, an Italian ferry operator founded in 1993, specializes in high-speed vessels, offering a range of classes from economy to premium. Their fleet includes hydrofoils and catamarans, equipped with modern amenities such as air-conditioned lounges, snack bars, and spacious seating areas. Passengers can choose from various ticket types, including standard seats, cabins, and vehicle transport options. Liberty Lines is renowned for its top routes, connecting Sicily with the Aeolian Islands, the Aegadian Islands, and the Pelagie Islands, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking efficient and comfortable maritime transport in the Mediterranean.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 5m
Cheapest Price
$67 (€55)
Liberty Lines frequency
1 a day
Additional luggage
One piece of hand luggage included. Additional luggage subject to fee
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible up to 24 hours before departure
Amenities on board the ferry
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack bar and vending machines available
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible vessels available, assistance for boarding and disembarking
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers, dogs must be leashed and muzzled
Cabin reservation
Must be booked in advance, subject to availability
Car on board
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.
- Recommended
Palazzo Mirto
Historic rooms and vivid majolica floors showcase aristocratic Palermo. Visit for decorative arts, period interiors and city history.
- Recommended
Steri Museum
Housed in the grand Steri Palace, this museum presents the Sicilian Inquisition’s story through cells, graffiti and historical documents.
- Must visit
Via Vittorio Emanuele
Palermo’s elegant main boulevard links major monuments, shops and theaters. Ideal for first walks and observing the city’s layered architecture.
- Must visit
Via Maqueda
This historic street cuts across the old center and hosts markets, churches and daily life. A lively route for exploring local Palermo.
- Recommended
Albergheria
A bustling old quarter famous for layered street life, churches and market culture. Best explored on foot for atmosphere and urban history.
Arancina
Crisp fried rice ball stuffed with ragù, peas and caciocavallo. A Sicilian street food icon widely loved in Palermo.
Pane con la Milza
Soft sesame-topped bun filled with spleen and lung, often with caciocavallo or ricotta. A classic Palermo street food with deep local roots.
Pasta con le Sarde
Pasta with sardines, wild fennel, pine nuts and raisins. Its sweet-savory flavor reflects Palermo's Arab-Norman culinary heritage.
I Pupi
Refined Michelin-starred restaurant known for creative Sicilian tasting menus in an elegant, intimate setting.
Osteria Ballarò
Historic seafood restaurant near the port, praised for fresh catch, raw dishes and classic Palermo fish recipes.
Nni Franco U Vastiddaru
Legendary no-frills street-food stop celebrated for pane con la milza and authentic local sandwiches loved by residents.
Euro (€)
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.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for street food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €1.50-3 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
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.
Palermo AMAT
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.40
- Day pass
- €5.50
To the city center
Port of Palermo Termini Imerese -> Palermo Centrale, Palermo
- Distance
- 38 km
- Travel time
- 45 min
- Validate paper tickets at the start of your first ride. Keep the ticket until the end of your journey for inspection.
- AMAT buses and trams support contactless bank card payment on many vehicles, but carry a paper or app ticket as backup in case a validator is unavailable.
FAQs: Ferry from Catania to Palermo
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Catania 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.
Cheap ferry tickets from Catania to Palermo can start from as little as $67 (€55) when you book in advance. The average ferry ticket price for Catania to Palermo is $69 (€57) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by ferry from Catania to Palermo is 5h 5m to travel the 103 miles (166 km) long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest ferry from Catania to Palermo leaves at 6:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest ferry from Catania to Palermo leaves at 1:30 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct ferries a day from Catania to Palermo with Liberty Lines. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct ferries.
No, there are no cabins on ferries from Catania to Palermo.
No, there are no vehicle options on ferries from Catania to Palermo.
Yes, travelling as a foot passenger from Catania to Palermo is possible with with Liberty Lines. 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.
When taking a ferry from Catania to Palermo, you can count on Liberty Lines for the best way to get you to Palermo. You can also check all possible ferry operators who offer a service between Catania and Palermo and compare the amenities they offer before buying a ferry ticket.
A trip to Palermo from Catania is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 5m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a ferry from Catania to Palermo is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Catania and Palermo including taking a train, bus, and ferry.
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 Catania 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Catania 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 Catania to Palermo
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular ferries to and from Palermo and Catania
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