- Must visit
Museo Regionale Interdisciplinare di Messina
Messina’s main museum preserves major Sicilian artworks, including masterpieces by Caravaggio and Antonello-linked treasures, essential for art lovers.
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Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Palermo to Messina
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Palermo to Messina among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $13. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 56m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $13, and a train costs an average of $17.
Distance: 103 nautical miles (192 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
$20 Average price | $17 Average price Cheapest |
3h 26m Average total duration Fastest 2h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 49m Average total duration 3h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Palermo to Messina is a bus with an average price of $17 (€14).
This is compared to other travel options from Palermo to Messina:
A bus is $3 (€3) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Palermo to Messina costing on average $20 (€17).
The fastest way to travel from Palermo to Messina is by train with an average journey time of 2h 56m.
Other travel options to Messina take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 19m.
Ferry takes on average 5h 49m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Palermo and Messina including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Palermo to Messina among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets Palermo to Messina by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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 Palermo to Messina ferries with Omio?
Liberty Lines operates all ferries services from Palermo to Messina.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Palermo to Messina.
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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Palermo to Messina.
Why book with Omio over Ferryhopper?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Palermo to Messina.
How far in advance should I book ferry tickets from Palermo to Messina?
The best time to book your ferry from Palermo to Messina is 28 days before departure. See how prices for ferries change on the Palermo to Messina route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Palermo to Messina 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 Palermo to Messina.
Ferries
from $67Trains
from $18Buses
from $17Journey information
Overview: Ferry from Palermo to Messina
ItalyItaly
Take a ferry from Palermo to Messina and enjoy the approximately 103 nautical miles (192 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest ferry runs at 06:30, the last at 13:30. Ferries from Palermo to Messina 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 $13 (€10)
Official Omio partners on this route
Distance 103 nautical miles (192 km) |
Average sailing duration 5h 49m |
First ferry 6:30 AM |
Last ferry 1:30 PM |
Foot passengers Available |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 28 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 $13 (€10)
Ferry operators: Liberty Lines from Palermo to MessinaYou can travel by ferry between Palermo to Messina with Liberty Lines for as low as $13 (€10). 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
18h 25m
Cheapest Price
$90 (€74)
Liberty Lines frequency
16 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 Messina
Things to do in Messina
Discover the best of Messina — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Messina trip today.
- Recommended
Tesoro del Duomo di Messina
A church museum displaying liturgical art, silverwork, and historic objects tied to Messina Cathedral and the city’s religious heritage.
- Recommended
Monte di Pietà
A small local gallery and exhibition space used for cultural displays, suitable for visitors seeking contemporary community art in Messina.
- Must visit
Piazza Duomo
Messina’s main cathedral square is the city’s ceremonial heart, ideal for seeing the Duomo, fountain, and clock tower together.
- Must visit
Belvedere di Cristo Re
This scenic viewpoint area beside Cristo Re offers one of the best panoramas over Messina, the harbor curve, and Calabria beyond.
- Recommended
Piazza del Duomo e Fontana di Orione
This central piazza is dominated by Orion Fountain and elegant facades, making it one of the city’s most photogenic public spaces.
Pasta 'Ncasciata
A layered baked pasta timbale with ragù, eggplant, cheese, and sometimes meatballs. A festive Sicilian classic closely tied to family Sunday meals.
Arancino
A crisp fried rice ball, usually filled with ragù, peas, and cheese. A beloved Sicilian street food found in bars and bakeries across Messina.
- Vegetarian
Granita Con Brioche
Soft sweet brioche served with granita, especially for breakfast. In Messina it is a warm-weather ritual and a signature part of Sicilian café culture.
I Ruggeri Boutique Restaurant
Refined Michelin-starred dining with creative Sicilian seafood and tasting menus in an elegant setting inside Hotel Messenion.
Pasticceria Irrera 1910
Historic pastry café famed for granita, brioche, gelato, and Sicilian breakfast classics. A traditional stop with a strong local reputation.
Ristorante Kajiki
Well-known seafood restaurant serving swordfish, shellfish, and classic Sicilian fish dishes in a polished but welcoming atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Italy. Rooms and meals are often cheaper than in Rome or Milan, while local buses and ferries stay reasonably priced for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or casual bites.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €1.20-2.50 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or modest. Round up or leave €1-2 at cafes, 5-10% in restaurants for good service, and round up taxi fares.
ATM MovUp
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.50
- Day pass
- €2.50
To the city center
Port of Messina, Messina -> Messina Centrale, Messina
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Buy tickets in the ATM MovUp app or from authorized vendors before boarding. Validate paper tickets when you start your trip.
- Contactless bank card payment is available on ATM Messina buses and trams on equipped validators; check the vehicle or validator symbols before boarding.
FAQs: Ferry from Palermo to Messina
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Palermo to Messina 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 Messina, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The earliest ferry from Palermo to Messina leaves at 6:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest ferry from Palermo to Messina leaves at 1:30 PM.
No, there are no cabins on ferries from Palermo to Messina.
No, there are no vehicle options on ferries from Palermo to Messina.
Yes, travelling as a foot passenger from Palermo to Messina 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 Palermo to Messina, you can count on Liberty Lines for the best way to get you to Messina. You can also check all possible ferry operators who offer a service between Palermo and Messina and compare the amenities they offer before buying a ferry ticket.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Palermo and Messina including taking a bus and train.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Messina are:
- Messina Cathedral, a historic church known for its impressive Norman architecture and astronomical clock
- Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock, featuring intricate mechanical displays and a daily noon show
- Regional Museum of Messina, housing a collection of art and artifacts from the region's history
- Sanctuary of the Madonna di Montalto, offering panoramic views of the city and a peaceful atmosphere
- Fountain of Orion, a Renaissance fountain located in Piazza del Duomo, celebrated for its artistic sculptures.
The best things to do in Messina include:
- Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, a Norman-Arab style church with unique architectural features
- Piazza del Duomo, a central square offering vibrant local life and access to key landmarks
- Strait of Messina, a scenic waterway ideal for boat tours and enjoying panoramic views
- Explore the local markets for authentic Sicilian products and souvenirs
- Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Messina waterfront, taking in the sea breeze and local scenery.
Since both Palermo and Messina 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Palermo to Messina 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 Messina, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and near transportation hubs. It's advisable to avoid unlicensed taxi services and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help. When using public transport, keep belongings secure, and always verify prices beforehand to avoid overcharging scams. Staying alert in busy tourist spots helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Palermo to Messina
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular ferries to and from Messina and Palermo
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