- 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 trains from Bologna to Palermo
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 28
Cheapest price on Oct 28
$107
Average ticket price on Oct 28
$174
Fastest journey on Oct 28
13 h 21 m
Average journey duration on Oct 28
17 h 17 m
Trains on Oct 28
6
Distance
729 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bologna to Palermo is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bologna to Palermo will cost around $174 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $107.
Fast trains
On Wed, Oct 28, we found 6 trains from Bologna to Palermo, including 6 direct services.
On Wed, Oct 28 the direct trains cover the 729 km distance in an average of 17 h 17 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 13 h 21 m .
On Wed, Oct 28 the slowest trains will take 19 h 47 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.
9:05 PM17h50Bologna2:55 PMPalermo$1071One-way0 transfers
12:33 AM17h32Bologna6:05 PMPalermo$1091One-way0 transfers- 3:25 PM19h47Bologna11:12 AMPalermo$1241One-way0 transfers
- 10:05 PM17h54Bologna3:59 PMPalermo$1361One-way0 transfers
- 4:25 PM19h47Bologna12:12 PMPalermo$1801One-way0 transfers
7:37 AM13h21Bologna8:58 PMPalermo$3861One-way0 transfers- 12:33 AM17h32Bologna6:05 PMPalermo$1091One-way0 transfers
- 9:05 PM17h50Bologna2:55 PMPalermo$1071One-way0 transfers
- 10:05 PM17h54Bologna3:59 PMPalermo$1361One-way0 transfers
- 4:25 PM19h47Bologna12:12 PMPalermo$1801One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bologna to Palermo
ItalyItaly
Trains from Bologna to Palermo run on average 42 times per day, taking around 15h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $24 but you can travel from only $20 by flight.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:39. The fastest train covers the 452 miles (729 km) distance in 11h 57m.
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 $20
Distance 452 miles (729 km) |
Average train duration 15h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $24 |
Trains per day 42 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 11h 57m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:39 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 42 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
Flight from $20
Frequently asked questions about your Bologna to Palermo trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Bologna to Palermo.
Train ticket prices from Bologna to Palermo can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $24, while the average price is around $59.
The train from Bologna to Palermo takes 11h 57m and runs 42 per day.
The distance by train from Bologna to Palermo is 452 miles (729 km).
The first train from Bologna to Palermo leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Bologna to Palermo leaves at 11:39 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Bologna to Palermo. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Intercity Notte.
Live departures
Bologna to Palermo train times
The table below shows live departures for Bologna to Palermo trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, October 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12:33 AM Bologna | 17h32 | 6:05 PM Palermo | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:37 AM Bologna | 13h21 | 8:58 PM Palermo | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:25 PM Bologna | 19h47 | 11:12 AM Palermo | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:25 PM Bologna | 19h47 | 12:12 PM Palermo | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:05 PM Bologna | 17h50 | 2:55 PM Palermo | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:05 PM Bologna | 17h54 | 3:59 PM Palermo | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Bologna to Palermo trains with Omio?
Intercity Notte as well as Intercity or Frecciarossa offer trains services from Bologna to Palermo.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Intercity Notte tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Intercity Notte?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Intercity Notte, but also compare tickets for the likes of Intercity or Frecciarossa to find the best option for your trip from Bologna to Palermo.
- 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 Intercity Notte with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bologna to Palermo.
Train companies: Intercity Notte, Intercity, Frecciarossa from Bologna to Palermo trainsIntercity Notte, Intercity, Frecciarossa trains will get you between Bologna and Palermo from $20. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Intercity Notte
About
Intercity Notte is an Italian train service operated by Trenitalia. It runs overnight services between major cities in Italy, making it a great option for travelers looking to save time and money. The Intercity Notte offers two types of trains: the Frecciarossa Notte and the Frecciargento Notte. The Frecciarossa Notte is the fastest train, with speeds of up to 300 km/h, while the Frecciargento Notte is slightly slower but still offers a comfortable journey. Both trains offer a range of onboard facilities, including comfortable seating, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. Trenitalia offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, Comfort, and Business. Standard tickets are the most affordable, while Comfort and Business tickets offer additional benefits such as priority boarding and access to the lounge. The most popular routes for Intercity Notte are Rome to Milan, Rome to Venice, and Milan to Venice. These routes offer travelers the chance to explore some of Italy's most iconic cities in a convenient and comfortable way.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Intercity Notte Duration
13h 19m
Cheapest Intercity Notte Price
$24
Intercity Notte frequency
34 a day
Luggage included
1 handbag and 1 suitcase included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Luggage racks above seats and at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full dining service and bar
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available for disabled passengers
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone
Intercity
About
Trenitalia Intercity is a high-speed train service operated by the Italian national railway company, Trenitalia. It operates throughout the country, with services running from early morning to late evening. The Intercity trains come in two types: the Intercity Plus, which is the fastest and most comfortable, and the Intercity, which is slightly slower but still offers a comfortable journey. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, power sockets, Wi-Fi, and a bar service. There are several ticket types available, including Standard, Super Economy, and Business. The most popular routes for Trenitalia Intercity are from Rome to Milan, Naples to Florence, and Turin to Venice.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Intercity Duration
11h 57m
Cheapest Intercity Price
$24
Intercity frequency
10 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Frecciarossa
About
Step on board a Frecciarossa train and relax as you travel across Italy. Trenitalia’s Frecciarossa high-speed trains make around 200 connections across the country each day and are renowned for their comfort, speed, and reduced environmental impact. Reaching speeds of up to 186 mph (300 km/h), they connect major destinations such as Rome, Florence, Milan, Venice, and Naples quickly and efficiently. When booking your Frecciarossa journey, you can choose between four classes: Standard, Premium, Business, and Executive. While each class offers different levels of comfort, all provide free Wi-Fi access, power outlets, air conditioning, bathrooms, luggage storage, onboard entertainment, and restaurant and bar services. Ticket options include Super Economy, Economy, and Base, making it easy to find the right balance of comfort and price for your trip.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Frecciarossa Duration
14h 59m
Cheapest Frecciarossa Price
$145
Frecciarossa frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag and 1 suitcase per passenger
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at carriage ends, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals, bar service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in Executive class
Seat reservation
Included in Executive class, optional fee for other classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle, service animals free
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Bologna and Palermo
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Bologna to Palermo.
Yes, there is a night train from Bologna to Palermo.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Italy Pass and Interrail Italy Pass are valid on most trains operated by Trenitalia and Italo within Italy, including regional, intercity, and high-speed trains, though some restrictions and seat reservation fees may apply.
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
Palermo Centrale -> Quattro Canti, Palermo
- Distance
- 1.4 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Validate paper tickets when boarding; inspectors check on buses and trams.
- AMAT buses and trams generally support contactless bank card payment onboard, but carry a backup ticket in case the validator is unavailable.
Plan your visit to Palermo
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Palermo.
The train journey from Bologna to Palermo offers diverse scenery, with views of the Apennine Mountains, rolling countryside, and coastal landscapes as you approach Sicily, providing a varied and scenic experience.
Popular day trips by train from Palermo include Cefalù, Punta Raisi, Bagheria, Santa Flavia, Capo d'Orlando.
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.
FAQs: Trains from Bologna to Palermo
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bologna to Palermo by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Palermo, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take the train from Bologna to Palermo.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Bologna to Palermo
Most Bologna to Palermo trains use the Bologna Centrale to station pair. Use this guide to compare Bologna and Palermo train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bologna
Arrival train stations in Palermo
Which Bologna station do trains to Palermo leave from?
Trains from Bologna to Palermo leave from Bologna Centrale. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Bologna city centre at Piazza delle Medaglie d'Oro, 40121 Bologna, Italy.
Bologna CentralePiazza delle Medaglie d'Oro, 40121 Bologna, Italy+39 892021
City-centre transport
Getting to Bologna Centrale from Bologna city centre
Bologna Centrale is 1 km from Bologna city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus11, 181, 21, 30, 38, 445, C, 61, 62, 81, 87, 91, N4, 92, N3 · 4m · $2 · every ~39 min
21, 30, 11, C, 62, N4, N3 · 6m · $2 · every ~36 min
Bologna Centrale train station facilities and services
Bologna Centrale has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Burger King, A Cafè, VyTA Boulangerie, Venchi, Scambio, Juice Bar, KFC, Dispensa Emilia, Lavazza, Mokà, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. . ATMs are aTM is located in the main hall.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 21:00. Information desks are customer service center is on the ground floor and open every day from 06:30 to 23:00.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is luggage facility, open daily from 07:00 to 22:00, is located in front of binario 7 Ovest (Track 7 West).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bologna Centrale: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bologna Centrale: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bologna Centrale: Accessible facilities including barrier-free restrooms, elevators and ramps. Sala Blu mobility assistance available from 07:45 to 22:30 with advanced one-hour notice.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Starhotels Excelsior, Millenn Hotel Bologna, UNA Hotels.
Bologna, AeroportoBologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ), Via del Triumvirato, 84, 40132 Bologna BO, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Bologna, Aeroporto from Bologna city centre
Bologna, Aeroporto is 5 km from Bologna city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
Bologna, Aeroporto train station facilities and services
Bologna, Aeroporto has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Multiple options on site
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free wifi throughout the station. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bologna, Aeroporto.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bologna, Aeroporto: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bologna, Aeroporto: Fully accessible for disabled individuals.
Bologna Corticella40128 Bologna, Metropolitan City of Bologna, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Bologna Corticella from Bologna city centre
Bologna Corticella is 6 km from Bologna city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus27, 441, 445, 504, N1, 97, 98 · 8m · $3 · every ~9 min
27, 441, 504, 97, 98 · 15m · $3 · every ~8 min
445, 97, 98 · 20m · $3 · every ~8 min
Bologna Corticella train station facilities and services
Bologna Corticella has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bologna Corticella.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Bologna Corticella.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bologna Corticella: Parking, Taxis.
Bike and car services
Available at Bologna Corticella: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bologna Corticella.
More options for your journey from Bologna to Palermo
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Palermo and Bologna
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