- Must visit
Palazzo Abatellis - Regional Gallery of Sicily
Major Sicilian art museum in a Gothic-Catalan palace, known for Antonello da Messina's masterpieces and medieval to Renaissance works.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bologna to Palermo
Showing times and prices for Jun 15
Cheapest price
$139
Average price
$206
Fastest journey
13 h 24 m
Average duration
13 h 54 m
Trains per day
74
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 $206 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $139.
Fast trains
Of the 74 trains that leave Bologna for Palermo on Mon, Jun 15, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jun 15 the direct trains cover the 729 km distance in an average of 13 h 54 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 13 h 24 m .
On Mon, Jun 15 the slowest trains will take 14 h 9 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.
InterCityNotte 196311:05 PM17h50Bologna Centrale4:55 PMPalermo Centrale$1391One-way0 transfers
8903+
Intercity 7278:42 AM14h19Bologna Centrale11:01 PMPalermo Centrale$1681One-way1 transfer- 8951+Intercity 7278:17 AM14h44Bologna Centrale11:01 PMPalermo Centrale$1681One-way1 transfer
- 9941+Intercity 7278:52 AM14h09Bologna Centrale11:01 PMPalermo Centrale$1681One-way1 transfer
- 8111+Intercity 7277:57 AM15h04Bologna Centrale11:01 PMPalermo Centrale$1681One-way1 transfer
FRECCIAROSSA 9613+Intercity 7279:37 AM13h24Bologna Centrale11:01 PMPalermo Centrale$1791One-way1 transfer- 8953+FRECCIAROSSA 9519+Intercity 7279:17 AM13h44Bologna Centrale11:01 PMPalermo Centrale$2071One-way2 transfers
- 9917+FRECCIAROSSA 9519+Intercity 7278:57 AM14h04Bologna Centrale11:01 PMPalermo Centrale$2071One-way2 transfers
- 9941+FRECCIAROSSA 9519+Intercity 7278:52 AM14h09Bologna Centrale11:01 PMPalermo Centrale$2071One-way2 transfers
- 9941+Intercity 7278:52 AM14h09Bologna Centrale11:01 PMPalermo Centrale$1681One-way1 transfer
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: 452 miles (729 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$142 Average price | $134 Average price | $82 Average price Cheapest | $144 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
14h 56m Average total duration 14h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 42m Average total duration Fastest 1h 42m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 17h 1m Average total duration 16h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 10m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions | 0.7 - 1.8kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus 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 $134 (€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 $142 (€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.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Direct services run with Intercity Notte.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Bologna to Palermo train times
The table below shows live departures for Bologna to Palermo trains for today, Sunday, June 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9907+FRECCIAROSSA 9519+Intercity 727 | 6:57 AM Bologna Centrale | 16h04 | 11:01 PM Palermo Centrale | 2 transfers | |
| 9907+Intercity 727 | 6:57 AM Bologna Centrale | 16h04 | 11:01 PM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 8111+FRECCIAROSSA 9519+Intercity 727 | 7:57 AM Bologna Centrale | 15h04 | 11:01 PM Palermo Centrale | 2 transfers | |
| 8111+Intercity 727 | 7:57 AM Bologna Centrale | 15h04 | 11:01 PM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 8951+FRECCIAROSSA 9519+Intercity 727 | 8:17 AM Bologna Centrale | 14h44 | 11:01 PM Palermo Centrale | 2 transfers | |
| 8951+Intercity 727 | 8:17 AM Bologna Centrale | 14h44 | 11:01 PM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 8903+FRECCIAROSSA 9519+Intercity 727 | 8:42 AM Bologna Centrale | 14h19 | 11:01 PM Palermo Centrale | 2 transfers | |
| 8903+Intercity 727 | 8:42 AM Bologna Centrale | 14h19 | 11:01 PM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 9917+FRECCIAROSSA 9519+Intercity 727 | 8:57 AM Bologna Centrale | 14h04 | 11:01 PM Palermo Centrale | 2 transfers | |
| 8953+FRECCIAROSSA 9519+Intercity 727 | 9:17 AM Bologna Centrale | 13h44 | 11:01 PM Palermo Centrale | 2 transfers | |
| FRECCIAROSSA 9613+Intercity 727 | 9:37 AM Bologna Centrale | 13h24 | 11:01 PM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 8905+InterCityNotte 1955 | 9:42 AM Bologna Centrale | 23h31 | 9:13 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 9919+InterCityNotte 1955 | 9:57 AM Bologna Centrale | 23h16 | 9:13 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 8907+InterCityNotte 1955 | 10:42 AM Bologna Centrale | 22h31 | 9:13 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 9923+InterCityNotte 1955 | 10:57 AM Bologna Centrale | 22h16 | 9:13 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 8902+InterCityNotte 1955 | 11:42 AM Bologna Centrale | 21h31 | 9:13 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 9927+InterCityNotte 1955 | 11:57 AM Bologna Centrale | 21h16 | 9:13 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 8911+InterCityNotte 1959 | 12:42 PM Bologna Centrale | 23h16 | 11:58 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 8911+InterCityNotte 1955 | 12:42 PM Bologna Centrale | 20h31 | 9:13 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 9931+InterCityNotte 1959 | 12:57 PM Bologna Centrale | 23h01 | 11:58 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 9931+InterCityNotte 1955 | 12:57 PM Bologna Centrale | 20h16 | 9:13 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 8929+InterCityNotte 1959 | 1:42 PM Bologna Centrale | 22h16 | 11:58 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 8929+InterCityNotte 1955 | 1:42 PM Bologna Centrale | 19h31 | 9:13 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 9935+InterCityNotte 1959 | 1:57 PM Bologna Centrale | 22h01 | 11:58 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 9935+InterCityNotte 1955 | 1:57 PM Bologna Centrale | 19h16 | 9:13 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 8913+InterCityNotte 1959 | 2:42 PM Bologna Centrale | 21h16 | 11:58 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 8913+InterCityNotte 1955 | 2:42 PM Bologna Centrale | 18h31 | 9:13 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 9939+InterCityNotte 1959 | 2:57 PM Bologna Centrale | 21h01 | 11:58 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 9939+InterCityNotte 1955 | 2:57 PM Bologna Centrale | 18h16 | 9:13 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 8959+InterCityNotte 1959 | 3:17 PM Bologna Centrale | 20h41 | 11:58 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 8959+InterCityNotte 1955 | 3:17 PM Bologna Centrale | 17h56 | 9:13 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 8915+InterCityNotte 1959 | 3:42 PM Bologna Centrale | 20h16 | 11:58 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 8915+InterCityNotte 1955 | 3:42 PM Bologna Centrale | 17h31 | 9:13 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 8143+InterCityNotte 1959 | 3:57 PM Bologna Centrale | 20h01 | 11:58 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 8143+InterCityNotte 1955 | 3:57 PM Bologna Centrale | 17h16 | 9:13 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 8919+InterCityNotte 1959 | 4:42 PM Bologna Centrale | 19h16 | 11:58 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 8919+InterCityNotte 1955 | 4:42 PM Bologna Centrale | 16h31 | 9:13 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 9947+InterCityNotte 1959 | 4:57 PM Bologna Centrale | 19h01 | 11:58 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 9947+InterCityNotte 1955 | 4:57 PM Bologna Centrale | 16h16 | 9:13 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 8963+InterCityNotte 1955 | 5:17 PM Bologna Centrale | 15h56 | 9:13 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 8963+InterCityNotte 1959 | 5:17 PM Bologna Centrale | 18h41 | 11:58 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| Intercity 594+InterCityNotte 1959 | 5:25 PM Bologna Centrale | 18h33 | 11:58 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 8923+InterCityNotte 1959 | 5:42 PM Bologna Centrale | 18h16 | 11:58 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 9951+InterCityNotte 1959 | 5:57 PM Bologna Centrale | 18h01 | 11:58 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| FRECCIAROSSA 9325+InterCityNotte 1955 | 6:12 PM Bologna Centrale | 15h01 | 9:13 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 8925+InterCityNotte 1959 | 6:42 PM Bologna Centrale | 17h16 | 11:58 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 9993+InterCityNotte 1959 | 6:52 PM Bologna Centrale | 17h06 | 11:58 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 9955+InterCityNotte 1959 | 6:57 PM Bologna Centrale | 17h01 | 11:58 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 8967+InterCityNotte 1959 | 7:17 PM Bologna Centrale | 16h41 | 11:58 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 8927+InterCityNotte 1959 | 7:42 PM Bologna Centrale | 16h16 | 11:58 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 9997+InterCityNotte 1959 | 7:52 PM Bologna Centrale | 16h06 | 11:58 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| 9959+InterCityNotte 1959 | 7:57 PM Bologna Centrale | 16h01 | 11:58 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| FRECCIAROSSA 9661+InterCityNotte 1959 | 8:07 PM Bologna Centrale | 15h51 | 11:58 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| InterCityNotte 1963 | 11:05 PM Bologna Centrale | 17h50 | 4:55 PM Palermo Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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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Why should you book Bologna to Palermo trains with Omio?
Intercity Notte as well as Intercity, Italo, Frecciarossa and more 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, Italo 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.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Bologna to Palermo?
The best time to book your train from Bologna to Palermo is 63 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Bologna to Palermo route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Bologna 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 train from Bologna to Palermo.
Trains
from $83Buses
from $58Journey information
Overview: Train from Bologna to Palermo
ItalyItaly
Trains from Bologna to Palermo run on average 6 times per day, taking around 14h 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $96 (€78) but you can travel from only $28 (€23) 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 13h 21m.
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 452 miles (729 km) |
Average train duration 14h 26m |
Cheapest ticket price $96 (€78) |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 13h 21m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:39 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 56 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 $28 (€23)
Train companies: Intercity Notte, Intercity, Italo, Frecciarossa from Bologna to Palermo trainsIntercity Notte, Intercity, Italo, Frecciarossa trains will get you between Bologna and Palermo from $28 (€23). 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 Duration
17h 50m
Cheapest Price
$96 (€78)
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 Duration
17h 32m
Cheapest Price
$103 (€84)
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
Italo
About
Italo is Italy’s private high-speed train service operated by Nuovo Trasporto Viaggiatori (NTV), connecting major cities such as Rome, Milan, Naples, Florence, Turin, Bologna, and Salerno. Its fleet includes the Italo AGV 575, capable of speeds up to 186 mph (300 km/h), and the eco-friendly Italo EVO, which reaches up to 150 mph (250 km/h). Passengers can choose from four classes — Smart, Comfort, Prima, and Club Executive — all offering modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, reclining leather seats, footrests, bathrooms, snack machines, and Italo Live entertainment with movies, music, and games. Italo offers three fare types — Low Cost, Economy, and Flex — providing different levels of price and flexibility. Popular routes include Rome–Milan, Rome–Florence, and Milan–Turin, making Italo a fast, comfortable, and convenient way to travel around Italy.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
22h 13m
Cheapest Price
$225 (€183)
Italo frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage (max 55x35x25cm) and 1 piece of luggage (max 75x53x30cm)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack bar service available in most trains with drinks and light refreshments. Welcome service in Prima and Club Executive classes
Seat reservation
Included in Prima and Club Executive. Optional extra cost in Smart and Comfort
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle. Guide dogs travel free
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 Duration
13h 21m
Cheapest Price
$191 (€155)
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
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
Palermo Archaeological Museum Antonio Salinas
Important archaeology museum with Phoenician, Greek, Roman and Egyptian collections, central for understanding Sicily's ancient history.
- Recommended
Palazzo Mirto
Well-preserved aristocratic house museum with original furnishings, frescoes and decorative arts, offering a vivid look at noble Palermo.
- Must visit
Mondello Beach
Palermo's famous seaside district with turquoise water, white sand and Liberty-style villas, highly popular with locals and visitors.
- Must visit
Ballaro Market
Lively historic market area known for street life, colorful stalls and an authentic atmosphere that draws many photographers.
- Must visit
Via Maqueda
Main pedestrian-friendly avenue cutting through the old center, lined with landmarks, shops and constant city energy.
Arancine
Fried rice balls stuffed with ragù, butter, ham, cheese, or other fillings. A Palermo street-food icon and one of the city's most famous snacks.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Pane e Panelle
Soft bread rolls filled with chickpea fritters, often served with lemon. A classic Palermo street food with deep local roots.
Pane con la Milza
Also called pani câ meusa, this sesame roll is filled with chopped veal spleen and lung, often topped with caciocavallo or ricotta.
Ristorante Ferro
Established fine-dining restaurant offering modern interpretations of Sicilian cuisine, polished service, and a more upscale atmosphere.
Osteria Ballarò
Well-known restaurant near the historic center serving refined Sicilian cuisine in an elegant but relaxed atmosphere, with strong local ingredients.
Bisso Bistrot
Popular central spot known for approachable Sicilian dishes, pasta, and a lively casual atmosphere close to Quattro Canti.
Euro
Moderate by Italian standards. Street food and local trattorias are good value, while central hotels and upscale dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 5-10 for street food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a mid-range 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 covered by a coperto. Tipping is not mandatory, but leaving EUR 1-2 at cafes or 5-10% for very good restaurant service is appreciated. Round up taxis.
Palermo AMAT
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.40 EUR
- Day pass
- 3.50 EUR
To the city center
Palermo Centrale, Palermo -> Quattro Canti, Palermo
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Validate paper tickets when boarding buses or trams to avoid fines.
- Onboard card payment is not generally available on Palermo buses and trams, so buy tickets in advance via AMAT points, vendors, or the official app.
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.
Train ticket prices from Bologna to Palermo can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $96 (€78), while the average price is around $142 (€116).
The train from Bologna to Palermo takes 13h 21m and runs 6 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 high-speed train from Bologna to Palermo.
Yes, there is a direct train from Bologna to Palermo. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Intercity Notte.
Yes, there is a night train from Bologna to Palermo.
The train station in Bologna that goes to Palermo is Bologna Centrale, which connects to Palermo Centrale.
The cheapest way to get from Bologna to Palermo is by flight, with a cost of around $28 (€23).
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.
A day trip from Bologna to Palermo is not feasible, as the journey takes 13h 21m one way and the distance is 452 miles (729 km). Trains run 6 times per day.
In Palermo, you can explore the Capuchin Catacombs, visit the bustling Ballarò Market, and admire vibrant street art in the Vucciria district. Take a cooking class to learn traditional Sicilian dishes or enjoy a stroll along the Foro Italico promenade. Don't miss the Palermo Cathedral, Teatro Massimo, Palazzo dei Normanni with the Palatine Chapel, Quattro Canti, and the lush Orto Botanico di Palermo.
Typically, spending 3 to 4 days in Palermo allows you to explore its main attractions, enjoy local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the city's vibrant culture.
Yes, you can take the train from Bologna to Palermo.
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.
Popular day trips by train from Palermo include Cefalù, Punta Raisi, Bagheria, Santa Flavia, Capo d'Orlando.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Bologna to Palermo among Omio's users.
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.
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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Bologna to Palermo
Bologna
Palermo
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi.
Lockers
- Luggage facility, open daily from 07:00 to 22:00, is located in front of binario 7 Ovest (Track 7 West).
Dining
- Burger King
- A Cafè
- VyTA Boulangerie
- Venchi
- Scambio
- Juice Bar
- KFC
- Dispensa Emilia
- Lavazza
- Mokà
- & more
Accessibility
- 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.
Hotel
- Starhotels Excelsior
- Millenn Hotel Bologna
- UNA Hotels
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 21:00
Information Desk
- Customer service center is on the ground floor and open every day from 06:30 to 23:00.
Public transit options for Bologna Centrale
- Bus lines: 21, 25, 30, 36, 61, 62, 77, BLQ
- Monorail lines: Marconi Express
- Train lines: FR, FA, FB, IC, ICN, R, Italo, ÖBB EC, EN
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
4 km
Number of platforms
2Parking
- Free parking available near the station
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
WC
- Free of charge
Hotel
- San Ruffillo House
- Hotel Il Guercino
- Hotel Porta San Mamolo
Station Plan
- The station has a simple layout with two platforms and a small waiting area.
Public transit options for Bologna San Ruffillo
- Bus: Several local bus lines available
Bologna, Aeroporto
information
More options for your journey from Bologna to Palermo
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Most popular trains to and from Palermo and Bologna
Most popular train connections to Palermo
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