- 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 Catania to Palermo
Showing times and prices for Aug 26
Cheapest price
€21
Average price
€21
Fastest journey
5 h 14 m
Average duration
5 h 14 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
166 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train 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 €21 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €21.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Catania to Palermo without transferring at least once.
Regionale 5382 · Regionale 536110:14 AM5h14Catania Centrale3:28 PMPalermo Centrale€211One-way1 transfer
- Regionale 5382 · Regionale 536110:14 AM5h14Catania Centrale3:28 PMPalermo Centrale€211One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, flight, 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 €9. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 30m. 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 €9, and a flight costs an average of €209.
Distance: 103 miles (166 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Ferry | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
€20 Average price | €14 Average price Cheapest | €55 Average price | €366 Average price | €40 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 10m Average total duration 3h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 2m Average total duration 2h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 5m Average total duration 5h 5m Onboard + 1h 0m Additional time* | 5h 30m Average total duration Fastest 2h 30m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 30m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular ferry company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | 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 €14.
This is compared to other travel options from Catania to Palermo:
A bus is €6 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Catania to Palermo costing on average €20.
A bus is €41 less than a ferry for this route with tickets for a ferry from Catania to Palermo costing on average €55.
A bus is €352 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Catania to Palermo costing on average €366.
The fastest way to travel from Catania to Palermo is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 30m.
Other travel options to Palermo take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 32m.
Train takes on average 3h 40m.
Ferry takes on average 5h 5m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 4 ways to travel between Catania and Palermo including taking a train, bus, flight, and ferry.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Catania 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 €20 compared to roughly €40 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €20. The journey takes 3h 40m versus 2h 30m 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 Regionale.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Catania to Palermo train times
The table below shows live departures for Catania to Palermo trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regionale 5382 · Regionale 5361 | 10:14 AM Catania Centrale | 5h14 | 3:28 PM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Catania to Palermo by train, bus, flight, or ferry
Compare train, bus, flight, 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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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Catania to Palermo?
The best time to book your train from Catania to Palermo is 56 days before departure. See how prices for trains 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 train from Catania to Palermo.
Trains
from €18Buses
from €14Ferries
from €66ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Catania to Palermo
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
CleanlinessDisadvantages
PunctualityThe advantages of the journey included the friendly staff at the station, the cleanliness at the stations and on the train itself and that the reception and wifi were good. There wasn't really a downside. Well, the train was 5 minutes late, which I don't see as a negative. The journey took place in August last year.
Advantages
HygienicDisadvantages
non-existent punctualityWhat I unfortunately remember very negatively was that the train was very unpunctual. To be precise, it was almost 25 minutes late. The negative experiences came to an end on the train. It was very clean and the sanitary facilities were relatively hygienic. At my seat I had a fold-out table and a fast network connection. Recommendation!
Advantages
CleanlinessDisadvantages
,It turned out to be a very good decision to buy the train ticket. The sanitary facilities were really thoroughly cleaned and my seat was extremely comfortable. What's more, the price was cheap. The staff were super nice and very knowledgeable. The wifi was fine by train standards. In the end, I can only give a recommendation and award 5 stars.
Advantages
I had a great viewDisadvantages
10 minutes lateI thought it was great that the view of the countryside from my seat was so beautiful. I didn't mind the slight delay of about 10 minutes. I really appreciated the cleanliness of the train. The journey was cheaper than travelling by car.
Advantages
PersonnelEverything ran smoothly! The train was on time to the second. When I booked the ticket via the website, I was able to pay without any problems. I was very pleased that both the train and the sanitary facilities were very clean and hygienic. The staff were helpful and very polite at all times. Overall, a highly recommended trip, which I give 5 stars.
Advantages
PunctualityDisadvantages
noneThe journey was simply fantastic. The train left on time and arrived in Palermo on time. I was very pleased that the sanitary facilities were very hygienic and clean. The price I paid online for the ticket was fair, but not exactly cheap. All in all, a very nice and relaxing trip that I can highly recommend.
Advantages
climatisedpunctualDisadvantages
.The train journey was perfect. The temperature on the train was very pleasant. The train was also very punctual and the staff were super polite and helpful. The price I paid online for the ticket was fair and definitely cheaper than travelling by car. The sanitary facilities were kept clean and hygienic. Overall, the train service is highly recommended. 5 stars.
Advantages
CleanlinessDisadvantages
"The staff were always polite and very helpful. I was very pleased with the punctuality of my train. Cleanliness was paramount and proper comfort was provided without fault. The train journey took around four hours. Highly recommended. I did not have to change trains. I had train number 5519.
Advantages
Very punctualPersonnelDisadvantages
HygieneWIFII was able to gather both positive and negative impressions on the journey. The negatives include the poor hygiene and the fact that the wifi and reception were not particularly stable. The positives include the punctuality, the very comfortable and large benches and the staff. I counted 2 employees at the station in Catania and both seemed very friendly and nice.
Advantages
Very cleanDisadvantages
unpunctualUnfortunately, my train wasn't quite on time this time and I had to wait at the station for 12 minutes to be precise. However, the staff immediately made me aware of the time change. The toilets were very clean and I didn't notice any dirt or other debris left behind by previous passengers. The wifi was excellent and I felt very comfortable.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Catania to Palermo
ItalyItaly
Trains from Catania to Palermo run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 40m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €17 but you can travel from only €9 by bus.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:53, the last at 18:34. The fastest train covers the 103 miles (166 km) distance in 2h 53m.
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 €9
Distance 103 miles (166 km) |
Average train duration 3h 40m |
Cheapest ticket price €17 |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 2h 53m |
First train 12:53 AM |
Last train 6:34 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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
Bus from €9
Train companies: Regionale, Intercity from Catania to Palermo trainsRegionale, Intercity trains will get you between Catania and Palermo from €9. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Regionale
About
Regionale is the regional train service of national carrier Trenitalia connecting all of Italy. It is the most convinient way to travel to both big cities and the smallest villages all over the Italian country. The regional trains have different names depending on the region they serve, such as Treno Regionale Veloce (TRV) and Treno Regionale Lento (TRL). Treno Rock and Treno pop are the two new trains part of Trenitalia regionale fleet. Trenitalia Regionale offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets (economy and standard), return tickets, and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and power sockets. The most popular routes for Regionale are between Rome and Milan, Naples and Florence, and Turin and Venice.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 53m
Cheapest Price
€17
Regionale frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
Free hand luggage allowance included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Bar service available on some trains with snacks and beverages
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most services
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
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
4h 26m
Cheapest Price
€20
Intercity frequency
1 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
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.
Traveling by train from Catania to Palermo
Traveling between Catania and Palermo is a scenic journey that showcases the beauty of Sicily. The train connection offers several options for travelers, including Regionale, Frecciabianca, and Intercity services. Each provider caters to different preferences in terms of speed and comfort, making it easy to choose the best fit for your travel needs. Enjoy picturesque views as you traverse this stunning island!
Train Connection: Catania to Palermo
The train journey from Catania to Palermo takes approximately 3 hours and 38 minutes, with a total of 2 connections available per day. This route does not offer direct trains; therefore, passengers will need to change trains during their trip.
Catania to Palermo Train Connection
The first daily train from Catania to Palermo departs at 04:43, providing an early start for travelers looking to explore the beautiful Sicilian landscape. The last journey of the day leaves at 16:19, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy their adventures before returning in the evening.
Train Tickets Price from Catania to Palermo
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Catania and Palermo is €17. This fare offers a budget-friendly option for travelers looking to explore these beautiful Sicilian cities, known for their rich history and vibrant culture.
Exploring the Architectural Wonders of Palermo
Welcome to Palermo Cathedral, a stunning example of architectural evolution that began in 1185 as a Byzantine church and transformed over the centuries into a magnificent blend of styles including Norman, Gothic, and Baroque. Its significance lies not only in its role as the seat of the Archbishop but also as a testament to Sicily's rich cultural tapestry where different civilizations have left their mark. One unique feature you’ll notice is the intricate tombs within its walls, including those of several Sicilian kings and emperors, which reflect both historical grandeur and artistic mastery.
Next on our journey is Teatro Massimo, Italy’s largest opera house renowned for its exceptional acoustics and breathtaking neoclassical design completed in 1897. This landmark holds great significance as it symbolizes Palermo's vibrant arts scene while hosting world-class performances that attract visitors from around the globe. A standout feature you'll appreciate during your visit is its grand staircase leading up to an opulent foyer adorned with exquisite frescoes—perfect for capturing memorable photos!
Finally, we arrive at Palazzo dei Normanni (the Royal Palace), originally built by Arab rulers in the 9th century before being expanded by Norman kings who made it their royal residence. The palace stands out due to its remarkable Palatine Chapel featuring dazzling mosaics that showcase Byzantine artistry—a true highlight reflecting Sicily’s diverse heritage. As you explore this historic site today, take note of how each room tells stories from various epochs through artful decorations blending influences from multiple cultures!
FAQs: Trains from Catania to Palermo
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Catania 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 Catania to Palermo can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €17, while the average price is around €20.
The train from Catania to Palermo takes 2h 53m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Catania to Palermo leaves at 12:53 AM.
The distance by train from Catania to Palermo is 103 miles (166 km).
The last train from Catania to Palermo leaves at 6:34 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Catania to Palermo.
Yes, there is a direct train from Catania to Palermo. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Regionale, Sais Regional.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Catania to Palermo.
The train station in Catania that goes to Palermo is Catania Centrale, which connects to Palermo Centrale.
The cheapest way to get from Catania to Palermo is by bus, with a cost of around €9.
The train journey from Catania to Palermo offers scenic views of Sicily's diverse landscapes, including rolling hills, lush countryside, and glimpses of the Mediterranean coast.
A day trip from Catania to Palermo is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 53m. The distance is 103 miles (166 km), and there are 9 train trips available 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 Catania to Palermo.
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.
Popular day trips by train from Palermo include Cefalù, Punta Raisi, Bagheria, Santa Flavia, Capo d'Orlando.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Catania 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 Catania to Palermo
Most Catania to Palermo trains use the Catania Centrale to Palermo Centrale station pair. Use this guide to compare Catania and Palermo train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Catania
Arrival train stations in Palermo
Which Catania station do trains to Palermo leave from?
Trains from Catania to Palermo leave from Catania Centrale. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Catania city centre at Piazza Papa Giovanni XXIII, 95129 Catania CT, Italy.
Catania, Aeroporto di Catania-Fontanarossa (Capolinea Sais)95121 Catania, Metropolitan city of Catania, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Catania, Aeroporto di Catania-Fontanarossa (Capolinea Sais) from Catania city centre
Catania, Aeroporto di Catania-Fontanarossa (Capolinea Sais) is 3 km from Catania city centre. Check local transport options before travel.
Catania, Aeroporto di Catania-Fontanarossa (Capolinea Sais) train station facilities and services
Catania, Aeroporto di Catania-Fontanarossa (Capolinea Sais) has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Catania, Aeroporto di Catania-Fontanarossa (Capolinea Sais).
Most popular train connections from Catania
More options for your journey from Catania to Palermo
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Palermo and Catania
Most popular train connections to Palermo
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