- 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 Messina to Palermo
Showing times and prices for Aug 03
Cheapest price
€16
Average price
€18
Fastest journey
2 h 52 m
Average duration
2 h 57 m
Trains per day
31
Distance
192 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Messina to Palermo is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Messina to Palermo will cost around €18 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €16.
Fast trains
Of the 31 trains that leave Messina for Palermo on Mon, Aug 03, 18 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Aug 03 the direct trains cover the 192 km distance in an average of 2 h 57 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 52 m .
On Mon, Aug 03 the slowest trains will take 3 h 4 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.
Regionale 12853 · Regionale 128635:01 AM4h08Messina Centrale9:09 AMPalermo Centrale€161One-way1 transfer- Regionale 536112:27 PM3h13Messina Centrale3:40 PMPalermo Centrale€161One-way0 transfers
- Regionale 53557:56 AM3h11Messina Centrale11:07 AMPalermo Centrale€161One-way0 transfers
- Regionale 53514:51 AM3h04Messina Centrale7:55 AMPalermo Centrale€161One-way0 transfers
- Regionale 535910:43 AM2h52Messina Centrale1:35 PMPalermo Centrale€161One-way0 transfers
- Regionale 535910:43 AM2h52Messina Centrale1:35 PMPalermo Centrale€161One-way0 transfers
- Regionale 535910:43 AM2h52Messina Centrale1:35 PMPalermo Centrale€161One-way0 transfers
- Regionale 53632:37 PM2h58Messina Centrale5:35 PMPalermo Centrale€161One-way0 transfers
- Regionale 53632:37 PM2h58Messina Centrale5:35 PMPalermo Centrale€161One-way0 transfers
- Regionale 53514:51 AM3h04Messina Centrale7:55 AMPalermo Centrale€161One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Messina to Palermo
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Messina to Palermo among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €10. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 3h 14m. 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 €10, and a train costs an average of €16.
Distance: 119 miles (192 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€17 Average price | €15 Average price Cheapest | €48 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 50m Average total duration 3h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 44m Average total duration Fastest 3h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 34m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Messina to Palermo is a bus with an average price of €15.
This is compared to other travel options from Messina to Palermo:
A bus is €2 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Messina to Palermo costing on average €17.
The fastest way to travel from Messina to Palermo is by bus with an average journey time of 3h 14m.
Other travel options to Palermo take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 20m.
Ferry takes on average 5h 25m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Messina and Palermo including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Messina to Palermo among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 14m faster (3h 20m by train vs 3h 34m by car) and roughly €31 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (€17 vs €48). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with Regionale, Intercity.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Messina to Palermo train times
The table below shows live departures for Messina to Palermo trains for tomorrow, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regionale 5351 | 4:51 AM Messina Centrale | 3h04 | 7:55 AM Palermo Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Regionale 5351 | 4:51 AM Messina Centrale | 3h04 | 7:55 AM Palermo Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Regionale 12853 · Regionale 12863 | 5:01 AM Messina Centrale | 4h08 | 9:09 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale 12853 · Regionale 12863 | 5:01 AM Messina Centrale | 4h08 | 9:09 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale 5353 | 6:36 AM Messina Centrale | 3h07 | 9:43 AM Palermo Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Regionale 5353 | 6:36 AM Messina Centrale | 3h07 | 9:43 AM Palermo Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Regionale 21680 · Regionale 5355 | 7:11 AM Fiumara Gazzi | 3h56 | 11:07 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale 5355 | 7:56 AM Messina Centrale | 3h11 | 11:07 AM Palermo Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Regionale 5355 | 7:56 AM Messina Centrale | 3h11 | 11:07 AM Palermo Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Regionale 21684 · Regionale 5359 | 9:18 AM Fiumara Gazzi | 4h17 | 1:35 PM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale 5359 | 10:43 AM Messina Centrale | 2h52 | 1:35 PM Palermo Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Regionale 5359 | 10:43 AM Messina Centrale | 2h52 | 1:35 PM Palermo Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Regionale 5361 | 12:27 PM Messina Centrale | 3h13 | 3:40 PM Palermo Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Regionale 5361 | 12:27 PM Messina Centrale | 3h13 | 3:40 PM Palermo Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Regionale 12885 · Regionale 21887 | 12:32 PM Messina Centrale | 3h43 | 4:15 PM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale 12885 · Regionale 21887 | 12:32 PM Messina Centrale | 3h43 | 4:15 PM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale 21686 · Regionale 5363 | 1:46 PM Fiumara Gazzi | 3h49 | 5:35 PM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale 5363 | 2:37 PM Messina Centrale | 2h58 | 5:35 PM Palermo Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Regionale 5363 | 2:37 PM Messina Centrale | 2h58 | 5:35 PM Palermo Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 21688+ Intercity 723 | 2:56 PM Fiumara Gazzi | 4h14 | 7:10 PM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| Intercity 723 | 4:00 PM Messina Centrale | 3h10 | 7:10 PM Palermo Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Intercity 723 | 4:00 PM Messina Centrale | 3h10 | 7:10 PM Palermo Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Regionale 21690 · Regionale 5369 | 4:44 PM Fiumara Gazzi | 3h41 | 8:25 PM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale 5369 | 5:14 PM Messina Centrale | 3h11 | 8:25 PM Palermo Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Regionale 5369 | 5:14 PM Messina Centrale | 3h11 | 8:25 PM Palermo Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Regionale 21692+Intercity 729 | 5:48 PM Fiumara Gazzi | 5h13 | 11:01 PM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale 21692 · Regionale 12903 · Regionale 12911 | 5:48 PM Fiumara Gazzi | 4h17 | 10:05 PM Palermo Centrale | 2 transfers | |
| Regionale 12903 · Regionale 12911 | 6:05 PM Messina Centrale | 4h00 | 10:05 PM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale 12903 · Regionale 12911 | 6:05 PM Messina Centrale | 4h00 | 10:05 PM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| Intercity 729 | 7:50 PM Messina Centrale | 3h11 | 11:01 PM Palermo Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Intercity 729 | 7:50 PM Messina Centrale | 3h11 | 11:01 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 Messina to Palermo by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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 Messina to Palermo?
The best time to book your train from Messina to Palermo is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Messina to Palermo route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Messina 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 Messina to Palermo.
Trains
from €15Buses
from €14Journey information
Overview: Train from Messina to Palermo
ItalyItaly
Trains from Messina to Palermo run on average 18 times per day, taking around 3h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €16 but you can travel from only €10 by bus.
There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:53, the last at 22:17. The fastest train covers the 119 miles (192 km) distance in 2h 50m.
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 €10
Distance 119 miles (192 km) |
Average train duration 3h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price €16 |
Trains per day 18 |
Direct trains 10 |
Fastest train 2h 50m |
First train 12:53 AM |
Last train 10:17 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 84 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 €10
Train companies: Regionale, Intercity from Messina to Palermo trainsRegionale, Intercity trains will get you between Messina and Palermo from €10. 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 50m
Cheapest Price
€16
Regionale frequency
10 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
3h 5m
Cheapest Price
€17
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.
FAQs: Trains from Messina to Palermo
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Messina 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 Messina to Palermo can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €16, while the average price is around €17.
The train from Messina to Palermo takes 2h 50m and runs 18 per day.
The distance by train from Messina to Palermo is 119 miles (192 km).
The first train from Messina to Palermo leaves at 12:53 AM.
The last train from Messina to Palermo leaves at 10:17 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Messina to Palermo.
Yes, there is a direct train from Messina to Palermo. This service operates 10 times per day, provided by Regionale, Intercity.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Messina to Palermo.
The train station in Messina that goes to Palermo is Messina Centrale, which connects to Palermo Centrale.
The cheapest way to get from Messina to Palermo is by bus, with a cost of around €10.
Yes, the train journey from Messina to Palermo offers scenic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, rolling hills, and picturesque coastal landscapes, making it a visually appealing trip.
A day trip from Messina to Palermo is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 50m. However, there are 15 train trips available per day. The distance between the two cities is 119 miles (192 km).
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 Messina to Palermo.
Since both Messina 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Messina 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.
Most popular train connections from Messina
More options for your journey from Messina to Palermo
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Palermo and Messina
Most popular train connections to Palermo
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