- Must visit
Teatro Massimo
One of the largest opera houses in Europe, known for its grandeur and excellent acoustics.
Cheapest price
$145
Average price
$224
Fastest journey
14 h 31 m
Average duration
16 h 42 m
Trains per day
9
Distance
887 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Milan to Palermo is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Milan to Palermo will cost around $224 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $145.
Of the 9 trains that leave Milan for Palermo on Tue, May 19, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, May 19 the direct trains cover the 887 km distance in an average of 16 h 42 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 14 h 31 m .
On Tue, May 19 the slowest trains will take 18 h 8 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 1963
InterCityNotte 797+
Intercity 723
FRECCIAROSSA 9613+
Intercity 727
Intercity 659 · Intercity 511+
InterCityNotte 1955
Intercity 597 · Intercity 594+
InterCityNotte 1959
FRECCIAROSSA 9613+
Intercity 727
FRECCIAROSSA 9649 · FRECCIAROSSA 9431+
InterCityNotte 1955
FRECCIAROSSA 9647+
InterCityNotte 1955
FRECCIAROSSA 9663+
InterCityNotte 1959+
Regionale 5359
FRECCIAROSSA 9663+
InterCityNotte 1959Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Milan to Palermo among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the ferry with prices starting from $82. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 51m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.3 - 0.8kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a ferry costs an average of $82, and a flight costs an average of $21.
Distance: 551 miles (887 km)
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Ferry |
|---|---|---|---|
$152 Average price | $152 Average price | $111 Average price | $89 Average price Cheapest |
16h 38m Average total duration 16h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 51m Average total duration Fastest 1h 51m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 20h 50m Average total duration 20h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 21h 3m Average total duration 20h 3m Onboard + 1h 0m Additional time* |
0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.7 - 5.3kg CO2 emissions | 0.9 - 2.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular ferry company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Milan to Palermo:
A ferry is $22 (€18) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Milan to Palermo costing on average $111 (€90).
A ferry is $63 (€51) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Milan to Palermo costing on average $152 (€123).
A ferry is $63 (€51) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Milan to Palermo costing on average $152 (€123).
Other travel options to Palermo take longer:
Train takes on average 16h 8m.
Ferry takes on average 20h 3m.
Bus takes on average 20h 20m.
The table below shows live departures for Milan to Palermo trains for today, Monday, May 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Intercity 597 · Intercity 594+ InterCityNotte 1959 | 1:48 PM Milan Centrale | 23h55 | 1:43 PM Palermo Centrale | 2 transfers | |
FRECCIAROSSA 9647+ InterCityNotte 1955 | 4:30 PM Milan Centrale | 16h38 | 9:08 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
FRECCIAROSSA 9649 · FRECCIAROSSA 9431+ InterCityNotte 1955 | 4:58 PM Milan Centrale | 16h10 | 9:08 AM Palermo Centrale | 2 transfers | |
FRECCIAROSSA 9663+ InterCityNotte 1959 | 7:35 PM Milan Centrale | 18h08 | 1:43 PM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
FRECCIAROSSA 9663+ InterCityNotte 1959+ Regionale 5359 | 7:35 PM Milan Centrale | 18h01 | 1:36 PM Palermo Centrale | 2 transfers | |
InterCityNotte 1963 | 8:10 PM Milan Centrale | 20h45 | 4:55 PM Palermo Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, May 19 | |||||
FRECCIAROSSA 9613+ Intercity 727 | 8:30 AM Milan Centrale | 14h31 | 11:01 PM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
Intercity 659 · Intercity 511+ InterCityNotte 1955 | 9:10 AM Milan Centrale | 23h58 | 9:08 AM Palermo Centrale | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Milan to Palermo run on average 6 times per day, taking around 16h 8m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $94 (€76) but you can travel from only $21 (€17) by flight.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 22:45. The fastest train covers the 551 miles (887 km) distance in 14h 28m.
Distance 551 miles (887 km) |
Average train duration 16h 8m |
Cheapest ticket price $94 (€76) |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 14h 28m |
First train 12:03 AM |
Last train 10:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 35 days |
Discover the best of Palermo — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Palermo trip today.
One of the largest opera houses in Europe, known for its grandeur and excellent acoustics.
A historic royal palace with richly decorated rooms and the Palatine Chapel.
A beautiful architectural mix from different periods, with royal tombs and a treasury.
A Baroque square at the intersection of Palermo's two major streets, adorned with statues representing the four seasons.
A vibrant market where locals shop for fresh produce, offering an authentic Palermo experience.
Once a busy daytime market, Vucciria is now known for its vibrant nightlife and street food.
A deep-fried rice ball filled with ragù, peas, and cheese, characteristic of Sicilian cuisine.
Chickpea flour fritters, typically served in a sandwich or on their own as a snack. A popular street food in Palermo.
Pasta with sardines, wild fennel, pine nuts, and raisins. A traditional dish reflecting Palermo's Arab influence.
Prices are moderate compared to northern Italian cities. Accommodation is affordable, while dining can vary in cost.
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. Leave small change or round up the bill in restaurants and bars. It is not customary to tip taxi drivers, but rounding up the fare is common.
Official public transport app
Palermo Centrale -> Piazza Pretoria
Traveling between Milan and Palermo offers a scenic journey through Italy, connecting the vibrant northern metropolis with the charming southern island. The train connection is serviced by several providers including Intercity Notte, Intercity, and Italo. With comfortable seating options and various travel times available throughout the day and night, passengers can enjoy an efficient way to experience Italy's diverse landscapes while relaxing on board.
The train journey from Milan to Palermo takes approximately 13 hours and 30 minutes, with a single connection required during the trip. There are no direct trains available for this route, and travelers can expect around 2 connections per day. The departure station is Milano Centrale, while the arrival station is Palermo Centrale.
The first daily train from Milan departs at 04:32 AM, providing an early start for travelers eager to explore the beautiful island of Sicily. The last journey of the day leaves Palermo at 09:13 PM, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy their stay before heading back.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Milan and Palermo is €77. The average ticket price tends to be around €141, making it a good option to book in advance or look out for special deals.
Welcome to the magnificent Palermo Cathedral, a stunning example of architectural evolution that reflects over 800 years of history. This UNESCO World Heritage site is significant not only for its intricate blend of styles—from Norman to Gothic and Baroque—but also as a symbol of Sicily's diverse cultural heritage. One unique feature you won't want to miss is the royal tombs housed within, including those of Emperor Frederick II and other notable figures.
Next on our journey is Teatro Massimo, Italy’s largest opera house and an iconic masterpiece completed in 1897. Its significance lies in both its grand scale—capable of seating nearly 1,400 spectators—and its role as a cultural hub where world-class performances have taken place since it opened. Be sure to admire the breathtaking neoclassical façade and step inside to experience the remarkable acoustics that make this venue truly special.
Finally, we arrive at Palazzo dei Normanni, or the Royal Palace of Palermo—a historic seat for Sicilian kings dating back to Arab rule in the ninth century. The palace holds immense significance as one of Europe’s oldest palaces still in use today; it now houses Sicily's regional assembly while showcasing centuries' worth of art and architecture from various cultures. Don't forget to explore the dazzling Palatine Chapel with its exquisite mosaics that exemplify Byzantine artistry!
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Milan 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.

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