- 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.
Cheapest price
$145
Average price
$202
Fastest journey
16 h 2 m
Average duration
18 h 50 m
Trains per day
8
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 $202 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $145.
Of the 8 trains that leave Milan for Palermo on Tue, Aug 18, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Aug 18 the direct trains cover the 887 km distance in an average of 18 h 50 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 16 h 2 m .
On Tue, Aug 18 the slowest trains will take 20 h 55 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 9567+
InterCityNotte 1963
FRECCIAROSSA 9515+
Intercity 727
Intercity 597 · Intercity 594+
InterCityNotte 1959
FRECCIAROSSA 9515+
Intercity 727
FRECCIAROSSA 9551+
InterCityNotte 1955
FRECCIAROSSA 9559+
InterCityNotte 1959
InterCityNotte 797+
Intercity 723
FRECCIAROSSA 9567+
InterCityNotte 1963Omio 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 $81. 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 $81, and a flight costs an average of $21.
Distance: 551 miles (887 km)
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Ferry |
|---|---|---|---|
$150 Average price | $150 Average price | $109 Average price | $88 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 $109 (€90).
A ferry is $62 (€51) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Milan to Palermo costing on average $150 (€123).
A ferry is $62 (€51) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Milan to Palermo costing on average $150 (€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, August 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FRECCIAROSSA 9515+ Intercity 727 | 6:40 AM Milan Centrale | 16h22 | 11:02 PM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
Intercity 597 · Intercity 594+ InterCityNotte 1959 | 1:48 PM Milan Centrale | 23h03 | 12:51 PM Palermo Centrale | 2 transfers | |
FRECCIAROSSA 9551+ InterCityNotte 1955 | 3:35 PM Milan Centrale | 17h38 | 9:13 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
FRECCIAROSSA 9559+ InterCityNotte 1959 | 5:40 PM Milan Centrale | 19h11 | 12:51 PM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
InterCityNotte 1963 | 8:10 PM Milan Centrale | 20h45 | 4:55 PM Palermo Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
InterCityNotte 797+ Intercity 723 | 8:53 PM Milan Porta Garibaldi | 22h17 | 7:10 PM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
InterCityNotte 765 · InterCityNotte 770+ Intercity 723 | 9:15 PM Milan Centrale | 21h55 | 7:10 PM 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 $93 (€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 $93 (€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.
Palermo’s top museum displays Sicilian archaeology, including the famous Punic Stone and Selinunte finds, in a former convent complex.
Historic rooms and vivid majolica floors showcase aristocratic Palermo. Visit for decorative arts, period interiors and city history.
Housed in the grand Steri Palace, this museum presents the Sicilian Inquisition’s story through cells, graffiti and historical documents.
Palermo’s elegant main boulevard links major monuments, shops and theaters. Ideal for first walks and observing the city’s layered architecture.
This historic street cuts across the old center and hosts markets, churches and daily life. A lively route for exploring local Palermo.
A bustling old quarter famous for layered street life, churches and market culture. Best explored on foot for atmosphere and urban history.
Crisp fried rice ball stuffed with ragù, peas and caciocavallo. A Sicilian street food icon widely loved in Palermo.
Soft sesame-topped bun filled with spleen and lung, often with caciocavallo or ricotta. A classic Palermo street food with deep local roots.
Pasta with sardines, wild fennel, pine nuts and raisins. Its sweet-savory flavor reflects Palermo's Arab-Norman culinary heritage.
Refined Michelin-starred restaurant known for creative Sicilian tasting menus in an elegant, intimate setting.
Historic seafood restaurant near the port, praised for fresh catch, raw dishes and classic Palermo fish recipes.
Legendary no-frills street-food stop celebrated for pane con la milza and authentic local sandwiches loved by residents.
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.
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.
Official public transport app
Palermo Centrale -> Quattro Canti, Palermo
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.

Most Milan to Palermo trains use the Milano Centrale to Palermo Centrale station pair. Use this guide to compare Milan and Palermo train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Milano Centrale is 2 km from Milan city centre. Public transport options include:
Milano 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 options include: Venchi, Panzera Coffee, Burger King, Bar Motta, Caffè Napoli, VyTA Boulangerie, Spontini, Starbucks, Dispensa Emilia, McDonald's, & many more
Free WiFi in the station. ATMs are there are ATMs in various locations around the station.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 05:50 - 22:20. Information desks are located next to the ticket office on the ground floor in the shopping gallery.
Luggage storage is provided by KiPoint and located on the ground floor, on the side of Piazza Luigi di Savoia. It is open every day from 06:00 to 23:00.
Available at Milano Centrale: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Milano Centrale: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Milano Centrale: Station is wheelchair accessible, has elevators and the Sala Blu, Trenitalia's office of assistance for disabled travelers, is next to Platform 4.
Nearby hotels include Glam Hotel Milano, NYX MIlan, iQ Hotel Milano.
Milano Porta Garibaldi is 2 km from Milan city centre. Public transport options include:
Milano Porta Garibaldi has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food options include: Caffeteria Panni Caldi, Princi, Burgez, Bricco Café, U! Come tu mi vuoi, Autogrill, Culto
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located in the main hall.
Available at Milano Porta Garibaldi: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Milano Porta Garibaldi: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Milano Porta Garibaldi: Accessible facilities such as ticket machines, toilets, and ramps and additional assistance as needed from 07:45 to 22:30.
Nearby hotels include Hotel NH Milano Palazzo Moscova, AC Hotel by Marriott Milano, Tocq Hotel.
Milano Rogoredo is 5 km from Milan city centre. Public transport options include:
Milano Rogoredo has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Ristorante Pizzeria Il Moro, Osteria La Piola
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Milano Rogoredo. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Milano Rogoredo. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Milano Rogoredo: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Milano Rogoredo: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Milano Rogoredo: Elevators, ramps.
Nearby hotels include Starhotels Business Palace, Hotel Mistral, Hotel Brenta Milano.
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