- Must visit
Museo Civico Castello Ursino
Civic museum inside Castello Ursino with medieval art, paintings, archaeology, and collections that trace Catania’s history from antiquity onward.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Palermo to Catania
Showing times and prices for Jul 16
Cheapest price
$26
Average price
$26
Fastest journey
5 h 29 m
Average duration
6 h 4 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
166 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Palermo to Catania is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Palermo to Catania will cost around $26 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $26.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Palermo to Catania without transferring at least once.
Regionale Veloce 5364 · Regionale 129956:33 PM5h29Palermo Centrale12:02 AMCatania Centrale$261One-way1 transfer- Regionale 12878 · Regionale 12892 · Regionale 129779:31 AM6h38Palermo Centrale4:09 PMCatania Centrale$261One-way2 transfers
- Regionale Veloce 5364 · Regionale 129956:33 PM5h29Palermo Centrale12:02 AMCatania Centrale$261One-way1 transfer
- Regionale 12878 · Regionale 12892 · Regionale 129779:31 AM6h38Palermo Centrale4:09 PMCatania Centrale$261One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and ferry for Palermo to Catania
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Palermo to Catania 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 2h 52m. 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 $10, and a ferry costs an average of $67.
Distance: 103 miles (166 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Ferry | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$22 Average price | $16 Average price Cheapest | $68 Average price | $43 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 45m Average total duration 3h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 22m Average total duration Fastest 2h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 0m Average total duration 5h 0m Onboard + 1h 0m Additional time* | 2h 36m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular ferry 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 Palermo to Catania is a bus with an average price of $16 (€13).
This is compared to other travel options from Palermo to Catania:
A bus is $6 (€5) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Palermo to Catania costing on average $22 (€18).
A bus is $52 (€42) less than a ferry for this route with tickets for a ferry from Palermo to Catania costing on average $68 (€56).
The fastest way to travel from Palermo to Catania is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 52m.
Other travel options to Catania take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 15m.
Ferry takes on average 5h 0m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Palermo and Catania including taking a train, bus, and ferry.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Palermo to Catania 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 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
Palermo to Catania train times
The table below shows live departures for Palermo to Catania trains for today, Wednesday, July 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regionale Veloce 5364 · Regionale 12995 | 6:33 PM Palermo Centrale | 5h29 | 12:02 AM Catania Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| Thursday, July 16 | |||||
| Regionale 12878 · Regionale 12892 · Regionale 12977 | 9:31 AM Palermo Centrale | 6h38 | 4:09 PM Catania Centrale | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Palermo to Catania by train, bus, or ferry
Compare train, bus, 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 Palermo to Catania?
The best time to book your train from Palermo to Catania is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Palermo to Catania route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Palermo to Catania 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 Palermo to Catania.
Trains
from $22Buses
from $17Ferries
from $67Journey information
Overview: Train from Palermo to Catania
ItalyItaly
Trains from Palermo to Catania run on average 9 times per day, taking around 3h 15m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $21 (€17) but you can travel from only $10 (€9) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:21, the last at 22:58. The fastest train covers the 103 miles (166 km) distance in 2h 57m.
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 (€9)
Distance 103 miles (166 km) |
Average train duration 3h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price $21 (€17) |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 2h 57m |
First train 4:21 AM |
Last train 10:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sat |
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 (€9)
Train companies: Regionale, Intercity, Sais Regional from Palermo to Catania trainsRegionale, Intercity, Sais Regional trains will get you between Palermo and Catania from $10 (€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 57m
Cheapest Price
$21 (€17)
Regionale frequency
8 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 28m
Cheapest Price
$38 (€31)
Intercity frequency
2 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
Sais Regional
About
Sais Regional is a bus company operating primarily in Italy, particularly in Sicily. It is part of the larger SAIS Autolinee group, a historical company that has been a leader in local public transport in Sicily since 1926 and also provides interregional connections. Sais Regional offers routes connecting major Sicilian cities like Catania, Palermo, and Messina, as well as services to Catania Fontanarossa Airport. The company emphasizes safety, quality, and eco-compatibility with a continuously renewed fleet of modern buses. They aim to provide comfortable and reliable travel experiences, with some services offering amenities like free Wi-Fi and flexible booking options.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 25m
Cheapest Price
$17 (€14)
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 20kg.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. No refunds for cancellations within 24 hours.
Amenities on board the train
Seat reservation
Toilets
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Designated seating areas.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
Complete guide to Catania
Things to do in Catania
Discover the best of Catania — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Catania trip today.
- Recommended
Museo Casa Natale di Vincenzo Bellini
Museum in Bellini’s birthplace with manuscripts, portraits, period furnishings, and exhibits dedicated to the celebrated Catanian composer’s life.
- Recommended
Museo dei Saperi e delle Mirabilia Siciliane
University museum combining displays on Etna, volcanology, zoology, and science, ideal for understanding the natural setting around Catania.
- Must visit
Piazza del Duomo
Catania’s main square and Baroque showpiece, framed by the cathedral, Elephant Fountain, and historic palaces, making it the city’s essential starting point.
- Must visit
Via dei Crociferi
Elegant Baroque street lined with churches and palaces, often considered one of Sicily’s most beautiful urban ensembles for a short historic walk.
- Must visit
La Pescheria
Lively historic fish market area behind Piazza Duomo, famous for its sensory atmosphere, street life, and authentic glimpse of everyday Catania.
Arancino
Crisp fried rice ball filled with ragù, peas and cheese. A Sicilian street food staple, especially iconic in Catania bakeries and bars.
- Vegetarian
Pasta Alla Norma
Pasta alla Norma combines pasta with fried eggplant, tomato sauce, salted ricotta and basil. It is Catania’s signature dish, named after Bellini’s opera.
- Gluten-free
Carne Di Cavallo
Fresh horse meat, often grilled as polpette or steaks. It is a long-standing Catania specialty, especially around the city’s traditional meat stalls.
Pasticceria Savia
Historic pastry and café stop famous for granita, cannoli and Sicilian breakfast. A classic casual venue with strong local identity.
Me Cumpari Turiddu
Refined Sicilian dining in central Catania, serving seasonal local ingredients and polished regional recipes in an elegant setting.
Osteria Antica Marina
Historic seafood restaurant by the fish market, known for ultra-fresh catch and classic Catania dishes in a lively traditional setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Italy: stays and dining are usually cheaper than Rome or Milan, while tourist areas and summer rates raise hotel and restaurant prices. Local buses stay low-cost.
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 espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or modest. Round up or leave 5-10% at restaurants for good service, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes if served at table.
Traveling by train from Palermo to Catania
Traveling between Palermo and Catania is a scenic journey that showcases the beauty of Sicily. The train connection offers several options, including Regionale, Frecciabianca, and Intercity services. These providers ensure comfortable travel with varying speeds and amenities to suit your preferences. Whether you're looking for a quick trip or a leisurely ride through picturesque landscapes, you'll find an ideal choice among these trains as you explore two of Sicily's vibrant cities.
Train Connection: Palermo to Catania
Traveling from Palermo to Catania takes approximately 3 hours and 31 minutes. There are 6 connections per day, but none of them are direct; you will need to make transfers during your journey.
Palermo to Catania Train Connection
The first daily train from Palermo departs at 05:31 AM, providing an early start for travelers looking to explore the beautiful city of Catania. The last journey of the day leaves at 06:45 PM, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy their day before returning.
Train Tickets Price for Palermo and Catania
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Palermo and Catania is €17. The average ticket price typically hovers around €18, making it a budget-friendly option for travelers looking to explore these beautiful Sicilian cities.
Exploring the Wonders of Catania: Mount Etna and Its Cultural Treasures
Mount Etna, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, has been a significant geological feature for centuries and is steeped in mythological history. Its eruptions have shaped not only the landscape but also the culture and economy of Sicily, making it a vital part of local identity. What sets Mount Etna apart are its diverse ecosystems and breathtaking views that attract adventurers from around the globe.
The Catania Cathedral, or Duomo di Catania, stands as an architectural marvel with roots dating back to 1078; it was built on top of ancient Roman ruins after being destroyed by lava flows from Mount Etna. This stunning Baroque structure is not just a place of worship but also houses important relics like those of Saint Agatha, patron saint of Catania. Visitors will be captivated by its intricate façade adorned with sculptures and ornate details that reflect both resilience and artistic brilliance.
Ursino Castle offers a glimpse into medieval life in Sicily; constructed in the 13th century under Frederick II's reign, this fortress once stood near the coast before volcanic activity altered its surroundings dramatically over time. Today, it serves as a museum showcasing artifacts that narrate stories from different eras while providing insight into Sicilian heritage. The castle’s unique circular design combined with sturdy walls makes it an impressive sight against Catania's skyline—an unmissable stop for any history enthusiast!
FAQs: Trains from Palermo to Catania
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Palermo to Catania 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 Catania, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Palermo to Catania can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $21 (€17), while the average price is around $22 (€18).
The train from Palermo to Catania takes 2h 57m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from Palermo to Catania leaves at 4:21 AM.
The distance by train from Palermo to Catania is 103 miles (166 km).
The last train from Palermo to Catania leaves at 10:58 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Palermo to Catania.
Yes, there is a direct train from Palermo to Catania. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Regionale, Sais Regional.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Palermo to Catania.
The train station in Palermo that goes to Catania is Palermo Centrale, which connects to Catania Centrale.
The cheapest way to get from Palermo to Catania is by bus, with a cost of around $10 (€9).
The train journey from Palermo to Catania offers scenic views of Sicily's diverse landscapes, including rolling hills, charming villages, and glimpses of the Mediterranean coastline.
A day trip from Palermo to Catania is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 57m, which is more than 120. However, there are 10 trips per day available by train for this 103 miles (166 km) distance.
In Catania, visitors can explore Mount Etna, Europe's most active volcano, with guided tours and hiking trails. Experience the vibrant atmosphere at La Pescheria, the daily fish market offering fresh seafood and local delicacies. Relax at Giardino Bellini, Catania's oldest urban park with beautiful gardens. Visit Aci Castello, a picturesque coastal town featuring a medieval castle overlooking the sea. Enjoy Catania's Street Food Tour, savoring traditional Sicilian dishes. Key sights include Piazza del Duomo with the Elephant Fountain and Cathedral of Sant'Agata, Teatro Massimo Bellini, Castello Ursino, Via Etnea for shopping, and the Monastero dei Benedettini, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Three to four days in Catania allows you to explore the city’s historical sites, enjoy its vibrant markets, and take day trips to nearby attractions like Mount Etna and the stunning coastline.
Yes, you can take the train from Palermo to Catania.
Since both Palermo and Catania 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 Catania include Taormina, Syracuse, Messina, Milazzo, Letojanni.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Palermo to Catania 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 Catania, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It's advisable to use official taxis, avoid unlicensed guides, and keep valuables secure to minimize risks.
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 Palermo
More options for your journey from Palermo to Catania
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Catania and Palermo
Most popular train connections to Catania
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