- Recommended
Palazzo Corvaja
Historic medieval palace that houses civic exhibition spaces and is one of Taormina’s most important secular buildings.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Palermo to Taormina
Showing times and prices for May 19
Cheapest price
$23
Average price
$25
Fastest journey
3 h 47 m
Average duration
3 h 59 m
Trains per day
17
Distance
172 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Palermo to Taormina is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Palermo to Taormina will cost around $25 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $23.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Palermo to Taormina without transferring at least once.
Regionale 5358 · Regionale 129892:27 PM5h00Palermo Centrale7:27 PMTaormina-Giardini$231One-way1 transfer- Regionale 12878 · Regionale 12892 · Regionale 129779:36 AM5h28Palermo Centrale3:04 PMTaormina-Giardini$231One-way2 transfers
- Regionale 5352 · Regionale 129676:18 AM5h01Palermo Centrale11:19 AMTaormina-Giardini$231One-way1 transfer
- Regionale Veloce 5354 · Regionale 129698:27 AM4h42Palermo Centrale1:09 PMTaormina-Giardini$231One-way1 transfer
- Regionale Veloce 5364 · Regionale 129956:33 PM4h39Palermo Centrale11:12 PMTaormina-Giardini$231One-way1 transfer
- Regionale Veloce 5512 · Regionale 53723:31 PM3h47Palermo Centrale7:18 PMTaormina-Giardini$241One-way1 transfer
Intercity 730+Regionale 539510:15 AM3h49Palermo Centrale2:04 PMTaormina-Giardini$381One-way1 transfer- Regionale Veloce 5360 · Regionale 129914:32 PM3h57Palermo Centrale8:29 PMTaormina-Giardini$231One-way1 transfer
- Regionale Veloce 5520 · Regionale 129485:31 PM4h09Palermo Centrale9:40 PMTaormina-Giardini$241One-way1 transfer
- Intercity 736+Regionale 129677:05 AM4h14Palermo Centrale11:19 AMTaormina-Giardini$381One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and ferry for Palermo to Taormina
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Palermo to Taormina among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $13. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 59m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the ferry 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 $13, and a ferry costs an average of $68.
Distance: 106 miles (172 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Ferry | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$23 Average price | $21 Average price Cheapest | $71 Average price | $49 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 29m Average total duration Fastest 3h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 31m Average total duration 4h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 3m Average total duration 5h 3m Onboard + 1h 0m Additional time* | 3h 13m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - 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 Taormina is a bus with an average price of $21 (€17).
This is compared to other travel options from Palermo to Taormina:
A bus is $2 (€2) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Palermo to Taormina costing on average $23 (€19).
A bus is $50 (€40) less than a ferry for this route with tickets for a ferry from Palermo to Taormina costing on average $71 (€57).
The fastest way to travel from Palermo to Taormina is by train with an average journey time of 3h 59m.
Other travel options to Taormina take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 1m.
Ferry takes on average 5h 3m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Palermo and Taormina including taking a bus, train, and ferry.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Palermo to Taormina 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 $23 (€19) compared to roughly $49 (€40) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $26 (€21). The journey takes 3h 59m versus 3h 13m 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.
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 Taormina train times
The table below shows live departures for Palermo to Taormina trains for today, Monday, May 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regionale Veloce 5360 · Regionale 12991 | 4:32 PM Palermo Centrale | 3h57 | 8:29 PM Taormina-Giardini | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale Veloce 5520 · Regionale 12948 | 5:31 PM Palermo Centrale | 4h09 | 9:40 PM Taormina-Giardini | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale Veloce 5364 · Regionale 12995 | 6:33 PM Palermo Centrale | 4h39 | 11:12 PM Taormina-Giardini | 1 transfer | |
| Tuesday, May 19 | |||||
| Regionale Veloce 5350 · Regionale 5385 | 5:06 AM Palermo Centrale | 4h54 | 10:00 AM Taormina-Giardini | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale 5352 · Regionale 12967 | 6:18 AM Palermo Centrale | 5h01 | 11:19 AM Taormina-Giardini | 1 transfer | |
| Intercity 736+Regionale 12967 | 7:05 AM Palermo Centrale | 4h14 | 11:19 AM Taormina-Giardini | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale Veloce 5506 · Regionale 12970 | 7:31 AM Palermo Centrale | 4h14 | 11:45 AM Taormina-Giardini | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale Veloce 5354 · Regionale 12969 | 8:27 AM Palermo Centrale | 4h42 | 1:09 PM Taormina-Giardini | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale Veloce 5354 · Regionale 5395 | 8:27 AM Palermo Centrale | 5h37 | 2:04 PM Taormina-Giardini | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale Veloce 5508 · Regionale 12978 | 9:31 AM Palermo Centrale | 4h19 | 1:50 PM Taormina-Giardini | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale 12878 · Regionale 12892 · Regionale 12977 | 9:36 AM Palermo Centrale | 5h28 | 3:04 PM Taormina-Giardini | 2 transfers | |
| Intercity 730+Regionale 5395 | 10:15 AM Palermo Centrale | 3h49 | 2:04 PM Taormina-Giardini | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale 12888 · Regionale 12900 · Regionale 12983 | 11:52 AM Palermo Centrale | 5h29 | 5:21 PM Taormina-Giardini | 2 transfers | |
| Regionale Veloce 5510 · Regionale 5378 | 1:31 PM Palermo Centrale | 4h26 | 5:57 PM Taormina-Giardini | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale 5358 · Regionale 12989 | 2:27 PM Palermo Centrale | 5h00 | 7:27 PM Taormina-Giardini | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale 5358 · Regionale 12987 | 2:27 PM Palermo Centrale | 4h22 | 6:49 PM Taormina-Giardini | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale Veloce 5512 · Regionale 5372 | 3:31 PM Palermo Centrale | 3h47 | 7:18 PM Taormina-Giardini | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Palermo to Taormina by bus, train, or ferry
Compare bus, train, 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 Taormina?
The best time to book your train from Palermo to Taormina is 77 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Palermo to Taormina route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Palermo to Taormina 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 Taormina.
Trains
from $23Buses
from $23Ferries
from $68Journey information
Overview: Train from Palermo to Taormina
ItalyItaly
Trains from Palermo to Taormina run on average 11 times per day, taking around 3h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $23 (€18) but you can travel from only $13 (€11) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:21, the last at 19:26. The fastest train covers the 106 miles (172 km) distance in 3h 52m.
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 $13 (€11)
Distance 106 miles (172 km) |
Average train duration 3h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price $23 (€18) |
Trains per day 11 |
Fastest train 3h 52m |
First train 4:21 AM |
Last train 7:26 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 42 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 $13 (€11)
Train companies: Regionale, Intercity, Intercity Notte from Palermo to Taormina trainsRegionale, Intercity, Intercity Notte trains will get you between Palermo and Taormina from $13 (€11). 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
3h 52m
Cheapest Price
$23 (€18)
Regionale frequency
5 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
6h 9m
Cheapest Price
$66 (€53)
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
Intercity Notte
About
Intercity Notte is an Italian train service operated by Trenitalia. It runs overnight services between major cities in Italy, making it a great option for travelers looking to save time and money. The Intercity Notte offers two types of trains: the Frecciarossa Notte and the Frecciargento Notte. The Frecciarossa Notte is the fastest train, with speeds of up to 300 km/h, while the Frecciargento Notte is slightly slower but still offers a comfortable journey. Both trains offer a range of onboard facilities, including comfortable seating, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. Trenitalia offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, Comfort, and Business. Standard tickets are the most affordable, while Comfort and Business tickets offer additional benefits such as priority boarding and access to the lounge. The most popular routes for Intercity Notte are Rome to Milan, Rome to Venice, and Milan to Venice. These routes offer travelers the chance to explore some of Italy's most iconic cities in a convenient and comfortable way.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
1 handbag and 1 suitcase included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Luggage racks above seats and at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full dining service and bar
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available for disabled passengers
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Taormina
Things to do in Taormina
Discover the best of Taormina — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Taormina trip today.
- Recommended
Palazzo Duchi di Santo Stefano
A rare example of Sicilian Gothic architecture used for exhibitions and cultural events in a refined historic palace.
- Recommended
Antiquarium of the Ancient Theatre
Small official museum section linked to the Greek Theatre complex, displaying finds connected with the site’s long history.
- Must visit
Corso Umberto I
Taormina’s main pedestrian street, lined with historic buildings, boutiques, and viewpoints; the core promenade for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Piazza IX Aprile
The town’s most famous square, known for its postcard terrace views, checkerboard paving, and lively old-town atmosphere.
- Must visit
Isola Bella
Iconic tiny island and nature reserve below Taormina, widely photographed for its turquoise water and narrow strip of beach access.
- Vegetarian
Pasta Alla Norma
Classic Sicilian pasta with tomato sauce, fried eggplant, ricotta salata, and basil. It is strongly associated with eastern Sicily and is a must-try in Taormina.
Arancini
Stuffed and fried rice balls, often filled with ragù, mozzarella, or butter and ham. They are one of Sicily’s most iconic street foods.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Caponata
Sweet-and-sour eggplant dish with tomato, celery, olives, and capers. This traditional Sicilian antipasto is rich in local Mediterranean flavors.
Principe Cerami
Fine-dining restaurant at San Domenico Palace, offering elegant Sicilian cuisine with premium local ingredients and a luxurious setting.
Bam Bar
Famous casual stop for granita, brioche, and Sicilian breakfast specialties. It is one of Taormina’s best-known culinary institutions.
Ristorante La Griglia
Established Taormina restaurant known for grilled seafood, meat, and traditional Sicilian dishes in a polished but welcoming setting.
Euro
Taormina is pricier than many Sicilian towns, especially for hotels and dining in peak season. Cafes and casual meals are more manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-18 for pizza, panini, or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 25-45 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.50-3 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included via coperto or service charge. Extra tipping is modest: round up or leave 5-10% for very good restaurant service; small change for taxis and cafes.
Interbus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.10 EUR
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Taormina-Giardini Station, Taormina -> Porta Messina Bus Terminal, Taormina
- Distance
- 5 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Buy Interbus tickets before boarding at kiosks or authorized retailers, as onboard availability can be limited.
- Card payment acceptance varies on local buses, so carry some cash in EUR for tickets and small purchases.
Traveling by train from Palermo to Taormina
The train connection between Palermo and Taormina offers a convenient way to explore the stunning landscapes of Sicily. Travelers can choose from several providers, including Regionale, Intercity, and Frecciabianca. Each service provides comfortable seating and scenic views along the route, making your journey as enjoyable as your destination. Whether you're looking for a quick trip or a leisurely ride through picturesque towns, these trains cater to various travel preferences while connecting two of Sicily's most beautiful cities.
Train Connection: Palermo to Taormina
Traveling from Palermo to Taormina takes approximately 3 hours and 49 minutes. There are no direct connections available, with a total of 7 train services operating daily between the two cities. Passengers will need to make transfers during their journey.
Palermo to Taormina Train Connection
The first daily train from Palermo departs at 05:22, providing an early start for travelers eager to explore the beautiful coastal town of Taormina. The last journey of the day leaves at 17:33, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy their day before returning in the evening.
Train Tickets Price for Palermo to Taormina
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Palermo and Taormina is €18. The average ticket price typically hovers around €19, making it a budget-friendly option for travelers looking to explore these beautiful Sicilian cities.
Exploring Taormina: A Journey Through History and Nature
The Ancient Theatre of Taormina, dating back to the 3rd century BC, is a stunning example of Greek architecture that showcases the ingenuity of ancient civilizations. Its significance lies not only in its historical value but also as a cultural hub where performances still take place against the breathtaking backdrop of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea. Unique features include its remarkable acoustics and intricate stonework, which have allowed it to host events for over two millennia.
Corso Umberto serves as Taormina's vibrant main street, steeped in history while bustling with life today. This thoroughfare is significant because it connects key landmarks such as Piazza IX Aprile and offers visitors an authentic taste of local culture through charming shops, cafes, and historic buildings lining both sides. What makes Corso Umberto truly unique are its picturesque views at every turn—each corner reveals stunning vistas that blend urban charm with natural beauty.
Isola Bella is often referred to as "the Pearl of the Ionian," thanks to its enchanting landscape characterized by lush vegetation and crystal-clear waters surrounding this small island off Taormina’s coast. The significance of Isola Bella extends beyond aesthetics; it's a protected nature reserve home to diverse flora and fauna that attract eco-tourists from around the globe. One standout feature is how you can walk across a narrow sandbar during low tide—a magical experience allowing you direct access between land and sea!
FAQs: Trains from Palermo to Taormina
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Palermo to Taormina 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 Taormina, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Palermo to Taormina can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $23 (€18), while the average price is around $23 (€19).
The train from Palermo to Taormina takes 3h 52m and runs 11 per day.
The first train from Palermo to Taormina leaves at 4:21 AM.
The distance by train from Palermo to Taormina is 106 miles (172 km).
The last train from Palermo to Taormina leaves at 7:26 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Palermo to Taormina.
There is no direct train service currently available from Palermo to Taormina.
Yes, there is a night train from Palermo to Taormina.
The train station in Palermo that goes to Taormina is Palermo Centrale, which connects to Taormina-Giardini.
The cheapest way to get from Palermo to Taormina is by bus, with a cost of around $13 (€11).
Yes, the train journey from Palermo to Taormina is quite scenic, offering views of Sicily's stunning coastline, rolling hills, and picturesque villages along the way.
A day trip from Palermo to Taormina is not feasible, as the journey takes 3h 52m. The distance is 106 miles (172 km), and the train frequency is 11 times per day.
In Taormina, you can ride the Taormina Cable Car for scenic views between the town center and beaches, take a cooking class to learn traditional Sicilian dishes, visit the Alcantara Gorge to see its impressive rock formations, enjoy a wine tasting tour in the local vineyards, and take a boat tour for unique coastal views. Must-see sights include the Ancient Theatre of Taormina with its panoramic views, Isola Bella, Corso Umberto for shopping and dining, Villa Comunale for its gardens and views, and Palazzo Corvaja for its architectural beauty.
You need about 2 to 3 days in Taormina to explore its main attractions, including the Ancient Theatre, Isola Bella, and Taormina's charming town center.
Yes, you can take the train from Palermo to Taormina.
Since both Palermo and Taormina 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 Taormina include Catania, Messina, Milazzo, Acireale, Reggio Calabria.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Palermo to Taormina 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 Taormina, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the historic center and near popular attractions. Be wary of unofficial taxi drivers who may overcharge or take longer routes. Additionally, avoid street vendors selling counterfeit goods or offering unsolicited services. Staying alert and using authorized transportation and reputable vendors helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Taormina
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Taormina and Palermo
Most popular train connections to Taormina
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