- Must visit
Museo Archeologico Regionale Paolo Orsi
Important museum in Syracuse focused on Greek and Roman Sicily, with statues, sarcophagi, and archaeological discoveries from the area.
Cheapest price on Oct 12
$92
Average ticket price on Oct 12
$92
Fastest journey on Oct 12
12 h 33 m
Average journey duration on Oct 12
12 h 39 m
Trains on Oct 12
2
Distance
501 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Rome to Sicily (Island) is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Rome to Sicily (Island) will cost around $92 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $92.
It's difficult to get from Rome to Sicily (Island) without transferring at least 2 times.
Intercity 723+
Regionale 12983 · Regionale 21521
Intercity 723+
Regionale 12983 · Regionale 21521
Intercity 723+
Regionale 12983 · Regionale 21521
Intercity 723+
Regionale 12983 · Regionale 21521Trains from Rome to Sicily (Island) run on average 4 times per day, taking around 11h 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $37 (€31) but you can travel from only $15 (€13) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:50, the last at 23:00. The fastest train covers the 311 miles (501 km) distance in 9h 4m.
Distance 311 miles (501 km) |
Average train duration 11h 3m |
Cheapest ticket price $37 (€31) |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 9h 4m |
First train 4:50 AM |
Last train 11:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 56 days |
The table below shows live departures for Rome to Sicily (Island) trains for today, Sunday, October 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Intercity 723+ Regionale 12891 · Regionale 21521 | 7:26 AM Rome Termini | 12h44 | 8:10 PM Villarosa station | 2 transfers | |
Intercity 723+ Regionale 12891 · Regionale 21521 | 7:26 AM Rome Termini | 12h33 | 7:59 PM Enna station | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
By Estefanía Ojea

On one of my trips to Italy, I decided to travel from Rome to Palermo by train. While it is much faster going by plane, I did not have a lot of time to spare during the day, and besides, there is something rather magical about arriving at a train station in the evening and waking up the following morning in a completely new place.

Cliff view in Sicily
The distance of the train ride from Rome to Palermo is approximately 427 kilometers, and the ride takes a little over eleven hours. There are several trains available for this route, and some of them are direct, meaning no need to change trains during the ride. I chose an Intercity night train for my ride. This type of train is usually less expensive, and since it’s a night ride, I figured I’d make the most of the time and take a nap on the way. One of the most unusual aspects of this trip is in southern Italy, where the entire train is put on a ferry, and it goes across the water to the island of Sicily. In fact, you can get off the train and walk around on the ferry while the train is crossing. There is something particularly evocative about watching the coastline of Sicily slowly come into view
I got on the train at Roma Termini station in the evening and found my cabin for the night. It had a small bed, a sink, and some basic amenities like water and toiletries, and it was surprisingly comfortable for sleeping. As the train left Rome, the atmosphere in the carriage gradually became quieter. People settled in, stored their luggage, dimmed the lights, and the journey slowly turned into a shared overnight routine. I woke up early in the morning to the smell of coffee being brewed. The staff had started serving breakfast, and a strong Italian coffee was exactly what I needed after a night on the train.
The journey starts at Roma Termini, the main railway station in Rome. It’s a large and busy station, but well organised, with plenty of services, shops, and clear signage, making departure relatively straightforward.
Later in the morning, the train arrives at Palermo Centrale. The station is quite large and slightly old-fashioned, but it has the vibrant atmosphere of a busy southern Italian city. As soon as you step outside, the change in climate is noticeable. The heat can be intense, and the area around the station is full of small cafés and street food vendors.
There are several trains operating daily between Rome and Palermo, including direct options. The journey takes around eleven hours, and overnight trains are a particularly convenient choice, allowing you to travel while you sleep.
The onboard experience depends on the type of ticket you choose, but cabins on the Intercity night train offer a comfortable setup for sleeping, with basic amenities included. Staff provide simple breakfast service in the morning, and overall, the experience is practical rather than luxurious, but well-suited for an overnight journey.
Ticket prices on this route vary depending on when you book and the type of accommodation you choose. Booking in advance usually helps keep the price lower. On this trip, my overnight Intercity ticket cost about €82. Here’s roughly what my travel costs looked like:
| Item | Cost (eur) |
|---|---|
| Ticket price | €82 |
| Food & drinks | €5 |
| Travel to departure station | €2 |
| Travel from arrival station | €2 |
| Total | € 91 |
The train ride from Rome to Palermo is a long one, but it is also one of the most rewarding experiences you can have in Italy. Going to bed in Rome and waking up in Sicily, having literally crossed the sea on a ferry, is a unique way to travel. When I arrived, the smell of freshly fried arancine in the streets around the station was impossible to ignore, so that ended up being the first thing I did in Palermo.
Discover the best of Sicily (Island) — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Sicily (Island) trip today.
Important museum in Syracuse focused on Greek and Roman Sicily, with statues, sarcophagi, and archaeological discoveries from the area.
Major archaeology museum in Palermo with Phoenician, Greek, and Roman finds, including sculpture, bronzes, and artifacts from across Sicily.
Elegant palace museum in Palermo displaying Sicilian decorative arts, painting, and richly furnished historic rooms near the harbor.
Main square of Ortigia in Syracuse, framed by Baroque buildings and the cathedral, ideal for strolling and soaking up the historic setting.
Lively seafront promenade in Catania facing the Ionian Sea, popular for sunset walks, lava-rock views, and a local evening atmosphere.
Historic market street area in Palermo with narrow lanes, churches, and an energetic everyday atmosphere that reveals the city's character.
Crisp fried rice balls stuffed with ragù, peas and cheese. A hallmark Sicilian street food with regional variations across the island.
Pasta with fried eggplant, tomato, basil and salted ricotta. A classic Catania dish tied to Sicilian produce and simple bold flavors.
Fresh sardines with wild fennel, pine nuts, raisins and saffron, usually served with pasta. It reflects Sicily’s Arab and Mediterranean influences.
Refined seafood-focused dining in Taormina with elegant tasting menus and polished service in a central historic setting.
Historic Palermo street-food institution known for pani ca meusa and classic local snacks in a simple, traditional setting.
Traditional Catania restaurant serving Sicilian home-style dishes, seafood and local specialties in a warm, rustic atmosphere.
Moderate for Italy. Prices rise in Taormina and peak summer, but many Sicilian towns still offer good-value stays, meals, and regional trains or buses.
Service may be included as coperto. Restaurants: round up or leave 5-10% for great service. Cafes: small change. Taxis: round up to the nearest euro; tipping is appreciated, not required.
Official public transport app
Palermo Centrale -> Piazza Pretoria, Palermo
Traveling between Rome and Sicily is a delightful experience, thanks to the efficient train connections available. The journey can be conveniently made with providers such as Intercity, Italo, and Frecciargento. These services offer comfortable seating options and scenic views of Italy's beautiful landscapes along the way. Whether you're heading for a quick getaway or an extended stay in Sicily, these trains provide a reliable means of transportation that allows you to relax while enjoying the ride.
The train journey from Rome to Sicily takes approximately 9 hours and 30 minutes, with a total of 1 connection per day. This route is not direct, requiring an additional transfer during the trip.
The first daily journey from Rome to Sicily departs at 05:00 AM, allowing early risers to start their adventure. The last train of the day leaves at 08:25 PM, providing a convenient option for those who wish to travel later in the evening.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Rome and Sicily is €50. The average ticket price typically hovers around €89, making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore this beautiful region of Italy.
Welcome to the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases some of the best-preserved ancient Greek ruins outside of Greece itself. This archaeological marvel dates back to the 5th century BC and offers a glimpse into Sicily's rich history as part of Magna Graecia, where you can admire stunning temples dedicated to gods like Concordia and Hera. What makes this site truly unique is its breathtaking setting on a ridge overlooking olive groves and distant sea views, creating an unforgettable backdrop for your exploration.
As we make our way towards Mount Etna, you'll discover Europe's most active volcano, which has been shaping Sicilian landscapes—and cultures—for thousands of years. Its eruptions have not only created fertile soils but also inspired myths and legends throughout history; today it stands as both a natural wonder and an adventure playground for hikers seeking panoramic vistas from its summit craters. The distinct feature here is its diverse ecosystems ranging from lush forests at lower elevations to barren lava fields near the top—each offering unique flora and fauna waiting to be explored.
Finally, let’s visit Palermo Cathedral—a magnificent blend of architectural styles reflecting centuries of cultural influences in Sicily's capital city. Originally built in 1185 as a Norman church, it has undergone numerous renovations over time that showcase elements from Gothic to Baroque design while housing royal tombs including those belonging to Emperor Frederick II. One standout feature is its striking façade adorned with intricate mosaics that tell stories steeped in religious significance—making this cathedral not just a place of worship but also an artistic treasure trove worth experiencing firsthand.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rome to Sicily (Island) 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 Sicily (Island), this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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