- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Palermo
Showing times and prices for Aug 22
Cheapest price
$279
Average price
$327
Fastest journey
21 h 57 m
Average duration
1 d 18 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
1101 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Palermo is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Palermo will cost around $327 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $279.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Zurich to Palermo without transferring at least once.
EuroCity 37+
InterCityNotte 19632:33 PM26h22Zurich HB4:55 PMPalermo Centrale$2791One-way1 transfer- EuroCity 123+
FRECCIAROSSA 9567+InterCityNotte 19633:33 PM25h22Zurich HB4:55 PMPalermo Centrale$3171One-way2 transfers - EuroCity 153+
Intercity 594+InterCityNotte 195910:33 AM25h25Zurich HB11:58 AMPalermo Centrale$3321One-way2 transfers - EuroCity 151+FRECCIAROSSA 9555+InterCityNotte 195512:33 PM21h57Zurich HB10:30 AMPalermo Centrale$3501One-way2 transfers
- EuroCity 21+FRECCIAROSSA 9559+InterCityNotte 19591:33 PM22h25Zurich HB11:58 AMPalermo Centrale$3591One-way2 transfers
- EuroCity 151+FRECCIAROSSA 9555+InterCityNotte 195512:33 PM21h57Zurich HB10:30 AMPalermo Centrale$3501One-way2 transfers
- EuroCity 21+FRECCIAROSSA 9559+InterCityNotte 19591:33 PM22h25Zurich HB11:58 AMPalermo Centrale$3591One-way2 transfers
- EuroCity 123+FRECCIAROSSA 9567+InterCityNotte 19633:33 PM25h22Zurich HB4:55 PMPalermo Centrale$3171One-way2 transfers
- EuroCity 153+Intercity 594+InterCityNotte 195910:33 AM25h25Zurich HB11:58 AMPalermo Centrale$3321One-way2 transfers
- EuroCity 37+InterCityNotte 19632:33 PM26h22Zurich HB4:55 PMPalermo Centrale$2791One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Zurich to Palermo
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Palermo among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $78. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 18m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.3 - 1.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $78, and a train costs an average of $143.
Distance: 684 miles (1101 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$264 Average price | $171 Average price | $133 Average price Cheapest | $252 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
22h 50m Average total duration 22h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 18m Average total duration Fastest 2h 18m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 25h 13m Average total duration 24h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 20h 22m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.3 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 3.3 - 6.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus 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 Zurich to Palermo is a bus with an average price of $133 (€107).
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Palermo:
A bus is $38 (€31) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Palermo costing on average $171 (€137).
A bus is $131 (€105) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Palermo costing on average $264 (€212).
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Palermo is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 18m.
Other travel options to Palermo take longer:
Train takes on average 22h 20m.
Bus takes on average 24h 43m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich and Palermo including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Palermo 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 $264 (€212) compared to roughly $252 (€203) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-11.81 (€-9.49). The journey takes 22h 20m versus 20h 22m 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
Zurich to Palermo train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Palermo trains for tomorrow, Saturday, August 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EuroCity 153+Intercity 594+InterCityNotte 1959 | 10:33 AM Zurich HB | 25h25 | 11:58 AM Palermo Centrale | 2 transfers | |
| EuroCity 151+FRECCIAROSSA 9555+InterCityNotte 1955 | 12:33 PM Zurich HB | 21h57 | 10:30 AM Palermo Centrale | 2 transfers | |
| EuroCity 21+FRECCIAROSSA 9559+InterCityNotte 1959 | 1:33 PM Zurich HB | 22h25 | 11:58 AM Palermo Centrale | 2 transfers | |
| EuroCity 37+InterCityNotte 1963 | 2:33 PM Zurich HB | 26h22 | 4:55 PM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| EuroCity 123+FRECCIAROSSA 9567+InterCityNotte 1963 | 3:33 PM Zurich HB | 25h22 | 4:55 PM Palermo Centrale | 2 transfers |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zurich to Palermo by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, and flight 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 Zurich to Palermo?
The best time to book your train from Zurich to Palermo is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Zurich to Palermo route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Zurich to Palermo 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 Zurich to Palermo.
Trains
from $168Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Palermo
Switzerland
Italy
Trains from Zurich to Palermo run on average 3 times per day, taking around 22h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $143 (€115) but you can travel from only $69 (€55) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 21:10. The fastest train covers the 684 miles (1101 km) distance in 19h 35m.
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
Flight from $69 (€55)
Distance 684 miles (1101 km) |
Average train duration 22h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $143 (€115) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 19h 35m |
First train 12:03 AM |
Last train 9:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 35 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
Flight from $69 (€55)
Train companies: Intercity Notte, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Zurich to Palermo trainsIntercity Notte, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Zurich and Palermo from $69 (€55). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
Intercity Notte frequency
3 a day
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
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
27h 37m
Cheapest Price
$333 (€268)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Palermo
Things to do in Palermo
Discover the best of Palermo — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Palermo trip today.
- Recommended
Palazzo Mirto
Historic rooms and vivid majolica floors showcase aristocratic Palermo. Visit for decorative arts, period interiors and city history.
- Recommended
Steri Museum
Housed in the grand Steri Palace, this museum presents the Sicilian Inquisition’s story through cells, graffiti and historical documents.
- Must visit
Via Vittorio Emanuele
Palermo’s elegant main boulevard links major monuments, shops and theaters. Ideal for first walks and observing the city’s layered architecture.
- Must visit
Via Maqueda
This historic street cuts across the old center and hosts markets, churches and daily life. A lively route for exploring local Palermo.
- Recommended
Albergheria
A bustling old quarter famous for layered street life, churches and market culture. Best explored on foot for atmosphere and urban history.
Arancina
Crisp fried rice ball stuffed with ragù, peas and caciocavallo. A Sicilian street food icon widely loved in Palermo.
Pane con la Milza
Soft sesame-topped bun filled with spleen and lung, often with caciocavallo or ricotta. A classic Palermo street food with deep local roots.
Pasta con le Sarde
Pasta with sardines, wild fennel, pine nuts and raisins. Its sweet-savory flavor reflects Palermo's Arab-Norman culinary heritage.
I Pupi
Refined Michelin-starred restaurant known for creative Sicilian tasting menus in an elegant, intimate setting.
Osteria Ballarò
Historic seafood restaurant near the port, praised for fresh catch, raw dishes and classic Palermo fish recipes.
Nni Franco U Vastiddaru
Legendary no-frills street-food stop celebrated for pane con la milza and authentic local sandwiches loved by residents.
Euro (€)
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.
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 coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
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.
Palermo AMAT
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.40
- Day pass
- €5.50
To the city center
Palermo Centrale -> Quattro Canti, Palermo
- Distance
- 1.4 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Validate paper tickets when boarding; inspectors check on buses and trams.
- AMAT buses and trams generally support contactless bank card payment onboard, but carry a backup ticket in case the validator is unavailable.
FAQs: Trains from Zurich to Palermo
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich 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.
Train ticket prices from Zurich to Palermo can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $143 (€115), while the average price is around $264 (€212).
The train from Zurich to Palermo takes 19h 35m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from Zurich to Palermo leaves at 12:03 AM.
The distance by train from Zurich to Palermo is 684 miles (1101 km).
The last train from Zurich to Palermo leaves at 9:10 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Zurich to Palermo.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zurich to Palermo.
Yes, there is a night train from Zurich to Palermo.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Palermo is Zurich HB, which connects to Palermo Centrale.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Palermo is by flight, with a cost of around $69 (€55).
The train journey from Zurich to Palermo showcases diverse and scenic landscapes, including the Swiss Alps, picturesque Italian countryside, and coastal views as you approach Sicily, offering a visually appealing experience.
A day trip from Zurich to Palermo is not feasible as the journey takes 19h 35m with a distance of 684 miles (1101 km). Trains operate 3 times per day.
In Palermo, you can explore the Capuchin Catacombs, visit the bustling Ballarò Market, and admire vibrant street art in the Vucciria district. Take a cooking class to learn traditional Sicilian dishes or enjoy a stroll along the Foro Italico promenade. Don't miss the Palermo Cathedral, Teatro Massimo, Palazzo dei Normanni with the Palatine Chapel, Quattro Canti, and the lush Orto Botanico di Palermo.
Typically, spending 3 to 4 days in Palermo allows you to explore its main attractions, enjoy local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the city's vibrant culture.
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich to Palermo.
Since both Zurich and Palermo 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 Palermo include Cefalù, Punta Raisi, Bagheria, Santa Flavia, Capo d'Orlando.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Palermo 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.
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 Palermo, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially pickpocketing in crowded areas like markets and public transport. Scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and vendors, as well as unofficial guides offering overpriced tours. It's advisable to use authorized services and stay vigilant in busy tourist spots.
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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Zurich to Palermo
Most Zurich to Palermo trains use the Zürich HB to Palermo Centrale station pair. Use this guide to compare Zurich and Palermo train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Zurich
Arrival train stations in Palermo
Which Zurich station do trains to Palermo leave from?
Trains from Zurich to Palermo leave from Zürich HB. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Zurich city centre at Bahnhofplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland.
Zürich HBBahnhofplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland+41 51 220 11 11
City-centre transport
Getting to Zürich HB from Zurich city centre
Zürich HB is 1 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS, 9 · 3m · $4 · every ~3 min
S11, Sn11, S12, S15, S16, Sn1, Sn, S20, S23, S3, S5, Sn5, S6, Sn6, S7, Sn7, S9, Sn9, S · 3m · $1 · every ~43 min
Bus31, 33 · 5m · $2 · every ~16 min
N4, N5, N91 · 5m · $2
Tram11, 15, 4 · 8m · $2 · every ~19 min
Zürich HB train station facilities and services
Zürich HB has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Au Premier, Brasserie Federal
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Zürich HB. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Zürich HB. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Zürich HB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Zürich HB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich HB: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich, Hotel St. Gotthard, Central Plaza Hotel.
More options for your journey from Zurich to Palermo
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Palermo and Zurich
Most popular train connections to Palermo
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