- Must visit
Palazzo Abatellis - Regional Gallery of Sicily
Major art museum in a Gothic-Catalan palace, known for Sicilian medieval and Renaissance masterpieces including works by Antonello da Messina.
Cheapest price
$245
Average price
$249
Fastest journey
17 h 9 m
Average duration
17 h 47 m
Trains per day
2
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 $249 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $245.
It's difficult to get from Milan to Palermo without transferring at least 2 times.
FRECCIAROSSA 9653+
InterCityNotte 1955+
BUS L957A
FRECCIAROSSA 9663+
InterCityNotte 1959+
BUS LP961
FRECCIAROSSA 9653+
InterCityNotte 1955+
BUS L957A
FRECCIAROSSA 9663+
InterCityNotte 1959+
BUS LP961Omio 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, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FRECCIAROSSA 9613+ Intercity 727 | 8:30 AM Milan Centrale | 14h31 | 11:01 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 9647+ InterCityNotte 1955 | 4:30 PM Milan Centrale | 16h43 | 9:13 AM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer | |
FRECCIAROSSA 9649 · FRECCIAROSSA 9431+ InterCityNotte 1955 | 4:58 PM Milan Centrale | 16h15 | 9:13 AM Palermo Centrale | 2 transfers | |
FRECCIAROSSA 9681+ InterCityNotte 1959 | 8:35 PM Milan Centrale | 16h16 | 12:51 PM Palermo Centrale | 1 transfer |
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.
Major art museum in a Gothic-Catalan palace, known for Sicilian medieval and Renaissance masterpieces including works by Antonello da Messina.
One of Sicily's most important archaeological museums, with Punic, Greek and Roman collections and notable sculpture fragments.
Historic noble residence preserved with original furnishings, offering a vivid look at aristocratic life in Palermo.
Energetic historic district centered on Palermo's most famous street market, full of everyday local life and vivid street scenes.
Striking central square framed by historic buildings and the famous fountain, a key stop in the old town.
One of Palermo's main historic streets, largely pedestrianized and lined with landmarks, shops and lively urban scenes.
Fried rice balls stuffed with ragù, mozzarella, or butter and ham. Palermo is famous for its round arancine and strong street-food tradition.
A classic Palermo street sandwich made with veal spleen and lung, often topped with caciocavallo or ricotta. It is one of the city's most iconic local bites.
Chickpea fritters, usually served in a sesame bread roll. They are a beloved Palermo snack and a staple of the city's historic friggitorie.
Well-regarded restaurant near the historic center serving refined Sicilian cuisine with local ingredients in an elegant but relaxed atmosphere.
Popular central spot for approachable Sicilian cooking, including pasta and regional classics, with a casual and lively atmosphere.
Established seafood-focused trattoria appreciated for traditional Palermo and Sicilian dishes in a classic local dining room.
Moderate by Italian standards: street food is cheap, while central hotels and tourist restaurants cost more.
Service is often included or minimal. Rounding up or leaving EUR 1-2 at cafes is common; about 5-10% for very good restaurant service. Taxis are usually rounded up.
Official public transport app
Palermo Centrale, Palermo -> 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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