- Must visit
Museo Regionale Interdisciplinare di Messina
Messina’s main museum preserves major Sicilian artworks, including masterpieces by Caravaggio and Antonello-linked treasures, essential for art lovers.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Palermo to Messina
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 08
Cheapest price on Sep 08
$20
Average ticket price on Sep 08
$22
Fastest journey on Sep 08
2 h 53 m
Average journey duration on Sep 08
2 h 53 m
Trains on Sep 08
27
Distance
192 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Palermo to Messina is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Palermo to Messina will cost around $22 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $20.
Fast trains
On Tue, Sep 08, we found 27 trains from Palermo to Messina, including 18 direct services.
On Tue, Sep 08 the direct trains cover the 192 km distance in an average of 2 h 53 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 53 m .
On Tue, Sep 08 the slowest trains will take 2 h 54 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
Regionale 53526:22 AM3h03Palermo Centrale9:25 AMMessina Centrale$201One-way0 transfers- Regionale Veloce 53688:18 PM3h04Palermo Centrale11:22 PMMessina Centrale$201One-way0 transfers
- Regionale 12878 · Regionale 128929:36 AM4h09Palermo Centrale1:45 PMMessina Centrale$201One-way1 transfer
- Regionale Veloce 53646:36 PM2h53Palermo Centrale9:29 PMMessina Centrale$201One-way0 transfers
- Regionale Veloce 53646:36 PM2h53Palermo Centrale9:29 PMMessina Centrale$201One-way0 transfers
- Regionale Veloce 53646:36 PM2h53Palermo Centrale9:29 PMMessina Centrale$201One-way0 transfers
- Regionale Veloce 53646:36 PM2h53Palermo Centrale9:29 PMMessina Centrale$201One-way0 transfers
- Regionale Veloce 53604:35 PM2h53Palermo Centrale7:28 PMMessina Centrale$201One-way0 transfers
- Regionale Veloce 53604:35 PM2h53Palermo Centrale7:28 PMMessina Centrale$201One-way0 transfers
- Regionale Veloce 53548:22 AM2h54Palermo Centrale11:16 AMMessina Centrale$201One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Palermo to Messina
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Palermo to Messina among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $19 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 39m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $19, while a train costs an average of $22.
Distance: 119 miles (192 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
$22 Average price | $19 Average price Cheapest |
3h 39m Average total duration Fastest 3h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 39m Average total duration 3h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
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 Messina is a bus with an average price of $19.
This is compared to other travel options from Palermo to Messina:
A bus is $3 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Palermo to Messina costing on average $22.
The fastest way to travel from Palermo to Messina is by train with an average journey time of 3h 9m.
Other travel options to Messina take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 9m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Palermo and Messina including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Palermo to Messina among Omio's users.
Live departures
Palermo to Messina train times
The table below shows live departures for Palermo to Messina trains for today, Monday, September 7. 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 | 4:35 PM Palermo Centrale | 2h53 | 7:28 PM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Regionale Veloce 5360 | 4:35 PM Palermo Centrale | 2h53 | 7:28 PM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Regionale Veloce 5364 | 6:36 PM Palermo Centrale | 2h53 | 9:29 PM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Regionale Veloce 5364 | 6:36 PM Palermo Centrale | 2h53 | 9:29 PM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Regionale Veloce 5368 | 8:18 PM Palermo Centrale | 3h04 | 11:22 PM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Regionale Veloce 5368 | 8:18 PM Palermo Centrale | 3h04 | 11:22 PM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, September 8 | |||||
| Regionale Veloce 5350 | 5:07 AM Palermo Centrale | 2h56 | 8:03 AM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Regionale Veloce 5350 | 5:07 AM Palermo Centrale | 2h56 | 8:03 AM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Regionale Veloce 5350 · Regionale 21685 | 5:07 AM Palermo Centrale | 3h06 | 8:13 AM Fiumara Gazzi | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale 5352 | 6:22 AM Palermo Centrale | 3h03 | 9:25 AM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Regionale 5352 | 6:22 AM Palermo Centrale | 3h03 | 9:25 AM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
 Intercity 736 | 7:05 AM Palermo Centrale | 2h55 | 10:00 AM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Intercity 736 | 7:05 AM Palermo Centrale | 2h55 | 10:00 AM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Regionale Veloce 5354 | 8:22 AM Palermo Centrale | 2h54 | 11:16 AM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Regionale Veloce 5354 | 8:22 AM Palermo Centrale | 2h54 | 11:16 AM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Regionale Veloce 5354 · Regionale 21687 | 8:22 AM Palermo Centrale | 4h14 | 12:36 PM Fiumara Gazzi | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale 12878 · Regionale 12892 | 9:36 AM Palermo Centrale | 4h09 | 1:45 PM Messina Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale 12878 · Regionale 12892 | 9:36 AM Palermo Centrale | 4h09 | 1:45 PM Messina Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale 12878 · Regionale 12892 · Regionale 21691 | 9:36 AM Palermo Centrale | 5h48 | 3:24 PM Fiumara Gazzi | 2 transfers | |
| Intercity 730 | 10:15 AM Palermo Centrale | 2h55 | 1:10 PM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Intercity 730+Regionale 21689 | 10:15 AM Palermo Centrale | 3h36 | 1:51 PM Fiumara Gazzi | 1 transfer | |
| Intercity 730 | 10:15 AM Palermo Centrale | 2h55 | 1:10 PM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Regionale 12888 · Regionale 12900 · Regionale 21693 | 11:57 AM Palermo Centrale | 4h44 | 4:41 PM Fiumara Gazzi | 2 transfers | |
| Regionale 12888 · Regionale 12900 | 11:57 AM Palermo Centrale | 3h57 | 3:54 PM Messina Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale 12888 · Regionale 12900 | 11:57 AM Palermo Centrale | 3h57 | 3:54 PM Messina Centrale | 1 transfer | |
| Regionale 5358 | 2:30 PM Palermo Centrale | 3h14 | 5:44 PM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Regionale 5358 | 2:30 PM Palermo Centrale | 3h14 | 5:44 PM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Palermo to Messina by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Palermo to Messina
ItalyItaly
Trains from Palermo to Messina run on average 20 times per day, taking around 3h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $12 but you can travel from only $7 by bus.
There are 13 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:21, the last at 22:17. The fastest train covers the 119 miles (192 km) distance in 2h 43m.
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 $7
Distance 119 miles (192 km) |
Average train duration 3h 9m |
Cheapest ticket price $12 |
Trains per day 20 |
Direct trains 13 |
Fastest train 2h 43m |
First train 3:21 AM |
Last train 10:17 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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
Bus from $7
Train companies: Regionale, Intercity, Intercity Notte from Palermo to Messina trainsRegionale, Intercity, Intercity Notte trains will get you between Palermo and Messina from $7. 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 Regionale Duration
2h 43m
Cheapest Regionale Price
$20
Regionale frequency
22 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 Intercity Duration
2h 50m
Cheapest Intercity Price
$12
Intercity frequency
5 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
Average Intercity Notte Duration
16h 1m
Cheapest Intercity Notte Price
$111
Intercity Notte frequency
1 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
Complete guide to Messina
Things to do in Messina
Discover the best of Messina — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Messina trip today.
- Recommended
Tesoro del Duomo di Messina
A church museum displaying liturgical art, silverwork, and historic objects tied to Messina Cathedral and the city’s religious heritage.
- Recommended
Monte di Pietà
A small local gallery and exhibition space used for cultural displays, suitable for visitors seeking contemporary community art in Messina.
- Must visit
Piazza Duomo
Messina’s main cathedral square is the city’s ceremonial heart, ideal for seeing the Duomo, fountain, and clock tower together.
- Must visit
Belvedere di Cristo Re
This scenic viewpoint area beside Cristo Re offers one of the best panoramas over Messina, the harbor curve, and Calabria beyond.
- Recommended
Piazza del Duomo e Fontana di Orione
This central piazza is dominated by Orion Fountain and elegant facades, making it one of the city’s most photogenic public spaces.
Pasta 'Ncasciata
A layered baked pasta timbale with ragù, eggplant, cheese, and sometimes meatballs. A festive Sicilian classic closely tied to family Sunday meals.
Arancino
A crisp fried rice ball, usually filled with ragù, peas, and cheese. A beloved Sicilian street food found in bars and bakeries across Messina.
- Vegetarian
Granita Con Brioche
Soft sweet brioche served with granita, especially for breakfast. In Messina it is a warm-weather ritual and a signature part of Sicilian café culture.
I Ruggeri Boutique Restaurant
Refined Michelin-starred dining with creative Sicilian seafood and tasting menus in an elegant setting inside Hotel Messenion.
Pasticceria Irrera 1910
Historic pastry café famed for granita, brioche, gelato, and Sicilian breakfast classics. A traditional stop with a strong local reputation.
Ristorante Kajiki
Well-known seafood restaurant serving swordfish, shellfish, and classic Sicilian fish dishes in a polished but welcoming atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Italy. Rooms and meals are often cheaper than in Rome or Milan, while local buses and ferries stay reasonably priced for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or casual bites.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €1.20-2.50 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or modest. Round up or leave €1-2 at cafes, 5-10% in restaurants for good service, and round up taxi fares.
ATM MovUp
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1,50
- Day pass
- €2,80
To the city center
Messina Centrale -> Piazza Duomo, Messina
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Buy tickets in advance or use the ATM MovUp app for buses and trams; validate paper tickets when boarding.
- Contactless bank card payment is not reliably documented for onboard payment, so use the app or a pre-purchased ticket.
Traveling by train from Palermo to Messina
Traveling between Palermo and Messina is a scenic journey that showcases the beauty of Sicily. The train connection offers several options, including Regionale, Intercity, and Frecciabianca 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 option among these trains.
Train Connection: Palermo to Messina
Traveling from Palermo to Messina takes approximately 2 hours and 43 minutes, with a direct connection available. There are up to 6 trains operating daily on this route, departing from Palermo Centrale and arriving at Messina Centrale.
Palermo to Messina Train Connection
The first daily train from Palermo departs at 07:27, providing an early start for travelers looking to explore the beautiful landscapes of Sicily. The last journey of the day leaves Messina at 19:33, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy their activities before heading back.
Train Tickets Price for Palermo and Messina
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Palermo and Messina is €16. This fare provides an economical option for travelers looking to explore these beautiful Sicilian cities, known for their rich history and stunning landscapes.
Exploring the Wonders of Messina: A Journey Through History and Artistry
Welcome to Messina, where history and beauty intertwine! Our first stop is the magnificent Messina Cathedral, or Duomo di Messina. This stunning structure dates back to 1197 and showcases a blend of Norman architecture with Baroque elements; it stands as a testament to the city’s resilience after devastating earthquakes.
Next, we’ll marvel at the Fountain of Orion, an exquisite example of Renaissance artistry completed in 1547. Adorned with intricate sculptures that depict mythological figures and symbols representing water's life-giving properties, this fountain not only serves as a centerpiece for Piazza del Duomo but also reflects the cultural richness of Messina during its golden age.
Finally, prepare to be captivated by the Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock adjacent to the cathedral. Completed in 1933 after being rebuilt following World War II destruction, this clock features an impressive mechanical display that comes alive daily at noon—an enchanting spectacle combining art and engineering that draws visitors from around the world!
FAQs: Trains from Palermo to Messina
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Palermo to Messina 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 Messina, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Palermo to Messina can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $12, while the average price is around $22.
The train from Palermo to Messina takes 2h 43m and runs 20 per day.
The distance by train from Palermo to Messina is 119 miles (192 km).
The first train from Palermo to Messina leaves at 3:21 AM.
The last train from Palermo to Messina leaves at 10:17 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Palermo to Messina.
Yes, there is a direct train from Palermo to Messina. This service operates 13 times per day, provided by Regionale, Intercity.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Palermo to Messina.
The train station in Palermo that goes to Messina is Palermo Centrale, which connects to Messina Centrale.
The cheapest way to get from Palermo to Messina is by bus, with a cost of around $7.
Yes, the train journey from Palermo to Messina is scenic, offering views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, rolling hills, and charming coastal towns along the northern coast of Sicily.
A day trip from Palermo to Messina is not feasible, as the journey takes 2h 43m. The distance is 119 miles (192 km), with 13 trains available per day.
In Messina, you can visit the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, a unique Norman-Arab style church, and explore the vibrant Piazza del Duomo, which offers access to landmarks like the Messina Cathedral and the Renaissance Fountain of Orion. Enjoy scenic views and boat tours at the Strait of Messina, and don't miss the daily show at the Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock. Discover local Sicilian products at the markets, stroll along the waterfront, and visit the Regional Museum of Messina. For panoramic city views, head to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di Montalto.
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in Messina allows visitors to explore its main attractions, such as the Cathedral of Messina, the Regional Museum, and enjoy the local cuisine and nearby beaches.
Yes, you can take the train from Palermo to Messina.
Since both Palermo and Messina 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 Messina include Taormina, Catania, Milazzo, Barcellona Pozzo di Gotto, Capo d'Orlando.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Palermo to Messina 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 Messina, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and near transportation hubs. It's advisable to avoid unlicensed taxi services and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help. When using public transport, keep belongings secure, and always verify prices beforehand to avoid overcharging scams. Staying alert in busy tourist spots 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 Messina
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Messina and Palermo
Most popular train connections to Messina
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