- Must visit
Galleria Regionale della Sicilia - Palazzo Abatellis
Important Sicilian art museum in Palazzo Abatellis, with medieval and Renaissance works including Antonello da Messina’s celebrated portrait.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bologna to Palermo
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 23 Oct
Cheapest price on 23 Oct
£100
Average ticket price on 23 Oct
£133
Fastest journey on 23 Oct
13 h 21 m
Average journey duration on 23 Oct
15 h 55 m
Trains on 23 Oct
6
Distance
729 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bologna to Palermo is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bologna to Palermo will cost around £133 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £100.
Fast trains
On Fri 23 Oct, we found 6 trains from Bologna to Palermo, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 729 km distance in an average of 15 h 55 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 13 h 21 m .
The slowest trains will take 18 h 30 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.
InterCityNotte 196323:0517h50Bologna Centrale16:55Palermo Centrale£1001One-way0 changes
FRECCIAROSSA 9613+
Intercity 950579:3713h21Bologna Centrale22:58Palermo Centrale£1291One-way1 change- Intercity 594+InterCityNotte 9506317:2518h30Bologna Centrale11:55Palermo Centrale£1321One-way1 change
- Intercity 584 · Intercity 511+InterCityNotte 195511:2121h52Bologna Centrale9:13Palermo Centrale£1431One-way2 changes
- FRECCIAROSSA 9661+InterCityNotte 9506320:0715h48Bologna Centrale11:55Palermo Centrale£1451One-way1 change
- FRECCIAROSSA 9613+Intercity 950579:3713h21Bologna Centrale22:58Palermo Centrale£1291One-way1 change
- FRECCIAROSSA 9653+InterCityNotte 195519:0714h06Bologna Centrale9:13Palermo Centrale£1501One-way1 change
- FRECCIAROSSA 9661+InterCityNotte 9506320:0715h48Bologna Centrale11:55Palermo Centrale£1451One-way1 change
- InterCityNotte 196323:0517h50Bologna Centrale16:55Palermo Centrale£1001One-way0 changes
- Intercity 594+InterCityNotte 9506317:2518h30Bologna Centrale11:55Palermo Centrale£1321One-way1 change
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bologna to Palermo
ItalyItaly
Trains from Bologna to Palermo run on average 42 times per day, taking around 15h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £18 but you can travel from only £15 by flight.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:39. The fastest train covers the 729 km distance in 11h 57m.
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 £15
Distance 729 km |
Average train duration 15h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price £18 |
Trains per day 42 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 11h 57m |
First train 0:01 |
Last train 23:39 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
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
Flight from £15
Frequently asked questions about your Bologna to Palermo trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Bologna to Palermo.
The cost of a train ticket from Bologna to Palermo can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £18, while the average price tends to be around £44.
The train journey from Bologna to Palermo covers a distance of 729 km and takes approximately 11h 57m. Trains run 42 per day.
The train distance from Bologna to Palermo is 729 km.
The first train from Bologna to Palermo leaves at 0:01.
The last train from Bologna to Palermo departs at 23:39.
Trains from Bologna to Palermo run approximately 42 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Bologna and Palermo. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by Intercity Notte.
Live departures
Bologna to Palermo train times
The table below shows live departures for Bologna to Palermo trains for today, Thursday 22 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FRECCIAROSSA 9661+InterCityNotte 95063 | 20:07 Bologna Centrale | 15h48 | 11:55 Palermo Centrale | 1 change | |
| InterCityNotte 1963 | 23:05 Bologna Centrale | 17h50 | 16:55 Palermo Centrale | 0 changesdirect | |
| Intercity 723+InterCityNotte 35730 | 23:18 Bologna Centrale | 19h46 | 19:04 Palermo Centrale | 1 change | |
| Friday 23 October | |||||
| FRECCIAROSSA 9613+Intercity 95057 | 9:37 Bologna Centrale | 13h21 | 22:58 Palermo Centrale | 1 change | |
| Intercity 584 · Intercity 511+InterCityNotte 1955 | 11:21 Bologna Centrale | 21h52 | 9:13 Palermo Centrale | 2 changes | |
| Intercity 594+InterCityNotte 95063 | 17:25 Bologna Centrale | 18h30 | 11:55 Palermo Centrale | 1 change | |
| FRECCIAROSSA 9653+InterCityNotte 1955 | 19:07 Bologna Centrale | 14h06 | 9:13 Palermo Centrale | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Bologna to Palermo trains with Omio?
Intercity Notte as well as Intercity or Frecciarossa offer trains services from Bologna to Palermo.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Intercity Notte tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Intercity Notte?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Intercity Notte, but also compare tickets for the likes of Intercity or Frecciarossa to find the best option for your trip from Bologna to Palermo.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Intercity Notte with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bologna to Palermo.
Train companies: Intercity Notte, Intercity, Frecciarossa from Bologna to Palermo trainsIntercity Notte, Intercity, Frecciarossa trains will get you between Bologna and Palermo from £15. 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
Average Intercity Notte Duration
13h 19m
Cheapest Intercity Notte Price
£18
Intercity Notte frequency
34 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
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
11h 57m
Cheapest Intercity Price
£18
Intercity frequency
10 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
Frecciarossa
About
Step on board a Frecciarossa train and relax as you travel across Italy. Trenitalia’s Frecciarossa high-speed trains make around 200 connections across the country each day and are renowned for their comfort, speed, and reduced environmental impact. Reaching speeds of up to 186 mph (300 km/h), they connect major destinations such as Rome, Florence, Milan, Venice, and Naples quickly and efficiently. When booking your Frecciarossa journey, you can choose between four classes: Standard, Premium, Business, and Executive. While each class offers different levels of comfort, all provide free Wi-Fi access, power outlets, air conditioning, bathrooms, luggage storage, onboard entertainment, and restaurant and bar services. Ticket options include Super Economy, Economy, and Base, making it easy to find the right balance of comfort and price for your trip.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Frecciarossa Duration
14h 59m
Cheapest Frecciarossa Price
£108
Frecciarossa frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag and 1 suitcase per passenger
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at carriage ends, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals, bar service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in Executive class
Seat reservation
Included in Executive class, optional fee for other classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle, service animals free
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Bologna and Palermo
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Bologna to Palermo.
There is no night train service from Bologna to Palermo.
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
Museo Archeologico Regionale Antonino Salinas
Archaeological museum with Greek, Roman and Etruscan finds, coins and sculpture. A strong choice for understanding Sicily’s ancient past.
- Recommended
GAM - Galleria d'Arte Moderna
Modern and contemporary art museum in a restored monastery complex. Visit for Italian art, changing exhibitions and a central historic setting.
- Must visit
Quattro Canti
Monumental square at the junction of Palermo’s historic main streets. A classic meeting point with theatrical Baroque façades and constant street life.
- Recommended
Piazza Verdi
Elegant square beside Teatro Massimo, popular for strolling and people-watching. A useful base for exploring central Palermo on foot.
- Recommended
Mercato del Capo
Historic market district with layered architecture, lively lanes and everyday city life. Best for atmosphere, street scenes and local character.
Arancine
Fried rice balls filled with ragù, peas and cheese. A Sicilian street-food classic, especially beloved in Palermo for its hearty, portable character.
Pane ca meusa
Soft sesame-topped roll stuffed with spleen and lung, often with ricotta or caciocavallo. A distinctive Palermo sandwich with deep working-class roots.
Pasta con le sarde
Pasta with sardines, wild fennel, raisins and pine nuts. It captures Palermo’s Arab-Norman culinary heritage through sweet-savoury flavours.
Osteria Ballarò
Traditional restaurant serving Sicilian seafood, pasta and Palermo classics in an elegant but relaxed historic-centre atmosphere.
Nni Franco U Vastiddaru
Historic market stall famed for pane ca meusa and other Palermo street-food staples in a lively, no-frills setting.
Ke Palle
Long-established informal spot known for arancine, panelle and other classic rosticceria specialities popular with locals.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Italy: street food and buses are cheap, while central hotels and seafood restaurants cost more in peak season.
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 espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or modest. Round up or leave €1-2 in cafés, 5-10% for very good restaurant service, and round up taxi fares.
PalerMobilità
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.40
- Day pass
- €3.50
To the city centre
Palermo Centrale -> Piazza Politeama, Palermo
- Distance
- 2.4 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Buy and validate AMAT bus and tram tickets in the official PalerMobilità app before boarding; on-board bus tickets cost more than the standard fare.
- Contactless card acceptance on Palermo public transport was not confirmed from the official sources checked, so carry a valid ticket or use the official app.
Plan your visit to Palermo
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Palermo.
The train journey from Bologna to Palermo offers varied scenery, including picturesque landscapes of the Italian countryside, coastal views as you approach Sicily, and glimpses of historic towns.
Best day trips from Palermo by train
The most popular day trips by train from Palermo are Cefalù, Bagheria, Termini Imerese and Castelbuono. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Palermo on Omio.
Day trip from Palermo to Cefalù by train
Why visit Cefalù for the day?
Cefalù is a historic seaside town on Sicily’s north coast, known for its Norman cathedral, sandy beach and medieval lanes. La Rocca towers above the old town, giving the place a dramatic setting and an easy-going Sicilian character.
How to get from Palermo to Cefalù by train?
There are 19 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:00, the last at 23:25. The fastest train covers the 59 km distance in 39m.
Day trip from Palermo to Bagheria by train
Why visit Bagheria for the day?
Bagheria is a Sicilian town near Palermo known for baroque villas and its connection to Renato Guttuso. It feels more lived-in than polished, with aristocratic architecture, nearby sea views and a strong local identity.
How to get from Palermo to Bagheria by train?
There are 37 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:02, the last at 23:25. The fastest train covers the 14 km distance in 10m.
Day trip from Palermo to Termini Imerese by train
Why visit Termini Imerese for the day?
Termini Imerese is a coastal Sicilian town known for its thermal baths, historic centre and port. Roman roots, sea views and a lived-in local character give it a practical, unpolished charm.
How to get from Palermo to Termini Imerese by train?
There are 36 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:35, the last at 23:04. The fastest train covers the 33 km distance in 20m.
Day trip from Palermo to Castelbuono by train
Why visit Castelbuono for the day?
Castelbuono is a hill town in northern Sicily known for the Castello dei Ventimiglia and its medieval streets. Set beside the Madonie mountains, it is also recognised for local pastries and a strong food tradition.
How to get from Palermo to Castelbuono by train?
The earliest train runs at 05:40, the last at 18:33.
FAQs: Bologna to Palermo train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bologna 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.
Booking trains from Bologna to Palermo in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, you can take the train from Bologna to Palermo.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Bologna and Palermo
Most Bologna to Palermo trains use the Bologna Centrale to station pair. Use this guide to compare Bologna and Palermo train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bologna
Arrival train stations in Palermo
Which Bologna station do trains to Palermo leave from?
Trains from Bologna to Palermo leave from Bologna Centrale. The station is 1 km from Bologna city centre at Piazza delle Medaglie d'Oro, 40121 Bologna, Italy.
Bologna CentralePiazza delle Medaglie d'Oro, 40121 Bologna, Italy+39 892021
City-centre transport
Getting to Bologna Centrale from Bologna city centre
Bologna Centrale is 1 km from Bologna city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus11, 181, 21, 30, 38, 445, C, 61, 62, 81, 87, 91, N4, 92, N3 · 4m · £1 · every ~39 min
21, 30, 11, C, 62, N4, N3 · 6m · £1 · every ~36 min
Bologna Centrale train station facilities and services
Bologna 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 and drink
Food options include: Burger King, A Cafè, VyTA Boulangerie, Venchi, Scambio, Juice Bar, KFC, Dispensa Emilia, Lavazza, Mokà, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. . ATMs are aTM is located in the main hall.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 21:00. Information desks are customer service center is on the ground floor and open every day from 06:30 to 23:00.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is luggage facility, open daily from 07:00 to 22:00, is located in front of binario 7 Ovest (Track 7 West).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bologna Centrale: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bologna Centrale: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bologna Centrale: Accessible facilities including barrier-free restrooms, elevators and ramps. Sala Blu mobility assistance available from 07:45 to 22:30 with advanced one-hour notice.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Starhotels Excelsior, Millenn Hotel Bologna, UNA Hotels.
Bologna, AeroportoBologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ), Via del Triumvirato, 84, 40132 Bologna BO, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Bologna, Aeroporto from Bologna city centre
Bologna, Aeroporto is 5 km from Bologna city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
Bologna, Aeroporto train station facilities and services
Bologna, Aeroporto has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Multiple options on site
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free wifi throughout the station. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bologna, Aeroporto.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bologna, Aeroporto: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bologna, Aeroporto: Fully accessible for disabled individuals.
Bologna Corticella40128 Bologna, Metropolitan City of Bologna, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Bologna Corticella from Bologna city centre
Bologna Corticella is 6 km from Bologna city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus27, 441, 445, 504, N1, 97, 98 · 8m · £2 · every ~9 min
27, 441, 504, 97, 98 · 15m · £2 · every ~8 min
445, 97, 98 · 20m · £2 · every ~8 min
Bologna Corticella train station facilities and services
Bologna Corticella has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bologna Corticella.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Bologna Corticella.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bologna Corticella: Parking, Taxis.
Bike and car services
Available at Bologna Corticella: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bologna Corticella.
More options for your journey from Bologna to Palermo
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Palermo and Bologna
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