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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bologna to Palermo
Showing times and prices for 25 Jan
Cheapest price
£105
Average price
£182
Fastest journey
15 h 53 m
Average duration
16 h 20 m
Trains per day
14
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 £182 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £105.
Fast trains
Of the 14 trains that leave Bologna for Palermo every day 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 729 km distance in an average of 16 h 20 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 15 h 53 m .
The slowest trains will take 16 h 58 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 196323:0517h54
Bologna Centrale16:59Palermo Centrale
£1051One-way
0 changes
8927+InterCityNotte 195919:4216h13
Bologna Centrale11:55Palermo Centrale
£1501One-way
1 change
9959+InterCityNotte 195919:5715h58
Bologna Centrale11:55Palermo Centrale
£1501One-way
1 change
9931 · 8159+InterCityNotte 195912:5722h58
Bologna Centrale11:55Palermo Centrale
£1501One-way
2 changes
8967+InterCityNotte 195919:1716h38
Bologna Centrale11:55Palermo Centrale
£1531One-way
1 change
FRECCIAROSSA 9435+InterCityNotte 195920:0215h53
Bologna Centrale11:55Palermo Centrale
£1561One-way
1 change
9959+InterCityNotte 195919:5715h58
Bologna Centrale11:55Palermo Centrale
£1501One-way
1 change
8927+InterCityNotte 195919:4216h13
Bologna Centrale11:55Palermo Centrale
£1501One-way
1 change
8967+InterCityNotte 195919:1716h38
Bologna Centrale11:55Palermo Centrale
£1531One-way
1 change
9955+InterCityNotte 195918:5716h58
Bologna Centrale11:55Palermo Centrale
£1531One-way
1 change
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Bologna to Palermo
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Bologna to Palermo among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £35. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 43m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £35, and a train costs an average of £71.
Distance: 729 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£120 Average Price | £79 Average Price Cheapest | £114 Average Price |
14h 56m Average total duration 14h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 17h 27m Average total duration 16h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 43m Average total duration Fastest 1h 43m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.2 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.7 - 1.8kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Bologna to Palermo train times
The table below shows live departures for Bologna to Palermo trains for today, Saturday 24 January. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 16:25
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| InterCityNotte 1963 | 21:00 Bologna Centrale | 18h59 | 15:59 Palermo Centrale | 0 changesdirect | |
| Sunday 25 January | |||||
| 9931 · 8159+InterCityNotte 1959 | 11:57 Bologna Centrale | 22h58 | 10:55 Palermo Centrale | 2 changes | |
| 8913+InterCityNotte 1959 | 13:42 Bologna Centrale | 21h13 | 10:55 Palermo Centrale | 1 change | |
| 8959+InterCityNotte 1959 | 14:17 Bologna Centrale | 20h38 | 10:55 Palermo Centrale | 1 change | |
| 8915+InterCityNotte 1959 | 14:42 Bologna Centrale | 20h13 | 10:55 Palermo Centrale | 1 change | |
| 6143+InterCityNotte 1959 | 14:57 Bologna Centrale | 19h58 | 10:55 Palermo Centrale | 1 change | |
| 8963+InterCityNotte 1959 | 16:17 Bologna Centrale | 18h38 | 10:55 Palermo Centrale | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bologna to Palermo by train, coach or flight
Compare train, coach 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 Bologna to Palermo?
The best time to book your train from Bologna to Palermo is 63 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Bologna to Palermo route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Bologna 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 Bologna to Palermo.
Trains
from £61Coaches
from £43Journey information
Overview: Train from Bologna to Palermo
ItalyItaly
Trains from Bologna to Palermo run on average 6 times per day, taking around 14h 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £71 but you can travel from only £25 by flight.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:45. The fastest train covers the 729 km distance in 12h 25m.
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 £25
Distance 729 km |
Average train duration 14h 26m |
Cheapest ticket price £71 |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 12h 25m |
First train 00:01 |
Last train 23:45 |
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 £25
Train companies: Intercity Notte, Intercity, Italo, Frecciarossa from Bologna to Palermo trainsIntercity Notte, Intercity, Italo, Frecciarossa trains will get you between Bologna and Palermo from £25. 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 Duration
17h 50m
Cheapest Price
£65
Intercity Notte frequency
4 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 Duration
18h 32m
Cheapest Price
£86
Intercity frequency
2 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
Italo
About
Italo is Italy’s private high-speed train service operated by Nuovo Trasporto Viaggiatori (NTV), connecting major cities such as Rome, Milan, Naples, Florence, Turin, Bologna, and Salerno. Its fleet includes the Italo AGV 575, capable of speeds up to 186 mph (300 km/h), and the eco-friendly Italo EVO, which reaches up to 150 mph (250 km/h). Passengers can choose from four classes — Smart, Comfort, Prima, and Club Executive — all offering modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, reclining leather seats, footrests, bathrooms, snack machines, and Italo Live entertainment with movies, music, and games. Italo offers three fare types — Low Cost, Economy, and Flex — providing different levels of price and flexibility. Popular routes include Rome–Milan, Rome–Florence, and Milan–Turin, making Italo a fast, comfortable, and convenient way to travel around Italy.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
14h 53m
Cheapest Price
£123
Italo frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage (max 55x35x25cm) and 1 piece of luggage (max 75x53x30cm)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack bar service available in most trains with drinks and light refreshments. Welcome service in Prima and Club Executive classes
Seat reservation
Included in Prima and Club Executive. Optional extra cost in Smart and Comfort
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. Guide dogs travel free
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 Duration
12h 25m
Cheapest Price
£103
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
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.
The cost of a train ticket from Bologna to Palermo can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £71, while the average price tends to be around £120.
The train journey from Bologna to Palermo covers a distance of 729 km and takes approximately 12h 25m. Trains run 6 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 23:45.
Trains from Bologna to Palermo run approximately 6 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Bologna to Palermo.
Yes, there is a direct train between Bologna and Palermo. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by Intercity Notte.
To get from Bologna to Palermo, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
Yes, there is a night train from Bologna to Palermo.
The train station in Bologna that goes to Palermo is Bologna Centrale, and it arrives at Palermo Centrale.
The cheapest way to get from Bologna to Palermo is by flight, costing approximately £25.
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.
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.
A day trip from Bologna to Palermo is not feasible as the journey takes 12h 25m. There are 6 train trips available per day.
In Palermo, you can explore the Capuchin Catacombs, an eerie yet fascinating underground cemetery with mummified remains. Visit the bustling Ballarò Market to experience local Sicilian produce and culture. Discover vibrant street art in the Vucciria district and take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Sicilian dishes. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Foro Italico promenade. Don't miss the stunning Palermo Cathedral, Teatro Massimo, and the historic Palazzo dei Normanni with its exquisite Palatine Chapel. Visit the Baroque square Quattro Canti and the lush Orto Botanico di Palermo.
To fully explore Palermo's key attractions, culture, and cuisine, spending 3 to 4 days would be ideal. This allows time to visit historical sites, enjoy local markets, and take a day trip to nearby areas.
Yes, you can take the train from Bologna to Palermo.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Bologna and Palermo
Bologna
Palermo
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi.
Lockers
- Luggage facility, open daily from 07:00 to 22:00, is located in front of binario 7 Ovest (Track 7 West).
Dining
- Burger King
- A Cafè
- VyTA Boulangerie
- Venchi
- Scambio
- Juice Bar
- KFC
- Dispensa Emilia
- Lavazza
- Mokà
- & more
Accessibility
- 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.
Hotel
- Starhotels Excelsior
- Millenn Hotel Bologna
- UNA Hotels
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sun: 06:00 - 21:00
Information Desk
- Customer service center is on the ground floor and open every day from 06:30 to 23:00.
Public transport options for Bologna Centrale
- Bus lines: 21, 25, 30, 36, 61, 62, 77, BLQ
- Monorail lines: Marconi Express
- Train lines: FR, FA, FB, IC, ICN, R, Italo, ÖBB EC, EN
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
4 km
Number of platforms
2Parking
- Free parking available near the station
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
WC
- Free of charge
Hotel
- San Ruffillo House
- Hotel Il Guercino
- Hotel Porta San Mamolo
Station Plan
- The station has a simple layout with two platforms and a small waiting area.
Public transport options for Bologna San Ruffillo
- Bus: Several local bus lines available
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
4 kmNumber of platforms
2Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available near the station with several spaces for short-term and long-term parking.
Dining
- Ristorante Il Patio
- Trattoria Bonora
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €1
Hotel
- Flyon Hotel
- Hotel Bologna Airport
- Hotel Del Borgo
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, ticket office, and platforms
- Hall 2: waiting area and restrooms
Public transport options for Bologna Borgo Panigale
- Bus: Several lines available connecting to Bologna city center
- Taxi services available
Most popular train connections from Bologna
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
Most popular train connections to Palermo
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