- 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 Catania to Palermo
Showing times and prices for 29 Aug
Cheapest price
£19
Average price
£21
Fastest journey
5 h 14 m
Average duration
6 h 5 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
166 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Catania to Palermo is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Catania to Palermo will cost around £21 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £19.
Fast trains
To travel from Catania to Palermo you need to make at least one change.
Regionale 5382 · Regionale 536110:145h14Catania Centrale15:28Palermo Centrale£191One-way1 change- Regionale 5372 · Regionale 12921+
BUS LP72918:346h55Catania Centrale1:29Palermo Centrale£241One-way2 changes
- Regionale 5382 · Regionale 536110:145h14Catania Centrale15:28Palermo Centrale£191One-way1 change
- Regionale 5372 · Regionale 12921+BUS LP72918:346h55Catania Centrale1:29Palermo Centrale£241One-way2 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach, flight and ferry for Catania to Palermo
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Catania to Palermo among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £11. For those with little time consider booking a coach which can get you there in 2h 52m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £11, and a flight costs an average of £191.
Distance: 166 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach | Ferry | Flight |
|---|---|---|---|
£19 Average Price | £13 Average Price Cheapest | £53 Average Price | £310 Average Price |
3h 47m Average total duration 3h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 22m Average total duration Fastest 2h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 5m Average total duration 5h 5m Onboard + 1h 0m Additional time* | 6h 40m Average total duration 4h 40m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Catania to Palermo train times
The table below shows live departures for Catania to Palermo trains for tomorrow, Saturday 29 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regionale 5382 · Regionale 5361 | 10:14 Catania Centrale | 5h14 | 15:28 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 Catania to Palermo by train, coach, flight or ferry
Compare train, coach, 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.
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Catania to Palermo?
The best time to book your train from Catania to Palermo is 35 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Catania to Palermo route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Catania 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 Catania to Palermo.
Trains
from £15Coaches
from £8ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Catania to Palermo
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
CleanlinessDisadvantages
PunctualityThe advantages of the journey included the friendly staff at the station, the cleanliness at the stations and on the train itself and that the reception and wifi were good. There wasn't really a downside. Well, the train was 5 minutes late, which I don't see as a negative. The journey took place in August last year.
Advantages
HygienicDisadvantages
non-existent punctualityWhat I unfortunately remember very negatively was that the train was very unpunctual. To be precise, it was almost 25 minutes late. The negative experiences came to an end on the train. It was very clean and the sanitary facilities were relatively hygienic. At my seat I had a fold-out table and a fast network connection. Recommendation!
Advantages
CleanlinessDisadvantages
,It turned out to be a very good decision to buy the train ticket. The sanitary facilities were really thoroughly cleaned and my seat was extremely comfortable. What's more, the price was cheap. The staff were super nice and very knowledgeable. The wifi was fine by train standards. In the end, I can only give a recommendation and award 5 stars.
Advantages
I had a great viewDisadvantages
10 minutes lateI thought it was great that the view of the countryside from my seat was so beautiful. I didn't mind the slight delay of about 10 minutes. I really appreciated the cleanliness of the train. The journey was cheaper than travelling by car.
Advantages
PersonnelEverything ran smoothly! The train was on time to the second. When I booked the ticket via the website, I was able to pay without any problems. I was very pleased that both the train and the sanitary facilities were very clean and hygienic. The staff were helpful and very polite at all times. Overall, a highly recommended trip, which I give 5 stars.
Advantages
PunctualityDisadvantages
noneThe journey was simply fantastic. The train left on time and arrived in Palermo on time. I was very pleased that the sanitary facilities were very hygienic and clean. The price I paid online for the ticket was fair, but not exactly cheap. All in all, a very nice and relaxing trip that I can highly recommend.
Advantages
climatisedpunctualDisadvantages
.The train journey was perfect. The temperature on the train was very pleasant. The train was also very punctual and the staff were super polite and helpful. The price I paid online for the ticket was fair and definitely cheaper than travelling by car. The sanitary facilities were kept clean and hygienic. Overall, the train service is highly recommended. 5 stars.
Advantages
CleanlinessDisadvantages
"The staff were always polite and very helpful. I was very pleased with the punctuality of my train. Cleanliness was paramount and proper comfort was provided without fault. The train journey took around four hours. Highly recommended. I did not have to change trains. I had train number 5519.
Advantages
Very punctualPersonnelDisadvantages
HygieneWIFII was able to gather both positive and negative impressions on the journey. The negatives include the poor hygiene and the fact that the wifi and reception were not particularly stable. The positives include the punctuality, the very comfortable and large benches and the staff. I counted 2 employees at the station in Catania and both seemed very friendly and nice.
Advantages
Very cleanDisadvantages
unpunctualUnfortunately, my train wasn't quite on time this time and I had to wait at the station for 12 minutes to be precise. However, the staff immediately made me aware of the time change. The toilets were very clean and I didn't notice any dirt or other debris left behind by previous passengers. The wifi was excellent and I felt very comfortable.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Catania to Palermo
ItalyItaly
Trains from Catania to Palermo run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £15 but you can travel from only £11 by coach.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:53, the last at 18:34. The fastest train covers the 166 km distance in 2h 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
Coach from £11
Distance 166 km |
Average train duration 3h 17m |
Cheapest ticket price £15 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 2h 57m |
First train 0:53 |
Last train 18:34 |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 91 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
Coach from £11
Train companies: Regionale, Intercity, Sais Regional from Catania to Palermo trainsRegionale, Intercity, Sais Regional trains will get you between Catania and Palermo from £11. 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 Duration
2h 57m
Cheapest Price
£15
Regionale frequency
7 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 Duration
5h 45m
Cheapest Price
£32
Intercity frequency
1 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
Sais Regional
About
Sais Regional is a bus company operating primarily in Italy, particularly in Sicily. It is part of the larger SAIS Autolinee group, a historical company that has been a leader in local public transport in Sicily since 1926 and also provides interregional connections. Sais Regional offers routes connecting major Sicilian cities like Catania, Palermo, and Messina, as well as services to Catania Fontanarossa Airport. The company emphasizes safety, quality, and eco-compatibility with a continuously renewed fleet of modern buses. They aim to provide comfortable and reliable travel experiences, with some services offering amenities like free Wi-Fi and flexible booking options.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 27m
Cheapest Price
£13
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 10kg and one checked bag up to 20kg.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. No refunds for cancellations within 24 hours.
Amenities on board the train
Seat reservation
Toilets
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Designated seating areas.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
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.
FAQs: Catania to Palermo train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Catania 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 Catania to Palermo can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £15, while the average price tends to be around £19.
The train journey from Catania to Palermo covers a distance of 166 km and takes approximately 2h 57m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Catania to Palermo is 166 km.
The first train from Catania to Palermo leaves at 0:53.
The last train from Catania to Palermo departs at 18:34.
Trains from Catania to Palermo run approximately 8 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Catania to Palermo.
Yes, there is a direct train between Catania and Palermo. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by Regionale, Sais Regional.
To get from Catania to Palermo, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach, flight and ferry.
There is no night train service from Catania to Palermo.
The train station in Catania that goes to Palermo is Catania Centrale, and it arrives at Palermo Centrale.
The cheapest way to get from Catania to Palermo is by coach, costing approximately £11.
Booking trains from Catania 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 Catania to Palermo offers a scenic experience, featuring picturesque views of the Sicilian countryside, rolling hills, and glimpses of the Mediterranean Sea along certain stretches.
A day trip from Catania to Palermo is not feasible, as the journey takes 2h 57m in each direction. There are 9 trains per day covering the distance of 166 km.
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 Catania to Palermo.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Catania and Palermo
Most Catania to Palermo trains use the Catania Centrale to Palermo Centrale station pair. Use this guide to compare Catania and Palermo train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Catania
Arrival train stations in Palermo
Which Catania station do trains to Palermo leave from?
Trains from Catania to Palermo leave from Catania Centrale. The station is 1 km from Catania city centre at Piazza Papa Giovanni XXIII, 95129 Catania CT, Italy.
Catania, Aeroporto di Catania-Fontanarossa (Capolinea Sais)95121 Catania, Metropolitan city of Catania, Italy
City-centre transport
Getting to Catania, Aeroporto di Catania-Fontanarossa (Capolinea Sais) from Catania city centre
Catania, Aeroporto di Catania-Fontanarossa (Capolinea Sais) is 3 km from Catania city centre. Check local transport options before travel.
Catania, Aeroporto di Catania-Fontanarossa (Capolinea Sais) train station facilities and services
Catania, Aeroporto di Catania-Fontanarossa (Capolinea Sais) has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Catania, Aeroporto di Catania-Fontanarossa (Capolinea Sais).
Most popular train connections from Catania
More options for your journey from Catania to Palermo
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Palermo and Catania
Most popular train connections to Palermo
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