Palermo Ferries, Port Information & Travel Guides | spaceship (2023)

Palermo is the capital of Sicily and faces the Tyrrhenian Sea to the north. At Ferryhopper you can see and book the available ferry connections to/from the port of Palermo, as well as our travel tips for your vacationferry ticketsswindlerjust a few clicks!

Read our proposals for your dream vacation in Palermo and find outUseful informationto your port:

• Palermo ferry port
• holidays in Palermo

A nice little balcony in the center of Palermo

Palermo ferry port

The port of Palermo is thelargest in Sicilyand thanks to its location one of the most important in the Mediterranean. Located close to the city center, since Phoenician times it has been vital for trade.

Today the port of Palermo is connected to several national portsairportsin Sardinia, Lazio, Campania, Tuscany and Liguria. It is also a starting point to reach other places in Sicily and Tunisia.

The port area offers several services such as:Parking lots, shuttle buses, restaurants, shops and luggage storage. Its proximity to the city center allows you to visit some of Palermo's main attractions.

You can easily reach the Duomo, the Norman Palace and the characteristic markets of Vucciria and Ballaròby busand on foot!

Useful information: one32kmfrom Palermo is the port of Termini Imerese. This port is primarily a commercial port, but is also used for ferry connections with Naples and Civitavecchia.

Ferries from the port of Palermo: timetables and tickets

The port of Palermo is connected to some cities in Italy (Civitavecchia, Cagliari, Livorno, Naples, Genoa and Salerno) and Tunisia all year round. In summer it also connects to the beautiful Sicilian port of MilazzoAeolian Islandsand Ustica.

Ferries are operated by shipping companies.GNV (Grandi Navi Veloci),Grimaldi lines, Siremar,Tirreniaand Liberty Lines, both with ferries and hydrofoils.

Here is more information about the routes from Palermo to ports in Italy:

• Fahre Palermo - Civitavecchia: includes the ferry route from Palermo to Civitavecchia1 weekly connection(Sundays) with an approximate duration of13 hours.
• Ferry Palermo - Cagliari: the crossroadsFrom Palermo to Cagliariruns normallyweekly(usually on Sundays) lasting approx.12 hours.
• Ferry Palermo - Livorno: The Palermo - Livorno ferry line operates with3 sailings per week, which lasts between19j21 hours, depending on the type of boat.
• Ferry Palermo - Naples: Heuup to 4 daily crossings from Palermo to Naples. There are day and night crossings. The journey lasts between9j11 hours, depending on the ferry company.
• Palermo - Genoa Ferry: The route from Palermo to the port of Genoa includes1 daily connectionwith crosses of approx.20 hours.
• Ferry Palermo - Salerno: The route from Palermo to the port of Salerno usually includes2 weekly connections. The ferry route takes approx.9A11 hours.
• Fahre Palermo - Milazzo: the Palermo - Milazzo connection is aseasonal routesummer operation. The route operates once a day from mid-June to the end of August and sailings last approx.5 hours.

In summer there are also ferry services connecting the port of Palermo with the Aeolian Islands and Usticafreedom lineshydrofoils.

The Aeolian Archipelago lies off the coast of Messina and consists of7 islandsvulkanischen Ursprungs: Alicudi, Filicudi, Lipari, Panarea, Salina, Stromboli and Vulcano.

ferry connections operateonce a day,with shortly before the planned departure from Palermo14:00. The same hydrofoil goes around the archipelago, stopping at the various ports and crossings can take a long time2A5 hours.

As for connections from Palermo to the island of Ustica, they generally existup to 5 daily crossings. Ferry services increase in August. The crossing Palermo - Ustica takes about1 hour.

As far as ferry connections toTunisia, the Palermo - Tunis connection is operatedTwice a weekwith CNG and Grimaldi Lines ferries. The crosses remain round11 hourss, depending on the ferry company.

check out ourferry mapwith all connections available from the port of Palermo and start planning your vacation now!

Where is the ferry port in Palermo?

The port of Palermo is close to the city center (Piazza Pretoria) and is easily accessible by public transport. Besides, it's just25kmfrom Punta Raisi airport and just one14 minutes by carfrom the central station.

There is a guarded car park at the port of Palermo near Varco Amari. The area guarantees a stopover of around 150 cars and a free shuttle service that connects to the pier.

How to get to the port of Palermo

You can reach the port of Palermo by car, train, plane or bus. Palermo Central Station is just4kmaway from the port. In about 10 minutes you can reach the port thanks to a direct connectionBusundergoing from Piazza Cairoli.

if you come by carmessinaÖCatania, you should take the A19 motorway. Getting to Palermo fromdisturbedGetting around is easy if you take the exit at the intersection of via Belgio which leads to the harbor entrance.

Palermo Airport is approx.25kmfrom the port, however there are no direct buses. You will then need to take the metro or bus to Central Station and then continue by bus or taxi.

Advice: If you intend to arrive at the port by car and park it in the area, the best solution is theSanta Lucia-PierParking space. It is located in the port area and has 24-hour surveillance.

View of the port of Palermo from the edge of the Foro Italico

holidays in Palermo

Palermo represents a meeting point of ancient civilizations and acrucibleof cultures, arts and traditions. It is undoubtedly one of the most visited cities and the capital of Sicily.

It has all the elements for a perfect holiday destination: history of millinery, art, nature, leisure and entertainment, but what makes Palermo unique is its authenticity anddiversity.

Palermo is also synonymous with art and a stroll through the city's streets will tell you why. Among palaces, churches and historic buildings, you can see a wide variety ofarchitectural styles.

A fascinating mix ofbyzantine mosaicsand arabesque domes will follow you at every step. If you are looking for deep dives in crystalline waters, you will appreciate the beautiful beaches on the coast.

However, if you prefer nature walks, thenmount pilgrimand its trails will certainly not disappoint you!

And how can we not mention the gastronomic tradition of the city? Palermo's street food is one of the most famous in the world! Are you ready to dip your fingers in tomato sauce?

Advice: Palermo is a city with many sights that are worth at least one visit4-5 taketo soak up the atmosphere of the city and explore the surrounding area.

How to get to Palermo

Palermo is a city well connected with the rest of Italy and easily accessibleAuto, train, plane etc.Transport.

If you are already in Sicily you can do thisleadto Palermo via the various highways that connect the city to the main centers of the region. There are also several regional bus services, but the journey may take longer than expected due to delays.

Palermo is connected by sea to several cities in the north and south of Italy all year round. Crossings can take a long time. However, on the wayTransportallows you to hop in your vehicle and take it on an adventurous journey.

You can alsoBring your pet with youand enjoy the comfort of cabins specially designed for pets, while enjoying the magnificent views from the deck as if you were on amini cruise.

If there is no direct path, you can always go ahead.Zug,including a ferry crossing the Straits of Messina.

Note, however, that the journey can also be long, as there are several stops along the way from Messina to Palermo.

Alternatively, you can also reach Palermolevel. Direct flights to Palermo depart from several cities in Italy and Europe. The city's airport is approx.25kmfrom the center and is connected to Central Station by the Trinacria-Express metro service and a shuttle bus.

Magnificent buildings in the center of Palermo

what to do in palermo

Palermo has been the crossroads of civilizations for thousands of years. Its strategic position brought wave after wave of invaders, including Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Greeks and Romans.

was declared aUNESCO World Heritagesince 2015 and its artistic beauties and its rich gastronomy will certainly convince you! Once you arrive in Palermo, the first thing to do is visit the historic center. Here you can admire Arab-Norman buildings, opulent chapels, palaces and baroque churches.

Among the unmissable attractions you cannot miss are thecolorful marketsfrom Ballarò, Capo and Vucciria, open every day with intense flavors and spicy aromas. Arancine, Panelle and Sfincioni will conquer your palate!

Palermo is also full of beautiful museums and famous for itstheater. However, Sicilian art knows no limits with impressive squares, botanical gardens, nature reserves and landscapes offering tranquility and breathtaking views.

And alone11kmFrom the city center you have the possibility to reach theMondello-Strand, one of the most beautiful coasts in Italy. We also recommend visiting the surroundings of Palermo and discovering the towns of Cefalù, Monreale and Bagheria.

If you want to visit Palermo in summer you should also use the ferry connections to PalermoAeolian Islandsjustica. Do not think about it! Once in Palermo, just hop on a ferry and take one of the daily crossings to the Aeolian Islands!

Palermo beaches

In addition to admiring the architectural beauties of Palermo, you can also relax in theparadise beachesClose to the city of Palermo.

The coast of Palermo is approx.150kmlong and offers many opportunities for all tastes: sandbanks, cliffs, virgin coves and equipped beaches.

Here they are10 best beachesin Palermo and its province:

• Mondello: 11 km from the city center and nestled between Monte Gallo and Monte Pellegrino, this long stretch of white sand beach is the most popular in Palermo. Here you can swim in emerald waters, relax while enjoying the bathing facilities and practice water sports!
• cefalu: This urban beach, overlooking the promenade of the city of Cefalù, is one of the most beautiful and famous. In addition to the golden sand and its transparent waters, it is possible to enjoy the view of the city's houses. We recommend arriving early in the morning as it can get very crowded in the summer.
• top rooster: Located to the north of the Gulf of Mondello, it is mainly formed by a series of smooth rocks, perfect for sunbathing. It forms part of a nature reserve and nestles in an unspoilt landscape. Its greenish water is ideal for diving.
• Able: Located about 20 km from Palermo, this beach is characterized by a long stretch of golden sand. Its waters, always calm, transparent and shallow, are ideal for children.
• acidification: About 30 minutes from Palermo, it is a picturesque place dominated by Monte Catalfano. Accessible by road, it is a perfect beach for those looking for peace and relaxation (although it does not have services). It has fine sand and wonderful bottoms that make it ideal for diving.
• horseshoe: Located at the foot of Monte Gallo, this beach is close to the seaside town. The coast alternates with equipped parts and free beach areas. Don't miss the famous seaside seafood restaurants!
• Addaura: more than a beach, it is a succession of coves that lead to the territory of the fishing village of Addaura. Ideal for lovers of cliffs and nature, this place is perfect for relaxing and diving. Here are also the famous Addaura Caves with important evidence of the Paleolithic Era.
• Arena: Located 5 km from the center of Palermo, in the area of ​​Maria Vergine, it is one of the most popular beaches in the city. The beach is characterized by golden sand and turquoise water. Here you can also admire an oldTonnaraand visit 2 tourist ports in the area equipped with services, bars and restaurants.
• Chicken: Located on the coast of the municipality of Lascari, this beach is mostly frequented by locals. It consists of fine gravel and deep blue waters and is a perfect place for those looking for tranquility. The beach can be reached on foot along a gravel path.
• Cala Rossa: This cove is one of the most suggestive on the coast of Palermo and is located in the municipality of Terrasini, not far from Palermo airport. Its peculiarity is the red rocks that emerge from the crystalline sea, creating a unique spectacle in the world. The beach is a short drive away, but you'll find parking and several hotel facilities in the area.

Useful information: Liguria is one of thefriendly dogRegions of Italy! For those who like to travel with their dog, many free or equipped beaches accept animals. You can also find out where you can go on holiday with your 4-legged friend on the region's website.

The turquoise waters of Mondello beach in Palermo

palermo tourism

Palermo has a thousand-year history and the different rulers over the centuries have created a unique architectural heritage. It is a fascinating city with picturesque winding streets and cobbled streets, ancient churches and stately palaces dominating its beautiful squares.

among mostbeautiful attractionsTo discover Palermo we recommend:

• ANDnorman palace, the oldest royal residence in Europe
• ANDPalermo Cathedral, a mixture of architectural forms and styles
• ANDKirche San Juan de los Eremitas, with deep red domes and beautiful gardens
• ANDMartorana-Kirche, famous for its magnificent mosaics
• the fantasticPretoria-Brunnen, also known as "Fountain of Shame"
• the markets ofI will dance,KapodasterjVucciria, with fresh produce and street food stalls
• the four songsa crossroads of Vittorio Emanuele and Maqueda, the 2 main streets of Palermo
• ANDMaximus-Theater, the largest opera house in Italy and the third largest in Europe
• ANDRegional Archaeological Museum, which houses one of the richest collections in Italy
• ANDRegional Art Museum of Sicily, with an important collection of paintings and statues
• ANDKalsa District, one of the oldest in the city
• Gangi-Palast, known as the setting for the film The Leopard by Luchino Visconti
• ANDitalian forum, the public garden of Palermo and its promenade
• ANDBotanical Gardenfrom Palermo with its huge ficus
• ANDCapuchin catacombs, with 8,000 well-preserved mummies, many of them on display

The imposing Cathedral of Palermo

Nightlife in Palermo

Palermo is a city that offers night entertainment all year round. Hehistoric centerIt is full of clubs, wine bars and pubs for all tastes. For a quieter and more cultural night, you can also opt for the shows andconcertosin the beautiful theaters of the city.

If you are looking for lively nightlife and wild nights,via paternosterIt is the perfect place as it is also a meeting point for many students. In addition, Piazza Caracciolo, opposite the Vucciria market, is one of the most characteristic places to spend a pleasant evening.

Kiosks full of delicacies will inspire you for the perfect midnight snack! Especially in summer it is the most popular area of ​​PalermoMondello. Its beach clubs are very popular with music, drinks and snacks.

Advice: Brewing beer is a true tradition throughout Liguria! Craft beers to try in Palermo includeartanait's atmaltus faber.

Dinner in Palermo

Sicilian cuisine is one of the most popular in Italy and the capital of Sicily has an excellent gastronomic tradition. Simplicity and centuries-old traditions are truly found in all of Palermo's dishes, which have been influenced by many different cultures.

Between steakhouses, fresh fish specialties and desserts in Palermo, keeping to your diet is not easy!

Here are some of the mostdelicious local delicaciesto try during your stay in Palermo:

• rice balls(fried rice balls stuffed with ragu and mozzarella)
• bread and brown sugar(small donuts made from chickpea flour, pepper and lemon)
• Sphinx(thick and fluffy Sicilian pizza topped with mozzarella cheese, meat, onions and peppers)
• Bread with spleen and cheese
• Grateful(chickpea flour, potato and onion croquettes)
• estiola(grilled salted tripe with parsley and onion)
• cazillas(sweet potato croquettes as sauce)
• canciova dough(salted anchovies, tomatoes, raisins, pine nuts and breadcrumbs)
• Anelletti Al Forno(Baked macaroni)
• cannoli(Cane cake stuffed with sweet and creamy ricotta)
• cassata(traditional round cake moistened with fruit juices and ricotta)
• marzipan fruit(traditional marzipan sweets in the form of fruit and vegetables)

Good to know: Arancina Day is celebrated on December 13 of each year with a local consumption of more than 2 millionRice balls!

A delicious arancina with meat sauce

Cities to visit near Palermo

The area around the city of Palermo is home to beautiful towns that are well worth a visit after exploring the city far and wide.

Among the unmissable beauties of the province of Palermo are:

• The city ofBaghería, with its historic villas, its citrus groves and its dreamy bays.
• The fishing village ofcefalu, with its postcard tour.
• The Arab-Norman people ofMonreale, famous for its magnificent cathedral.
• The city is enthronedPfarrer, also called "City of the Sun" because here the sunset occurs later than in neighboring communities due to its location in the hills.
• the city ofsan mauro castelverde, with 10 vertical sundials.
• the village ofBorgo Parrini, with very particular houses whose artistic style is reminiscent of Gaudí's buildings.

Tips for Palermo

Are here5 useful tipsthat we hope will be useful to you during your stay in Palermo:

1. If you decide to visit Palermo in high season, be aware that you will find it very busy.high temperatures. Especially with regard to cultural visits, it is advisable to do them in the cooler hours.
2. SicilyIt's pretty big, so unless you have at least 10-15 days, it might be a challenge to visit everything. If you are in Palermo for a few days, it's better to see the beauty of the city and its surroundings!
3. When buying thePalermo-Karte, you can access and still have several services during your stayspecial discountsin some stores and restaurants!
4. If you decide to get to Palermo by car, keep this in mindparking spaceIn the city it can be a challenge. Therefore, we advise you to choose accommodation that has private parking.
5. Fortrue culinary experienceIn between the city's markets, you might consider joining one of the many street food tours organized in the historic center of Palermo.

Part of the Ballarò market in Palermo

Useful information for Palermo

Palermo is a modern, cosmopolitan city that offers visitors many things to see and do. Most of the restaurants and shops are located in the historic city center and the old port.

Talk aboutAccommodationPrices are not that high. However, it is advisable to book well in advance, especially if you are traveling in high season. There is a wide variety of options, from hotels, B&Bs and apartments to hostels.

Have everything at hand and be closeseveral attractions, you should focus on the historic center. In particular, the areas of Piazza Politeama and theMaximus-TheaterThey are very convenient to reach monuments, pubs, restaurants, shops and markets.VucciriajI will danceand

Another recommended area isKalsa District, close to the coast and with a lively atmosphere. If you prefer to spend your holidays by the sea, you should look for accommodation close to well-known tourist centersMondellojcefalu.

as ahealth care, both in the city and throughout the province, there are differenthospitalsand emergency medical service. There is also one in the summermedical service for touristsin Mondello from June to September.

to a small townShopping, you should know that the historic center of Palermo is full of stalls and shops of all kinds. Between Via Roma and Via Maqueda you will find many options alongthrough freedom, the most modern boutiques.

If you are looking for souvenirs and typical products,Corso Vittorio Emanueleand the city's markets will leave you fully satisfied. Be sure to visit themFlea Market, since the post-war period a reference for those looking for rarities and unique pieces.

Palermo is also famous for its many events throughout the year:art exhibitions, concerts, plays and local festivals fill the city's calendar. Facts to be reported include theSpring Festival, which usually takes place in April. Between markets, tastings, colors and sports, it has all the ingredients to welcome summer!

Important telephone numbers for your stay in Palermo

Here are some useful contacts to have on hand during your trip to Palermo:

• Municipality of Palermo: +390917401111
• Palermo Police Station: +390916954111
• Tourist Information Center: +39091583847
• Palermo Port Authority: +390916277111
• Taxi service: +39091513311
• Palermo Municipal Hospital: +390916661111
• Mondello Tourist Medical Service: +390916841264
• European emergency number: 112

Transport in Palermo

Palermo offers a wide range of public transport options to visit it at its best and move around the area. If you live in the historic center. However, you can easily circumnavigate Palermo on foot, avoiding the capital's traffic.

In Palermo, however, there are4 tram linesand 3 subway lines (lines A, B and C). Thanks to the latter, you can also reach theFalcone Borsellino Airportwith active service from 04:00 am to 22:00.

as aBusse, AMAT lines cover all areas of the city and surroundings. However, due to heavy traffic, they don't always arrive on time. For extra-urban trips, you can rely on AST to reach Monreale, neighboring towns or elsewhere in Sicily.

However, if you arrive by car, remember that parking in Palermo can be tricky, especially in the central areas. In addition to the active ZTL and the presence of numerous blue stripes, Palermo is also a bustling city.

The easiest way to park your car in Palermo is to leave it where it is.private parking(the prices are very affordable) or stay in an accommodation that offers parking.

Useful information: For people with disabilities, the Sicilian association Medullolesi Spinali aTransport servicefor tourist visits to Palermo and its province. There are also transfers to the beaches, port and airport!

Traditional Sicilian carriage through the streets of Palermo

Where to book ferry tickets from Palermo online

At Ferryhopper you will find all connections from Palermo to beautiful destinations and important ports inItalyjTunisia. Compare prices, companies, departure times and book your ferry tickets online atno additional costs!

1. Civitavecchia
2. knees
3. Leghorn
4. Naples
5. Salerno