Before touching down in the Sicilian capital, you’ll need to start thinking about how you’re going to get from Palermo Airport to Palermo Centrale. You’ll be happy to know there are a couple of modes of transport to choose from. The most suitable option for you will depend on your travel style and budget.
Over the years, I’ve used almost every transport method connecting the airport to the city center. As a result, I’ve gathered all the must-know information to make your journey between the two as straightforward and seamless as possible.
Read on to get the low down on the best ways to get from Palermo Airport to Palermo Centrale!
The Different Transport Methods
Palermo Airport is well-connected to Palermo Centrale, the city’s primary train station. Plenty of taxis and private transfer companies service the airport, but it’s also linked to the city center by train and bus. Each transport option has several pros and cons, and I’ll run through everything you need to know about each in detail below.
Reaching Palermo Centrale by Bus
One of the most popular ways to get to Palermo Centrale is by bus, operated by a local company called Prestia e Comandè.
It’s also among the most cost-efficient options, with a one-way bus ticket costing €6.50 and a round-trip coming in at €11. If you choose to purchase your ticket online in advance, the price drops to €6 and €10, respectively. Alternatively, you can pay for your ticket at the booth in the Palermo Airport arrivals area or as you board the bus.
When you go outside the airport, make a right, and you’ll spot the bus stop for Prestia e Comandè. Once you arrive in Palermo city center, the bus will stop outside Palermo Central train station. It also makes several stops at other popular spots near the waterfront and the Old Town, so I recommend asking your driver as you board which stop is most convenient for your specific destination.
The exact journey time can vary depending on the traffic, but it typically takes around 50 minutes to get to Palermo Centrale, in my experience. On average, buses depart every 30 minutes, with the first service starting at 5:05 am and the last bus leaving at 1:05 am.
Reaching Palermo Centrale by Train
Buses aren’t the only form of public transport linking Palermo Airport with Palermo Centrale, as Trenitalia also operates train services between the two.
With this option, a ticket will set you back around €6.80. You’ll have the choice between booking your ticket online or using one of the vending machines at the airport train station.
Finding the train station, formerly known as Punta Raisi, at Palermo Airport is super simple. After you’ve collected your luggage and exited the baggage hall, watch for the overhead signage guiding you to the underground platforms. This train travels to Palermo Centrale, but select departures stop at numerous stops along the way, some of which may be closer to your accommodation.
Between 5:18 am and 22:40 am, trains generally leave approximately every 30 minutes and take over an hour to reach Palermo Centrale. However, I’ve noticed services can be reduced on weekends and holidays, so your waiting times may be longer depending on when you arrive at Palermo Airport.
Reaching Palermo Centrale by Taxi
If you’re exhausted and want to get into the city center as soon as possible, you should take a taxi from one of the ranks or a company that operates there, like Transfer Airport Palermo.
Because taxis in Sicily are metered, your fare will be based on the distance traveled and the time it took rather than a set fee. In most cases, a cab to Palermo Centrale from Palermo Airport will cost at least €35, but it will depend on what route your driver ends up taking.
The airport’s official taxi rank is situated directly outside the airport, so you won’t be able to miss it. If it’s particularly busy, you might face a short wait, but I’ve rarely had to queue up to secure a taxi here. One of the benefits of taking a cab is that your driver can drop you off at the place you’re staying in Palermo Centrale, so you won’t have to walk around with your bag.
Another advantage of choosing a taxi is that you’ll find one at any time of the day, whether it’s 3 pm or 3 am.
Reaching Palermo Centrale by Private Transfer
The final way you can go to Palermo Central Station from Palermo Airport is by private transfer, either with a local company or a hotel-run service.
Although prices vary greatly between providers, companies tend to offer set, pre-agreed fares. This means you’ll know exactly how much the trip will cost in advance. Depending on which transfer group you choose, it will likely be similar to a taxi in terms of cost. This fare will either be paid ahead of time or in cash on the day.
Most companies will pick you up directly outside the airport, and any time I’ve gone for this option, the driver waited for me in the terminal building. Much like a taxi, a private transfer will take you to exactly where you need to be, whether at Palermo Centrale or a different destination.
If you book a private transfer, they can take you from Palermo airport to Palermo’s train station in around 30 minutes, depending on the traffic, and most companies offer their services at any hour.
Travel to Palermo Centrale From Palermo Airport With Ease With This Detailed Travel Guide!
Although figuring out how to get from Palermo Airport to Palermo Centrale can be unnerving if you’ve never been to the airport before, you have plenty of options to pick from.
By opting for public transport, you’ll avail of affordable fares, while taxis and private transfers can offer you a more direct, personalized experience.
Plan an unforgettable trip to Palermo!
Are you planning your next trip to the beautiful trip to Palermo and want to make the most of it in only a couple of days? No worries, I’ve got you covered!
Read my free guide on the best things to do in Palermo in two days.
Do you have some time to make some trips out of town but you don’t know where to go?
Here’s my personal list of the 7 best day trips from Palermo.
Happy travel,
Marco