From the Airport: The easiest way to reach Palermo is by bus. Buses run every 30 minutes, with a fare of approximately €7. In Palermo, the Prestia Comandé airport buses depart from the square in front of the main train station and stop at Politeama. For buses heading to the airport, look for the sign at the corner of Via Libertà across from Prada. As of July 2012, buses leave Politeama from 4:15 AM to 11:15 PM. You can contact the bus company at 091 586 351, but note that their website may not have English text available. The average travel time is about 40 minutes, though delays are common.
Trains (the “Trinacria Express”) also connect Palermo airport to the main railway station, departing roughly every hour. However, travel times can be lengthy, sometimes exceeding 60 minutes, with tickets costing €6. Avoid taxis, as fares can be exorbitant, usually starting at around €50 to enter the city, and fares increase after 8 PM. If you must take a taxi, ensure you negotiate the fare with the driver before getting in, not during or after the ride.
Intercity Buses: Most buses traveling from other regions in Sicily, such as Catania, Siracusa, and Trapani, arrive at and depart from Piazza Cairoli. You can reach this area via a walkway that starts in the main train station, near the post office and Track 1 platform. Keep in mind that pedestrians must enter the station to access this walkway.
In the City: A ticket for the orange buses operated by AMAT costs €1.30 and is available from tobacco shops, select bars, newsstands, or the AMAT kiosk on Via Libertà near Politeama. This ticket is valid for 90 minutes, and you must validate it by stamping it at one of the machines near the bus entrance when you board your first bus. Please note, failing to do so can result in a fine of €52. Here’s a brief overview of some local bus routes (by number):
• Monreale via Corso Calatafimi from Piazza Indipendenza and return – 389;
• Mondello taking Via Libertà from Politeama and return – 806;
• Main Train Station via Via Libertà with return along Via Roma – 101;
• Piazza Indipendenza to Porta Felice near the Sea along Via Vittorio Emanuele and return – Linea Verde (L/V) or Green Line;
• Piazza Indipendenza (Norman Palace) to Politeama area and the English Garden – 104.
For more information, including maps and bus routes, visit the AMAT website.
Sightseeing: City Sightseeing operates double-decker tour buses that cover two routes in the historic part of the city, as well as occasional trips to hilltop Monreale. A one-day ticket allows you to hop on and off at any designated stop. Check their website for additional details, rates, and a PDF brochure. While this service is not a substitute for a licensed tour guide, it offers convenience for independent exploration on foot.
It is also crucial to know what sightseeing options to avoid. Taxis can be pricey, so always confirm the fare with the driver before getting in. Horse-drawn carriages are notoriously expensive, so clarify the cost of your journey before boarding as well. The three-wheeled vehicles, often operated by younger drivers, are not recommended! If you choose to use this transportation, it’s best to select a driver who appears to be older (over 40) for safety.
Automobile Rental: Rental agencies are available on the lower level of the airport. Be aware that navigating the chaotic streets of Palermo can be quite challenging.
Ships, Ferries, Hydrofoils: Tirrenia is the main operator servicing Sicily with daily departures to Lipari, Naples, Genoa, Tunis, and Sardinia. Snav offers faster ships and seasonal hydrofoil service. You may also consider Siremar. For travel to Malta, refer to Virtu Ferries.
Trains: The national railway, Trenitalia, provides train service to Palermo from various other cities.
