Ferries Palermo

Ferry companies serving Palermo offer special discounts for several passenger categories, including families, Sicilian residents and natives.

Discounts for Sicilian residents and natives

If you are a resident or native of Sicily, you can take advantage of discounted fares on ferries connecting the island to the mainland. These discounts also extend to spouses, domestic partners and dependent children.

To benefit from this offer, you must present valid documentation proving your eligibility at the time of boarding.

Discounted fares for vehicles

Residents and natives of Sicily can also enjoy reduced rates for vehicles, including cars, motorcycles and campers. This makes bringing a vehicle on ferries to Palermo much more affordable.

Discounts for children and seniors

Ferry companies offer special rates for children and seniors:

• Children up to 3 years old travel for free
• Children 3 to 12 years old receive a 50% discount on ferry tickets
• Some ferry companies also provide senior discounts, though not all routes apply these reductions

Booking your ferry tickets from/to Palermo in advance is highly recommended, especially during the summer and holiday seasons, when demand is high and seats can sell out quickly.

To secure better fares and a wider choice of schedules, it is best to book at least 2-3 months before departure. Even in low season, early booking is advisable, particularly for routes to the Aeolian Islands or Ustica.

For a hassle-free journey, booking both outbound and return trips with the same ferry company can help avoid unexpected issues. It’s generally not recommended to buy tickets directly at the port, as availability may be limited, queues can be long and last-minute prices may be higher.

Palermo captivates visitors with its rich culture, history and gastronomy. With a history spanning thousands of years and a unique blend of Arab, Norman and Baroque influences, Palermo offers an authentic and unforgettable experience.

The historic center, one of the largest in Europe, is the city's vibrant heart. Here you can admire stunning landmarks such as the Norman Palace and the Palatine Chapel, the Palermo Cathedral and the striking Chiesa della Martorana. Don't miss the historic markets of Ballarò, Vucciria and Capo, to experience Palermo’s vibrant street food culture.

For nature lovers, Palermo boasts Monte Pellegrino and the Capo Gallo Reserve, perfect for hiking and breathtaking views. If you're longing for a relaxing seaside escape, Mondello beach, with its white sand and crystal clear waters, is just a few kilometers from the city center!

Palermo is a lively city, perfect to visit year-round, offering a colorful mix of traditions, flavors and history. Plan your trip and learn more about this stunning city on our dedicated Palermo page.

The historic Norman Palace in Palermo, Sicily

Want to make the most of your trip? Here are 10 practical tips for a unique experience:

1. Visit the Aeolian Islands by ferry: especially in summer, Palermo offers frequent ferry connections to the Aeolian Islands, making island-hopping easy.
2. Book a cabin for longer routes: if you’re traveling to Palermo from Cagliari, Civitavecchia, Livorno, or Genoa, booking a cabin ensures a comfortable rest, as crossings are quite long.
3. Explore the historic markets in the morning: visit Ballarò, Vucciria or Capo early to experience the authentic atmosphere and enjoy freshly prepared Sicilian street food.
4. Pre-book guided tours for major attractions: attractions such as the Norman Palace and the Palatine Chapel can get crowded, so booking in advance saves time.
5. Stay in the historic center: areas like Kalsa or near Teatro Massimo offer easy access to the city’s top attractions and a vibrant nightlife.
6. Try local specialties: besides arancine (fried rice balls), don’t miss pani câ meusa (spleen sandwich) and Sicilian cannoli from renowned pastry shops.
7. Visit Mondello beach on weekdays: weekends can be crowded, so go midweek for a quieter, more enjoyable beach experience.
8. Hike Monte Pellegrino: climb to the Santuario di Santa Rosalia for a spectacular view over the city and the sea.
9. Use public transport or walk: traffic in Palermo can be heavy, but buses and trams make it convenient to get around.
10. Travel in spring or autumn: these seasons offer a pleasant climate, fewer crowds and better prices compared to summer.

Ferries to Palermo offer a variety of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable crossing. 

Passengers can choose from different accommodation options, including deck seating and private cabins. If you’re bringing a car, motorcycle, camper, or bicycle, ferries have spacious garages. It’s always recommended to check for possible vehicle restrictions, especially for routes to smaller islands.

For passengers with reduced mobility, ferries provide accessible cabins and personalized assistance both on board and during boarding.

Overnight crossings are a smart choice for those wanting to save time and arrive refreshed in Palermo. Ferries provide a complete range of services, making your journey relaxing and stress-free.

The port of Palermo is the largest in Sicily and one of the most important in the Mediterranean. You can reach the port:

By car:

• From Messina/Catania (A19) - take the Porto exit
• From Trapani (A29) - exit at Via Belgio and follow the signs
• Parking is available at Molo Santa Lucia.

By train:

• The port is 10 min by taxi from Palermo’s central station.

By plane:

• From Falcone-Borsellino Airport (25 km away), take a taxi (40 min) or a bus to Piazza Ruggero Settimo, which is just a 10-min walk from the port.

Palermo’s port is a bustling hub with national and international ferry connections, including routes to Naples, Genoa, Civitavecchia, Tunis, and the Aeolian Islands.

Nearby, you’ll find restaurants, shops, parking, and luggage storage, while the city’s major landmarks, such as Palermo Cathedral, Norman Palace and the historic markets, are just minutes away.

More than just a transit point, Palermo’s port is a gateway to Sicily’s rich history and culture, making it the perfect starting point for your journey.

Ferry route map

Below, you can see all active ferry connections to Palermo, as well as starting prices for each route. Use our interactive Map of ferries to visualize your trip and easily plan an island-hopping adventure.