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Palermo to Catania from $12: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Palermo, Italy
to
Catania, Italy

How to Get from Palermo to Catania: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$12 RideshareBest price
169.4 kmDistance
2h 22m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Palermo to Catania with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
SAIS Autolinee
Bus
Average Duration
2h  41m
Estimated price
$13-30
Recommended
Company
various
Rideshare
Average Duration
2h  48m
Estimated price
$12-12
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 169.4 km
Duration: 2h 22m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Trenitalia
Train
Average Duration
5h  16m
Estimated price
$24-46
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  22m
Estimated price
$35-60

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $13 $13 $13 $13 $13 $13 $13
Ferry $57 $57 $57 $57 $57 $57 $57
Train $18 $18 $18 $18 $18 $19 $18
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Palermo to Catania

The journey from Palermo to Catania reveals a landscape of contrasts, where Palermo offers vibrant street life and historical riches, while Catania invites you to explore its stunning baroque architecture and lively markets.

Best Neighbourhoods in Catania

Catania features vibrant neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences.

City Centre
• Home to the stunning Piazza del Duomo.
• Bustling with shops, cafes, and ancient sites.
La Playa
• Popular for its sandy beaches and seaside restaurants.
• Perfect for a relaxed beach day and sunsets.
Borgo Sicilia
• Known for its quaint streets and local eateries.
• Offers a glimpse into authentic Sicilian life.

Best Times To Visit Catania's Attractions

Timing your visits to Catania's attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Piazza del Duomo
Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quiet atmosphere and take stunning photos without crowds.
Castello Ursino
The late afternoon is ideal for exploring, as the setting sun casts beautiful light on the castle.
Mercato del Pesce
Arrive around 9 AM when the market is lively, ensuring a vibrant, authentic experience.

Catania Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Catania enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination. Visiting in spring or early fall offers pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists, enhancing your travel experience.

Culinary Delights in Catania

Try the pasta alla Norma at Trattoria da Antonio, where the rich flavors of eggplant, tomatoes, and ricotta salata come together in a dish unique to Catania. Unlike the more elaborate street food culture of Palermo, dining here immerses you in a cozy atmosphere filled with local charm and fresh, regional ingredients.

Palermo - Catania operators

Explore transport companies operating between Palermo and Catania, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
800 21 10 20
Website
https://saisautolinee.it

Bus from Palermo Via Tommaso Fazello to Catania La Rena Est

Average Duration
2h 41m
Estimated price
$13-19
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+39 06 68475475
Website
https://www.trenitalia.com/en.html

Train from Palermo Centrale to Messina Centrale

Average Duration
2h 45m
Estimated price
$18-35

Train from Messina Centrale to Catania Centrale

Average Duration
1h 57m
Estimated price
$8-15
Rideshare
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
https://blablacar.com

Rideshare from Palermo to Catania

Average Duration
2h 48m
Estimated price
$12-12
Drive

Drive from Palermo to Catania

Average Duration
2h 22m
Estimated price
$35-60

Palermo to Catania: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Palermo and Catania offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Discover the stunning Sicilian scenery as you embark on a 212.4 km journey by car from Palermo to Catania. Enjoy a leisurely drive that takes approximately 2 hours and 22 minutes, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the Italian landscape. 💰 Save money on your trip with car travel prices ranging from €32 to €55 for the Palermo to Catania route.
Average price
€32 - €55
🚆 If you're traveling from Palermo to Catania by train, be prepared for a journey that includes transfers. The total travel time is approximately 5 hours and 16 minutes. 🚌 Route 1 offers a direct bus service from Palermo to Catania, taking around 2 hours and 25 minutes to cover the 205 km distance. 🚌 Route 2 involves a transfer in Vittoria, with a total travel time of 3 hours and 30 minutes to reach Catania. The first leg of the journey is a bus from Palermo to Vittoria, followed by a second bus from Vittoria to Catania Fontanarossa Airport Departure Terminal.
Departure Point
Palermo Centrale station
Arrival Point
Catania Centrale station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for the route from Palermo to Catania typically include catering options such as snacks and beverages available for purchase. The trains operated by Trenitalia often feature a bistro car where you can enjoy local Sicilian snacks, coffee, and other refreshments. Make sure to check their website for any seasonal menu offerings or updates on dining services.
• The trains on this route usually provide three seating options: First Class, Business Class, and Economy. First Class seats are more spacious with wider seats and offer additional comfort features. Business Class presents a balanced option for a professional atmosphere, while Economy is affordable and adequate for shorter trips. Choose First Class or Business if you prioritize comfort, especially on longer journeys.
• Various train operators service the route from Palermo to Catania, primarily Trenitalia and Italo. You can visit their websites for booking and real-time schedules: Trenitalia - trenitalia.com and Italo - italotreno.it For local transport schedules and station maps, check the Catania city transport website at amt.ct.it
• Upon arrival at Catania Centrale, you will find luggage storage services available, providing a convenient way to explore the city without your bags. Additionally, there are restrooms available in the station. However, showers may not be present, so prepare accordingly.
• The fastest way to get from Catania Centrale to the city center is by taking the AMT Alibus service (Line 457), which operates regularly and connects the train station to key city points including Via Etnea and Piazza Duomo. Another option is Tram Line 1, which also connects to the center. Check the AMT website for schedules and fare details.
🚌 The journey from Palermo to Catania by bus takes approximately 2 hours and 41 minutes, with services departing hourly every day. 🗺️ Covering a distance of 205 km, the bus route offers a picturesque view as you travel from Palermo to Catania city of Catania. With several bus options available, such as Sais Autolinee 117008 and 117010, passengers can enjoy a smooth and comfortable ride towards their destination. 🌇 For those opting for a route with a transfer, a journey of 3 hours and 30 minutes awaits, covering 216 km with stops at Vittoria and Enna. Despite the additional step, the bus services, like Sais Autolinee 17213 and 317008, ensure a seamless transition before arriving at Catania Fontanarossa Airport Departure Terminal.
Departure Point
Palermo Via Tommaso Fazello station
Arrival Point
Catania La Rena Est station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your tickets in advance through the SAIS Autolinee official website (saisautolinee.it) to ensure a seat, as the bus can fill up quickly during peak travel seasons.
• Bring some snacks and drinks for the journey, but be aware that you can also enjoy a scenic view along the way, so consider taking pictures of the beautiful Sicilian landscape.
• Upon arrival at Catania La Rena Est station, follow the signs to the exit and look for local transport options such as buses and taxis; it’s also a good idea to download the local public transport app to check schedules for convenience.