Getting Around, Sicily Travel, Transport and Car Rental
(Sicily, Italy)
Transportation options in Sicily are pretty good, with buses, trains and metered taxis in abundance. The island is served by a couple of international airports located in the main centres of Palermo and Catania, with both well connected by public transport.
Buses are the norm for getting between cities in Sicily and the rail system is also good for travelling between major centres. Trains are also cheap and faster than the buses on the main lines, not to mention more comfortable. Taxis offer the chief form of travel within towns and cities, and Sundays are usually slack on the transport front.
Palermo International Airport (PMO) / Arriving by Air
Address: Cinisi, Palermo, Sicily, 90045, Italy, IT
Tel: +39 091 702 0111
There are three international airports on the island, with Palermo International Airport the main gateway serving the capital, Catania Fontanarossa International Airport serving the east coast and Trapani Birgi Airport serving the west coast.
These airports are modern and efficient, and receive flights from major European centres. Public transport options to respective cities include buses, shuttles and taxis, while Palermo is also served by a direct express train.
Palermo International Airport (PMO) Guide
Catania Airport (CTA) Guide
Car Rental
Sicilian roads are very reasonable and there are motorways linking the main centres of Palermo, Catania and Messina. If you really want to explore the south of the island and the mountainous central areas, it is best to rent a car, but beware of erratic drivers on these smaller routes.
Buses and Coaches
Buses and coaches travel everywhere, making all major towns and cities easy to get to. Bus services are also cheap and generally slightly quicker than the trains, with the exception of the express coastal line, and you can reach Palermo from just about anywhere on Sicily by using bus transport. Catania is the other major hub on the island.
Trains
Trains are fast, comfortable and relatively cheap, and services come in direct from mainland cities to Palermo. The main lines involve Palermo, Catania and Messina, and you can also get about to lesser places with ease. Couples can save on fares by buying a Trenitalia Pass Saver online.
Taxis
Taxis are a bit hit and miss in Sicily, with each city having its own system and pricing.
Most are metered, though, and taxi travel is convenient for getting anywhere at the drop of a hat. It can be a hassle to flag one down, while those booked by phone will start the meter before picking you up.
Boats and Ferries
Ferries serve the various tourist islands off Sicily and are of the fast hydrofoil variety. Major destinations include the Aeolian Islands from Milazzo, Ustica from Palermo, and the Egadi Islands from Trapani. Services are less frequent outside of the summer season.
More information about
Palermo Transport.
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