Palermo offers a variety of transportation options. While the public transport system has faced some criticism for efficiency, recent investments have introduced new tram lines and car/bike sharing services, making getting around easier.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate Palermo.
Walking is the best option
The historic center of Palermo is best explored on foot. This allows you to fully appreciate the intricate streets and experience the city’s atmosphere. It is recommended that you wear comfortable shoes because the distances between attractions can be considerable.
Public Transportation
Palermo offers a range of public transport options, including buses, trams, and a metro system.
Buses
The bus network is extensive, with 90 routes plus night buses. AMAT manages the bus service.
Tickets can be purchased at authorized retailers (like tobacconists and newsstands), at AMAT ticket offices, or on board, with a slight surcharge.
A single ticket costs €1.40 (valid for 90 minutes) or €1.80 if purchased on the bus.
Day tickets are available for €3.50.
Multi-day tickets are also available.
A free shuttle, called Free Centro Storico, operates in the historical center.
How to buy tickets with the PalerMobility App
You can find more details here: AMAT ticket
To know the routes and the lines click here: Bus lines and routes AMAT
Trams
Palermo has four tram lines. The tram system is managed by AMAT.
Tram tickets are the same as bus tickets and can be used interchangeably. A single ticket costs €1.40 (valid for 90 minutes) or €1.80 if purchased on the tram. The trams primarily serve the outskirts and commercial areas.
The tram service operates from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Tram Lines:
Line 1 connects Roccella to the Central Station.
Line 2 connects Borgo Nuovo to Notarbartolo Station.
Line 3 connects CEP to Notarbartolo Station.
Line 4 is a circular route connecting Notarbartolo Station with Corso Calatafimi.
Metro
Palermo’s metro is managed by Trenitalia.
- There are three metro lines:
- Line A runs from the Central Station to Punta Raisi (Falcone-Borsellino Airport).
- Line B runs from Notarbartolo Station to Giachery.
A single metro ticket costs € 2,00 (valid for 90 minutes).
The metro is useful for reaching the airport and key stations.
The metro to the airport runs from 4 AM to 10 PM and costs € 6.80 (adults) and € 3.50 (children and young people aged 4 to 12 years and under)
Combined Tickets
A single ticket for buses, trams, and the metro is available. It provides unlimited travel within the urban area:
- A day ticket costs €5.50.
- A weekly pass (Monday-Sunday) costs €15.00.
- A monthly pass (valid until the end of the month) costs €50.00.
These combined passes are sold at Trenitalia ticket offices and online.
Regular tickets and Subscriptions are valid only within the city limits.
Palermo C.le –Tommaso Natale (Linea A)
Notarbartolo e Giachery (Linea B)
For information, costs and timetables visit: → Train and Metro Palermo
Alternative Transport
Scooter Sharing
Electric scooter sharing is available via different companies. You will need to download an app to use the scooters.
Taxis
Taxis are readily available at any time. They are especially recommended for night travel.
Driving in Palermo
Driving in Palermo is not advised because of heavy traffic and a rather chaotic driving style.
The historical center is a Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL). You will need to purchase a daily ticket (€5.00) to enter the ZTL.
The ZTL is active Monday-Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, on Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM and from 11:00 PM to 12:00 AM, on Saturday from 00:00 AM to 06:00 AM and from 11:00 PM to 12:00 AM, and on Sunday from 00:00 AM to 06:00 AM.
Pay attention to parking areas and blue zones in the city.
The parking fee is €1.00 per hour from Monday to Friday (8:00 AM – 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM).
Airport Transfers
Falcone-Borsellino Airport is 35 km from the city center.
- The Trinacria Express train costs € 6.80 (adults) and € 3.50 (children and young people aged 4 to 12 years and under)
- A taxi costs about €40 and takes 35 minutes.
- A shared taxi costs €8.00-€10.00 per passenger (minimum 4 people).
- A bus costs €6.30 one way or €11.00 round trip.
Trapani Vincenzo Florio Airport is 118 km from the center.
- A taxi costs about €90.00 and takes 55 minutes.
- A bus costs about €9.00 and takes 1 hour 30 min.
Helpful Tips
For the most reliable bus service, use the routes in the city center. Avoid using the bus outside of the city center due to its inefficiency and poor time-keeping.
Walking is the best option for navigating the historic center.
Download the “PalerMobilità” App to purchase bus and parking tickets. GooglePlay PalerMobilità – AppStore – PalerMobilità
Link “ZTL Palermo” to view map and timetable ZTL Palermo.
This guide should help you make the most of your visit to Palermo, ensuring smooth and enjoyable travels around the city.
