Sicily Transportation Options

Located in the Mediterranean Sea, Sicily offers adventurers a rich history, a lively culture and breathtaking scenery. From the streets of Palermo to the slopes of Mount Etna, the island offers a journey of discovery. The questions: How to get around Sicily?

By Plane: The Gateway to Sicily Adventure

Before exploring transport options, let's look at the main ways to get to Sicily. Sicily is easily accessible by air from major European cities with direct flights to the airports of Palermo, Catania, Trapani and Comiso.

Palermo Falcone Borsellino Airport (PMO)

Start Sicilian adventure at PMO, welcoming over 7.1 million travellers a year and serving as the western gateway to Palermo.

• Distance to Palermo City Centre: Approx. 30km.
• Facilities: Shops, restaurants, Wi-Fi, ATMs, currency exchange, nursing stations, restrooms, pet facilities, lost & found services.

How to get to/from Palermo Airport ?

If you are heading west to places like Cefalù, Caltanissetta or Marsala, PMO is the place to go. Need a private transfer? Please contact us.

Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA)

For fans of Sicily, CTA is the gateway to exploration, with easy access to Taormina, San Marco and Mount Etna.

• Distance to Catania City Centre: Approx. 5km.
• Facilities: ATMs, banks, duty-free shops, baggage wrapping, cafes, restaurants, post office, foreign exchange, and nursery services.

How to Get to Catania Airport?

Exploring Messina, Taormina, or Siracusa? CTA arrival point suggested. Need a private transfer? Contact us.

Photo by Angela Marin via Unsplash

Trapani and Comiso Airports

While Palermo and Catania steal the limelight, Trapani and Comiso airports offer unique access to Sicily's coastal wonders and historical gems.

• Trapani Airport: Gateway to the northwest, offering passage to San Vito Lo Capo's beaches, Favignana Island, and Marsala's historic streets. Distance to City Centre: 15 km.
• Comiso Airport: Unlock Ragusa's architectural wonders, Modica's indulgent streets, Gela's coastlines, and Siracusa's ancient charm. Distance to City Centre: 5 km.

By Bus: Navigating Intercity Routes

Buses serve as vital links between Sicily's towns and cities, offering connections for travellers. Major companies like AST, Interbus, and SAIS Autolinee cover most destinations on the island.

• Cost: Cheap tickets, with prices based on distance. For example, AST charges up to €17.20 for long-distance journeys.
• Advantages: A more direct service on certain intercity routes compared to trains.
• Disadvantages: Long wait times, and limited service in less urban areas, especially on Sundays. Crowded buses during school hours.

Group Bus Transfers: Convenience and Comfort

For travellers organising group trips or hosting special events, Sicily coach transfers at AirportTransfer.com offer private and comfortable shuttle services throughout Sicily. Our chauffeured shuttle services at airporttransfer.com are available for airport transfers and multi-stop journeys, guaranteeing a smooth travel experience with personalised assistance and flexible choices. For your special group travel requests and reservations, you can Contact Us.It is not only an airport transfer, we also offer a chauffeured bus hire service, encompassing all of your group travels. With more than one stop and for more than a day, AT's coach transfer services are here for your needs.

By Train: Picturesque Journeys Across Sicily

Scenic train journeys in Sicily are another way to travel between cities and take in the views.

•  Cost: Similar to bus tickets, ranging from €7 to €30 for adult second-class tickets.
• Advantages: Cost-effective for budget travellers, offering views of the island's landscapes.
• Disadvantages: Some routes may take longer than buses, potentially requiring multiple tickets for longer journeys.

By Taxi: Inconvenience at a Cost

While taxis provide another alternative, especially in urban areas, they can be expensive for long-distance travel.

• Cost: Expensive, with fares increasing on Sundays, holidays, and late nights. Additional charges for luggage.
• Disadvantages: High cost, limited availability outside urban centres. Pre-booking private transfers is recommended for longer journeys.

By Ferry: Island Hopping Adventures

Travel to the islands of Sicily by ferry and experience the Mediterranean at close quarters. Visit the Aeolian Islands or Pantelleria with SNAV and Grimaldi Lines.

• Advantages: Access to surrounding islands, including those with car ferry services.
• Disadvantages: Reduced routes in winter due to lower demand, especially for smaller islands.

Sicily Cruise Transfer: Smooth Transition from Airport to Sea

If you need an airport-to-port transfer, you can book your Sicily cruise transfer at AirportTransfer.com in advance, eliminating the stress of finding transportation upon arrival. Professional drivers greet you at the airport and take you directly to the port for a smooth transition from air to sea travel. Convenience: Pre-book your transfer in advance for peace of mind, with various vehicle options available to accommodate your group size and luggage requirements. Accessibility: Serving ports across Sicily, including Palermo, Messina, and Catania, our transfer services ensure a smooth start to your cruise adventure.

By Private Transfer: Enjoy Smooth Travel

You've landed in Sicily and transportation worries are unnecessary. Focus on history, delicious cuisine, and scenic beauty. Our private transfer service at AirportTransfer.com ensures comfortable arrival. AT drivers are fluent in English, ensuring clear communication. No rushing to catch the next bus or train. Just relax and enjoy the journey.

Take the stress out of travelling with convenient, private chauffeured cars with spacious seating, luxurious vehicles, easy online booking, a variety of vehicle options, 24/7 customer support and customer-friendly features such as on-time guarantees and free Wi-Fi.

Hotel Transfers at Sicily

When you book your Sicily hotel transfer at AirportTransfer.com, you can rest assured that your journey from the airport to your hotel will be smooth and stress-free. Our drivers will take you directly to your hotel with no stops along the way, so you can forget about waiting for other passengers to board the shuttle.

By Helicopter Transfers: Experience Sicily from Above

For a unique way to explore Sicily, book a helicopter transfer at AirportTransfer.com and enjoy a unique experience! Fly above Sicily for a new perspective. Imagine being taken from a helipad to an island, seeing Mount Etna or Stromboli from above. It's not just a flight; it's an emotional journey that leaves travellers in awe of Sicily from a new angle.

• Mount Etna, Taormina, and the Ionian Riviera: Explore Sicily's fiery peaks and serene shores, starting from Taormina.
• The Aeolian Islands: Visit Vulcano, Lipari, Salina, Panarea, and Stromboli for unique volcanic landscapes and beaches.
• Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples: Witness Agrigento's ancient Greek temples in the Valley of the Temples.
• Syracuse and Ortigia: Experience Syracuse's ancient ruins and Ortigia's Baroque architecture by the Mediterranean.

How to Get Around in Sicily

Sicily, the largest Mediterranean island, attracts history, landscapes, and culture. Catania and Palermo offer diverse experiences. Various transport options ease navigation.

Getting Around Catania

Situated just 5km from the city centre, Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA) serves as the gateway to this bustling Sicilian city. Upon arrival, travellers have many transportation options to explore Catania's attractions.

• Bus: With over 50 lines covering tourist areas like the historic centre and beaches, buses offer exploration for €1 per ticket.
• Metro: Catania's single-line metro system connects key landmarks such as Nesima, Cibali, and Stesicoro with a 1 euro per ride.
• Taxi: Taxis are available in Catania, with an extra €1 per luggage charge to consider.
• Private Transfers: Pre-book private transfers for a smooth journey from Catania airport with fixed fares and no hidden fees.

Getting Around Palermo

Approximately 30 km from the city centre, Palermo - Falcone Borsellino Airport (PMO) serves as the main point of entry for travellers visiting the capital of Sicily. Upon arrival, visitors will find various transportation options to explore Palermo and its surroundings.

Transportation Options:

• Bus: With 90 lines covering the city and outskirts, the bus network operated by the AMAT company offers an exploration at 1.40 € for single tickets and 3.50 € for daily tickets.
• Tram: Explore Palermo's historic centre and beyond with tram rides, priced the same as bus tickets.
• Subway: Access key destinations such as Palermo Centrale and Punta Raisi with Palermo's two-line subway system for a travel experience at 5.50 € per ticket.
• Taxi: Palermo taxis operate on set tariffs, so be mindful of rising fares based on time and day.
• Private Transfers: Pre-book private transfers from Palermo airport for a reliable and stress-free journey with fixed fares and personalised service.