Ferry from Genoa to Palermo

Is Palermo a day trip from Genoa ?

No, the ferry ride is too long for a day trip; a longer stay is recommended.

Which islands can you get to from Palermo?

From Palermo, you can easily reach the Aeolian Islands, known for their scenic beauty and volcanic activity. Additionally, the island of Ustica, a marine reserve popular for diving and snorkeling, is accessible from Palermo. Favignana, the largest of the Aegadian Islands, offers stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters just a short ferry ride away from Palermo.

Is there a high-speed ferry from Genoa to Palermo?

The high-speed ferry from Genoa to Palermo operated by Grandi Navi Veloci, takes 19h 30m, costs £484.

Should I fly or ferry to Palermo?

While flying to Palermo is quicker, with a flight taking around one hour, ferries offer a scenic journey that can take approximately 8-10 hours. The ferry route allows travelers to enjoy beautiful coastal views, relax on board, and easily bring along luggage without strict weight limits, providing a more leisurely and stress-free travel experience conducive to starting a vacation on a calm note. Consider the ferry as a pleasant part of the journey that adds value to your overall experience, especially if time is not the most crucial factor for you.

Do you need a passport to go from Genoa to Palermo?

Yes, you generally need a passport to travel from Genoa to Palermo, as both cities are located in Italy. However, if you are an Italian citizen or an EU citizen traveling within the Schengen Area, you can use your national identity card instead of a passport. Be sure to check the most up-to-date travel requirements before your trip.

How do I get from Genoa airport to Palermo by ferry?

From Genoa airport, take a taxi, bus, or shuttle to Genoa Piazza Principe train station. From there, you can walk or take a short taxi ride to the nearby Port of Genoa where ferries to Palermo depart. This journey typically takes around 30-40 minutes by taxi or shuttle, and around 1 hour by bus.

Is the ferry from Genoa to Palermo rough?

The ferry ride from Genoa to Palermo can be rough, especially during winter months when seas are rougher. Sea conditions can vary, but the ride can be more comfortable during the summer with calmer waters. It's advisable to check weather forecasts and to prepare for potential motion sickness if you are prone to it.

What is the easiest way to travel from Genoa to Palermo?

The fastest way to travel from Genoa to Palermo is by taking a direct flight, which typically takes around 1.5 hours. For the most scenic option, consider taking a ferry, offering beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea during the approximately 20-hour journey. If you're looking for the most budget-friendly option, taking a train or bus combination could be more economical compared to flying or taking a ferry.

Genoa Guide

The Italian city of Genoa lies on the Mediterranean Sea coast and is located in the Liguria region of Italy. The city's old town, which has a long and rich history in art, music, architecture and gastronomy was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006. Additionally the city was declared the European Capital of Culture in 2004 and is also the birthplace of Niccolo Paganini and Christopher Columbus.  

The maze of squares and narrow streets make up Genoa's historic centre. The city has influences of the medieval about it, along with 16th century and Baroque influences (San Matteo square and the ancient via Aurea, now via Garibaldi). Visitors can still see remains of the 17th century walls near to San Lorenzo Cathedral, which happens to be the most attended place of worship in Genoa.  

Genoa's port is Italy's largest commercial and industrial port, and one of Europe's busiest ports in the Mediterranean Sea. The ferry terminal, located in the Calata Chiappella, between Ponte Asserto and Ponte Colombo, is on many levels and is accessible by passengers in wheelchairs. On the terminal's top level visitors will find waiting rooms and a shopping centre. Ferries operating from the port generally depart towards Sardinia, Sicily, Corsica, Spain, Tunisia and Morocco.

Palermo Guide

The city of Palermo is located on the Italian island of Sicily and lies on the island's north west coast and has a large and strategically important natural port, next to the Monte Pellegrino. The city is typically Mediterranean and can trace its history back to the 8th century and is today known for its Norman buildings, fabulous palaces and the hustle and bustle of its markets. Palermo's historic centre is the Quattro Canti district, which means 'Four Corners' and is where a number of the city's most spectacular attractions can be found. These include the Royal Palace and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. The cathedral's sheer size and lovely architecture really needs to be seen to be fully appreciated. Also popular in the city is the medieval Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi and the 12th century Castello della Zisa. For visitors who enjoy the performing arts there is also the Teatro Massimo which is a recently refurbished theatre that puts on regular performances.  

Ferries from the city's port depart to Genoa, Civitavecchia, Naples and Tunisia.