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Travelling to Sicily by train is a special experience that turns the journey itself into a destination, with the train driving onto a ferry for the crossing. This unique way of travelling combines the comfort of a train journey with a short sea voyage. Curious how best to plan this trip and what to expect along the way? Discover the practical side of this rail adventure.
The journey from Rome to Sicily: a day on the rails
The train journey from Rome to Sicily is one of Italy’s most iconic routes. Whether your destination is Palermo or Catania, the trip takes around twelve hours and leads you through the ever-changing landscape of Southern Italy. Leaving the bustle of Rome, you travel through the regions of Lazio, Campania and Calabria, the deep south of the Italian boot. The views range from hills and farmland to rugged coastline, making the journey a visual introduction to the beauty of Sicily.
Intercity trains operated by Trenitalia run on this route. Although they do not have the speed of the Frecciarossa high-speed trains, they offer a comfortable way to cover long distances. The seats are spacious and there is plenty of room for your luggage. There is a restaurant car, but it is always a good idea to bring your own snacks and drinks for the journey. The train stops at several stations, giving you a glimpse of daily life in southern Italian cities such as Naples and Salerno.
‘ When the train arrives in Villa San Giovanni, at the tip of the Italian mainland, something unique happens. ’
How does the train on the ferry to Sicily work?
The most remarkable part of the journey is the crossing of the Strait of Messina. When the train arrives in Villa San Giovanni, at the tip of the Italian mainland, something unique happens. Staff split the carriages and drive them along special tracks onto a large ferry. This is an impressive logistical operation that you experience up close as a passenger.
Once the train carriages are safely on board, you are allowed to leave the train. You can go up to the ferry’s deck to enjoy the fresh sea air and the view of both the mainland and the Sicilian coast. The crossing to Messina takes about 20 to 30 minutes. It is a welcome break from the long time spent sitting. You can stretch your legs and enjoy a cup of coffee at the ferry’s bar. On arrival in Messina, staff drive the carriages off the boat again, couple them together and the train continues its journey to its final destination in Sicily.
The night train: an alternative to travelling by day
For those who prefer to travel at night in order to have more time at their destination during the day, there is the night train from Rome to Sicily. This Intercity Notte offers a different experience. You depart Rome in the evening and wake up the next morning already on Sicilian soil. This not only saves you a day of travel time, but also the cost of a night in a hotel.
There are, however, a few things to consider. Not all night trains have air conditioning. This can be a disadvantage in the hot Italian summers. The compartments are functional, but the level of comfort varies. For a more comfortable trip, book the different legs of your journey separately. For example, you can travel by a faster and more modern train to a city in the south and change there onto a shorter regional service. A berth (cuccetta) or a private compartment offers more peace and privacy than a regular seat.
What is the best choice: day or night?
The choice between the day train and the night train depends on your personal preferences and travel style.
- Day train: Choose the day train if you see the journey as part of your holiday. You watch the landscape pass by and experience the unique crossing in daylight. It is the ideal option for travellers who want to take their time and enjoy the route itself.
- Night train: The night train is a practical choice if you want to travel efficiently and save time. You cover a long distance while you sleep. Just make sure you are well prepared for a simpler level of comfort.
Travel time to Cefalù and other destinations
Once you arrive in Messina, you can continue your journey to many destinations on the island. Popular places such as Palermo and Catania can be reached directly. The picturesque coastal town of Cefalù, known for its Norman cathedral and beautiful beaches, is also easy to reach by train. From Messina, the train journey to Cefalù, with a change in Palermo, takes around three to four hours. The regional trains in Sicily offer a reliable way to explore the island’s highlights, from the baroque towns in the southeast to the archaeological sites in the west.
The total travel time from the Italian mainland to Cefalù depends on your point of departure. From Rome, allow for a total journey time of around 14 to 16 hours, including the crossing. Planning your trip with enough transfer time ensures a relaxed experience.
The train journey to Sicily is more than just transport; it is an integral part of your holiday. On the Traveler Tips website you will find even more practical information for planning your trip. Discover our guides to train travel in Italy, the most beautiful routes through Europe and tips for putting together an unforgettable road trip. Start planning your next journey today.
Frequently asked questions
The most comfortable and efficient train route to Sicily from the Netherlands combines day and night trains, usually via Switzerland and Milan, with a ferry crossing from Villa San Giovanni to Messina. The journey time averages 29–33 hours and requires changes in cities such as Zurich and Milan. For a comfortable trip, berths or a private compartment on the night train are recommended, and early booking is essential. From 2026/2028 onwards, faster options via Germany will become available with new Frecciarossa services, although the ferry crossing to Sicily will remain.
You can book train tickets to Sicily at a good price by booking early, especially for night trains, via TheTrainLine, NS International or specialised travel agencies. A one-way ticket in 2nd class costs from €205, including seat/berth reservations. The average journey time from the Netherlands is 29–33 hours, travelling via Switzerland or Germany and crossing by train ferry. Consider a berth or private compartment for extra comfort on the night trains.
The train journey to Sicily offers a unique travel experience thanks to the combination of day and night trains and the special ferry crossing over the Strait of Messina, where the train itself drives onto the ferry. Recommended special stops along the way include Milan or Zurich for a change, with many travellers using Milan for a short city walk or a pizza stop. The route via Switzerland is widely considered more scenic than the one via France, with the Alps as a picturesque backdrop. This long journey time of an average 29–33 hours turns the trip itself into an adventurous and sustainable holiday experience.
For a comfortable long train journey to Sicily, it is advisable to book a berth or private compartment for the night trains, as food and drink are often limited on board; therefore, bring your own snacks. Plan generous transfer times of 2–3 hours in cities such as Milan or Zurich. Book train tickets and seat/berth reservations well in advance, especially for the night trains. The train journey is an adventurous, sustainable option, but do bear in mind that it is a long trip.
