In short: The fastest option for most DACH travelers is by plane (major airports Catania and Palermo, plus Trapani and Comiso). Anyone travelling with a car, motorhome or a lot of luggage takes the ferry from a mainland port (often overnight) or crosses via the Strait of Messina. Train enthusiasts can travel by rail – charming, but time-consuming.
Quick Facts
- Airports: Catania (CTA, the largest), Palermo (PMO), Trapani (TPS), Comiso (CIY)
- Ferry operators: GNV, Grimaldi Lines, Tirrenia, Caronte & Tourist
- Ferry ports (mainland → Sicily): among others Genoa, Livorno, Civitavecchia, Naples, Salerno → Palermo (some via Termini Imerese, Catania, Milazzo)
- Strait of Messina: Villa San Giovanni – Messina, car ferries (~20–40 min) and passenger hydrofoils (~20–35 min)
- Crossing times (approximate): Naples–Palermo ~8.5–11 hrs (overnight), Civitavecchia–Palermo ~14 hrs, Genoa–Palermo ~20 hrs
- Peak season: book early for summer and Ferragosto (car/cabin spaces get scarce)
Which route suits you? (Decision guide)
| Type of journey | Good for | Advantages | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight + rental car | most DACH travellers, short travel time | fast, often direct flights in season, flexible on the ground | luggage limits; book rental cars early in peak season |
| Ferry with your own car/motorhome | road trips, campers, lots of luggage, pets | your own vehicle with you, an overnight crossing saves a hotel night | long crossings, cabins cost extra, book early in summer |
| Strait of Messina (car) | travelling via Calabria, flexible routes | short crossing, frequent departures | long drive through Italy beforehand |
| Train (+ ferry) | train enthusiasts without a car | relaxed, car-free travel | long travel time; need public transport/rental car on arrival |
The travel options at a glance
By plane
The fastest option: Catania (CTA) for the east (Etna, Taormina, Syracuse), Palermo (PMO) for the west, plus Trapani and Comiso. Rental cars are available right at the terminal. Which airport suits which region and how to get into town: Airports & Transfers.
By ferry from the mainland
For cars, motorhomes and lots of luggage; overnight crossings from Genoa, Livorno, Civitavecchia, Naples or Salerno. Ports, routes and booking: Car Ferries to Sicily.
Via the Strait of Messina
A short crossing between Villa San Giovanni and Messina for travelling via Calabria – car ferries, fast ferries and train ferries: Strait of Messina.
By train
Car-free travel; long-distance trains are loaded onto the ferry at Villa San Giovanni. Night trains and regional trains on the island: Train & Night Train.
Common mistakes
- Booking the summer car ferry too late – spaces then get scarce.
- Choosing the wrong airport (Catania for the east, Palermo for the west).
- Underestimating the drive through mainland Italy – an overnight ferry saves distance.
- Not allowing enough time for the train journey.
- Arriving without a plan for onward travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to get to Sicily?
For most DACH travellers, flying to Catania or Palermo is the fastest option. With a car or motorhome, the ferry from a mainland port or the crossing at Villa San Giovanni makes more sense.
Which airport is the right one?
Catania (CTA) for the east (Etna, Taormina, Syracuse), Palermo (PMO) for the west/northwest. Trapani (TPS) and Comiso (CIY) are smaller and have seasonal connections.
Where do ferries to Sicily depart from?
Among others, from Genoa, Livorno, Civitavecchia, Naples and Salerno to Palermo (some via Termini Imerese, Catania, Milazzo). Operators include GNV, Grimaldi Lines, Tirrenia and Caronte & Tourist.
How long does the Naples–Palermo ferry take?
About 8.5 to 11 hours, usually as an overnight crossing arriving in the morning. Other routes take longer (Civitavecchia ~14 hrs, Genoa ~20 hrs).
Can you travel to Sicily by train?
Yes. Long-distance trains are loaded onto the ferry at Villa San Giovanni and cross to Messina; from there the journey continues by rail.
How do you cross the Strait of Messina without your own car?
With passenger hydrofoils (Blu Jet) between Villa San Giovanni or Reggio Calabria and Messina (~20–35 min).
More on getting around
- Overview: Getting Around Sicily (arrival & transport compared)
- Arrival in detail: Airports & Transfers · Car Ferries · Strait of Messina · Train & Night Train
- On the island: Rental Cars · Bus & Train · Ferries to the Islands · Island Hopping · Best Time to Visit
Sources & Update
Shipping lines and routes: GNV, Grimaldi Lines, Tirrenia, Caronte & Tourist as well as Blu Jet (Strait of Messina); rail: Trenitalia. As of: 23 June 2026. Timetables, crossing times, flight connections and prices are subject to change and should be checked again before booking.
