Which cities have overnight ferries to Palermo?

Naples and Genoa are the two main routes, operated by GNV, Tirrenia and Grimaldi. Civitavecchia (Rome) also has periodic services. Crossing times range from around 10 hours (Naples) to 20 hours (Genoa).

Can I take a car on the Palermo ferry?

Yes — all overnight services to Palermo carry cars and campervans. Book vehicle space well in advance for summer sailings, as car decks fill up.

Where is Palermo's ferry terminal?

The ferry port is in the city's commercial harbour, close to the historic centre and the Ballaro market district. Taxis and buses connect the terminal to central Palermo.

Palermo Ferry Port

Everything you need to know about ferries to and from Palermo — Sicily's main western port, overnight connections to Naples and Genoa, and how to plan a car ferry crossing to the island.

The port

Palermo's ferry terminal occupies the city's commercial harbour on the northern Sicilian coast, a short distance from the medieval centre, the Quattro Canti and the Vucciria market. Arriving by night ferry, you dock in the early morning with the whole city at your feet — one of the better approaches to a major Italian city.

Routes to Palermo

The two key connections are the Naples–Palermo overnight (roughly 10 to 11 hours) and the Genoa–Palermo overnight (around 20 hours). Both are popular with families and those taking cars or campervans on a Sicily circuit. Civitavecchia offers an intermediate option for travellers based in Rome.

Operators

GNV (Grandi Navi Veloci), Tirrenia and Grimaldi Lines run the main services. Each operator's ferries offer different cabin grades and on-board facilities — from reclining seat passages to en-suite cabins. Compare options to suit your travel style and budget.

Planning tips

Overnight ferries to Palermo are popular in July and August and sell out. Book cabins and vehicle space several weeks ahead in peak season. Shoulder seasons (May–June, September–October) are pleasanter and cheaper. Check which ferry company's schedule best aligns with your wider Sicily itinerary, as overnight arrivals suit morning starts in the city.

Ports & terminals

Palermo Ferry PortView on map →

Frequently asked questions

Which cities have overnight ferries to Palermo?: Naples and Genoa are the two main routes, operated by GNV, Tirrenia and Grimaldi. Civitavecchia (Rome) also has periodic services. Crossing times range from around 10 hours (Naples) to 20 hours (Genoa).
Can I take a car on the Palermo ferry?: Yes — all overnight services to Palermo carry cars and campervans. Book vehicle space well in advance for summer sailings, as car decks fill up.
Where is Palermo's ferry terminal?: The ferry port is in the city's commercial harbour, close to the historic centre and the Ballaro market district. Taxis and buses connect the terminal to central Palermo.