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Our car rental service in Palermo offers exceptional customer service. Our team will guide you to the region's unique attractions, such as the Teatro Massimo. We prioritize efficiency, ensuring your car is ready promptly for a smooth journey around Sicily's spectacular island. With us, renting a car is easy and hassle-free.

Car Rental in Palermo

A Guide to Discovering Palermo and Surrounding Attractions by Car

City car driving near Palermo's citrus groves, Mount Pellegrino in view.

Welcome to Palermo, the sun-kissed, historical gem of Sicily. Known for its Norman architecture, mesmerizing cathedrals, and vibrant local markets, Palermo offers an inviting blend of culture, history, and southern Italian charm. Explore the city's alluring landmarks, from the Cathedral of Palermo to the palatial Norman Palace, with a car—providing you with the freedom to delve deeper into its cultural heritage at your own pace.

Driving around Palermo is also an excellent starting point for exploring the wider region of Sicily. Travelling west from the city in your car, a 90-minute drive will take you to the charming coastal town of Trapani and its iconic salt pans. Meanwhile, a 2-hour journey southeast will transport you to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, easily one of the most significant examples of Greater Greece art and architecture.

The beauty of having a car in Palermo means that you can journey further afield. Enchanting destinations such as the medieval hilltop town of Erice and the world-famous archaeological sites in Syracuse are within a comfortable day’s drive. Indeed, exploring Sicily by car from Palermo provides a flexible and unforgettable travel experience that allows you to uncover the diverse landscapes, ancient heritage, and culinary delights at your convenience.

Car Rentals in Palermo

Essential Information

1. What is the cost of renting a car in Palermo?

Prices of car rentals in Palermo vary depending on the vehicle model, rental duration, and the rental season. On average, you can expect to pay $30-60 per day. Note that prices may be higher during peak tourist season and lower in the off-peak season.

2. Which car model is most popular for rentals in Palermo?

Small, compact cars are the most in-demand for renters in Palermo due to its narrow streets and limited parking spaces. In particular, the Fiat 500 is a popular choice because it is Italian-made and well-suited for the city.

3. Where are the popular car rental spots in Palermo?

The most popular places to rent a car in Palermo are at the Falcone-Borsellino Airport, the city center, and Palermo Central Railway Station.

4. Is 24-hour pick-up and drop-off service available?

Yes, several rental companies in Palermo offer a 24-hour pick-up and drop-off service. However, this service might come with an additional fee.

5. Is there a minimum rental period?

Yes, typically the minimum rental period is one day (24 hours).

6. What is the minimum age required to rent a car in Palermo?

The minimum age to rent a car in Palermo is usually 21 years, although the age requirement may differ between rental companies. Additionally, drivers under 25 may have to pay a young driver surcharge.

7. What documents do I need to rent or drive a car in Palermo?

Typically, you need a valid driver's license, an identification document (passport or ID), and a credit card.

8. When is the best time of year to visit Palermo by car?

The best time to visit Palermo by car are the spring (April-June) and fall (September-November) months when the weather is pleasant and the traffic is less heavy.

9. Which are the main airports in Palermo?

The main airport in Palermo is the Falcone-Borsellino Airport which is located on the west side of the city.

10. Can I pick up the car in Palermo and drop it off in a different city?

Yes, many car rental companies allow one-way rentals, but this usually involves an additional fee and needs to be arranged in advance.

Customer Experiences

Angela Franco

Palermo – 21-11-2023. I was really satisfied with my last car rental experience in Palermo. The price was astonishingly competitive, considering that in such a touristic city, one would expect a rip-off. I'm still taken aback by how smooth the whole process was. The car was in pristine condition and the customer service was extremely friendly and helpful. Plus, driving around Sicily was such a delight.

Maurice Pepper

Palermo – 08-09-2023. As a frequent traveler and car rental user, I've learned to value seamless service and fair pricing. I am pleased to say that this company met all my expectations. Their offices were conveniently located right in the heart of Palermo, making it easy for me to navigate around this historic city. The car was clean and matched the described features. I highly recommend their service.

Giovanna Picasso

Palermo – 29-08-2023. First experience of renting a car and it was simply fantastic. From the reservation system which was easy to navigate to the excellent customer service, I was truly impressed. The prices were incredibly reasonable too. Driving from Palermo to Cefalù was an experience I'll treasure forever. Thank you for facilitating such a memorable trip!

Harmonica Simon

Palermo – 15-07-2023. I found this car rental company to be execellent value for money. The process was hassle-free, staff were polite and the car was just as described. Driving through Sicily was an absolute dream. I'd highly recommend and will certainly use them again on my next trip to Palermo.

Oksana Norwood

Palermo – 25-06-2023. Using this rental company was a high point of my trip to Palermo. The price was more than affordable, considering the top-notch service provided. The representatives were kind, the car was perfect, and the experience of driving through this rich Italian culture has been irreplaceable.

Victor Lozano

Palermo – 15-04-2023. I'm extremely happy with the service provided by this car rental company in Palermo. The car itself was clean and reliable. The whole rental procedure was quick and painless, and the cost was very affordable. This made my trip to the beautiful island of Sicily even more enjoyable. Highly recommended.



Palermo Road Connections

Important transport links from Palermo

  1. Palermo - Taormina: This 280km trip will take approximately 3 hours via A19 and A18, boasting great road conditions and enchanting views of Sicily's landscape.
  2. Palermo - Syracuse: It's a roughly 270km drive, taking around 3 hours passing through autostrada A19, with good road conditions.
  3. Palermo - Messina: Expect a drive of around 230km on the A20 that takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes amid excellent road conditions.
  4. Palermo - Catania: The 207km distance can be covered in approximately 2 hours 40 minutes via A19, a well maintained highway with breathtaking views of the Sicilian countryside.
  5. Palermo - Caltanissetta: This 107km journey via the A19 should take around 1 hour 35 minutes, showcasing the island's charming rural scenes.
  6. Palermo - Agrigento: Enjoy a 2 hour 20 minutes drive spanning approximately 130km via the SS189, known for its remarkable road condition and scenic attractions.
  7. Palermo - Trapani: A pleasant 1 hour 30 minutes journey of about 100km via the A29, offering a smooth drive and lovely views of the western coastal region.

Driving in Palermo

FAQs on Car Driving

1. What is the speed limit in Palermo?

The speed limit in the urban areas of Palermo is typically 50 km/h, unless otherwise indicated by traffic signs. Outside of these areas, the limit can rise to 70 km/h to 110 km/h, relative to the type of road.

2. What do I need to drive a car in Palermo?

You need a valid driving license accepted by Italian law, proof of insurance and the car's registration document. International visitors may also need an International Driver’s Permit (IDP).

3. Are there radars in Palermo?

Yes, there are several speed cameras and traffic monitoring systems across the city and its outskirts. It's always recommended to respect the speed limits.

4. Do I have to pay any tolls when driving in Palermo?

Yes, many motorways in Italy are toll roads. Always prepare some extra cash for potential toll charges, or use an electronic toll payment device if available.

5. Are there unique driving rules in Italy?

Like other European countries, you should drive on the right-hand side of the road in Italy. Overtaking is usually from the left. Roundabouts are common, and vehicles within the roundabout have the right of way. Also, drivers should give way to public transportation and pedestrians.

6. How is the traffic in Palermo?

Being a major city, Palermo experiences heavy rush-hour traffic, especially during the mornings and late afternoons. Roads can be quite busy on weekends as well.

7. Are the car parks in Palermo free?

Not all car parks in Palermo are free. While some streets provide free parking, others may require a fee. Be particularly careful about areas marked with blue lines, which usually require payment.

8. What do I do in case of an accident?

If you're involved in an accident, immediately inform your car rental company and contact authorities if necessary. Remember to collect all necessary evidence and information for insurance purposes.

9. Can I drive outside Palermo with my rented car?

It depends on the terms and conditions set by your car rental company. Generally, you are allowed to drive anywhere within Italy as long as you notify the company in advance.

10. Is there a priority rule in Italian roads?

Yes, the general rule is that the right-hand traffic has priority. However, always follow the priority signs as they can sometimes contradict this rule.

11. How does parking regulation work in Palermo?

In Palermo, parking is designated by different colored lines. White lines mean parking is free, blue lines require payment, yellow lines are reserved for locals or certain professions. Always check for signs to verify the rules.

12. Are there child seat laws in Palermo?

Yes, children under 36 kilos or 150 cm are required to use a suitable child restraint when travelling in a car.

13. What happens if my car breaks down?

If your car breaks down, you should call your car rental service provider immediately. They will provide you with assistance or a replacement car, depending on your agreement.

14. Is road assistance service available in Italy?

Yes, Italy has a robust road assistance infrastructure. Many car rental companies include roadside assistance in their packages.

15. Are there urban restricted traffic zones in Palermo?

Yes, several cities in Italy, including Palermo, have Limited Traffic Zones or 'ZTLs'. These zones are restricted during certain hours and only authorized vehicles are allowed.

Palermo Top Attractions

Essential sites for car travellers

  1. Palermo Cathedral: An architectural marvel, a blend of various styles through centuries. Don't miss the Royal Tombs.
  2. Monreale Cathedral: Known for its magnificent mosaics, this cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site just a short car ride from Palermo.
  3. Quattro Canti: An iconic square featuring four beautiful Baroque buildings, a great place to enjoy Palermo's architectural beauty.
  4. Palazzo dei Normanni: A key historical site, It houses the Royal Apartments and the stunning Palatine Chapel.
  5. Teatro Massimo: Europe's third largest opera house, renowned for its excellent acoustics and neo-classical design.
  6. Corso Vittorio Emanuele: Historical and vibrant street full of shops, cafes, and awe-inspiring buildings including Palermo Cathedral.
  7. Capuchin Catacombs: A unique underground site where over 8,000 preserved bodies are on display. Not for the faint-hearted!
  8. Mercato Ballarò: Palermo's oldest market, offering a bountiful array of goods and an authentic Sicilian experience.

Incredible Sicilian Roadtrips

Discover the top roadtrips from Palermo

  1. Palermo to Agrigento: An amazing 120km roadtrip passing through the scenic Valle dei Templi, home to well-preserved Greek temples.
  2. Sicilia Orientale: This 230km route takes you to historical cities like Syracuse & beautiful Baroque towns like Ragusa and Modica.
  3. Palermo to Trapani: On this 107km route, experience variety, from medieval towns to windmills and salt flats.
  4. Palermo to Taormina: This 244km drive takes you through picturesque terrain, charming wineries and ends with a Mediterranean Sea view.
  5. Palermo to Etna: A 241km drive leads you to Europe's highest and most active volcano, Mount Etna, before looping back through historical Catania.
  6. Sicilian Interior: A 158km journey from Palermo into the heart of Sicily, through Marsala and the nature reserve of Zingaro.

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