Palermo Airport is a small, manageable airport, which works in your favour when travelling with children. The distances inside the terminal are short and the layout is simple. Getting from your gate to the arrivals hall is a matter of minutes, not the long treks you experience at larger airports.
Getting through the airport
Schengen arrivals skip passport control entirely, which means your family goes straight to baggage claim. Non-Schengen arrivals pass through a passport check that is usually quick at PMO. The terminal is rarely overwhelmingly crowded.
Baggage trolleys are available near the carousels. Baby-changing facilities exist but are basic. There is a small cafe in arrivals, though it closes by evening. If your children need food immediately after landing, bring something from the plane.
Child car seats
Italian law requires children to use appropriate car seats. Taxis in Italy are not required to carry them, which creates a practical gap. The motorway between the airport and Palermo is a 100 km/h road and the 35 km journey takes at least 30 minutes. Having young children unrestrained at that speed is not ideal.
Pre-booked transfer services can fit child seats and booster seats if you request them when booking. Provide the ages and weights of your children so the correct equipment is installed. This is the most reliable way to ensure your children travel safely from the airport.
If renting a car, add child seats to your rental reservation. They are available from most agencies at PMO.
Transport choices for families
The train runs from the airport to Palermo Centrale. The walk to the station from the terminal is short but involves some stairs and a walkway. With a stroller, heavy bags, and small children, it is doable but adds friction. The train itself has limited luggage space.
The shuttle bus has luggage storage underneath and is comfortable. It drops you at Palermo Centrale station, from where you need onward transport to your hotel.
Taxis provide door-to-door service at the fixed airport rate. A standard sedan fits a family of four with moderate luggage. If you have a stroller, car seats, and multiple large bags, it may be tight.
Pre-booked transfers let you request a minivan or larger vehicle with child seats installed. The driver takes you directly to your accommodation door, which matters in Palermo's narrow old town streets where navigation can be confusing.
Practical tips for families
- Palermo's historic centre has many streets too narrow for cars. Confirm with your accommodation whether vehicles can reach the door, or if you need to walk the last stretch.
- Sicilian summers are hot. The walk between the terminal and transport is short but the heat can be intense for small children. Have water ready.
- If heading to a beach town like Cefalu or Mondello, the transfer takes longer. Bring entertainment for the car ride.
- Italian restaurants tend to open late for dinner (8 PM onwards). If arriving in the afternoon, plan for an early meal or have snacks for the children.
- The airport has no dedicated family lounge or play area. Keep your time in the terminal short and move to your transport promptly.