Awakening on the Rails

My eyes opened to the gentle hum of the train’s motors and the rhythmic squeal of wheels on tracks. Outside my window, distinct voices floated through the pre-dawn air. Checking Google Maps, I confirmed that we were in Villa San Giovanni—the moment I had been waiting for was about to unfold.

The train gradually came to a halt. Peering outside, I saw a group of men in neon yellow vests working meticulously. The clock read 6:30 am, and though darkness still lingered, the bright spotlights of the ferry illuminated the surroundings. The train was being split into two sections to board the ferry.

Curiosity got the better of me. I disembarked and followed the signs leading to the ferry deck. A brisk wind greeted me as I stepped out, the crisp air carrying the scent of the sea. As the ferry set sail across the Strait of Messina, a golden statue glistened in the distance—the Stele della Madonna della Lettera, a symbol of protection over the city of Messina. Its inscription, “Vos et ipsam civitatem benedicimus” (I bestow my benediction upon you and your city), felt like a whispered welcome.

The ferry crossing lasted about 20 minutes before we were called back to our cabins. With a gentle jolt, the train rolled forward once more—we had arrived in Sicily. A sense of excitement surged through me: I was finally here.

A Morning in Motion

I shared my cabin with three other women, and as we resumed our journey, we were given a modest breakfast of cookies and juice. The train lingered at Messina station before setting off along the Sicilian coast. Outside, the sun began to rise, casting a golden glow over the blue waters.

Engrossed in the coastal scenery, I nearly missed my stop. As the train came to a halt, I checked my phone—Taormina-Giardini station. Scrambling to gather my belongings, I dashed to the door just as it was closing. The conductor, seeing my frantic expression, gestured in exasperation. I had missed my stop. With a resigned smile, he assured me there was another station in eight minutes, where I could disembark and catch the returning train.

Welcome to my Sicilian adventure.

Practical Information for the Rome to Sicily Train Journey

Distance and Travel Options

The distance between Rome and Sicily is approximately 494 kilometers. Travelers can choose between flights, ferries, or trains:

• Flights: About 1 hour to Palermo or 1 hour 20 minutes to Catania.
• Ferries: Roughly 14 hours and 30 minutes, offering an overnight experience.
• Trains: The overnight sleeper train takes about 11 hours, offering a unique and comfortable journey.

Train Schedules and Tickets

From Roma Termini, there are four direct trains to Sicily daily: two morning departures and two overnight options. I chose the 11-hour sleeper train, which not only provided a budget-friendly experience but also maximized my time in Rome.

• Day trains: Offer standard and first-class seating.
• Overnight trains: Provide cabin configurations from single-bed rooms to four-bed shared cabins.
• Women-Only Cabins: A safer and more comfortable option for solo female travelers.

Tickets can be booked up to four months in advance on the Trenitalia website or app. However, schedules for mid-December onward tend to open only two months before. Booking early ensures cheaper fares, with prices starting at €39.90. It is best to book your tickets as soon as they are released to secure your preferred cabin. I had originally intended to book a private cabin, but with work keeping me busy, I delayed my booking by a month and missed out on the chance.

While the Trenitalia app wasn’t available on the Singapore app store, I found Trenìt! to be a reliable alternative, especially for checking live train timetables.

What to Expect Onboard

Boarding at Roma Termini

Rome’s primary railway station, Roma Termini, is bustling, so it’s important to validate your ticket at the green machines before boarding to avoid fines. Food options at the station include numerous restaurants, but most close by 10 pm—except for Mercato Centrale, which remains open until midnight.

Cabin Features

The sleeper cabins are compact yet functional, providing:

• Plug sockets for charging devices.
• Clean and sanitized bedding.
• Temperature control, keeping the cabin warm even in winter.

Though sleeping on a moving train isn’t for everyone, my experience on the Hanoi to Sapa sleeper train had prepared me well.

Meals & Snacks

Overnight trains include a simple breakfast of cookies and juice. It’s advisable to bring your own snacks or purchase meals before departure, as onboard food options are limited.

The Unique Ferry Experience

This journey remains one of the last two train routes in Europe where trains board a ferry, the other being the Berlin to Malmö route. Watching the train load onto the ferry and experiencing the crossing firsthand was a highlight of my trip.

Why Choose the Train Over Flying?

• Budget-Friendly: While flights may offer good deals in the off-season, peak-season fares are often high.
• Scenic Journey: Train travel allows you to witness Italy’s stunning landscapes.
• Maximizing Time: The overnight train lets you explore Rome all day before departing at night.
• No Baggage Fees: Unlike budget airlines that charge extra for luggage, train travel allows you to bring your bags without additional costs.

Final Thoughts

Taking the train from Rome to Sicily was more than just a mode of transport—it was an adventure in itself. From the anticipation of boarding the ferry to waking up to Sicily’s breathtaking coastal views, this journey remains one of my most cherished travel experiences.

For those who appreciate slow travel, history, and scenic landscapes, this is a must-try journey. So, if you find yourself debating between flying and taking the train, why not choose the adventure?

Would you take the train from Rome to Sicily? Let me know in the comments below!