Official 1974 announcement from the Italian State Railways about the closure of Lolli station

Palermo Notarbartolo Railway Station

Palermo Notarbartolo Railway Station: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Palermo Notarbartolo Railway Station is one of Sicily’s most important transport hubs, blending modernist architecture with a pivotal role in Palermo’s urban development. Strategically located in the city’s north-central district, the station connects residents and visitors to Palermo’s vibrant neighborhoods, historical landmarks, and the wider island. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know for a seamless visit—station hours, ticketing, accessibility, facilities, and nearby attractions (DBpedia; RFI).

1950s-60s railroad crossing at Via Notarbartolo in Palermo

Railway level crossing at via Notarbartolo in Palermo with two tracks and early excavation for Palermo Notarbartolo station

Notarbartolo Station in Palermo, Italy with modern train platforms and overhead electrical lines

Palermo Notarbartolo train station in 1972 under construction

Origins and Construction
Architectural Significance
Visiting Hours and Ticketing
- Visiting Hours
- Ticketing
Role in Urban Development
Station Layout and Amenities
Accessibility
Transport Connections
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
Notable Projects and Modernization
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion
References and Further Reading

Origins and Construction

Opened in 1974, Palermo Notarbartolo Railway Station was conceived to alleviate congestion at Palermo Centrale and to serve the fast-growing northern and western suburbs. Its construction mirrored Palermo’s suburban expansion and the modernization of Sicily’s rail infrastructure, aiming to unify disparate neighborhoods and create a modern, multi-modal transport hub (DBpedia).

Architectural Significance

Notarbartolo’s design is distinctively modernist, featuring clean lines, extensive use of concrete, and a focus on efficient passenger movement. The station is almost entirely underground, with a single head house at Piazza Matteo Maria Boiardo providing street-level access to ticketing, commercial areas, and waiting lounges. Below ground, five passenger tracks serve regional and suburban trains, with platforms accessible via elevators, escalators, and ramps (RFI; Wikipedia).

Renovations have introduced tactile paving and real-time information systems, further improving navigability and accessibility for all visitors.

Visiting Hours and Ticketing

Visiting Hours

Station: Daily from 5:00 AM to midnight
Ticket Offices: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Self-Service Ticket Machines: 24/7

Hours may vary on holidays—always check before traveling (SicilyLab).

Ticketing

Regional, Suburban, and Airport Trains: Tickets available at staffed counters, automated machines, and official online platforms such as Trenitalia and RFI.
Urban Transit Tickets: Purchase for use on buses, trams, and metro lines.
Passes: Day, monthly, and annual passes are available for frequent travelers.

Online purchases are recommended, especially during peak periods (Visit Italy; Trip.com).

Role in Urban Development

As Palermo’s second most important station, Notarbartolo is central to the city’s transit network. It spurred growth in surrounding residential and commercial districts and is a key junction for the Palermo metropolitan railway service (RFI). The station’s integration with buses, trams, bike-sharing, and car-sharing services supports sustainable mobility and reduces traffic congestion.

Station Layout and Amenities

Levels: Three (Entrance Hall, Mezzanine, Train Level)
Facilities: Ticket offices, self-service machines, climate-controlled waiting areas, accessible restrooms, retail shops, cafes, free Wi-Fi, and device charging stations.
Luggage Storage: Lockers and left-luggage services available during station hours.

Recent renovations have expanded retail options and enhanced comfort for all travelers (Wikipedia).

Accessibility

Palermo Notarbartolo is designed to accommodate travelers of all abilities:

Elevators and ramps link all levels.
Tactile paving and visual/auditory real-time info systems assist visually impaired passengers.
Accessible restrooms and seating.
Security staff and railway police (Polfer) are present for assistance and safety.

Occasional elevator maintenance may affect access—check ahead if you have specific needs (MetroItalia).

Transport Connections

Train: Regional and suburban lines connect to Palermo Centrale, the airport (Falcone-Borsellino), Giachery, Tommaso Natale, and more. Trains run frequently from early morning until evening.
Metro & Tram: Notarbartolo is an interchange for Metro Line B and tram Lines 2, 3, and 4.
Bus: Adjacent AMAT terminal serves over 60 city lines, including day, night, and shuttle services.
Taxi & Rideshare: Stands at the main entrance; car rental and scooter/bike sharing available.
Parking: Car parking (including disabled spaces) and bicycle racks on site.

For real-time schedules and updates, use official transport apps or platforms (Moovit app).

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Villa Trabia: Historic villa and park, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Via Notarbartolo: Palermo’s main shopping boulevard with boutiques and cafes.
Teatro Politeama and Teatro Massimo: Major cultural venues within easy reach by tram or bus.
Historic Center: Quick access to Palermo Cathedral, Quattro Canti, and lively markets via public transit.

Travel Tips:

Purchase tickets in advance during busy periods.
Avoid peak commuter times for a more pleasant experience (7–9 AM, 5–7 PM).
Luggage storage is limited—consider traveling light or using services at Palermo Centrale.
Stay alert to your belongings in crowded areas.

Notable Projects and Modernization

Palermo Ring Railway Project

The Palermo Ring Railway (Anello Ferroviario di Palermo) is an ambitious project creating a circular rail line linking city districts, enhancing Notarbartolo’s role as a central transit node (FS Italiane). New stations and line extensions will further boost connectivity.

Ongoing Upgrades

Continuous modernization by Italferr includes improved signage, expanded retail, upgraded accessibility, and enhanced passenger comfort (Wikipedia).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are Palermo Notarbartolo’s opening hours?
A: The station is open daily from 5:00 AM to midnight. Ticket offices: 6:00 AM–8:00 PM.

Q: Where can I buy tickets?
A: At station counters, self-service machines (24/7), and online via official platforms.

Q: Is the station accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes; elevators, ramps, tactile paving, accessible restrooms, and staff support are provided.

Q: How do I get to the airport from Notarbartolo?
A: Take the direct regional train to Falcone-Borsellino Airport; journey time is about 40 minutes.

Q: Are there luggage storage facilities?
A: Yes, lockers and left-luggage services are available during station hours.

Q: Are there guided tours starting at the station?
A: Not regularly, but the station is a common meeting point for city walking tours.

Conclusion

Palermo Notarbartolo Railway Station is more than just a transit point—it’s a modern gateway to the pulse of Palermo. Its extensive facilities, accessibility, and seamless connections to the city and Sicily’s broader rail network make it ideal for both commuters and visitors. Ongoing modernization ensures that the station remains at the forefront of Palermo’s urban mobility. Use official apps and resources for real-time planning, and take advantage of the station’s location to explore the city’s history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods.