Find out how to get to Sicily from Toulon by Ferry
Dreaming of visiting Palermo and Sicily in your own vehicle? Taking the ferry from Toulon to Sicily is the ideal way to discover this Mediterranean island steeped in history. With its spectacular scenery, UNESCO-listed archaeological sites and tasty cuisine, Sicily is the destination of choice for an unforgettable road trip. Corsica Ferries is now operating services from the port of Toulon to Trapani, offering French travellers a direct gateway to the largest island in the Mediterranean.
See also the Palermo guide :
- Visit Palermo in 1 day: 23 things to do and see on foot
- Top 6 things to do in Palermo
- Top 10 culinary specialities in Palermo
- The 12 most beautiful beaches in Palermo
1. The Corsica Ferries route: Toulon-Trapani, your gateway to Sicily
Since 2019, Corsica Ferries has revolutionised access to Sicily by opening a direct maritime service between Toulon and Trapani, the port located to the west of the island. This route is a real godsend for French travellers wishing to explore Sicily in complete freedom. Previously, it was compulsory to pass through Italian ports such as Genoa, Naples or Civitavecchia to reach the Sicilian coast.
Corsica Ferries has been operating in the Mediterranean shipping industry since 1968, and today boasts a modern fleet of 12 ferries and one high-speed vessel. It serves not only Corsica and Sardinia, but also Elba, Majorca and now Sicily on 19 regular routes. This new link means that road trip enthusiasts can easily reach Palermo, the Sicilian capital, as well as all the must-see sites on the island.
The Toulon-Trapani crossing takes around 19 hours and allows you to embark with your own vehicle (car, motorbike, camper van or converted van). Departures generally take place in the afternoon or evening from the port of Toulon, with arrival in Sicily the following day. It is important to note that the frequency of crossings varies according to the season, with more regular departures during the summer period.
2. The port of Trapani: a strategic arrival point in Sicily
Trapani, at the western tip of Sicily, is an ideal base for exploring the island. This charming port town, renowned for its spectacular saltworks and historic centre, offers privileged access to Sicily’s main tourist attractions. From Trapani, you can easily travel to Palermo, the capital around 100 kilometres away, or to Erice, the medieval village perched on its rocky promontory.
The port of Trapani has all the facilities needed to welcome passengers in the best possible conditions. Car hire is available if you haven’t brought your own vehicle, as well as tourist information to help you organise your stay. The city itself is well worth a visit, not least to discover the Trapani and Paceco Saltworks Nature Reserve, with its emblematic windmills and colour-changing pools.
Download the audio-guided tour to discover Palermo on foot and on your own
Once you’ve disembarked in Trapani, be sure to head to Palermo for an immersive guided tour. The Sicilian capital is packed with architectural treasures, colourful markets and historic palaces. Thanks to Navaway’s dedicated audio tour of Palermo, you can discover the city’s 23 must-see sights on your own, at your own pace. From the narrow streets of the Ballarò market to the splendour of the Palatine Chapel, let the audio commentary guide you through an enriching experience.
3. How to book your Toulon-Sicily crossing
Book your ferry ticket to Sicily from Toulon in just a few clicks, preferably several weeks in advance to take advantage of the best fares. As with plane tickets, prices for sea crossings vary considerably depending on the booking period and the season. It is therefore strongly recommended that you make your purchase in advance to guarantee your place and optimise your budget.
Fares for the Toulon-Trapani route generally start at around 130 to 144 euros for a return trip for one passenger in a van-type vehicle. There are several options to choose from when booking: the type of cabin (recommended for a night crossing), meals on board, priority boarding and cancellation insurance. If you are travelling in high season or during school holidays, allow for an extra budget and book even earlier.
When you make your booking, you will need to specify the number of passengers, the type and size of your vehicle, and the dates of your outward and return journeys. You should also check the boarding conditions if you are travelling with pets. Cancellation insurance, usually offered at around €10 per passenger, may be a good idea, given that the cost of changing a standard ticket can be as much as €35.
4. Alternative routes to Sicily from France
If the dates offered for the direct Toulon-Trapani route don’t suit your availability, there are several alternatives for getting to Sicily. You can opt for a crossing in two stages: first from Toulon to Corsica (Bastia or Ajaccio) with Corsica Ferries or La Méridionale, then from Corsica to Sicily. This option allows you to discover Corsica on the way and to split the sea journey.
Another option is to embark from Nice, where Corsica Ferries also offers departures to Trapani. The port of Nice offers a weekly service that complements that of Toulon. For those who prefer Italian ports, Genoa remains an excellent alternative, with Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV) offering regular services to Palermo. The crossing from Genoa takes around 20 hours, and you can also take your own vehicle on board.
Finally, you could consider a mixed route: drive to Italy via the Alps, then embark in Genoa, Naples or Salerno for Sicily. This option offers the advantage of discovering the Italian countryside along the way, although it involves a longer drive before the sea crossing.
5. Preparing to board at Toulon port
To board your ferry to Sicily with peace of mind, you need to be well prepared. The port of Toulon, easily accessible from the A50 motorway, has clear signs leading to the ferry terminal. It is essential to arrive at least 1 hour before departure if you are travelling with a vehicle, and 30 minutes before for foot passengers. During busy periods, it is even advisable to arrive 1? hours before boarding.
Bring your valid identity document and your booking ticket (printed or on smartphone). If you are travelling with children, remember to bring their identity papers. For pets, check the specific conditions and health documents required. You should also bring something to keep you occupied during the 19-hour crossing: books, games, headphones for watching films on your electronic devices.
As far as provisions are concerned, although catering services are available on board, you can bring your own snacks and drinks. Don’t forget to bring comfortable clothes for the night and, if you’re prone to seasickness, anti-seasickness medication. Once on board, you will have access to your cabin (if you have booked one), communal areas, restaurants and duty-free shops.
6. What to discover in Sicily after your arrival
Once you disembark in Trapani, a world of discoveries opens up. Sicily is full of exceptional sites that fully justify a ferry trip from Toulon. Starting with Palermo, the dynamic and authentic capital, where you can follow in the footsteps of the Normans, Arabs and Byzantines through its unique architecture. The cathedral of Monreale, the Palazzo dei Normanni and the Palatine Chapel are absolute must-sees.
Climbing Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano, is an unforgettable experience. Rising to over 3,300 metres, this giant of fire offers lunar landscapes and breathtaking panoramas. Not far away, Taormina, perched on its natural terrace, captivates visitors with its ancient Greek theatre and breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea. The Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, a UNESCO World Heritage site, transports visitors back to Greek antiquity with its remarkably well-preserved Doric temples.
Syracuse, on the east coast, fascinates with its island of Ortygia and its Neapolis archaeological park. The baroque towns of the Val di Noto (Noto, Ragusa, Modica) offer a compendium of Sicilian post-earthquake architecture from the eighteenth century. For nature lovers, the Zingaro Nature Reserve, accessible from Trapani, offers heavenly coves and spectacular hiking trails. The Aeolian Islands, with Stromboli and its active volcano, are also a memorable sea excursion. When planning your Sicilian itinerary, don’t hesitate to let yourself be guided by the Navaway audio tours, which will allow you to explore each city in depth and on your own.
7. Practical tips for your ferry trip to Sicily
To ensure that your sea crossing to Sicily runs smoothly, a few practical tips are in order. First of all, regarding the travel period: the high season runs from June to September, with higher fares but ideal weather and all the tourist sites open. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer an excellent compromise, with pleasant temperatures, fewer tourists and lower prices.
In terms of budget, you should expect to pay between €130 and €200 per person for a return journey by ferry with vehicle, depending on the season, plus the cost of a cabin (highly recommended for a night crossing), which will cost you a further €40 to €80. In Sicily, the cost of living is generally lower than in mainland France, especially for food and accommodation. A meal in a restaurant costs between €15 and €25 on average, and a night in a 3-star hotel between €60 and €100.
In terms of documents, a valid identity card or passport is sufficient for French nationals. If you’re travelling with your own vehicle, check that your vehicle registration document and insurance are up to date. French driving licences are recognised for driving in Sicily. Be aware that Sicilians are sometimes sporty drivers, especially in Palermo and Catania, so be careful. Finally, although Italian is the official language, in tourist areas and in Palermo, you will easily find people who speak English or French.
In conclusion, taking the ferry from Toulon to Sicily is much more than just a means of transport: it’s the start of an unforgettable Mediterranean adventure. This 19-hour sea crossing allows you to embark with your vehicle and freely explore one of Europe’s most fascinating islands. From Trapani to Palermo, from Mount Etna to the temples of Agrigento, Sicily offers an exceptional wealth of culture, history and gastronomy. Don’t hesitate to use the Navaway audioguide itinerary to visit Palermo and make the most of your discovery of this authentic and vibrant Sicilian capital. Enjoy your trip and discover the splendours of Sicily!
FAQ : Toulon-Sicily ferry
Which shipping company operates the Toulon-Sicily route?
Corsica Ferries is currently the main company providing the direct sea link between Toulon and Trapani in Sicily. The route opened in 2019 and offers regular crossings, particularly during the summer season.
How long is the Toulon-Trapani crossing?
The ferry crossing between Toulon and Trapani takes around 19 hours. Departures from Toulon are usually in the afternoon or early evening, with arrival in Sicily the following day.
How much does a Toulon-Sicily ferry ticket cost?
Return fares from Toulon to Trapani generally start at around €130 to €144 per person in a van-type vehicle. Prices vary according to the season, the type of cabin and the options chosen (meals, priority boarding). It is advisable to book several weeks in advance to get the best rates.
Can I take my vehicle with me on the ferry?
Yes, you can take your own vehicle (car, motorbike, camper van, van) on the Toulon-Trapani ferry. In fact, this is one of the main advantages of this crossing, allowing you to explore Sicily in complete freedom. The ticket price generally includes a standard-size vehicle.
How long before departure should I arrive at the port of Toulon?
It is compulsory to arrive at least 1 hour before departure if you are travelling with a vehicle, and 30 minutes before if you are a pedestrian. During busy periods (school holidays, summer departures), it is advisable to arrive 1.5 hours before boarding.
What are the main towns to visit in Sicily from Trapani?
From Trapani, you can easily reach Palermo (100 km), Erice (15 km), Agrigento and its Valley of the Temples (130 km), Cefalù (150 km), as well as the must-see sites in the east of the island, such as Taormina, Catania and Syracuse. The Zingaro nature reserve is also within easy reach of Trapani.
Are there any alternatives to the direct Toulon-Trapani ferry?
If the dates don’t suit you, you can opt for a two-stage crossing via Corsica (Toulon-Bastia then Bastia-Palermo), embark from Nice to Trapani, or go to an Italian port like Genoa to take a ferry to Palermo with Grandi Navi Veloci.
200 audioguided tours for cities all around the world
Download
