The Tunis to Palermo ferry route is a significant connection that highlights centuries of historical ties between Tunisia and Italy.
This route dates back to ancient times when the Mediterranean Sea served as a thriving trade corridor for the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, and later the Romans, linking North Africa with Southern Europe.
During the Middle Ages, Tunis emerged as a major centre of the Islamic world, while Palermo was part of the Kingdom of Sicily. The two ports engaged in extensive trade, exchanging goods such as olive oil, grains, textiles, and spices.
In modern times, the Tunis to Palermo ferry route continues to play a vital role in facilitating trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between the two nations. It supports the movement of goods, including agricultural products, machinery, and vehicles, thereby bolstering the economies of both countries.

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The Tunis ferry port, located in La Goulette just outside the capital, is the main maritime gateway connecting Tunisia with Europe. With year-round sailings to Italy, France, and Spain, it is the ideal starting point for international travellers. Whether you’re looking for prices, ferry schedules, or travel tips, this guide covers the essentials for your ferry departure from Tunis and wider Tunisia.
Only 10 kilometres from the city centre, the Tunis ferry port is easy to reach by car, taxi, or public transport. It connects Tunisia with major European destinations and is popular with those travelling with cars, motorbikes, and camper vans. Facilities include ticket offices, customs, cafés, and waiting lounges, making both departure and arrival smooth.
International ferries are operated by GNV ferry (Grandi Navi Veloci), Tunis Grimaldi (Grimaldi Lines), Corsica Linea, and CTN Ferries.
| Route | Operator(s) | Duration | Price Range* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tunis → Marseille | Corsica Linea / CTN Ferries | ~24 hrs (fastest ~21 hrs) | From €165 to €1,350 depending on ticket or vehicle |
| Tunis → Palermo | Grandi Navi Veloci / Grimaldi Lines | ~14 hrs 30 min | From €58 to €715 depending on operator and vehicle |
| Palermo → Tunis | Grandi Navi Veloci / Grimaldi Lines | ~11 hrs | From €53 to €670 depending on class and vehicle |
*Prices are approximate for foot passengers and vary by season. Always check current ferry schedules when booking.
The Palermo Tunis connection is one of the busiest, with the Palermo-Tunis ferry particularly popular for vehicle transport. Several weekly ferries provide flexible options between Europe and Tunisia.
Booking tickets in advance is strongly advised in summer. Prices vary by route, seat type, and whether you take a vehicle:
Look out for seasonal Tunis offers, as operators often provide discounts for families, early bookings, or return trips. Online booking platforms make it easy to compare ferry prices and secure tickets.
Arrive at least 3–4 hours before departure, especially if travelling with a vehicle. All travellers pass through customs and passport control, so keep travel documents and insurance ready.
On arrival in Tunisia, it’s easy to continue to the city centre, Tunis-Carthage Airport, or coastal towns such as Carthage, La Marsa, and Sidi Bou Said.
The terminal includes:
Onboard, modern ferries such as those of Tunis Grimaldi and GNV ferry provide restaurants, lounges, entertainment, and cabins for comfort.
The Tunis ferry port offers reliable, comfortable links across the Mediterranean. By booking early, comparing ferry prices, and checking seasonal Tunis offers, you can travel affordably and with ease.
From the quick Palermo-Tunis ferry to longer sailings like Tunis–Marseille or Tunis–Civitavecchia, a range of ferry schedules ensures flexibility. For travellers wishing to explore Tunisia or connect to southern Europe, the ferry remains one of the most practical options.
Palermo is the regional capital of Sicily; its ferry port is on the northwest coast of the island. In the Middle Ages, Palermo was one of the premier cities in Europe, but today it is still recovering from its twentieth-century ruin. With its reputation as a hotbed of both petty and organised crime, Palermo's attractions are often overlooked. There is some beautiful architecture to be found here, and the city has good museums, churches, markets, and restaurants that are well worth a visit.
Palermo's historic centre, Quattro Canti, in the form of a large octagonal square, is the main attraction in the city's old quarter. Many churches, structures, monuments, and other historical sites of interest are located in or near Palermo's Quattro Canti.




One of the best steamers available
Perfect,,
The staff at check-in were very helpful. On board, more signs should make it easier to find your seat and also prevent so much water from accumulating on the floor of the toilets!