Taxis & Rideshare in Palermo - Grab, Uber & Local Taxis

## Taxis and Rideshare in Palermo Traditional white taxis are the primary on-demand transportation option in Palermo, operating throughout the city with official taxi stands located at major points including the central train station, Politeama theater, and the airport. You can hail taxis on the street when their roof light is illuminated, queue at designated taxi stands, or call dispatch services like Radiotaxi Palermo (091 513311) or Autoradiotaxi (091 225455). All official taxis are metered and white with a "TAXI" sign on the roof—confirm the meter is running at the start of your journey. For airport transfers, taxis use a fixed-rate system to the city center, though you should verify the current rate with the driver before departing. Rideshare apps like Uber or Grab are not available in Palermo, making traditional taxis the standard choice for point-to-point travel. Taxis work well for direct routes where public transport doesn't serve your destination efficiently, late-night travel when buses are less frequent, or when traveling with luggage or in groups. For current taxi rates and to compare with other transportation options, check the booking widgets on this page. Keep in mind that taxis offer door-to-door convenience and comfort, particularly valuable when navigating Palermo's historic center with its narrow streets, or when heading to coastal areas outside the main bus routes.

{'tip': 'Always insist the driver uses the meter (tassametro) from the start of your journey, or agree on a fare beforehand for airport runs where fixed rates typically apply. If a driver refuses the meter for city trips, find another taxi.'}

{'tip': 'Use official white taxis with taxi signs and meters - avoid unmarked vehicles or drivers who approach you inside the airport or station offering rides. Official taxi ranks are clearly marked outside terminals.'}

{'tip': "For solo travelers, especially at night, consider using taxi apps or having your hotel call a licensed cab so there's a record of your journey. Sit in the back seat and share your trip details with someone."}

{'tip': 'Keep smaller bills handy as some drivers may claim they cannot make change for large notes. Note your taxi number (displayed inside and outside the vehicle) in case you need to report issues or retrieve lost items.'}

Meter 'Broken' or Not Used: Driver claims the meter is broken or simply doesn't turn it on, then charges an inflated flat rate at the end. How to avoid: Insist the meter is turned on before departure or agree on a fare beforehand. Licensed taxis in Palermo are required to use meters for trips within the city.

Scenic Route Scam: Driver takes an unnecessarily long route to inflate the meter fare, especially targeting tourists unfamiliar with the city. How to avoid: Use a GPS app to follow your route, or familiarize yourself with the general direction to your destination. Consider using the booking widget to compare expected fares.

Airport Taxi Overcharging: Unlicensed taxi drivers at Palermo Airport (Falcone-Borsellino) approach travelers offering rides at premium prices, or licensed drivers quote excessive flat rates. How to avoid: Use only official white taxis from the designated taxi rank, insist on meter use, or pre-book through the booking widget for transparent pricing.