Connecting through Rome

I personally prefer 2 hours minimum when connecting after arrival in the EU, 3 is better (usually enough time for a snack!). Immigration usually goes fairly quickly for me, but I often feel like I walk for hours between gates.

One thing you will want to do, if possible, is book your flights on the same ticket not just with the same airline. If you check a bag, the airline is responsible for getting your bag off the first plane and onto the second if you have both flights on the same ticket. If you book the two legs separately, you have to collect your own bag after the first flight and recheck it for the second. If you book both legs on the same ticket, the airline is also responsible for getting you to your final destination if your first flight is delayed and you miss your second.

Katherine's advice is sound. In addition, when you check in for the flight to Rome, be sure to get your boarding pass for the Rome-Palermo flight, and also make sure that your checked luggage is tagged to Palermo.

We were directed by large signs for transfer passengers to a special passport control area with only one person ahead of us. It only took a minute or two.