Things To Do
in Messina
Messina is a historic port city perched at the northeastern tip of Sicily, facing the Strait of Messina and linking Italy's mainland to the island's northern coast. Its skyline is dominated by the grand Cathedral and the Astronomical Clock, a reminder of centuries of seafaring commerce. The city offers a mix of Baroque churches, waterfront promenades, and a gateway to the Nebrodi and Peloritani mountains.
In the warm months, life centers on the harbor, markets, and nearby beaches along the Riviera dei Limoni.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Cathedral of Messina, known for its stunning architecture and the astronomical clock that puts on a show every hour. Stroll through the bustling streets of the historic center, where you can admire the vibrant piazzas and charming shops. Don't forget to stop by the local bakery for a traditional Sicilian breakfast of brioche and granita.
After lunch at a quaint trattoria, head to the Regional Museum of Messina, where you can explore a rich collection of art and artifacts that tell the story of the city. Take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade, enjoying views of the strait and the nearby hills. As you wander, keep an eye out for the beautiful fountains and sculptures that adorn the area.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant overlooking the harbor for dinner, where you can indulge in fresh seafood dishes and local wines. After your meal, take a stroll along the waterfront to enjoy the evening breeze and the twinkling lights of the city. Conclude your day with a gelato from a nearby gelateria, savoring the rich flavors as you soak in the lively atmosphere.
Begin your day with a scenic drive to Taormina, a picturesque town perched on a cliff with breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea. Explore the ancient Greek Theatre, which is remarkably well-preserved and offers a glimpse into the region's fascinating history. Spend some time wandering through the charming streets, lined with boutiques and cafes, before enjoying a refreshing drink at a local café.
After lunch at a terrace restaurant with stunning views, visit the beautiful gardens of Villa Comunale, where you can relax amidst the lush greenery and vibrant flowers. Take a leisurely stroll along Corso Umberto, the main street that features exquisite shops and artisan crafts. Don't miss the chance to capture panoramic photos of Mount Etna from various viewpoints throughout the town.
As the day winds down, find a spot with a view for dinner, perhaps trying some local pasta dishes that feature fresh ingredients from the region. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife as you explore local bars and gelaterias, soaking in the festive atmosphere of Taormina. End your evening with a nightcap, listening to live music or simply enjoying the stunning coastal scenery.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🚌Public transport ticket (single ride) | $1.50-2.50 |
| 🏨One-night hotel (mid-range) | $70-120 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $1.50-3 |
| 🍷Glass of wine at a bar | $4-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal views and a gateway to Sicily's northeastern coast
- Rich history, Baroque architecture, and a lively market scene
- Excellent base for day trips to the Nebrodi mountains and Aeolian Islands
- Traffic can be heavy near the harbor and ferry terminals
- Some areas can feel crowded in peak season
- Limited high-end nightlife compared to bigger cities
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Posso avere il conto?" - Can I have the bill?
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
Places to Visit in Messina
Visit one of these nice places.
The grand cathedral square with the Astronomical Clock, ornate façades, and lively street scenes—ideal for edifice-focused shots at golden hour.
A medieval church adjacent to the cathedral featuring a distinctive façade and tranquil interior lighting for architectural photography.
Harbor views, ferries, and marina activity provide dynamic maritime photography opportunities, especially at sunset.
Dramatic coastal landscapes with the Strait of Messina and the mainland horizon creating striking seascapes.
Food in Messina
Messina Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Golden fried rice balls often filled with ragù, mozzarella, or other regional fillings; a quintessential Sicilian street food.
Must-Try!
A baked pasta dish with meat ragù, eggplant, and cheese, reflecting Messina’s hearty, comforting cooking.
Swordfish cooked with tomatoes, olives, capers, and herbs—a coastal specialty popular along the Messina coast.
A refreshing ice dessert paired with a soft brioche, perfect for hot days by the harbor.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh seafood, citrus, olives, and regional snacks set up along the port in the mornings.
Local bread, pastries, olives, and sweets near Piazza del Duomo; great for a quick bite and people-watching.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting churches; speak softly and respect sacred spaces.
Use polite Italian greetings such as Buongiorno or Buonasera; address people as Signore or Signora when appropriate.
Meals are social and leisurely—avoid rushing; finish meals and linger to enjoy company.
Safety
Tipping in Messina
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; in restaurants, a 5-10% tip or rounding up is common if service is good. Check if a service charge (servizio) is already included.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; small markets and some street vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming citrus; perfect for walking tours and outdoor markets.
Hot and humid; coastal breezes help, but carry water and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Pleasant days with cooler evenings; great for day trips to the Peloritani mountains and seafood feasts.
Mild with occasional rain and cool evenings; city museums and indoor attractions are ideal during wet days.
Messina at Night
Hiking in Messina
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal hike around Capo Peloro with dunes, birdlife, and sea views.
Forested hillside trails with varying levels of difficulty and scenic overlooks near Messina.
Island-hop excursions from Milazzo with volcanic landscapes, sea cliffs, and volcanic trails.
Airports
How to reach Messina by plane.
Nearest airport across the Strait; reachable by road and ferry; serves domestic and some international flights.
Major Sicilian gateway with frequent international and domestic flights; rail or road connection to Messina.
Northwestern Sicily gateway; longer transfer to Messina, suitable for a combined itinerary.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Generational residents with deep ties to markets, churches, and coastal life.
A student presence from the University of Messina adds vibrancy to the Centro Storico.
Visitors drawn to the harbor, markets, and nearby day-trip destinations.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region loves football; expect local clubs, matches, and fan culture in and around Messina.
The strait provides wind-friendly conditions for sailing, windsurfing, and other water activities.
Popular indoor sports with local teams and community clubs available for participation or spectating.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Messina.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many pasta dishes with tomato, vegetables, and cheeses are vegetarian-friendly; look for caponata, grilled vegetables, and risottos; ask for no meat-based stocks and clarify when ordering sauces.