Is Messina, Sicily Worth Visiting? What You Need to Know (2024)

Messina, Sicily is tucked away on the island's northeastern coast. It's got history and seaside vibes, but most folks miss it. Here’s what you need to know to decide if it’s worth a stop in 2024.

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Is Messina, Sicily worth visiting?

It may not be as well-known as neighboring Palermo or Taormina, but it is well worth the trip for anyone interested in cool architecture, history, and escaping the tourist trail. Highlights include the eclectic astronomical clock of the Messina Cathedral, the Chiesa Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, and Fontana di Nettuno.

Despite a massive quake that obliterated a good portion of the city in 1908, when it was rebuilt, they mixed Norman, Byzantine, and Arab architecture. The views from Tempio di Cristo Re over the Strait of Messina are magnificent. The historic center is small and doable, so you can even walk through comfortably. Make sure not to miss out on the treasure trove of art in the Regional Museum.

Warning: there is no polished 'touristy’ vibe, and don’t be shocked if parking is tight, it’s not at all ‘glitzy’ but for a taste of ‘real’ Sicilian living, without all the ‘mass tourism’ setups, etc. come to Messina.

Messina, Sicily’s a cool spot, but you gotta know what you’re in for. Here’s a quick rundown of the stuff that might bug you while you’re there:

What is Messina, Sicily famous for?

Messina is famous for being a big name in history, culture, and even myth. It’s at the northeast point of Sicily, the point at which the island enters its key gateway to mainland Italy. It also contains some monumental – and historic – architecture, such as the Messina Cathedral, which has one of the largest astronomical clocks in the world. Messina’s culture is a blend of Norman, Byzantine, Arab, and Renaissance influences, and lies not too far from the legendary sea monsters at the Strait of Messina (think Scylla and Charybdis). It's also packed with spiritual significance, too, including the Sanctuary of the Madonna di Montalto.

Must-See Famous Spots in Messina, Sicily

• Messina Cathedral (Duomo di Messina): This 12th-century Norman cathedral has been rebuilt multiple times after earthquakes and bombings. The architecture is impressive.
• Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock: Right next to the cathedral, this clock from 1933 is massive and puts on a show daily. It’s a crowd magnet.
• Fontana di Orion: Found in Piazza del Duomo, this Renaissance fountain was crafted by a Michelangelo student. It’s one of the best around.
• Messina Regional Museum: This place is packed with medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque art. You’ll see works by Caravaggio and Antonello da Messina.
• Fontana di Nettuno: Another cool fountain by the same artist. It shows Neptune caught between two sea monsters. You can find it near the port.
• Camposanto: Also called the Cimitero Monumentale, this cemetery is like an art gallery with Neoclassical and Art Nouveau sculptures. The views are killer.
• Sanctuary of Montalto: This church sits high up, offering awesome views and a mix of different architectural styles.
• Torre Faro and Lago di Ganzirri: This coastal spot has sweet beaches, an old lighthouse, and saltwater lagoons. Perfect for a chill drive and some downtime.
• Madonnina del Porto: This statue of the Virgin Mary stands at the harbor’s entrance, watching over the city. It’s a local icon.

Is Messina, Sicily safe?

You don’t have to worry about visiting Messina, Italy. Generally, it is safe for travelers. The crime rate is low and it’s easy to find your way around. It is a friendly town and overall, the city is quite safe for tourists, including solo female travelers, if you stay in busy, well-lit areas. However, pickpockets can operate in crowded places, especially in tourist attractions. Keep your belongings secure. Keep in mind, Messina is located in a seismic zone and lies at the foot of Mount Etna. This volcano can be quite dangerous and explosive; expect earthquakes sometimes. Check weather and local conditions before your trip in case of volcanic activity.

Where is Messina, Sicily on a map?

Getting to Messina

How to get to Messina, Sicily?

Reaching Messina by ferry, train, bus, car or even plane is rather easy. A 20-30-minute ferry ride from the mainland is possible from either Villa San Giovanni or Reggio di Calabria. Trains from large cities such as Rome are also straight to Messina (8-9 hours). Driving takes you on the A3 highway from Reggio di Calabria along the coast to the car ferry. The nearest airports are Catania and Reggio di Calabria which can be reached either by bus or ferry with easy connection to Messina.

If you’re heading to Messina, here's a summary of your options, depending on where you start:

How to get around Messina, Sicily?

Messina is quite easy to get around, but it requires some planning in terms of modes of transportation. The city is very compact, so walking distance to many attractions is possible. There is very good public transportation, through both bus and tram, with high frequency and arriving every few minutes. Tickets are available in tobacco shops or news kiosks. The tram is very useful for getting around the main spots in town. Buses cover the rest, with stops at the main cultural sights, such as the Museo Regionale and the Duomo.

Taxis can be found around, but tend to be on the expensive side. Driving can be difficult, given the narrow streets and aggressive local drivers. From mainland Italy, ferries from either Villa San Giovanni or Reggio di Calabria are the best way. Messina is well-connected but prone to delays, so it is advisable to review the schedule.

Is Messina walkable from the cruise port?

Yes, Messina is super nice and walkable from the cruise port. It’s a very old city so the center and its most important places are all right next to the port. The walk from the port to the Cathedral of Messina at Piazza del Duomo is about 10-15 minutes on foot, through a nice area full of shops, cafes, and historical buildings. There’s also the option of taking a taxi, but I think walking is more fun - as long as you don't have luggage!

Things to Do

Things to do in Messina, Sicily?

We highly recommend some sightseeing in Messina, Italy: you’ll appreciate the history, culture and views. Definitely visit the Messina Cathedral with its gigantic clock; check out the Fountain of Orion and the Regional Museum, with fantastic Renaissance art; and such remarkable views await you at the Shrine of Christ the King or the Sanctuary of Montalto, which have imposing vistas.

Messina’s got a bit of everything, whether you’re into history, culture, or just soaking up the scenery. You won’t get bored with these things to do:

Historical and Cultural Spots:

• Messina Cathedral: This 12th-century Norman cathedral got rebuilt after some serious earthquakes. The Bell Tower has one of the world's biggest astronomical clocks. It’s a must-see, especially when it goes off daily.
• Piazza del Duomo: This is the heart of Messina. You’ll find the Cathedral, the Orion Fountain, and a bunch of historic buildings. The fountain’s a Renaissance gem.
• Messina Regional Museum: If you’re into art, hit up this museum. It’s packed with medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque works, including some by Caravaggio.
• Sanctuary of the Madonna di Montalto: Located on a hill, this sanctuary offers killer views of the city and some cool architectural styles.
• Fontana di Nettuno: Another awesome fountain, showing Neptune stuck between mythical sea monsters. It’s right by the port.
• Camposanto: This cemetery is basically an art gallery with neoclassical and Art Nouveau sculptures. Plus, the views over Messina are something else.
• Madonnina del Porto: A statue of the Virgin Mary that overlooks the harbor. It’s an iconic spot for snapping pics.

Scenic Spots and Outdoor Fun:

• Torre Faro and Lago di Ganzirri: Cruise to this coastal village for beaches, an old lighthouse, and saltwater lagoons. It’s perfect for chilling out.
• Scenic Drive to Torre di Faro: Drive along the northeast coast, pass some lagoons, and end up at Punta del Faro. You’ll get panoramic views and a peek into some Greek mythology.
• Panoramic Road and Sacrario di Cristo Re: This road offers epic views of the city and harbor. There are stops along the way with botanical gardens and historical spots.
• Mount Etna: Not in Messina, but close enough. If you’re in the area, you gotta check out this active volcano. Hiking and cable car rides here are top-notch.

Nearby Attractions and Day Trips:

• Taormina: Just a short drive away, this town is all about ancient Greek theatres, stunning views, and charming streets. Perfect for a day trip.
• Aeolian Islands: Hop over to these volcanic islands for thermal springs, black sand beaches, and more. It’s an easy trip from Messina.

Local Vibes:

• Culinary Classes and Wine Tours: Get a taste of Sicily by taking a cooking class or visiting some local wineries.
• Festivals and Events: Check out Messina’s festivals for a true taste of local culture. There’s always something happening.

What to do in Messina, Sicily in one day?

Got just one day in Messina? Start early. Hit up Messina Cathedral first to catch the astronomical clock at noon (it's a quick, must-see show). After that, swing by the Church of Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani. It’s old, with some cool Arab and Byzantine vibes.

Then, check out the Fontana di Nettuno and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele III. Take in some local art and architecture.

By afternoon, either dive into the Messina Regional Museum for some Caravaggio or take a chill walk by the harbor. For killer views, head to the Sanctuary of Montalto or Tempio Votivo di Cristo Re.

Wrap it up with some classic Sicilian eats at a local spot. If you’ve got time, a quick trip to Taormina is worth it.

Are there beaches in Messina, Sicily?

Yep, Messina, Italy has beaches, but don't expect them to be all soft sand. Along its coast, you can find pebbly and sandy strips where it's safe to jump into the clear water. The most popular beaches are Lido Beach Messina Marmora and, more central, Spiaggia di Alì Terme: they’re clean and equipped with some basic amenities. Their excellent views come at the cost of having more pebbles than sand, which is not to everybody’s liking. The best time to go is summer when it’s warm and the water temperature is good for a dip.

The Best Guided Tours in and around Messina

Here are some of the top tours in Messina, Italy:

Messina: Guided City Highlights Walking Tour

This 2-hour tour takes you right through Messina's core. You’ll hit up historic spots and soak in the city's vibe. The guide even gets you into private areas usually off-limits. It’s a solid way to really get what Messina is all about.

Sicily: Etna and Alcantara Gorges Full-Day Tour with Lunch

Spend a whole day exploring Mount Etna and the Alcantara Gorges. You’ll hike, check out volcanic caves, and dig into a legit Sicilian lunch. Wrap it up with a chill time by the river or go for a swim.

Taormina: Ancient Theater Entry Ticket and Guided Tour

Get a guided tour of Taormina’s Ancient Theater. Skip the line and dive into the ruins without the wait. Learn about how the Greeks and Romans left their mark on this spot. The views are pretty epic too.

Giardini Naxos: Semi-Submarine Tour to Isola Bella

Hop on this semi-submarine and check out the underwater scene around Giardini Naxos, Taormina, and Isola Bella. Spot dolphins, octopuses, and other sea life. This one’s a cool pick for families or anyone wanting a different view of the coast.

Taormina: Boat Tour with Aperitif on Isola Bella

Chill on a boat along Taormina’s coast, with a stop at Isola Bella. The tour includes an aperitif, making it perfect for a laid-back afternoon. Enjoy the coastal views and take a dip in the clear water if you’re up for it.

Nearby Attractions

What are some recommended places to visit near Messina, Sicily while on a cruise?

If you are passing by Messina, don’t miss some of the sights around. It would be a no-brainer to go visit the nearby picturesque town of Taormina. It is one hour’s drive away and has breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the sea. The town also has an ancient Greek Theatre (Teatro Greco) built amid the city’s Hellenistic torched walls.

Interested in The Godfather movies? Want to visit the town where the original scenes were shot? Savoca and Forza D’Agrò are just around the corner. If you are fond of hiking, the mountain rock in Messina is your place to climb. Rocca di Novara also called the ‘Matterhorn of Sicily’ is a magnificent sight to view from your spot above the city.

Food and Shopping

What is Messina, Sicily known for food?

The foods of Messina are among the most vibrant and diverse in Italy, with heavy borrowings from across the Sicilian tradition as well as the broader Mediterranean flavors, the seafood is particularly good thanks to its sheltered coastal position and in addition to delights as simple as swordfish in tomato sauce or stuffed sardines, the city’s street food scene ranges from arancini (fried rice balls), through pidone (a calzone-esque pastry) to sfincione (a thick, compressed, tomato and anchovy pizza, often referred to as ‘pizza bianca’ due to its pale hue) and no visit should pass without at least exploring a coffee-flavored granita or devouring a pignolata (bite-size pastries with lemon and chocolate glaze).

Where to eat in Messina, Sicily?

In Messina, when you eat, you eat: Sicilian, that is. Go for classic at Ristorante Marina del Nettuno, with just-arrived seafood from the boats, homemade pasta, and loaves, all served with a view of the Messina Strait. And for a twist, go to Casa & Putia Ristorante, which combines Sicilian standbys with fresh ideas and a cool little local and seasonal twist at a decidedly homey little spot. You could be different, and get gourmet sandwiches and small plates that can only be described as elevated Sicilian food at La Tasteria. Or you could go for low-key at ‘A Cucchiara, serving traditional dishes with just enough fusion to keep it interesting.

What to buy in Messina, Sicily?

Shopping in Messina, Italy, is a trip. You’ll find cool traditional Sicilian stuff mixed with unique local products. Want something authentic? My advice is to get lava stone products and this ranges from jewelry to interior design objects. Do you like jewelry? Well, you won’t go wrong with some coral products – or some painted pottery. Hand-painted pottery is the best because its colors are so bright and totally typical of this place.

Foodies should be sure to take some Sicilian olive oil home, not to mention the pistachio pesto and Martorana fruit, small marzipan sweets that look like real fruit (and taste delicious, too). These are perfect to bring back as gifts or keepers.

Cool item, alert: Coffa bags are hot right now. These straw shopping bags, decorated with ropes and beads, make a statement while getting the job done. And there’s more: make sure to go to some markets, where you can buy capers, but also the Marranzano, the traditional Sicilian mouth harp.

Accommodation

The Best Hotels in Messina, Sicily

Here’s a list of some top hotels in Messina, Sicily, broken down by budget, family-friendly, mid-range, and luxury options.

Budget-Friendly Hotels

Villa Morgana Resort & Spa
Villa Morgana is a solid budget pick. It’s near the Strait of Messina and the Ganzirri Lagoons. This spot has an infinity pool, wellness center, and two restaurants. Rooms are soundproofed and comfy, plus you get free parking and breakfast. It’s an updated 1970s villa and just 15 minutes from Messina’s center.

B&B Emme
B&B Emme is close to Messina’s train station. It’s a cozy, budget-friendly place with soundproofed rooms, free Wi-Fi, and air conditioning. You also get a hearty Sicilian breakfast. There’s a bar and library too, making it a chill spot for travelers who want local vibes without spending too much.

Family-Friendly Hotels

Villa Pulejo
Villa Pulejo is a luxurious resort just a short drive from Messina’s center. This 19th-century villa has a pool, tennis courts, a garden, and an outdoor jacuzzi. The spacious rooms come with sea or park views. With an on-site spa and restaurant, it’s a top pick for a family vacation.

Residence dei Margi
Residence dei Margi offers self-catering apartments that are great for families or groups. It’s close to beaches and local attractions. The hotel features a swimming pool, playground, and even a soccer pitch. The spacious apartments come with fully equipped kitchens, making it a comfortable spot for all ages.

Mid-Range Hotels

Hotel Royal Palace
Hotel Royal Palace is centrally located, just minutes from the train station. The rooms have panoramic terraces, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy an American buffet or traditional Sicilian breakfast. It’s a great mid-range choice for travelers who want to stay close to Messina’s main attractions.

Jolly Charme Suite
Jolly Charme Suite is near the Neptune Fountain. The hotel offers deluxe and junior rooms with modern amenities like air conditioning and home automation. This place mixes historic charm with contemporary comfort, making it a great mid-range option with a hint of luxury.

Luxury Hotels

Vmaison Hotel
Vmaison Hotel is in the heart of Messina. This boutique hotel is in a 19th-century building and offers stylish rooms, a rooftop terrace, and top-notch breakfast service. The on-site restaurant and bar, along with convenient airport shuttle services, make it a perfect luxury pick with a personal touch.

Hotel Sant'Elia
Hotel Sant'Elia is just a short walk from Messina Cathedral and other historic sites. The hotel offers spacious rooms with antique furniture and modern amenities. Its blend of classic and contemporary luxury, along with its excellent location, makes it a top choice for those seeking a high-end stay.