Messina
Introduction
You will find Messina situated in the northeast corner of Sicily, where it serves as a vital harbor city and the capital of its namesake metropolitan area. Positioned at the Strait of Messina, the city acts as an important access terminal connecting you to the Calabria region on the mainland.
Before you go
Prepare for a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers where you can expect consistent sunshine. During the winter months, the weather remains mild with plenty of sunlight, though you should be aware that the region experiences more rainfall than neighboring areas.
Getting there
You can reach Messina from mainland Italy via several ferry options across the straits. Frequent shuttle ferries run between Villa San Giovanni and the city, while other sailings connect Reggio di Calabria to the port. Depending on which vessel you choose, you may arrive at the main port near the railway and bus stations or at a northern terminal that requires a tram or local bus ride to reach the center.
Alternatively, you can travel by train, as Messina serves as the primary link between Sicily and the main Italian rail network. Long-distance trains from Rome and Naples cross the straits to continue toward Palermo and Catania, while regional trains connect you to nearby destinations like Taormina and Milazzo. If you prefer by road, long-distance buses also stop in the city, providing connections to major hubs and local routes to the surrounding region.
Getting around
You can easily explore the sights of interest in Messina on foot, as they are located close to the main port. If you need to travel between central Messina and the northern ferry terminal, you can take a bus or tram that runs frequently along the coast.
For longer journeys, specific routes provide access to different areas:
- Bus 79 travels toward the north-eastern tip of the island.
- Various buses and the railway run south from the central area.
Where to stay
Depending on your budget and preferred atmosphere, you can find various accommodations throughout the region. For a more economical stay, look for options along Via Cannizzaro near the port and railway station. If you prefer a central location with an elegant feel, several hotels are situated in the heart of the city.
For a different experience away from the urban center, consider these alternatives:
- Stay in the hills to overlook the Tyrrhenian Sea at a small hotel located in Villafranca Tirrena.
- Choose a resort further west on the northern coast featuring a private beach and sea views toward the Aeolian Islands.
Food & drink
You can enjoy a variety of culinary experiences in the heart of the city. Savor traditional Mediterranean cuisine at Al Gattopardo or visit a central pizzeria to sample authentic Pizza Napoletana.
For your beverages, you can find a versatile spot that functions as a bar, grill, and Irish pub.
What to see and do
Explore the city’s historical landmarks, which include several structures that survived past earthquakes and wartime damage. You can visit the Gothic Duomo di Messina to see its large astronomical clock or admire the nearby Fontana di Orione. The Piazza del Duomo also features the 18th-century Palazzo Calapaj-d'Alcontres and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele III, an eclectic building with a glass-domed center. For those seeking art, the Museo regionale di Messina houses medieval works and pieces by Caravaggio, while the Chiesa del Carmine is known for its polychrome marble chapels and a complex organ.
Take in expansive views of the harbor and the Strait of Messina from elevated vantage points like the Sanctuary of the Madonna di Montalto or the domed memorial chapel of Cristo Re. You can also walk to the tip of the harbor to see the towering gilded statue of the Madonna della Lettera atop the Forte San Salvatore tower. Other notable sites include the 13th-century Chiesa dei Catalani, the Neptune fountain on Via G. Garibaldi, and the Neo-Renaissance Villa de Pasquale in the Contesse district. Beyond the city center, you can visit the botanical garden or travel to the Capo Peloro area to see the coastal lakes and the decommissioned electricity pylon at Torre Faro.
Three days in Messina
Day one, you can begin your journey in Messina and explore the local area. You might visit the Gothic Duomo or find a spot to sit by a fountain.
Day two, you can travel across the Strait toward Calabria. Depending on your preference, you can head toward Villa San Giovanni or Reggio.
Day three, you can choose to explore further destinations such as Taormina, Milazzo, or the Aeolian Islands.