Things to do in Messina
Welcome to Messina
Messina’s port churns with ferries and cruise ships linking northeastern Sicily with the Italian mainland and ports across the Mediterranean, but this city offers more than just a strategic transport hub. Travelers linger to admire its Norman cathedral and Caravaggio masterpieces plus experience some of Sicily’s best cuisine (think fresh seafood and sweet granita) before striking out to explore highlights strung like pearls along the eastern coastline: Taormina and Castelmola; Mount Etna and its famed volcanic wineries; and Syracuse’s ancient heart are all within striking distance.
Top 4 attractions in Messina
Fountain of Neptune (Fontana di Nettuno)
Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock (Orologio Astronomico)
Church of the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani (Chiesa della Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani)
Messina Cruise Port (Terminal Crociere di Messina)
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A local’s pocket guide to Messina
A lover of all things Sicilian, writer Rebecca has taken many trips to the island and through Messina. She has come to see the city as a destination to savor rather than a port to pass through.
put as much distance between you and the chaotic port as possible and head into the center to Irrera 1910 for a reviving granita, considered the city's best.
begins and ends with the city’s pastries, from cannoli to cassata. Walk them off with plenty of sightseeing in between, taking a break at noon beneath the city’s astronomical clock to watch Messina’s lion roar.
the city’s Duomo is a showstopper, even once you learn that it's a post-WWII replica of the original 12th-century cathedral, destroyed in a 1943 bombing raid.
join the locals for their evening passeggiata (stroll) along the seafront promenade, called the lungomare. The Messinesi stretch their legs here in the cooler evening hours and take in views across the strait.
follow scenic Viale Italia as it winds its way above the city, changing into Viale Regina Margherita along the way. At the top, the Sacrario di Cristo Re panoramic terrace overlooks the city and sea.
is never venturing past the port. The belle epoque city center has an authentic, untouristy feel that's missing from many of Sicily’s more famous destinations.
People Also Ask
Messina is a Sicilian city known as a gateway between the island and mainland Italy. It has a port filled with ferries and cruise ships that travel from northeastern Sicily across the Mediterranean to Italy. Messina is also known as an entry point for Sicily’s food, charming seaside villages, and Mount Etna.
...MoreNo, the port city of Messina does not have a sandy beach, though it does have a lovely waterfront promenade. However, the province of Messina offers many beautiful beaches. Popular beaches in northeastern Sicily include Marinello Beach, Lido del Tirreno, and the beaches of Capo D’Orlando.
...MoreMessina is a port city in northeastern Sicily. Many travelers to Sicily from mainland Italy arrive via Messina before continuing on to seaside villages like Taormina. Messina itself is more than just a port, though; it also has a historic center with an impressive cathedral and views of the sea.
...MoreMessina is known for fresh seafood, a refreshing icy treat called granita, and several kinds of pastries and cookies. You can find classic Sicilian street food, including arancini, plus traditional cheeses. Be sure to try pasta dishes that include seafood.
...MoreMessina is located in northeastern Sicily, across the Mediterranean from the edge of mainland Italy. This port city is a gateway to the rest of Sicily, with many ferries and cruise ships arriving daily. From this entry point, it is easy to explore popular places such as Mount Etna and Taormina.
...MoreYes, Messina is worth visiting. Some travelers pass through quickly on their way to other parts of Sicily, but Messina has a historic center with a striking cathedral, a scenic waterfront promenade, and excellent food such as seafood and an icy treat called granita.
...MoreMessina information
Number of Attractions | 4 |
|---|---|
Number of Tours | 44 |
Number of Reviews | 480 |
Currency | EUR |
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