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Messina Map: The Attractions

Messina Cathedral

Fountain of Orion

Temple Christ the King

Church of the Annunciation

Santuario della Madonna di Montalto

Palazzo Zanca

Colonna dell'Immacolata

Teatro Vittorio Emanuele

Piazza cairoli.

Vmaison Hotel Messina

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Messina is the gateway to Sicily, it can be easily explored on foot. On a beautiful sunny day, you can see the coast of Calabria so close you could almost touch it. The Greeks used to call this corner of land Zancle “sickle” . And if you’re wondering why this name, just take a look at its natural harbour.

Messina is a must-see for cruise ships taking tourists around the Mediterranean. The best way to explore it is on foot, that is why it is also the favourite destination for this kind of tourism.

To make the tour easy and fun, here are ten things to do in the city.

• Strolling through the historic centre

We can start our city tour, by having a walk in the historic area around the Duomo , surrounded by the scent of the sea. The passage of the typical horse-drawn carriages is very suggestive, and it represents the essence of Messina’s Belle Époque. The stunning Cathedral with its three late-Gothic portals and the great mosaic of Christ Pantocratore is worth a visit. Inside is one of the largest polyphonic organs in Europe, in perfect working order.

• Noon in Piazza Duomo

The 60-metre-high Norman bell tower of the Duomo is a highlight. On the façade is the largest and most impressive mechanical and astronomical clock in the world . A must-see experience is to be in the square at midday, looking up at the original and famous carousel of gilded bronze statues. You can listen to Schubert’s Ave Maria , playing for about 12 minutes.

la cattedrale di Messina – ph. Alfredo Reni

• Orion Fountain

It is impossible not to notice the most beautiful fountain of the 16th century in Europe. The monumental Orion Fountain is near the cathedral, and it honours the city’s founder. The work of art was realised by the Florentine Montorsoli , a student of Michelangelo, and was named by the art historian Berenson.

Montorsoli’s other work is the Fountain of Neptune . It is dated 1557 and is on exhibit in the Regional Museum . A faithful copy of the monument can be seen in Piazza Unità d’Italia . The Fountain is an allegory of the waters of the Strait. It depicts the God of the Sea with a trident and the two monsters Scylla and Charybdis chained on either side. The two monsters protecting the Strait are the protagonists of some of Sicily’s most fascinating myths .

Fontana del Nettuno ph Alfredo Reni

• Vittorio Emanuele III Gallery

Close to Piazza Duomo, is the scenic and eclectic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele III . The structure is in Art Nouveau style. The peculiarity of the building is the presence of a roofed shopping mall. Three arms converge towards the centre, covered by an enormous glass dome. The ceiling has multicoloured stained glass windows, and the floor is decorated with mosaics. Truly marvellous!

• Villa De Pasquale

In the Contesse area , a little more than ten minutes from the terminal of the tram line ( Bonino stop ), we can reach Villa De Pasquale on foot. The entrepreneur and collector Eugenio De Pasquale lived in this magnificent building. Eugenio’s nickname was “ il maragià ” (the maharajah) because of his eccentric nature. The villa is a beautiful example of Liberty style . Surrounded by a marvellous park, the Villa houses laboratories to create refined essences.

• Tasting the mezza with cream while admiring the Straits

The tour of the centre was a whirlwind of emotions. After seeing so much beauty, it’s normal to feel a certain languor. We choose one of the many places with tables and chairs outside. Here we can enjoy the view of the port and the hustle and bustle of passers-by. We sit down and order a granita .

Messina is the home of the “mezza con panna”, or coffee granita . Let’s tuck in the “ tuppo ” of the brioche. Alternatively, we can choose a delicious cannolo with ricotta cheese .

In the meantime, we can admire the largest natural harbour in the Mediterranean , embracing the blue sea of the Strait . Ulysses sailed this sea, and it was in these waters that he faced the threatening waves.

There is a strong emotion in admiring the stele of the Madonnina del Porto , the patron saint of the city. The Madonna blesses the city and greets the ships arriving and leaving. The stele stands on a base with the Latin inscription “ Vos et ipsam civitatem benedicimus ” (‘We bless you and your city’).

The work of art is almost 60 metres long and is at the end of the San Raineri side. A bit back, next to the old Forte San Salvatore (dating 1546), is the beautiful Lanterna di San Raineri . It is another work made by Montorsoli during the reign of Charles V. It was built to sight enemy ships and today is the oldest lighthouse in Italy .

• Spirituality in Messina

Spiritual tourism in Messina and its province is very active. With its shrines , holy paths and churches of great value, the whole area is a destination that can nourish the souls of pilgrims and satisfy those who experience the journey as an inner quest.

Messina has two of the oldest and most important sanctuaries in Italy dedicated to the Mother of Jesus Christ. The first is the Sanctuary of the Madonna di Montalto . Its history is also related to the war of the “Sicilian Vespers” in 1282. The second sanctuary is not far from Messina and is the suggestive Sanctuary of the Black Madonna of Tindari .

Among the most significant religious places to visit in the city, the Church of San Francesco d’Assisi , on Viale Boccetta , is the first temple of the Franciscan order in Sicily. Inside is the tomb of King Frederick III of Aragon of Sicily . The temple is portrayed in the painting of the Pietà with three angels , a work by Antonello da Messina kept at the Correr Museum in Venice.

Not far, on Via XXIV Maggio , is the 17th-century Monastery of Montevergine delle Clarisse di Santa Eustochia . Part of the convent was found in 1453. In the Church is preserved the body of St. Eustochia Smeralda Calafato. According to historical reconstructions, the famous painter Antonello da Messina was in love with Eustochia, and he portrayed her in his famous work of the Virgin Annunziata .

The Sacrarium or Sanctuary of Christ the King stands on Viale Principe Umberto , on a panoramic hill. We can enjoy the stunning view: it stretches from the natural harbour to the city. In neo-baroque style, the temple was built on the site of the ancient castle of Rocca Guelfonia (or Matagriffone) . In 1191, the Rocca hosted Richard ‘Lionheart’ on his way to the Holy Land during the Third Crusade.

Effems, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

In the old fishing village of Briga Marina is the small 13th-century Church of S. Paolo . It is off the beaten tourist track but well worth a visit. Nearby the Church we can see the Stone where St. Paul stopped and sat to preach to the people of Messina in the year 38 AD.

• Cultural sites

The University of Studies is worth a visit. It was founded in 1548 as the Jesuit College . The portal of the college was built by St Ignatius de Loyola in the 15th century and is located inside the building. Giovanni Pascoli , who wrote the famous poem ‘ L’aquilone ‘ (The Kite) in Messina, taught at this university. Salvatore Pugliatti and Gaetano Martino were also professors at this university and were later among the founders of the European Community.

Proceeding along Via Tommaso Cannizzaro and taking Viale Principe Umberto I , we reach one of the most prestigious botanical gardens in Sicily , dedicated to its founder Pietro Castelli .

Not far from the harbour, we can visit the Teatro Vittorio Emanuele . The structure is of neoclassical inspiration, with a marvellous painting by Renato Guttuso on the ceiling, representing the myth of Colapesce .

Teatro Vittorio Emanuele – ph Alfredo Reni

The Regional Museum is spread over fourteen rooms and takes us through the stages of the city’s history from the 12th to the 18th century. Among the many outstanding works is the famous polyptych of San Gregorio by Antonello da Messina, dated 1473. Take your time to enjoy the stunning works The Adoration of the Shepherds and the Resurrection of Lazarus . Both are oil on canvas by the painter Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, dated 1608-1609.

• Messina ‘Eiffel Tower’: the Pilone

Messina is rich in panoramic viewpoints. You can enjoy stunning views from the Sacrario di Cristo Re (Shrine of Christ the King) and the Santuario di Montalto , built on Capperina hill . A special mention deserves Punta Faro , the easternmost point of Sicily.

MarcoCrupi, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Here stands the Eiffel Tower of Messina . It is a monumental steel pillar 232 metres high , with 1250 steps, on flights almost suspended in the air. It dominates the loving and tormented embrace of the Ionian and Tyrrhenian seas. The pylon is a disused power line that can be visited and is illuminated at night by 32 spotlights.

• Messina: sea and legends

Messina has always been associated with the sea. Many legends take inspiration from it. Among these, one of the most famous myths is that of Colapesce . It talks about a young fisherman from Messina who lives at the bottom of the sea, holding up one of the three columns of Sicily with his shoulder. Then there is the legend of Fata Morgana , based on an optical phenomenon typical of the Straits of Messina. Many legends are told by the Strait poet Maria Costa , the voice of the sea and the myths. It is possible to meet her in the small seaside village of Case Basse , in the hamlet of Paradiso . Since 2006 it has been included in the Register of Intangible Heritage – Book of Living Human Treasure of the Sicilian Region .

From the seafront, it is fascinating to watch the typical boats, the felucche , sailing the Strait to catch swordfish. These animals can grow up to 3 metres long. Swordfishing is practised from May to August. It is a very ancient art, handed down from father to son. It also inspired a famous song by Domenico Modugno .

To taste mussels, dates, oysters, clams, swordfish and costardelle, the perfect place is Ganzirri . Here there are many farms and, around the small lakes of the Nature Reserve , we can taste the typical dishes of Messina.

In the Horcynus Orca Park , there is an interesting permanent exhibition called “ Alphabets of the Two Seas “, which is about sea culture. The project is halfway between scientific popularisation and contemporary arts. It tells the story of the natural surface environments and the thousand-year-old fishing of swordfish, seals and whales. The show focuses on the chaotic motion of the currents, the prey-predator zoo-plankton ratios and the typical flora and fauna of the Strait. A section is dedicated to mid-depth environments, the abyss and underwater wrecks. Lastly, in a space without light, you can admire a unique collection of abyssal fish, the monsters of the Strait.

While visiting the ancient district of Faro , we can also taste Faro Doc , a red wine from the Mycenaean age. It is made from Nerello Mascalese, Nocera and Nerello Cappuccio, which are grown in the same area. It is one of the three Doc wines of the Messina area.

In the city centre, we visit the Historical Aquarium , in front of Villa Mazzini . Here we find 22 exhibition tanks containing around 100,000 litres of seawater from the Straits of Messina and over 60 different fish species from the Mediterranean Sea.

• Stroll through the city’s living room: Cairoli Square

Don’t leave Messina without taking a walk around the central Piazza Cairoli . Shopping in Viale San Martino is a must. We are in the city’s living room, surrounded by trees and the coolness of the charming fountain. If we want something thirst-quenching, the typical lemonade with salt is just perfect. We can order it in a kiosk that was created inside a city foundry in 1871. In the past, it was the meeting place of Messina’s nobility. Even today, it offers delicacies such as syrups, horzate, tamarindo, gazosa, orange juice with orange granita and sciampagnino.

At the end of Viale San Martino is where director Michelangelo Antonioni filmed the famous scene of the masterpiece “ L’avventura ” in December 1959. If you’re a movie buff, this could be the first place to visit on the route dedicated to the great artist.

After shopping, energy is necessary. Let’s stop at one of the rotisseries in the centre for a typical arancino (Arancino o Arancina? Questa è la domanda!) (we can pronounce it without fear!) with meat sauce. But we can also order the traditional focaccia from Messina , with curly escarole, salted anchovies, tuma cheese and cherry tomatoes. Another delicacy is the pitone (python), a calzone stuffed with escarole vegetables, tomato, salt cheese and anchovy. These are all Sicilian street foods that we absolutely must try!

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Map of Messina — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info

What’s on this map.

We’ve made the ultimate tourist map of Messina, Italy for travelers! Check out Messina’s top things to do, attractions, restaurants, and major transportation hubs all in one interactive map.

Visiting Messina? See our Messina Trip Planner.

How to use the map

Use this interactive map to plan your trip before and while in Messina. Learn about each place by clicking it on the map or read more in the article below. Here’s more ways to perfect your trip using our Messina map:

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Top 16 attractions in Messina

Astronomical clock of the cathedral of messina, basilica cattedrale di santa maria assunta.

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Chiesa Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani

Tempio di cristo re, orion fountain.

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Santuario Parrocchia S.Maria Di Montalto

Museo regionale interdisciplinare di messina, chiesa di santa maria alemanna, sanctuary of the madonna of dinnammare, basilica santuario sant'antonio, piluni đđî turri faru, campanile del duomo di messina, stele della madonna della lettera, lido horcynus orca - relaxing beach bar (ex lido legambiente).

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Galleria Vittorio Emanuele III

Top 10 restaurants in messina, ristorante marina del nettuno yachting club messina.

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Ristorante sacha, trattoria la sirena di mancuso, il giardino de "la durlindana", trattoria del popolo, transportation in messina, nearby airports, vincenzo bellini catania airport, lamezia terme international airport, highways and major roads.

• Autostrada A20 - a major highway that runs through Messina and connects the city with Palermo and the rest of Sicily.
• SS 113 - a coastal road that travels along the Tyrrhenian Sea and offers beautiful views of the Mediterranean.
• Via Giuseppe La Farina - a major road in the city center that connects various neighborhoods of Messina.
• Via Cesare Battisti - another important road in the city center that connects the port area with the University of Messina.
• Via I Settembre - a busy street that runs parallel to the coastline and offers access to many shops and restaurants.
• Via Garibaldi - a historic street that features many beautiful buildings and palaces, including the Ducal Palace and the Town Hall.
• Piazza Cairoli - a busy square in the heart of Messina that serves as a major transportation hub and shopping district.
• Corso Cavour - a large boulevard that traverses the city center and is lined with many shops, cafes, and restaurants.
• Autostrada A18 - another major highway that connects Messina with other parts of Sicily, including Catania and Siracusa.
• Strada Statale 289 - a scenic road that offers stunning views of the Etna volcano and the surrounding countryside.

Popular road trips from Messina

What's the weather like in messina.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Messina for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Messina in January
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All road trips from Messina

• Messina to Rome drive
• Messina to Florence drive
• Messina to Naples drive
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• Messina to Syracuse drive
• Messina to Venice drive
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• Messina to Athens drive
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• Messina to Matera drive
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• Messina to Vatican City drive
• Messina to San Vito lo Capo drive
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• Messina to Ragusa drive
• Messina to Lecce drive
• Messina to Assisi drive
• Messina to Marne-la-Vallee drive
• Messina to Alberobello drive
• Messina to Piazza Armerina drive
• Messina to Ravenna drive
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Explore nearby places

• Scaletta Zanclea
• Moio Alcantara
• Mongiuffi Melia
• Fiumedinisi
• San Filippo del Mela
• Campo Calabro
• Villafranca Tirrena
• Santo Stefano di Briga
• Villa San Giovanni
• Reggio Calabria
• Rometta Marea
• Monforte San Giorgio
• Roccavaldina
• San Roberto
• Torregrotta
• San Pier Niceto

All related maps of Messina

• Map of Scaletta Zanclea
• Map of Moio Alcantara
• Map of Mongiuffi Melia
• Map of Fiumedinisi
• Map of Rometta
• Map of San Filippo del Mela
• Map of Catona
• Map of Calvaruso
• Map of Campo Calabro
• Map of Cannitello
• Map of Saponara
• Map of Rodia
• Map of Torre Faro
• Map of Villafranca Tirrena
• Map of Santo Stefano di Briga
• Map of Mandanici
• Map of Fiumara
• Map of Villa San Giovanni
• Map of San Nicola
• Map of Reggio Calabria
• Map of Rometta Marea
• Map of Venetico
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• Map of Valdina
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• Map of Scilla
• Map of San Roberto
• Map of Torregrotta
• Map of San Pier Niceto

Messina throughout the year

• Messina in January
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Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Messina?

Get inspired for your trip to Messina with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

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11 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Messina

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Messina, the third biggest city in Sicily after Palermo and Catania, is the place where rail and car travelers first set foot on Sicilian soil. It is also a popular cruise port.

Messina's well-protected natural harbor and its position on the Strait of Messina, close to the mainland, have determined the city's history from the earliest times. But its location as the gateway to Sicily has also meant that tourists tend to hurry through it on their way to the many other attractions of the island .

Messina deserves a place on any Sicilian itinerary for its many things to see and do, and for a chance to meet its upbeat, friendly inhabitants, perhaps during one of the lively festivals that fill its streets with music and color. The most colorful of these is Vara, each August 15, when a 15-meter-tall statue of the Madonna weighing nearly eight tons is carried in procession through the streets.

To be sure you don't miss any of the best places to visit, use this handy list of the top attractions in Messina.

See also: Where to Stay in Messina

1. Cathedral and the Piazza del Duomo

2. the bell tower and astronomical clock, 3. santissima annunziata dei catalani, 4. regional museum, 5. fontana di orion (orion fountain), 6. fontana di nettuno (neptune fountain), 7. panoramic road and sacrario di cristo re, 8. scenic drive to torre di faro, 9. camposanto, 10. madonnina, 11. galleria vittorio emanuele iii, where to stay in messina for sightseeing, more things to see and do.

The cathedral forms one end of the wide Piazza del Duomo , Messina's historic center, and in front of it is the Orion fountain . On the left long side of the cathedral stands the Baroque column of the Virgin Mary by Giuseppe Buceti, erected in 1758.

The church was built in the 1100s by the Normans, who ruled Sicily at the time, but it was seriously damaged by an earthquake that devastated much of Messina in 1908. Barely recovered from that, the cathedral was again severely damaged by World War II bombing.

Following both, the reconstruction remained true to the original form and retained important later features such as the carved stone portals from the late Gothic period, medieval relief carvings on the lower facade, and three apses on the east side that date from its founding.

Like all Norman cathedrals in Sicily, the cathedral is a columned basilica with three aisles, a transept, and three apses. The monumental interior has a brightly colored roof truss and arcades with pointed arches; the apse mosaics of the enthroned Christ are reconstructions, as are the apostle altars of the side aisles.

Through all its travails, this remains one of Sicily's finest cathedrals.

This 60-meter high bell-tower, reconstructed using old designs, contains one of the greatest of all astronomical clocks, a work by the Strasbourg firm of Ungerer placed there in 1933.

Every day at noon (or sometimes shortly after) the figures begin moving and show scenes from the history of Messina, including the handing-over of the legendary letter of protection from the Madonna to Messina.

The show begins with a gilded lion waving a banner and roaring, and the action continues for 15 minutes with animated figures popping out of windows. On the side of the tower facing the church façade, a clock face shows astronomical information.

The second most important church in Messina is the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani. It is the only building to have survived the earthquake of 1908, but was not so fortunate in the World War II bombing. The church was built in the second half of the 12th century under Norman rule, and the east side dates from this time.

The main apse between the transept arms is distinguished by the delicate architectonic arrangement of its false arcades on small elegant columns, and by its multi-colored building materials. The west side with its three portals dates from the 13th century, when the building underwent some alterations.

In the three-aisled interior, stilted arches are supported on columns with a variety of capitals. The central aisle has barrel vaulting, while the side aisles have cross vaulting.

Address: Via Garibaldi Giuseppe 111, Messina

Each of the three sections of Messina's Regional Museum - the painting gallery, sculpture collection, and archeological section -- contains significant pieces. Sculpture highlights include an Antonello Gagini sculpture of St. Antonius, Francesco Laurana's Madonna with Child, and Goro di Gregorio's Madonna of the Cripples , as well as the originals of the figures on the Fountain of Neptune.

In the Picture Gallery is the "Polyptychon of Saint Gregory" by Antonello da Messina, painted in 1473 but damaged in the earthquake of 1908. Of particular importance are The Worship of the Shepherds and The Raising of Lazarus from the Dead by Caravaggio , and finds from ancient Zancle in the archeology section.

Address: Viale della Liberta 465, Messina

Standing in a prominent position in front of the cathedral in Piazza del Duomo, the Orion statue was created by Giovanni Angelo Montorsoli, a student of Michelangelo in Florence. Montorsoli was assisted by his own student, Martino Montanini, and together they worked on the monumental work between 1547 and 1551.

The monument was commissioned to memorialize the completion of Messina's first aqueduct, in 1547, which accounts for the four rivers represented at its base: the Nile, the Tiber, the Ebro, and the local Camaro, the source for the fountain.

Crowning the pyramid formation is Orion, whom legend holds to be the city's founder. He is portrayed with his dog, Sirius, at his feet.

Renaissance art scholar Bernard Berenson praised the fountain as the most beautiful of its kind, for its design, its artistry, and its fine detail.

Address: Piazza del Duomo, Messina, Sicily

Equally beloved by locals, the Fontana del Nettuno, or Neptune Fountain, is located in a park, set apart from the city center. It was built in 1557 and, like the Orion fountain, is a work of Montorsoli.

The fountain shows the god of the sea caught between Scylla and Charybdis, the two monsters made famous by Homer in The Odyssey as the guards at either side of the Strait of Messina. The Via della Liberta begins at this fountain and leads out of the city towards the exhibition ground of the Fiera di Messina .

Address: Via Giuseppe Garibaldi, Messina

An attractive panoramic route, Viale Italia , begins to the west of the university and continues westwards under varying names (Viale Principe Umberto, Viale Regina Margherita). The walkways and boulevards run above the city, following the course of the old fortifications, and end in the north on the coast road.

The route skirts the Botanic Garden , the rebuilt Santuario di Montalto, and the votive chapel of Sacrario di Cristo Re. This shrine, with its huge octagonal dome, is a memorial to war casualties, and its bell tolls hourly in their memory. Near Prince Umberto Avenue is a beautiful esplanade with panoramic views across the city and harbor.

Address: Viale Principe Umberto 89, Messina

A scenic road runs 15 kilometers along the coast northeast of Messina. Villas and gardens line the route, which passes two salt-water lagoons, the Pantani, also known as the Laghi di Ganzirri . The road eventually comes to the village of Torre di Faro, on the Punta del Faro, Sicily's north-eastern tip.

Enjoying fine views from the lighthouse is one of the most popular things to do here. The 250-meter Pilone , although no longer in use, is a reminder of Italy's post-war industrialization and stands at the entrance to the Straits of Messina. This is the point known in Greek mythology as the lair of Charybdis, and you can see the rock of Scylla across the strait.

From Torre di Faro, the coast road continues around the most northerly cape in Sicily. You can return to Messina over the Colle San Rizzo , which reaches a height of 465 meters.

On the west side of the Piazza Dante is the Camposanto, or Cimitero Monumentale, one of Italy's largest and most beautiful cemeteries. On top of the hill is an Ionic colonnade, the Pantheon of the town's leading citizens, from which there are fine views of the city and the strait.

The Neoclassical, Baroque, Art Nouveau, and Rationalist sculptures and monuments are set in gardens, making it seem more like an open-air art gallery than a cemetery. This was not by accident, as the cemetery was planned as an urban park, and has attracted the works of local and other artists in creating its monuments.

Address: Via Catania, Messina

A promontory juts out from the west of Messina into the harbor with the remains of a citadel called the Fort of San Salvatore , which was built in 1681. It forms the base for a 60-meter octagonal column erected in 1934, topped by a statue of the Madonna della Lettera. Locals call it the Madonnina, little Madonna.

Inscribed on the monument is "Vos et ipsam civitatem benedicimus" (We bless you and your city), a quote from a letter the Virgin Mary was believed to have sent the people of Messina. The pillar can be reached on foot by crossing over the tracks at the railroad station, although it is better to use the boat service.

Reminiscent of the grand galleria on Piazza Duomo in Milan, this impressive gallery is also constructed of iron - rare in Italy - but was built later. It opened in 1929, at the same time as the reconstruction of the cathedral.

Like Milan's, it serves as a combination shopping center and stylish salon where locals go to see and be seen in its cafés and restaurants. Inside, the galleria is decorated in stucco work, with a beautiful black and white mosaic floor.

Address: Piazza Antonello, Messina

More B&Bs than hotels are close to the city center's top tourist attractions and are often more luxurious choices. If using Messina as a base for touring the nearby and beautiful northeast coast, consider staying in one of the seaside towns and seeing Messina on day trips. Here are some highly rated hotels in and around Messina:

• Luxury Hotels : In the city center, five minutes from restaurants and an easy walk from the cathedral and Basilica Santuario S. Antonio, Hotel Messenion includes breakfast in the rate. Also in the heart of the city, the five-star VMaison Boutique Hotel has a rooftop terrace and a fine-dining restaurant; shuttle service to the airport is included. Near the rail station and an easy walk from attractions, Royal Palace Hotel has dated but spacious rooms, some with port views from the balconies.
• Mid-Range Hotels: With windows and small balconies overlooking the clock tower and main square, Garibaldi R&B has good-sized rooms and includes breakfast with cappuccino. Close to the Duomo and restaurants, an easy walk to the station and ferry terminal, Opera Relais B&B includes breakfast brought to the room. On the north coast, with well-designed rooms, ocean views, and spectacular sunsets, La Casa A Mare B&B is a little hard to find but a good base for exploring Messina and the coast.
• Budget Hotels: Bright, modern rooms at B&B Crystal are convenient to trains and ferries and an easy walk to central attractions. Family-run and family-friendly Oasi Azzurra Village is a beach resort on the north coast and a great base for road trips, with a good restaurant and pool. About a 25-minute walk from both the Duomo and rail station and on a tram line, Guest House Residence 65 is a modern hotel with spacious rooms, parking, and complimentary breakfast.

Where to Go near Messina: Some of Italy's finest treasures of the ancient world are easy day trips from Messina . The closest is the Greek Theater in Taormina , and one of the largest theaters in the ancient Greek Empire is in the archaeological park in Syracuse , on the coast south of the city.

Places to Visit from Messina: Leave the coast to venture inland to Enna , in the center of the island, with one of the best-preserved villas anywhere in the Roman Empire. For beautiful coastal scenery, drive along the north coast, where the mountainous inland drops to the Tyrrhenian Sea, to visit Cefalù . Farther west is Sicily's capital, Palermo , with its mosaic-lined churches.

More on Italy

• 1.1 Climate
• 2.1 By boat
• 2.2 By plane
• 2.3 By train
• 3 Get around
• 9.2 Mid-range
• 9.3 Splurge

Messina ([mesˈsiːna], Sicilian: Missina, Greek : Μεσσήνη/Μεσσήνα) is a port in the northeast corner of Sicily . Most visitors are passing through, on the 5-km ferry-crossing to mainland Italy. Although it dates to ancient times, Messina is modern and nondescript. Older buildings were mostly destroyed by the great earthquake and tsunami of 28 Dec 1908, then Allied bombing in World War II finished what was left. Nevertheless, it has enough sights to justify spending a day. One modern claim to fame is that in June 1955, Messina hosted the conference that set up the European Community and common market, later the European Union.

The Tourist Information Centre is just outside the railway station. Open M-F 09:00-13:00 and 15:00-17:00 (M W to 18:30).

Understand [ edit ]

Climate [ edit ].

Messina has a Mediterranean Climate with mild, moderately rainy winters and hot, dry summers. It features the wettest conditions amongst the major cities of Sicily, and is significantly rainier than nearby Reggio di Calabria as well. Sunshine is virtually guaranteed in summer and stays abundant in winter.

Get in [ edit ]

By boat [ edit ]

Most travellers arrive from mainland Italy on the 20-minute shuttle from Villa San Giovanni . These ferries sail frequently round the clock, and as they're considered an extension of the road network to Sicily, fares are subsidised. There are also 30-min sailings from Reggio di Calabria .

Some of these ferries arrive in Messina's main port, a short walk from the railway and bus stations. But others land at the northern terminal 4 km north: if you're on foot you'll need to take the tram or local bus to reach the centre, see "Get around".

• Bluferries . Hydrofoils (take cars) hourly from VSG to Messina Porto Storico. On foot €2.50, cars €37-€60 . ( updated Feb 2018 )
• Liberty Lines . Fast cats from Reggio Calabria to downtown port, no vehicles. On foot €3.50 single, €6.50 return . ( updated Mar 2018 )
• Caronte & Tourist . VSG to Messina only with car. With car €36 . ( updated Feb 2018 )
• Meridiano Lines . Ferries Messina downtown - Reggio Calabria (Every 2 hours 24/7, taking 40 min). On foot €1.50, car €15 . ( updated Mar 2018 )

Occasional cruise ships call on splurgy cruises of the Med, with customers landing at Messina in order to be bussed to Taormina, Agrigento and Etna. They're not available to book as point-to-point ferries.

By plane [ edit ]

The closest airports to Messina are:

• Reggio di Calabria ( REG  IATA ) across the straits on the mainland
• Catania Fontanarossa ( CTA  IATA ) 80 km (50 mi) south
• Palermo ( PMO  IATA ) 150 km (93 mi) west

Catania and Palermo have flights to the major European cities.

By train [ edit ]

Messina is Sicily's link to the main Italian train network. Long-distance trains from Rome and Naples cross the Straits of Messina by ferry and continue on to Palermo and Catania . Regular regional trains also run to Milazzo , Cefalu , Taormina and Syracuse .

• 38.185341 15.560964 1 [dead link] Messina Centrale , Piazza della Repubblica . For left luggage, use SAIS office outside. ( updated Mar 2018 )

By bus [ edit ]

Long-distance buses stop in Messina, linking Rome and Naples to Catania and Palermo ( Sais Autolinee ). Regional buses also run to Taormina (by Interbus ), and Milazzo (by Giuntabus [dead link] ) for the Aeolian Islands .

• 38.18529 15.559985 2 Bus station , Piazza della Repubblica ( next to the railway station ). Inter-city buses run from the Piazza here. Several ticket offices (SAIS has left luggage office) and fast-food places. Local buses swing by the Piazza but their hub is one block inland, under the multi-storey car park. ( updated Mar 2018 )

Get around [ edit ]

The few sights of interest in Messina are close to the main port and are easily reached on foot. You're only likely to use the bus or tram to get between central Messina and the northern ferry terminal 4 km up the coast - these run every 10-15 min. Bus 79 runs this way (every 30 min) and continues north to Ganzirri and Istituto Marino on the north-eastern tip of the island. Many buses and the railway run south, as described in "Get in".

See [ edit ]

There is not too much of historical architecture remains in the city due to earthquakes (esp. in 1908) and World War II bombing. Still there are enough things to see there to make a good walk. Places around the Sanctuary of the Madonna of Montalto and Cristo Re offer beautiful panoramic views over the harbour and the Strait of Messina (see the banner).

• Fontana Senatoria ( at the southern corner of the Palazzo Zanca ). ( updated Feb 2017 )
• 38.194676 15.551056 15 Fontana Falconieri , Piazza Basicò . ( updated Feb 2017 )
• 38.156577 15.533555 20 Villa de Pasquale ( Palazzo de Pasquale ), Via Marco Polo 266 ( Contesse district ), ☏ +39 0903674611 , [email protected] . A beautiful Neo-Renaissance villa in Liberty style built in 1912 and restored in 2016. ( updated Feb 2017 )

Do [ edit ]

• Lakes of Ganzirri and Faro , at the Capo Peloro Lighthouse area north of the city, in the north-eastern tip of Sicily. You can reach the two lakes by taking bus number 79 from ATM bus terminal (Parcheggio Cavallotti) close to the train station. At the lakes, the extraordinary marine landscapes are an awe-inspiring sight. It is also the site for the northern tower of the planned, twice-approved and twice-cancelled, Strait of Messina bridge (which locals hope will never be built) and the decommissioned Pylon of Torre Faro (see below). Moreover, the lakes are the right place to have very good fish, seafood, and many other Sicilian specialties.

Buy [ edit ]

Eat [ edit ].

• Al Gattopardo , Via Santa Cecilia, 184 , ☏ +39 090 673 076 . Tu-Su lunch 12:00-15:00, dinner 19:00-00:00 . Med cuisine. ( updated Feb 2018 )
• Pizza Napoletana , 42 Via Cannizzaro . Central pizzeria. ( updated Feb 2018 )

Drink [ edit ]

• Dockers , 31 Via Vittorio Emanuele , ☏ +39 366 488 6865 . Daily 06:30-14:30 . Bar, grill & Irish pub. ( updated Feb 2018 )

Sleep [ edit ]

Budget [ edit ].

Try along Via Cannizzaro near the port and railway station.

Mid-range [ edit ]

• La Residenza , 115 Via 27 Luglio ( 300 m NW of railway station ), ☏ +39 0907 7631 . Charming, elegant, central four star hotel. ( updated Feb 2018 )
• Royal Hotel , 3 Via T Cannizzaro , ☏ +39 090 6503 . Small very central hotel. €70 . ( updated Feb 2018 )
• Il Parco degli Ulivi , Contrada Romeo, Villafranca Tirrena ( 10 km from Messina, exit SS113 towards Palermo at Villafranca, follow SP52 up hill towards Calvaruso ), ☏ +39 0903 379 529 , fax : +39 0903 379 528 , [email protected] . Small 3-star hotel set in the hills looking north over Tyrrheian Sea. ( updated Feb 2018 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• Hotel Avalon Sikani Resort , Contrada Licari, Goioiosa Marea ( on N coast 60 km west of Messina on old coast road SP113 ), ☏ +39 0941 301 100 . Features 119 guest and family rooms with sea view towards the Aeolian Islands. Private beach. Facilities: A/C, infinity swimming pool, sea-view solarium, running centre, spa & wellness centre, banquet facilities, conference centre. ( updated Feb 2018 )

Go next [ edit ]

• Novara di Sicilia - Located in the province of Messina on the northern side of Mt. Etna, this picturesque medieval town is nestled in the mountains overlooking Milazzo. It is the archetype of a typical medieval town, with its friendly and accommodating people who speak a distinctive dialect.
• The main public transport routes are west to Milazzo and Palermo, south to Taormina, Catania and Syracuse, or east across the straits to mainland Italy.

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Virtual travel to Messina, Sicily - Italy

Top attractions & things to do in messina:.

History, facts and travel tips about Messina

Messina is known as the door of Sicily . With its port, shaped like a sickle, it has always been a trading city. Situated close to the Peninsular, there has been busy throughfare between Messina and the Mainland, over the centuries. In recent years, there has been much talk of constructing a bridge to facilitate and improve communication. Though a pleasant idea, in theory, this would be almost impossible to implement in practice, due to the fragile nature of the coastline and the problems of erosion. The main mode of transport between Sicily and the motherland remains a system of ferries, as has been the tradition throughout the centuries.

Messina was founded by the Greeks who named it Zancle which is connected to the word Scythe, in the ancient native tongue of the city, and was also the name of the legendary king, who built the harbour, whose name was said to be Zanclus . Following the Roman , Byzantine and Arab invasions, in the latter of which Messina was the last to submit to the Arab yoke, the Normans , Swabians and Angevins came to Sicily left their mark and were either conquered or fled the wrath of native Sicilians. Messina 's epoch of glory come with the rule of the Aragon dynasty, who made Messina the capital of the kingdom of Sicily and recognised its value and potential as a port.

Today the city is growing and developing along the coast, and due to the violent earthquakes that have struck the area on several occasions and areal damage and bombardment during the second world war, it is almost completely modern. Learning from past lessons, modern Messina is constructed with safety in mind. Streets are wide and buildings relatively low.

Despite its somewhat explosive history, Messina is a thriving town with characteristic annual festivals and celebrations of its long history. On the 13th and 14th of every August the Ride of the Giants takes place, with two enormous statues, one black and one white, known as Grifone and Mata are paraded through the city on horseback in celebration of the mythical founder of the city. The following day, a feast is held in which are placed large wagon with Papier Mache figures , and driven by more than a thousand people. In more recent times this festival has been given a more religious aspect, but originally it was simply a celebration of the origins of the city.

In the Regional Museum of Messina are two of the later works of one of Italy's finest if somewhat fiery artists: Caravaggio . As history would have it, Caravaggio had a choleric disposition. On one occasion, in the year 1606, in Rome's Piazza Navona, over a game of cards, conversation became heated: he was wounded in his forehead. In retaliation, he knifed and killed the offender. Fleeing his crime and the imminent consequences, he fled to Malta, via Messina , where he pleaded for a pardon from the Pope and painted two fine works, one of the " Shepherds' adoration of the Christ Child ", and another of the " Resurrection of Lazarus ".

A darker humour settled over his works thereafter, featuring biblical figures suffering, wounded, knifed, crucified or dying. In some cases his portrayed victims had a wound in their forehead, closely resembling his personal condition. Thus in his work he identified with suffering biblical figures, perhaps a cathartic expression of remorse, testimony to his repentant state, and an emphasis in art of his plea for absolution. The awaited pardon did not come. From Messina , he fled to Malta before returning to Tuscany, where he received his longed for absolution and, shortly after, ended his days.

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Home » Travel Guides » Italy » 15 Best Things to Do in Messina (Italy)

15 Best Things to Do in Messina (Italy)

When travelling to the Island of Sicily, most people will first dock at the port of Messina. This city is located on the north eastern side of Sicily and lies in close proximity to the mainland of Italy. As the third largest city in Sicily, Messina has a population on 237,000 and its main sources of economy are cruise tourism, its large shipping ports and agricultural produce.

This part of Sicily has seen forms of human settlement since ancient Greek times and throughout history, it has served as an important port and gateway to the Mediterranean sea and Italy. In 1783, records show that an immense earthquake devastated a large portion of the city and it took an age to rebuild. Today Messina is still a thriving port and hugely important for the economy of Sicily and Italy. Combining a favourable year round climate together with a host of historical buildings, this is a fantastic first place to explore on your Sicilian adventure.

Lets explore the best things to do in Messina :

1. Messina Cathedral

As the main Catholic church in Messina, the Duomo has stood since 1551 and was originally constructed by a renowned architect from Florence who was actually a protégé of Michelangelo.

During WWII, the cathedral was hugely damaged, and the version you see today is a reconstruction that stays true to its original design and materials.

Standing in the centre of the Piazza del Duomo, the cathedral is truly impressive and exhibits a style that was typical of the time period.

Inside, the walls are lined with a series of stone statues depicting various religious figures whilst the main altar has a beautiful piece of artwork depicting Christ.

Even the beams in the ceiling are decorated and contain a series of patterns and coloured tiles.

2. Piazza del Duomo

This beautiful square is undoubtedly one of the main attractions in Messina – located in close proximity to the port and where the cruise ships dock, it is usually one of the first areas tourists head for.

Contained within the square is the Fontana di Orione which is an ornate water fountain with many detailed sculptures.

Furthermore, there is also the Duomo and the imposing Bell Tower – Both of which are fantastic buildings in their own right.

Finally, there is also a selection of shops, restaurants and cafes in close proximity to the square, and also several shaded areas with benches and trees to sit and people watch.

3. Messina Bell Tower

Completing the trio of attractions in this area of Messina, the Bell Tower stands proudly next to the re-mastered Duomo and is just as impressive.

This huge tower has four separate tiers and the top section is a clock tower with a pointed roof.

Whilst the actual structure is amazing to behold, the clock mechanism is truly something else.

This mechanism stands as one of the most important examples of its kind in the world – At noon, you can witness the mechanism in action and see the various golden figures moving.

It is possible to step inside the tower and watch the intricate mechanism in action – It is truly fantastic to see the various weights, gears and counterweights work together to move the objects.

4. Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani

Although this church is only small in size, it is a fine example of Norman architecture, and one of the few remaining buildings from the era that still stands in Messina.

Located to the south east of the Piazza del Duomo, this church is an absolute must see.

The exterior of the church is an amalgamation of various designs and features some fantastic artwork and stone pillars/arches.

It is clear to see the Normal influence through the hexagonal patterns and the shape of the dome.

Inside, the church is refined and simple, featuring a myriad of patterned brickwork and simple decoration.

5. Messina Regional Museum

Located further up from the Piazza del Duomo in the northern part of Messina, the Regional Museum provides a fascinating outlook at the history of the area.

Split into three separate sections, the museum has a archaeological section, a sculpture collection and a painting gallery.

These collections are extensive and contain a host of interesting and significant pieces such as Gagini’s sculpture of St.

Antonius, and The Raising of Lazarus from the dead by the renowned Caravaggio.

If you are interested in Italian and Renaissance art then this museum will provide ample amounts of fun.

6. Camposanto

Although many people may find this a strange attraction, the Camposanto is a beautiful complex and provides the perfect resting place for the citizens of Messina.

This monumental cemetery features a series of Neoclassical and Art Nouveau structures and sculptures and is more like a public park rather than a graveyard.

A series of flower beds and fountains are found in the central section, whilst a large colonnade sits on top of the main hill.

The Camposanto is considered one of the most beautiful cemeteries in Italy and it is easy to see why.

7. Torre Faro

If you are looking for a trip out whilst based in Messina, Torre Faro is a lovely coastal village situated on the easternmost promontory of land that sticks out towers the Italian mainland.

Approximately 30 minutes by car, Torre Faro is easily accessible and provides a number of attractions and opportunity for relaxation.

A stretch of white sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing, and the streets are lined with charming cafes and souvenir shops.

Furthermore there is a host of water sports and activities and boating to take part in if you are looking for a little adventure.

Finally, a must see is the gigantic metal lighthouse that sits at the edge of the beach – This immense structure is literally impossible to miss and stands at 225m high.

8. Zona Falcata

At the edge of the main port in Messina is the Zona Falcata; this area is a hive of activity and is where most of the commercial shipping trade takes place.

As you walk over the main trading railway and into the industrial zone, you will see the everyday workings of a busy Mediterranean port.

Large cargo ships, tankers and cruise ships are continually entering and leaving the port, and goods are continually being moved from place to place.

If you continue down the Via S Ranieri, you will eventually reach the edge of the port and the ornate lighthouse that stands here.

From this position you are granted with panoramic views of Messina and you will clearly see the Bell tower and the Duomo.

9. Temple Christ the King

If you are looking for panoramic views of Messina, then the Temple Christ the King is the perfect place to visit.

Located high up on the Viale Principe Umberto, this monument offers fantastic views across to the Mediterranean sea and the whole of Messina.

Created in 1937, the actual monument features a beautiful hexagonal design and has a large ornate dome that can be seen for miles.

With an amalgamation of designs, the church features several distinct time periods and combines elements of Corinthian design together with Baroque fixtures.

From the front of the church, you can see across to the port and even to the mainland of Italy on a clear day.

10. Lago di Ganzirri

Located to the west of Torre Faro, the Lake of Ganzirri is a great natural sight and provides a wonderful walking opportunity.

This saltwater lake is actually fed from rainwater, groundwater and several small streams that run into it.

An abundance of fish live in the water and it is a regular sight to see fisherman trawling the lake in their small boats, and even to see fish jumping through the water.

Surrounding the lake is a deluge of cafes and restaurants and local stores where you can grab a bite to eat.

Consider walking to the lake from Torre Faro and enjoying a pleasant stroll around its perimeter.

11. Chiesa del Carmine

As one of the most important churches in Messina, the Chiesa del Carmine is not like any other structure and has a truly unorthodox design.

Originally created in earlier years, the version that stands today actually replaces the original that was majorly destroyed during the devastating earthquake that shook Messina in 1908. The structure that stands today has a Baroque style with a large central basilica and a wonderful light grey/blue colouration.

Inside the church there are several different ornately decorated chapels and the dome features a beautiful coloured fresco.

12. Fontana di Nettuno

It is hard to miss this large ornate fountain as it takes pride of place near the main public boating harbour on the edge of the Via Garibaldi that runs parallel to the sea.

Constructed and designed by Giovanni Montorsoli, the fountain is dedicated to the sea god Neptune and he is depicted in the centre holding his legendary trident.

Surrounding Neptune are several other characters from legend and mythical beasts.

The design is beautiful and the fountain is a true marvel.

13. San Marco d’Alunzio

Nestled away on the top of a hill, the commune of San Marco d’Alunzio is a charming village that has lost none of its charm and character.

From Messina, a fantastic drive along the coast for approximately 1 and a half hours will bring you to the commune.

Climb up the paths to reach the top of the hill and walk through the narrow streets of this wonderful place.

Here you will be rewarded with sublime views of the surrounding countryside together with the beautiful architecture of the commune and the friendly people that live here.

14. Milazzo

Another fine destination to visit as a day trip from Messina, Milazzo is located to the north west of the city and takes approximately 40 minutes to travel there by car.

This part of Sicily has been occupied since the Neolithic age and the town of Milazo is the third largest in the commune of Messina.

One of the main sights is the wonderful Castle of Milazzo which dates back to the 9th century and sits on the summit of a hill that overlooks the town.

Created during the Normen conquest of Sicily, the castle held an important strategic position and much of its walls, turrets and gateways still remain in great condition.

15. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele III

In a similar style to the famous gallery in Milan, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele III in Messina features a fantastic design and a large central promenade covered with a glass roof.

The exterior of this building features a wonderful front facade with several columns and ornate arches and the name of the gallery is inscribed in bold letters on the top pediment.

Inside, the Neoclassical architecture is still striking and several grand arches frame the entrances, whilst the glass ceiling opens up to the sky.

The only drawback to this gallery is the lack of shops, but it is still a fantastic feat of engineering nonetheless.

15 Best Things to Do in Messina (Italy):

• Messina Cathedral
• Piazza del Duomo
• Messina Bell Tower
• Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani
• Messina Regional Museum
• Zona Falcata
• Temple Christ the King
• Lago di Ganzirri
• Chiesa del Carmine
• Fontana di Nettuno
• San Marco d’Alunzio
• Galleria Vittorio Emanuele III

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Known as “The Doorway of Sicily,” legend holds that this port city was established by Giants during Ancient Greek times. For centuries it served as a strategic passageway between Italy and the Mediterranean Sea. Not only does Messina boast an immense historical legacy, but its former status as capital city of Il Regno delle Due Sicilie still significantly contributes to both Sicily’s economy and all of Italy today. Make your trip to Splendid Messina in beautiful Sicily truly unforgettable!

A visit to Messina province is an unforgettable experience, from awe-inspiring Greek ruins and glistening beaches to majestic Roman monuments. But that’s just the beginning! The area around Messina in Sicily also offers amazing wine-tourism activities! Join us as we take you on a tour of must-see spots during your time in beautiful Messina and explore some of the nearby wineries that shouldn’t be missed!

Traveling to Messina – Things to know before you go

Where is Messina?

Conveniently situated on the northeastern tip of Sicily, Messina is the third-largest city in this Italian island. It lies within the province bearing its name and radiates a beaming energy that draws visitors from near and far.

How to get to Messina Italy

The best way to reach Messina Italy is flying to Catania Airport (CTA) that is less than a 100km away. You can reach Messina by taking a bus from Catania to Messina for 1h45. Another option is to land in Reggio Calabria Airport (REG) and then take the ferry to Messina.

Where to stay in Messina

You have the choice of several kinds of accommodations in Messina! Find your perfect hotel in Messina, or private lodging:

• Giovoanna Home
• Miti Dello Stretto B&B

Discover more , to have a better overview on what’s available for your trip.

Top 6 things to see in Messina Sicily

Messina is a living testament to the many civilizations that have traversed it: from Roman, Byzantine and Arab invasions to the days of glory during Aragon’s reign when Messina became capital of Due Sicilie Kingdom.

Yet, despite earthquakes and war bombardments ravaging its structure over time, Messina has been reborn as an entirely modern city thanks to stringent safety regulations which specify low-rise buildings with wide streets. Other than ruins or monuments still standing today in tribute to its past glories, this new wave of development means no one would ever suspect how long ago these foundations were first laid!

Discover this list of our top 6 must-see places during your stay in Messina Italy !

1. Piazza del Duomo

When disembarking the ferry, Piazza del Duomo will be waiting to welcome you! This is one of Messina’s most renowned attractions – an outdoor gathering place adorned with several Sicilian monuments. Discover Fontana di Orione, the Bell Tower and the majestic Cathedral as your journey begins in this charming Italian city.

2. Messina Cathedral

The majestic Messina Cathedral, constructed by one of Michelangelo’s apprentices in 1551 and located on Piazza del Duomo, is a hallmark of the Sicilian city. It has weathered several challenges over time but its original architecture remains intact with it having undergone numerous restorations since then. You will be amazed not only at its interior grandiosity but also at its breathtaking exterior – you must go see for yourself!

3. Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani

A superb building of Norman architecture, this small church is a unique one: it is one of the only buildings from the Ancient Era that survived over time. You will find it south east of Pizza del Duomo. Make sure to snap this real-life Norman heritage!

4. Messina Regional Museum

Located in the northern part of the town, you must explore the Messina Regional Museum. There, you will find art-works of Caravaggio, one of Italy’s finest artists: the Shepherds’ adoration of the Christ Child and Resurrection of Lazarus . The Museum also fides archeological pieces and sublime Renaissance sculptures.

5. Zona Falcata and its Lighthouse

On the more commercial and modern aspect of one of Sicily’s major cities, you must discover Messina’s port at Zona Falcata. It will give you an idea of the daily Mediterranean port-life Messina locals work in. If you walk until the edge of the port, you will be able to admire Messina’s impressive Lighthouse, and a complete panorama on the Italian city.

6. Temple Christ the King

Perched on a hilltop, you can’t miss the Temple Christ the King that overlooks Sicily’s late capital. Head to Viale Principio Umberto to see it face to face. A rather recent building, built in 1937, this impressive monument was designed under the influence of Corinthian art, together with Baroque characteristics.

Events in Messina not to miss

Be a part of Sicilian customs and traditions by participating to one of Messina’s incredible events!

• End of January: Annual Carnival – colorful streets, processions and incredible costumes;
• April for Easter celebrations;
• May 1 st : Carro Siciliano Festival – a celebration with traditional Sicilian cart.
• 13 th & 14 th of August: Ride of the Giants – a splendid and festive parade to celebrate Messina’s founders, legendary Giants of Ancient Greece.

Top wineries to visit near Messina – Discover Sicily wine

In addition to being a city that testifies incredible richness over centuries and still to date, the city of Messina is also part of Sicily vineyards and offer wine wonders. The Messina Province is home to the Mamertino DOC appellation, of which:

• White wines are made out of Ansonica and Grillo grape varieties;
• Red wines are made out of Nero d’Zvolo and Nocera grape varieties.

Wondering around Sicily vineyards should entirely be part of your trip in northern Sicily. Here is a selection of 2 wineries near Messina that offer top experiences to discover Sicilian wines and meet passionate winegrowers!

1. Cantine Madaudo

Entirely dedicated to sparkling wine production, Cantine Madaudo has been carrying on the family production for four generations. Attached to Sicilian terroir, they only grow autonomous grape varieties, and the estate is now listed as one of the most important wineries of Sicily .

Today, they welcome you for tasting their premium Sicilian Bubbles at their Sparkling Wine Plant. During a guided tour, you will see with your eyes the bottling and capping process o this special sparkling wine. Then, you will enjoy a commented tasting of their Capovero Grillo Cuvèe Extra Dry and the Capovero Metodo Classico.

2. Tenuta Enza La Fauci

Close to Cao Perolo, where legendary Ulysse meets the sirens during his journey, you will find the Tenuta Enza La Fauci Sicilian winery. Their terroir is unique due to peculiar soil and types of wind: a mix of clay, limestone, winds of Scirocco and Tramontana and abundant rain.

They are happy to take you to their vineyards for a beautiful Sunset Walk, after visiting their cellar and learn all there is about their wine-making methods. They also organize a special Lunch in the winery activity, that includes of course a delicious Sicilian meal with winegrowers.

3. Other great wineries near Messina

If you stay in Messina, you will probably want to visit the Mount Etna (and you should!). While doing so, you can also spend a bit of time discovering wineries nearby:

• Visit Emilio Sciacca Etna Wine
• Visit Antichi Vinai 1877
• Visit Cantine Russo

Other cities to visit near Messina

You might want to visit Catania .

Enjoy your amazing Italian trip to Messina Sicily!

FAQ & Useful resources

Is messina in sicily worth visiting.

Once the capital of a great kingdom, the one of Sicily, Messina is a beautiful and authentic Sicilian city that has a massive historical heritage. Messina is definitely worth visiting if you are planning a trip to Sicily.

What is Messina Sicily known for?

Messina is known for being Sicily’s capital city when the region was a powerful kingdom ( Il Regno delle Due Sicilie ). Considered as the door of Sicily, Messina’s port has been, over centuries, a coveted strategic spot for trading.

Are their beaches in Messina Italy?

Messina province counts several beautiful beaches. Major ones are those of Scaletta, Cape Ali and Nizza di Sicilia.

How do I get to Messina Italy?

_ Land in Catania and take the bus to Messina _ Land in Reggio Calabria and take the ferry to Messina

How long is the ferry from Calabria to Sicily?

From Reggio Calabria, it will take you about 30 minutes to reach Messina by ferry.

What does Messina mean in Italian?

In Italian, Messina literally means “Place in Italy”. Founded by Greeks during the Ancient Era, Messina was once a very powerful city, and is still very active thanks to its thriving port.

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One Day in Messina, Italy

Messina is a charming port city on the north-eastern coast of Sicily that is almost within touching distance of the Italian mainland across the Ionian Sea.  Our one day in Messina was our first experience of Sicily.  We loved Messina’s beautiful architecture, its open squares and greenery as well as the city’s warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Our one day in Messina was full of surprising discoveries.  Messina certainly has deceptively steep hills and many steps!  However, exploring the city on foot was worthwhile to discover Messina’s majestic landmarks in the skyline above the sea, enjoy the views and soak up the relaxed ambience.

One day in Messina was enough to gain a flavour of the city and a desire to return to Sicily and discover more.  In this article, we share with you our walking itinerary that describes our authentic experience of what we discovered in one day in Messina on foot.

One Day in Messina Itinerary

Our one day in Messina itinerary includes the walking time between each destination on the itinerary and tips to help you make the most of your visit.

It also details some of the many free things to do in Messina.  At Off the Tourist Treadmill, we love free things to do and see!  In fact, our tagline is pay less, travel and experience more!

1. Messina Harbour – Cruise Ship Terminal

Our one day in Messina started at the cruise ship terminal on the Via Vittorio Emanuele II as Messina happened to be the third destination on our MSC World Europa cruise .

From the MSC World Europa, we could see a beautiful pink church and domed building above Messina, so we set out to find these landmarks before it got too hot and too crowded with guided tour groups and other travellers.

2. Fontana Falconieri (Falconieri Fountain)

After a 12-minute uphill walk from the cruise ship terminal, we found ourselves in a quiet square called the Piazza Basicò .

In the middle of this square was an intriguing fountain with sculptures of four sea monsters with the heads of a man, a lion, a griffin, and a dolphin.  The Falconieri Fountain dates to 1842 and was designed by Carlo Falconieri.

TIP: Don’t miss the curious staircase to the left of the fountain (the Scalinata d’arte) that is lined with large and colourful contemporary sculptures.

3. Scalinata d’arte – Rampa della Colomba (Art Staircase aka Rampa della Colomba)

The Scalinata d’arte staircase is also known as the Rampa della Colomba .  It features nine different sculptures of mythological sea monsters (Sirenidi) inspired by the Falconieri Fountain.

The resin glass sculptures are free to visit and were created by Carmelo Pugliatti and Enzo Togo and decorated by different artists from Messina: Paolo Bossa, Simone Caliò, Antonello Bonanno Conti (artist of two pieces), Filippo De Mariano, Concetta De Pasquale, Carmelo Pugliatti and Enzo Togo.

Naturally, we were intrigued about the sculptures and where the staircase would lead.  After a 5-minute climb up the steps, we found ourselves at the gates of the Sanctuary of Montalto (the Santuario della Madonna di Montalto). 

TIP: Following the Rampa della Colomba is the shortest route to visit the Sanctuary of Montalto.  However, if you want to avoid the steps, there is a slightly longer, more accessible route from the Piazza Basicò via the Via Dina e Clarenza.

4. Santuario della Madonna di Montalto (Sanctuary of Montalto)

The Sanctuary of Montalto is a pretty pink church in the upper part of Messina.  The church was rebuilt in 1928 on the site of a 13 th century church that was destroyed in an earthquake in the early 1900s.

Although the church is a very attractive place to visit, the trek up to the Sanctuary of Montalto is definitely worth it for the view alone. 

In front of the church there is a wide platform that gives one of the most beautiful viewpoints over the rooftops of Messina, its harbour, and the Strait of Messina all the way to the Italian mainland.  It’s also one of the best places to take great photos of the Tempio Votivo di Cristo Re which is perched on the opposite hill.

On the platform in front of the church, we also found a life size bronze statue of Pope John Paul II.  Apparently, he admired the view from the Sanctuary of Montalto during his visit to Messina in the 1980s, so the city decided to immortalise the moment.

TIP: Although the Sanctuary of Montalto is often overlooked by tourists, visit early in the morning.  Asides from a local enjoying the view, we were the only travellers at this time which made for a very peaceful and enjoyable visit.

5. Tempio Votivo di Cristo Re (The Shrine of Christ the King)

To reach the Tempio Votivo di Cristo Re from the Sanctuary of Montalto, we re-traced our steps to the Piazza Basicò and followed the road (Via delle Carceri) uphill for about 13-minutes.  We then joined the Viale Principe Umberto on which the temple is located.

The Tempio Votivo di Cristo Re is a beautiful domed building that dominates the city below and it is one of the first things you spot from the sea.  Its octagonal shape pays homage to its past as the Tempio Votivo di Cristo Re is built on the elevated site of the octagonal tower of the former Castle of Roccaguelfonia or Matagriffone.

Today, the Tempio Votivo di Cristo Re is a church and war memorial.  Although you must pay to enter the church, there is still a lot to enjoy from the outside for free.

Firstly, there is a magnificent panoramic view of Messina and the harbour from the terrace below the Tempio Votivo di Cristo Re.  However, if you climb up the steps of the beautiful marble staircase to the temple itself, you can get an even higher bird’s eye view from several platforms in front of the church.

Up here, you can stand close to the temple and admire its octagonal structure and external architecture.  We also discovered an enormous bell that was cast from the bronze of enemy canons seized during the First World War.

TIP: Plan to arrive early in the morning at the Tempio Votivo di Cristo Re for the best experience.  This landmark is one of the most popular places to visit in Messina and gets very busy with tourists and tourist buses.

6. Parrocchia Santa Maria Di Pompei (Church of Saint Maria of Pompeii)

The Parrocchia Santa Maria Di Pompeii is a 10-minute walk from the Tempio Votivo di Cristo Re.  This is another stunning church that enjoys a panoramic hilltop position.

On the way, we found another church (see the photo below) with a great view of the Tempio Votivo di Cristo Re. By now, you are probably realising that Messina is full of beautiful churches!

We discovered the Gothic style Parrocchia Santa Maria Di Pompeii church by chance as we wandered through the winding streets and cobbled cut-through passageways of Upper Messina that run parallel to the sea.

The church has an unusual and very grand double staircase plus a beautiful mosaic on the façade featuring the Archangels Michael and Gabriel.  Two lions also keep guard at the base of the columns on each side of the church doors.

TIP: For a shortcut to the Church of Saint Maria of Pompeii, climb the stairs from the Piazza San Giovanni Decollato (off the Via San Giovanni Decollato).  Look back and enjoy the view!

7. Fontana di Nettuno (Neptune’s Fountain)

From the Parrochia Santa Maria Di Pompeii, we meandered our way back down to the sea.  After an 8-minute walk, we reached one of Messina’s symbolic monuments – the Fontana di Nettuno .

Neputune’s Fountain dates to 1557 and was created by the sculptor Giovanni Angelo Montorsoli.  In its original position, Neptune had his back to the sea in line with a local legend.  Today, the God of the Sea gazes over the water with the sea monsters, Scilla and Cariddi, chained at his feet.

TIP: Messina is a mythological city that was founded by a Greek in the 8 th century BC.  According to legend, the sea monsters Scilla and Cariddi lived in the Strait of Messina.  Scilla guarded the Strait of Messina and Cariddi, the Sicilian coast.

8. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele III (Vittorio Emanuele III Gallery)

A 10-minute walk from Neptune’s Fountain on the Piazza Antonello is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele III . We briefly visited this grandiose building with its striking architecture. However, it is also a surprisingly underutilised shopping mall.

TIP:  Look up to see the intricate decoration on the arches of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele III and the diamond-patterned glass roof.

9. Basilica Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta (Messina Cathedral)

Close to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele (approximately a 4-minute walk away) is the Piazza Duomo which is dominated by the beautiful Basilica Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta with its bell tower and astronomical clock .

Messina Cathedral is one of the most well-known attractions in the city and is free to visit.  Not only is the cathedral interesting to explore, but the bell tower also features the largest astronomical clock in the world!  Every day at midday, crowds gather in the Piazza Duomo to witness the performance and we had to join them.

Whilst we were waiting for midday, we met a group of school children who were interviewing tourists to practise their English.  As a former primary school teacher, it was lovely to help them, and they introduced us to a local food specialty called La Pignolata (delicious fried dough glazed in lemon and dark chocolate icing) and told us about local legends.

Once the clock struck 12, all eyes looked up and silence fell across the square as a lion started the performance with a ferocious roar.  To the haunting sounds of the Ave Maria, we were transfixed on the 12-minute parade of bronze statues that slowly emerged from the arches overhead.  This ancient form of storytelling had us all under its spell.

It is also worth going inside Messina Cathedral.  Sadly, the cathedral has been destroyed and reconstructed several times over the centuries, but it has been beautifully rebuilt with magnificent architecture and intricate mosaics. 

Outside the cathedral in the Piazza Duomo is also the Fontana d’Orione (Orion Fountain) but it was sadly off limits the day we visited as restoration work was underway.

TIP: Inside Messina Cathedral, you will also find the largest organ in Italy!

10. Chiesa Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani (Church of the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani)

A short 3-minute walk from the Piazza Duomo towards the cruise ship terminal is a very different kind of church with a unique style. 

The Chiesa Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani is the oldest church in Messina dating to the 12 th century.  This church survived the earthquake that devastated most of Messina in 1908 and is one of the best-preserved historical treasures of the city.

The Church of the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani was built in Norman times between 1150 and 1200 on the ruins of an ancient pagan temple.  It has a simple but striking architecture that merges Romanesque, Byzantine and Arab-Norman styles. Today, the church is the University of Messina’s chapel. 

TIP: The Church of the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani is not always open. However, it is definitely visiting the exterior as a complete contrast to the other religious buildings in Messina.

Final Thoughts on our One Day in Messina

Our one day in Messina was a truly memorable experience for its stunning churches and striking architecture.  However, the city also has a modern, spacious feel with large squares, long streets, and lots of greenery. 

If you visit Messina, be prepared to trek up steps and walk uphill!  However, you will be rewarded with some stunning views of Messina all the way to the mainland of Italy. The other great thing about Messina was that we could see all of these beautiful things for free!

Sarah de Winne

Sarah De Winne creates and edits content for the Off the Tourist Treadmill and Enjoy Retirement Life blogging websites and YouTube channels.  She has a professional background in education and is passionate about sharing quality and engaging information.  Sarah currently lives in the south-east of England in the UK.

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Messina walking tour of the historical center.

Choose a  Messina walking tour  and discover the cultural heritage and the history of  Messina Sicily  city center: from the medieval churches to the modern style monuments, built after the 1908 earthquake and the bombings of the Second World War, the city has many tourist attractions to offer.

Among the other  Messina tours from  the  port , this 2 hours long  Messina walking tour gives you the opportunity to fully appreciate the highlights of the city, enjoying a relaxing and cultural stroll: our tour guide will show you some of the most precious gems of our city, such as the Catalani Church, one of the few elements that we didn’t lose after the earthquake of 1908.

During the tour your tour guide will take you to a pastry shop to taste delicious Sicilian cannoli  or  granita , to experience typical Sicilian flavors.

Another highlight of the tour will be Piazza Duomo, to visit the medieval Cathedral with its impressive mosaics and many works of art. After attending the Bell Tower show at noon, when all the statues located in the main front of the bell tower move.

To end the Messina walking tour you will visit the outstanding Museum of Puppets Theatre of the Gargano family . Here you will admire part of the priceless collection of Sicilian Puppets that the Gargano family preserves from generation to generation since the earliest years of the XIX century. Stories about the chivalric poems were staged by the puppeteers -the pupari – of the Sicilian Puppet Theater, that emerged in Sicily at the beginning of the XIX century. This art is also inscribed into the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List since 2008.

Why Book with us

• No-hassle best price guarantee
• Professional & local tour guides
• Certified tour operator
• Small-medium tours, Higher quality
• Full refund within 24 h before the departure
• Customer care available 24/7
• Support information on WhatsApp before the tour
• Unique Tours & Activities, best experience
• Free Travel Insureance

Messina walking tour departure from Messina Cruise Port

The Messina walking tour starts from Messina Cruise Port or from Travel Agency Discover Messina Sicily, located in the city center. On request, a departure from your accommodation located in Messina area

Messina walking tour: the Catalani Church

We are going to walk in the heart of the city, stopping at the best places to visit, in particular the Catalani Church, one of the most ancient monuments of the city center, that survived the earthquake of 1908. enjoy a tasting of the typical Sicilian granita or Sicilian cannolo at the best bakery in the city center. 

Messina walking tour: the City Hall and Antonello Square

A photo stop at the city hall will let you admire the biggest palace ever rebuilt after the earthquake, in neoclassical style, and the wide and scenic square facing the port. Then, a stop in front of the Gallery Vittorio Emanuele will let you take a picture of one of the most beautiful buildings in the historic center, located in Antonello Square.

The Cathedral Square and its bell tower

The Cathedral of Messina is a highlight in the Messina walking tour. You will admire the precious works of art recollected inside, as well as the beautiful marble fountain of Orion outside in the Square. The most famous attraction is the Astronomical Clock of the cathedral of Messina , the biggest and most complex in the world, with its mechanisms in movement every day at 12 p.m. You won’t miss the show!

Museum of Sicilian Puppets Theater - The Gargano Family

Visiting the extraordinary collection of the Gargano family you will learn more about the techniques and the tools to realize a puppet. Each puppet is a work of art that would take a long time to be finished. In the Museum, you will see also the exhibition of ancient pictures, and old handwritten scripts with the plays by the ancestors of Gargano family. A true jump back in time!

Return to Messina Cruise Port

The tour will end at the starting point. We share a goodbye, hoping to meet our guests back in Sicily soon.

Additional Information

Important information, pick-up/drop-off.

Messina Cruise Terminal 

Discover Messina Office

Hotel / B&B

Languages Offered

English, Italian, Spanish, French, Romanian

Price Includes

Professional tour guide

Tasting of typical products

Entrance fee to the Museum of the Sicilian Puppet Theater

Discover Messina Travel Assistance

Liability Insurance

Price Excludes

Gratuities (optional) 

Food and drinks 

Any Private Expenses

Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

What is not specified in “Included in the price”

Private Tour Option

This tour is also available as a private tour for you and your family. Contact us to have more information.

Covid-19 precautions

Cancellation Policy

Privacy Policy

Is this tour shared or private?

This tour is shared. There is the possibility of purchasing a private tour choosing the option “Adults (Private)” ad the check-out. If you don’t see the option listed, send us an e-mail at [email protected]

Is the Bell Tower show, at noon, included in the tour?

Yes, the Bell Tower show is included as the main attraction of the tour.

Is the tasting included in the price of the tour?

Yes. The tasting is included in the price of the tour.

Walking history of Messina

The most difficulty we had was being in the correct place to meet our guide as there were bus guides wearing the same orange scarves. They and port security were very helpful! Our guide gave us the choice of walking along the lower part of the city or the upper portion. We chose the upper and were rewarded with a fabulous view of the harbor entrance, our ships, the opposite shore and a history of the church itself.There are a LOT of steps to navigate taking the same route both ways, so be prepared for that. She timed it all so we could see the church clock tower display at noon as well as a tour of the interior of church itself. She explained everything in both English and Spanish. We didn’t stay for the sweets as we needed to return to our ship. Our tour lasted about 3 hours.

2fromChicagoIL

Great tour with an energetic and knowledgeable guide

This was a great, easy tour with an energetic and knowledgeable guide. As we walked off the cruise ship there stood our guide with our name on a sheet and from there we took off to walk and learn about this beautiful city. Easy to book online at a very reasonable price. We loved the tour. My only negative is why oh why do people with mobility issues book a two hour walking tour.

Must See Messina Clock Tower and Walking Tour!

Claudio (hope I have his correct name) was our guide and did a wonderful job of explaining the history of Messina on this 2 hour small group walking tour. The highlight was the clock tower show at noon, a must see when in Messina. Gelato sample at the end of the tour was a refreshing and unexpected treat! Our group was about half English-speaking and half Spanish-speaking, and Claudio handled the situation well, explaining each sight fluently in both languages. A lot of walking involved, but not difficult at all.

Chiara was knowledgeable and friendly. Covered the main sights and provided a helpful overview of Messina. The complimentary pastry at the end was also delicious

Very informative tour Our guide, Chiara, was very knowledgeable and energetic. The sites were interesting and the bell tower show at noon is not to be missed. There are steps to climb during the tour but otherwise it is easy walking. The cannoli at the end of the tour was delicious.

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Duomo di Messina

Messina's one great sight is the Norman Duomo (or at least a faithful replica of it). One of Sicily's finest cathedrals, its treasures include an impressive carved altar and a grand inlaid organ, the second-largest in Italy. Originally built in the 12th century and accidentally burnt to the ground in 1254, the cathedral was destroyed again in the earthquakes of 1783 and 1908, as well as by an incendiary WWII bomb in 1943.

Very little remains of the original structure, except for the striped marble inlay, the tracery of the facade and the arresting Catalan Gothic portal. Treasures such as the famous Manta d'Oro (Golden Mantle), used to 'cloak' holy pictures during religious celebrations, are kept in the Museo della Cattedrale, accessed from inside the cathedral.

Piazza del Duomo

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Nearby Messina attractions

1 . Piazza del Duomo

Piazza del Duomo is home to Messina's cathedral and its curious campanile (bell tower). Soaring 60m into the sky, the tower incorporates an astronomical…

2 . Fontana di Orione

The pale marble Fontana di Orione (1553) depicts a lounging Orion, the mythical founder of Messina. The fountain was constructed by Giovanni Angelo…

3 . Chiesa della Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani

This 12th-century church is a fine example of Arab-Norman architecture.

4 . Fontana del Nettuno

Located where Via Garibaldi spills into Piazza dell'Unità d'Italia, the 16th-century Fontana del Nettuno (Neptune's Fountain) is one of Messina's great…

5 . Madonna della Lettera

Guarding Messina's harbour is the soaring golden statue of the Madonna della Lettera. A good spot to admire it and the harbour is from the seafront…

6 . Museo Regionale Interdisciplinare

7 . Museo Nazionale di Reggio Calabria

8 . Museo Nazionale del Bergamotto

Housed in Reggio's former covered market, this museum, which opened in 2018, showcases the interesting 300-year-old history of the region's bergamot…

Sicily Map & Travel Guide

How to enjoy italy's largest island.

Italy's largest island is surrounded by the sea; three of them actually, the Ionian, Tyrrhenian and Mediterranean engulf Sicily and its smaller offspring, the little islands: The Aeolians, Egadi and Pelagie Islands, Pantelleria and Ustica.

Its rocky crust is peppered with archaeological sites and volcanoes, its streets lined with good things to eat. (For the frugal, the good things to eat aren't generally offered by celebrity chefs; the best of Sicilian cuisine is found in street food and in markets.)

And though you might not have thought about it, Wine travel is also very good in Sicily, especially in the west.

Sicilians build things like they will live forever and eat like they will die tomorrow. - Plato

Map of Sicily Showing Cities to Visit

Getting Your Bearings

Sicily is separated by the Straits of Messina; if you arrive by car you'll cross from mainland Italy to Sicily via a short ferry ride. On our map the red boxes indicate recommended beaches. There are many more, but you have to start to narrow down your choices, don't you?

The lines connecting the cities represent the rail lines of Sicily. Trains in Sicily are slow, but the distances short. You can get around Mount Etna on the Circumetnea , a narrow gauge regional line that circles the volcano for 110 kilometers starting from the station of Giarre - Risposto, marked on the map. For a description of the ride with some great pictures, see: The Circumetnea Railway - A Ride Around Etna .

Sicily's best beaches are marked by red boxes on the map. A very interesting corner of Sicily is the Val di Noto , marked on the southeastern section of the map.

Founded in 733BC, Siracusa was a mighty Greek colony about three times the size of today’s city. Siracusa has a castle, churches, a great fish market, catacombs, and several Greek and Roman sites, including a famous Greek theater and Roman arena. The Neapolis Archaeological park contains the Greek Theater of Syracuse and the cave called the Ear of Dionysus and we really enjoyed our visit. [ tickets ]

Palermo is the capital and most important city in Sicily. Once one of the top luxury destinations in Italy before falling out of favor with tourists, it is now crawling its way back into traveler's hearts through their stomachs as they rediscover the fine traditional gastronomy of this sunny destination. After a knockout lunch, you'll want to stroll the city from the Cathedral to the 12th century Capella Palatina and the Norman Palace to nearby San Giovanni degli Eremiti . Then it's on to those fabulous Palermo gardens or a walk along the beach. If you crave more beach, the charming resort town of Cefalu is less than an hour away by train; a ticket will cost you about $10.

While Palermo has its fine seafood, it has built a reputation on street food--and the king of that street food is Pani ca' Meusa .

Palermo has many hotels, so it doesn't have to cost a lot to stay a while. Visitors like the Bed and Breakfast Alba Camere for its location, comfort, wifi, and free bike rentals.

We spent a very fine week at Downtown House , a well-located, well-managed apartment in the heart of Palermo.

Palermo Travel Guide

Palermo Lodging Map

Sicilian icons.

One of the most representative examples of the Sicilian Baroque style are the balconies, supported by console brackets adorned with apotropaic masks (to ward off the evil eye).

Modica Chocolate

Don't worry, your trip to Sicily will offer you some great opportunities to taste some artisan chocolate, trust me and go to Modica. There's a museum of Chocolate there.

Sicilian Carts

The horse and cart form part of the folklore of Sicilian culture, and some of the best modern examples are found in Agrigento.

The Carts of Raffaele La Scala

Where to Go in Sicily

Taormina is an all time favorite city in Sicily Here's a bit of what's there:

• Greek Theater: Taormina's 3rd century BC Greek theater was renovated by the Romans, and is now used for summer performances. Like may Greek and Roman Theaters, it , offers spectacular views of the sea and Mt. Etna. [ tickets ]
• Medieval Quarter: A clock-tower gate serves as the starting point for Taormina's picturesque medieval section with its narrow streets and old shops now selling modern clothing, crafts, and souvenirs.
• Corso Umberto: The lively main street through town, Corso Umberto , is lined with shops and bars.
• Piazza Vittorio Emanuele: Taormina's tourist office is in the unique Palazzo Corvaja , a mix of Arab, Norman, and Catalan-Gothic architecture. The palazzo also houses the Museum of Sicilian Arts and Traditions (closed Mondays). Also found in the square are Santa Caterina Church and remains of a small Roman theater.
• Piazza del Duomo: A Baroque fountain with a centaur, the symbol of Taormina, is at the center of Piazza del Duomo . The Church of San Nicola , also called the fortress cathedral , was built in 1400 over an older church.
• Regional Archaeological Museum : Inside Palazzo Badia Vecchia on a Roman bath site, the museum has finds from Greek and Roman sites.
• Medieval Castle and Madonna della Rocca: The ruins of a medieval castle are in a picturesque position at the top of Monte Tauro where you'll find outstanding views. There's also a sanctuary from 1640, Madonna della Rocca .
• Public Gardens: Another good view spot is the public gardens, Via Bagnoli Croce , with flowers and exotic plants.

It would be a shame to spend time in Taormina while lodging in a crumbling hovel. This is the place for a splurge and the five star Hotel El Jebel is the place to do it. Less expensive but still highly rated is the three star La Pensione Svizzera . If your pocketbook is not ready for a splurge, there are Taormina Hostels available, many with private rooms, that are quite nice.

Other Compelling Places to See in Sicily

In the south of Sicily you'll find Agrigento and the spectacular Valley of the Temples , Greek temples dating from about 510 BC to 430 BC. There's a wonderful archaeological museum and a Museum of expertly-crafted Sicilian carts to visit.

Agrigento in Springtime Guide Agrigento Hotels Agrigento Hostels

The Picture shows Ragusa Ibla, the old town. Ragusa's baroque architecture has earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. The spectacular Baroque Duomo di San Giorgio sits in the center of Ibla, and its piazza is home to much of what a good Sicilian vacation needs, including, of course, gelato!

Ragusa Travel Guide Ragusa Hotels

Like Ragusa, Scicli is another town in the Val di Noto in the southeastern quadrant of Sicily worth a bit of your time.

Pier Paolo Pasolini said of Scicli, "Seen therefore, from far away, and from so high, Scicli was what is said La Sicilia".

Scicli Hotels

Archaeological Sites Not to be Missed

Popular to visit are the Greek archaeological sites at Selinunte, Segesta, and the site of Erice , near Trapani:

Standing atop a mountain (around 750 metres above sea level) overlooking nearby Trapani and the beaches of San Vito Lo Capo, delightful Erice is almost something of a western Sicilian Taormina. There are some ancient Elymian and Phoenician walls surrounding the northeastern side of the city, and two castles, Pepoli Castle, with foundations dating from Arab times, and nearby Venus Castle, dating from the Norman period but built on ruins of the ancient Temple of Venus (or Astarte) where it is believed that ritual prostitution was practiced. Surrounded by a lush park, the hilltop castles alone are worth a stop in Erice, which offers charming old stone streets and several medieval churches. Pepoli Castle was at first a feudal stronghold, though Erice was eventually ceded to the Crown as a demesnial city. The view from the castle towers is stupendous. Though both castles have been modified somewhat over the centuries, they still have that distinctively medieval character one expects of such fortresses. (Pepoli Castle is now a hotel.) ~ The Best of Sicily

Pepoli Castle hosts the Torri Popoli Resort. Lodging tends to be inexpensive on this end of Sicily, so you'll find many options using the buttons below.

Torri Pepoli Resort Other Erice Lodging

Villa Romana del Casale

One of the most spectacular Roman sites outside of Rome is the Villa Romana del Casale just outside the town of Piazza Armerina. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its mosaics. The sprawling villa--there are over 50 rooms--is one of the most luxurious of its kind; the bathrooms had underfloor heating. You can see the villa in the following video.

Sicily Tours

Sicily is a big destination for food and wine enthusiasts. Judy Witts-Francini, Divina Cucina, provides lively food and wine tours of the island. Highly recommended.

Street food in Sicily is considered some of the best in Europe, and Palermo is tops in the category. You can take a very reasonably priced Palermo Street Food Tour and eat the best.

If you have come to Sicily by Train or by air, you can still get around with one of the many Viator tours of Sicily . You can, for example, take a Mount Etna Day Trip from Taormina, or see the Valley of the Temples and Villa Romana del Casale on a Day Trip from Taormina from this list of the best of Sicily tours.

Ever think of spending the winter in Sicily? Prices are cheaper, and this Road Scholar tour might fit the bill if  you're looking for a pre-planned experience in Sicily. Winter in Sicily: Culture & Cuisine in the Mediterranean

Airports and Transportation

Sicily has three airports. The smallest is Trapani Airport . Larger are Palermo and Catania ; you will probably be coming into Sicily via one of these. Viator offers a very popular private arrival transfer from Palermo Airport direct to your hotel.

Weather and Climate

Palermo's proximity to the sea gives it a very moderate climate with an extremely narrow range between the expected high and low temperatures. See the charts at Palermo Historic climate and Current Weather .

More on Sicily

For more on the culture and attractions of Sicily, see our Sicily Category on the Blog.