Capo d'Orlando
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Latest page update: 3 June 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Capo d'Orlando
Capo d’Orlando, on Sicily’s northern coast, is a popular seaside town with long beaches and a lively promenade. The town offers several established hotels, many of them located directly along the seafront, making it convenient for both relaxation and exploring the area.
Hotel Il Mulino is a seafront property with modern rooms, a pool and a restaurant, regularly praised for its comfort and location (€€). Another option is Hotel Nettuno Beach, which provides direct access to the beach, contemporary accommodation and guest feedback highlighting its convenience (€€). For a larger resort-style stay, Villa Anita Residence Hotel offers a pool, sea-view apartments and good facilities, often noted for its setting and family-friendly services (€€).
Hotel Il Mulino is a seafront property with modern rooms, a pool and a restaurant, regularly praised for its comfort and location (€€). Another option is Hotel Nettuno Beach, which provides direct access to the beach, contemporary accommodation and guest feedback highlighting its convenience (€€). For a larger resort-style stay, Villa Anita Residence Hotel offers a pool, sea-view apartments and good facilities, often noted for its setting and family-friendly services (€€).
Where is
Where is Capo d'Orlando?
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The seaside town of Capo d'Orlando is situated on the Tyrrhenian Coast, in the Metropolitan City of Messina. It has a population of around 13,000 residents while the main highlights are the beaches, the beach resort of San Gregorio Bagnoli and the promenade.
Nearby places of interest include Brolo, Gioiosa Marea, Patti, Tyndaris and Marinello Beach. |
Comune di Capo d'Orlando
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Province: Metropolitan City of Messina
Region: Sicily Population: 13,105 (in 2024 - source) Size: 14 km² Highlights: beaches, San Gregorio Bagnoli, promenade Close by: Brolo, Gioiosa Marea, Patti, Tyndaris, Marinello Beach |
What People Ask About Capo d'Orlando, Sicily
Is Capo d'Orlando worth visiting?
Yes, Capo d'Orlando is worth visiting for its long sandy beaches, lively seafront promenade, and views across to the Aeolian Islands. It combines a relaxed holiday atmosphere with good restaurants and local shops.
How do I get to Capo d'Orlando?
Capo d'Orlando has its own train station with connections along the Palermo–Messina line. It can also be reached by car via the A20 motorway, with exits nearby.
What are the main attractions in Capo d'Orlando?
Highlights include the Sanctuary of Maria Santissima, the Capo d'Orlando Lighthouse, the town’s sandy beaches, and boat trips to the Aeolian Islands. The Villa Piccolo museum is also a cultural landmark.
When is the best time to visit Capo d'Orlando?
The best time to visit Capo d'Orlando is between May and September, when the weather is warm and the beaches are at their best. July and August are the busiest months, while June and September offer a good balance of sunshine and fewer crowds.
How long should I stay in Capo d'Orlando?
A stay of 2 to 3 days is enough to enjoy the beaches, town centre, and local sights. Many travellers also use Capo d'Orlando as a base for excursions to the Aeolian Islands.
Related links
Discover
Discover Capo d'Orlando
Capo d’Orlando is a coastal town in the Province of Messina, set on the northern shore of Sicily along the Tyrrhenian Sea. The town stretches around a long crescent of sandy beach backed by low hills, with a modern seafront promenade and a compact centre arranged close to the shoreline. Clear views extend across the water towards the Aeolian Islands, while inland the terrain rises into the first slopes of the Nebrodi area, giving the coastline a dramatic backdrop.
The town grew around its harbour and maritime activity, later developing into one of the region’s most popular seaside resorts. Landmarks include the Santuario di Maria Santissima, set on the headland that gives Capo d’Orlando its name, and viewpoints that overlook both the sea and the surrounding hills. Positioned between Patti and Sant’Agata di Militello, it forms a key stop on Sicily’s northern coastal route, offering easy access to ferries for the Aeolian Islands and to inland roads leading towards the Nebrodi Mountains.
The town grew around its harbour and maritime activity, later developing into one of the region’s most popular seaside resorts. Landmarks include the Santuario di Maria Santissima, set on the headland that gives Capo d’Orlando its name, and viewpoints that overlook both the sea and the surrounding hills. Positioned between Patti and Sant’Agata di Militello, it forms a key stop on Sicily’s northern coastal route, offering easy access to ferries for the Aeolian Islands and to inland roads leading towards the Nebrodi Mountains.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Capo d'Orlando
- Spiaggia di Capo d’Orlando stretches for several kilometres along the Tyrrhenian coast, with a mix of fine sand and small pebbles. The beach is well-maintained and ideal for swimming, sunbathing and family outings. Both free areas and lidos are available, with bars and restaurants nearby. On clear days, the Aeolian Islands are visible from the shoreline.
- Santuario di Maria Santissima is perched on a hill above the town, offering panoramic views over the coast and surrounding countryside. The sanctuary is dedicated to the town’s patron saint and features a modern structure with religious artwork and outdoor spaces. It is accessible by road or a steep footpath from the centre. The terrace next to the sanctuary is a popular photo spot.
- Lungomare Andrea Doria is the town’s main seafront promenade, lined with palm trees, benches and open spaces. It is popular for walking, jogging and evening strolls, especially in summer. Small markets and live music events are held along the promenade during high season. It also connects the beach to nearby cafés, shops and residential areas.
- Castello Bastione is a small medieval fortification located inland from the town, dating to the 14th century and built to defend the coastline. Though partially in ruins, restoration has preserved parts of the tower and outer walls. The site is occasionally used for cultural events and temporary exhibitions. Its rural setting makes it a peaceful stop for history enthusiasts.
- Porto Turistico di Capo d’Orlando is a modern marina with facilities for yachts, ferries and excursion boats, located at the western end of the town. It features a promenade, shops and restaurants, and serves as a departure point for boat trips to the Aeolian Islands. The port also hosts regattas and summer festivals. Free parking and walking paths make it easy to explore on foot.
Tours and Activities
Capo d'Orlando Tours and Activities
Photo Gallery
Capo d'Orlando Photo Gallery
Sicily Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Sicily
1. Taormina
2. Syracuse
3. Aeolian Islands
4. Palermo
5. Valley of the Temples (Agrigento)
6. Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro
7. Aegadian Islands
8. Cefalù
9. Noto
10. Ragusa
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Sicily
1. Taormina
2. Syracuse
3. Aeolian Islands
4. Palermo
5. Valley of the Temples (Agrigento)
6. Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro
7. Aegadian Islands
8. Cefalù
9. Noto
10. Ragusa
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Sicily
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Capo d'Orlando
By Rail: Capo d'Orlando has its own train station on the Palermo–Messina line, served by Trenitalia. Regional trains connect the town to Messina in approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, and to Palermo in just under 2 hours. The station is located close to the town centre and within walking distance of the seafront and main amenities.
By Road: Capo d'Orlando lies on the northern coast of Sicily, between Messina and Palermo. From Messina, the drive is around 90 kilometres and takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes via the A20 motorway. From Palermo, the journey is approximately 140 kilometres and takes just under 2 hours. There are public car parks near the seafront and train station.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Capo d'Orlando lies on the northern coast of Sicily, between Messina and Palermo. From Messina, the drive is around 90 kilometres and takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes via the A20 motorway. From Palermo, the journey is approximately 140 kilometres and takes just under 2 hours. There are public car parks near the seafront and train station.
Nearest International Airports:
- Catania Fontanarossa Airport: Located about 180 kilometres away, with a drive of around 2 hours and 15 minutes via the A19 and A20 motorways. It is the closest major airport, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights.
- Palermo Falcone Borsellino Airport: Approximately 170 kilometres from Capo d'Orlando, the journey takes just under 2 hours by car. A good option for visitors arriving from western Sicily.
- Reggio Calabria Airport: Situated on the mainland, around 130 kilometres from Messina. From there, the drive to Capo d'Orlando takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including the ferry crossing between Villa San Giovanni and Messina.
Private Transfers
Capo d'Orlando Private Transfers
A private transfer provides a comfortable and reliable way to travel to or from Capo d’Orlando, with a professional local driver offering direct, door-to-door service. It’s a convenient choice for visitors heading to this coastal town, especially those planning to continue their journey to nearby islands or along the northern coast of Sicily.
Transfers can be arranged from Catania Fontanarossa Airport and Palermo Airport, both serving frequent domestic and international routes. Private transfers also connect Capo d’Orlando with destinations such as Milazzo, Patti, and Cefalù, allowing you to travel flexibly and comfortably while exploring the Tyrrhenian coastline.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
Transfers can be arranged from Catania Fontanarossa Airport and Palermo Airport, both serving frequent domestic and international routes. Private transfers also connect Capo d’Orlando with destinations such as Milazzo, Patti, and Cefalù, allowing you to travel flexibly and comfortably while exploring the Tyrrhenian coastline.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.

