Messina
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Latest page update: 4 June 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Messina
Messina, the gateway to Sicily from the Italian mainland, is a large port city with a wide range of accommodation. Among the many options, several established hotels stand out for their facilities and consistently strong reviews.
Hotel Royal Palace is a centrally located property near the train station, offering comfortable rooms, a restaurant and good guest feedback for convenience (€€). Closer to the seafront, Hotel Sant’Elia provides modern accommodation within walking distance of the main sights, regularly praised for service and location (€€). For a more upmarket stay, Vmaison Hotel combines boutique style with elegant interiors, often noted for its character and quality (€€€).
Hotel Royal Palace is a centrally located property near the train station, offering comfortable rooms, a restaurant and good guest feedback for convenience (€€). Closer to the seafront, Hotel Sant’Elia provides modern accommodation within walking distance of the main sights, regularly praised for service and location (€€). For a more upmarket stay, Vmaison Hotel combines boutique style with elegant interiors, often noted for its character and quality (€€€).
Where is
Where is Messina?
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The city of Messina is the capital city of the Metropolitan City of Messina with a population of 232,555 inhabitants.
Situated on the western shore of the Messina Strait, it covers a total area of 213 km² and lies 229 kilometres east of Palermo, the regional capital of Sicily. One of the oldest cities in Europe, Messina was founded by the Greeks in the 8th century BC. It was and remains an important port for trade and tourism; the gateway to Sicily from the mainland. |
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Comune di Messina
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Province: Metropolitan City of Messina
Region: Sicily Population: 217,895 (in 2024 - source) Size: 213 km² Top sights: Astronomical Clock, Cathedral, Bell Tower Close by: Milazzo, Taormina, Giardini Naxos, Aeolian Islands |
What People Ask About Messina, Sicily
Is Messina worth visiting?
What are the top things to see in Messina?
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Discover Messina
A Port City Shaped by Tragic History
Despite its longevity, Messina's modern history revolves around tragedy and has been the repeated recipient of disasters coming from the ground, the sea and the sky.
The city is built on a fault line which has meant a series of earthquakes, the most damaging of which occurred in 1783 and 1908. The latter of those two earthquakes caused a subsequent tidal wave which led to huge loss of life and left the city itself in a pile of rubble. Years of recovery from the events of 1908 came to a resounding halt during World War Two when Messina was officially the most bombed city in Italy.
The city is built on a fault line which has meant a series of earthquakes, the most damaging of which occurred in 1783 and 1908. The latter of those two earthquakes caused a subsequent tidal wave which led to huge loss of life and left the city itself in a pile of rubble. Years of recovery from the events of 1908 came to a resounding halt during World War Two when Messina was officially the most bombed city in Italy.
Thriving port and the gateway to Sicily from mainland Italy
As a consequence of the disasters outlined above, Messina doesn't have the legacy of architectural wonders that its long history deserves and its most recent buildings have been built low to the ground to guard against future seismic events. That said, this is a busy, thriving port city that receives a huge number of visitors every day.
The main reason for this is that Messina is the port you pass through when you take a ferry crossing from Calabria on the Italian mainland. Of the thousands of tourists that pass through Messina every day, only a small percentage spend any time here but there are some places of interest for those that do.
The main reason for this is that Messina is the port you pass through when you take a ferry crossing from Calabria on the Italian mainland. Of the thousands of tourists that pass through Messina every day, only a small percentage spend any time here but there are some places of interest for those that do.
Sightseeing Messina: around Piazza del Duomo
Messina's hook-shaped port is where most visitors arrive and from here it's just a short distance to Piazza del Duomo. This is the home of the Cathedral which was originally built in 12th century but reconstructed after the disasters of the first half of the 20th century. On the same square of the Cathedral is the Bell Tower.
This is my personal highlight of Messina; firstly, the Bell Tower can be climbed for one of the best views of the city and beyond but there is more to it than that. Facing out from the Bell Tower is an astronomical clock with a variety of golden statues that help to tell the time in different ways. Then perhaps best of all is the lion's roar that emanates from the tower at 12:00 every day, just after the bells have finished tolling. You may find yourself slightly alarmed by this but I'm assured the lion isn't real.
This is my personal highlight of Messina; firstly, the Bell Tower can be climbed for one of the best views of the city and beyond but there is more to it than that. Facing out from the Bell Tower is an astronomical clock with a variety of golden statues that help to tell the time in different ways. Then perhaps best of all is the lion's roar that emanates from the tower at 12:00 every day, just after the bells have finished tolling. You may find yourself slightly alarmed by this but I'm assured the lion isn't real.
Waterside passeggiatas
Away from roaring lions and astronomical clocks, Messina is blessed with some pleasant stretches of promenade where locals enjoy their passeggiatas. As you walk you may muse over quotes from Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing that was set in Messina. Perhaps the line of the play that fits Messina best is "Let me be that I am and seek not to alter me".
Things to Do
Things to Do in Messina
- Duomo di Messina is the city’s cathedral, originally built in the 12th century and reconstructed multiple times due to earthquakes and war. It features a Romanesque façade, Gothic elements and a richly decorated interior. The adjoining bell tower houses one of the world’s largest astronomical clocks, which activates a mechanical show each day at noon. The piazza around the cathedral is a lively meeting place with fountains and cafés.
- Fontana di Orione stands in front of the cathedral and was designed by Florentine sculptor Giovanni Angelo Montorsoli in the 16th century. It represents the mythological figure Orion, credited as the founder of Messina, surrounded by allegorical figures and sea creatures. Considered one of the finest Renaissance fountains in Sicily, it is admired for its artistic detail and symbolism. The fountain forms part of the visual centre of the Piazza del Duomo.
- Santuario di Montalto is a hilltop sanctuary overlooking the city and the Strait of Messina, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The church is associated with a 13th-century legend and features a neo-Gothic design with panoramic terraces. It can be reached by foot or car from the city centre. The surrounding gardens and viewpoints offer a quiet break from the urban setting.
- Museo Regionale di Messina (MuMe) houses a large collection of art and archaeological finds from the city and surrounding area. Highlights include works by Caravaggio and Antonello da Messina, along with sculptures, religious art and fragments of buildings lost to earthquakes. The museum is set in a modern complex near the northern part of the city. It provides a comprehensive look at Messina’s artistic and cultural past.
- Passeggiata a Mare is the coastal promenade running along the harbour and north towards the Lanterna del Montorsoli, a 16th-century lighthouse. The area offers shaded paths, sea views and benches, with access to green spaces and open-air cafés. Ferries and cruise ships can be seen arriving and departing from the nearby port. It’s a popular route for walking and enjoying the sea breeze.
Tours and Activities
Messina Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Messina
- Ristorante Kajiki: Located in the city centre, Kajiki blends Sicilian ingredients with Japanese techniques in an inventive fusion menu. Highlights include sushi with local tuna, tempura prawns, and seafood tartare. The sleek decor and open kitchen create a modern dining atmosphere. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- I Ruggeri: Situated close to Piazza Cairoli, I Ruggeri is known for its refined approach to traditional Sicilian cuisine. The menu features dishes such as swordfish rolls, ricotta-stuffed pasta, and seasonal vegetables, all presented with attention to detail. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- La Tonnara: Positioned near the port, La Tonnara specialises in seafood and is popular for its fresh catch of the day. Guests can enjoy dishes like linguine with clams, octopus salad, and grilled scampi, served in a casual yet elegant setting. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Il Siciliano: A short walk from the Duomo, this trattoria offers a menu rooted in regional tradition, with specialities such as pasta alla norma, caponata, and Messina-style braciole. The warm atmosphere and central location make it a dependable choice for lunch or dinner. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Pizzeria Salvo: This well-established pizzeria is slightly away from the busiest streets but remains a local favourite for its thin-crust, wood-fired pizzas. With a wide choice of toppings and fast service, it’s ideal for a casual and satisfying meal. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
Photo Gallery
Messina Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Messina
- Taormina (approx. 50 km southwest of Messina): A famous hilltop town, Taormina is renowned for its ancient Greek theatre, offering spectacular views of Mount Etna and the Ionian coast. The town’s charming historic centre is filled with cafes, boutiques, and restaurants, while its scenic beaches and vibrant atmosphere make it a popular destination for both culture and relaxation.
- Milazzo (approx. 40 km west of Messina): A bustling port town known for its historical landmarks and beautiful beaches, Milazzo offers visitors the chance to explore the Castello di Milazzo, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. The modern marina is a hub for boat tours to the Aeolian Islands, and the town’s lively seafront is perfect for leisurely walks along the coast.
- Giardini Naxos (approx. 45 km southwest of Messina): A coastal town with a rich history, Giardini Naxos is home to the remains of the ancient Greek city of Naxos, one of the first Greek colonies in Sicily. The town features a long stretch of beach and a lively seafront promenade with cafes and restaurants, offering a relaxing atmosphere alongside cultural and historical attractions.
- Fiumefreddo di Sicilia (approx. 55 km south of Messina): A small town located near Mount Etna, Fiumefreddo di Sicilia is known for its tranquil setting and beautiful countryside. Visitors can explore the local vineyards, visit the historic Chiesa Madre, and enjoy the nearby Alcantara Gorges, a natural site formed by volcanic activity, offering stunning landscapes and hiking opportunities.
- Patti (approx. 65 km west of Messina): A historic town with a rich cultural heritage, Patti is home to the ancient ruins of Terme Romane and the impressive Cathedral of San Bartolomeo. The town also provides access to beautiful beaches along the Tyrrhenian coast, making it a perfect destination for those interested in both history and relaxation by the sea.
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 Messina
Train travel to and from Messina can include a rather unique feature. If you're travelling to or from the Italian mainland by train, that train will be put on a ferry and cross the sea. There are in fact two train stations within a few hundred metres of each other, situated right by the ferry port. The station that serves the trains to and from the mainland is called Stazione Marittima and just next to it is Stazione Messina Centrale which serves destinations in Sicily. By train it takes 33 minutes to cross the Messina Strait to the port of Villa San Giovanni in Calabria on the Italian mainland. From Villa San Giovanni it's a 5 hour plus train ride to the town of Salerno in the region of Campania, close to the Amalfi Coast.
From Messina Stazione Centrale, trains run south to Catania with a journey time of one hour 50 minutes, with one of the 18 intervening stops at Taormina/Giardini Naxos (55 minutes). You can also travel along Sicily's northern coast to Palermo (3 hours 5 minutes) with stops along the way at the port town of Milazzo (22 minutes), the seaside resort of Cefalù (2 hours 14 minutes) and another port, Termini Imerese (2 hours 38 minutes).
By sea from Messina the most popular journey is the 20-30 minute ferry crossing to and from Villa San Giovanni but there are also hydrofoils available to Villa San Giovanni, Reggio Calabria and the Aeolian Islands. As an alternative to the train ride up to Salerno there are also ferries which take 8 hours.
The most convenient airport for Messina is Catania Airport which is an hour and 19 minutes away by car (109 km). Sicily's two other airports don't offer convenient alternatives; both Palermo Airport and Trapani Airport are more than two and a half hours away from Messina.
The most popular place to visit from Messina is the town of Taormina, one of Sicily's star attractions with its Ancient Greek Theatre and beaches such as Isola Bella. Taormina is reachable either by public transport or by heading straight down the motorway (48 minutes). Alternatively, the nearby port of Milazzo is a 40 minute drive from Messina and offers a greater number of sea crossings to the Aeolian Islands than are possible from Messina itself.
From Messina Stazione Centrale, trains run south to Catania with a journey time of one hour 50 minutes, with one of the 18 intervening stops at Taormina/Giardini Naxos (55 minutes). You can also travel along Sicily's northern coast to Palermo (3 hours 5 minutes) with stops along the way at the port town of Milazzo (22 minutes), the seaside resort of Cefalù (2 hours 14 minutes) and another port, Termini Imerese (2 hours 38 minutes).
By sea from Messina the most popular journey is the 20-30 minute ferry crossing to and from Villa San Giovanni but there are also hydrofoils available to Villa San Giovanni, Reggio Calabria and the Aeolian Islands. As an alternative to the train ride up to Salerno there are also ferries which take 8 hours.
The most convenient airport for Messina is Catania Airport which is an hour and 19 minutes away by car (109 km). Sicily's two other airports don't offer convenient alternatives; both Palermo Airport and Trapani Airport are more than two and a half hours away from Messina.
The most popular place to visit from Messina is the town of Taormina, one of Sicily's star attractions with its Ancient Greek Theatre and beaches such as Isola Bella. Taormina is reachable either by public transport or by heading straight down the motorway (48 minutes). Alternatively, the nearby port of Milazzo is a 40 minute drive from Messina and offers a greater number of sea crossings to the Aeolian Islands than are possible from Messina itself.
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Fly to: Catania Airport - 1 hour 20 minutes by car (111 km)
By train: Villa San Giovanni - 33 minutes, Milazzo - 22 minutes |
Private Transfers
Messina Private Transfers
A private transfer is a convenient and efficient way to travel to or from Messina, particularly for airport arrivals or connections to nearby towns. You’ll be collected from your preferred location and driven directly by a local driver—no waiting times, no train changes, and no need to hire a car.
From Messina, the drive to Catania Fontanarossa Airport takes about 1 hour 30 minutes (approx. 100 kilometres), while Palermo Falcone–Borsellino Airport is around 2 hours 40 minutes away (approx. 225 kilometres). Transfers to Milazzo take around 40 minutes, while Taormina and Giardini Naxos can be reached in under an hour.
To check availability or request a personalised quote, simply complete the short form below.
From Messina, the drive to Catania Fontanarossa Airport takes about 1 hour 30 minutes (approx. 100 kilometres), while Palermo Falcone–Borsellino Airport is around 2 hours 40 minutes away (approx. 225 kilometres). Transfers to Milazzo take around 40 minutes, while Taormina and Giardini Naxos can be reached in under an hour.
To check availability or request a personalised quote, simply complete the short form below.
