The Ultimate Weekend in Messina, Italy

Discover the hidden gem of Sicily in Messina, Italy.

22 April 2023

Messina is a city located in Sicily, Italy and is known for its beautiful coastal views, historical landmarks, and delicious cuisine. As a tourist, you can visit iconic attractions such as the Messina Cathedral and the Bell Tower, explore the regional museums, and indulge in local delicacies like arancini and cannolis. With its rich culture and stunning scenery, Messina is a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring Italy.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Culture and Cuisine

  • Stay at Hotel Royal Palace, a regal property decorated in classic Italian style with views of the sea.
  • Start your day with a coffee and croissant at Caffè del Teatro, a historic café located just opposite the Teatro Vittorio Emanuele II.
  • Visit the Cathedral of Messina, a stunning example of Norman architecture that houses a 15th-century Annunciation by Antonello da Messina.
  • Check out the Regional Museum of Messina, which has an impressive collection of art and artifacts dating back to ancient times.
  • Have lunch at La Pagliazza, a seafood restaurant known for its fresh catches and delicious pasta dishes.
  • Spend your evening at Casbah, an eclectic bar where you can sip on cocktails and listen to live music.
Day 2

Beach and Vistas

  • After breakfast at your hotel, head to Capo d'Orlando, a picturesque seaside town about an hour's drive from Messina.
  • Spend the morning relaxing at Lido di Capo d'Orlando, a beautiful beach with clear waters and soft sand.
  • Take a scenic drive up to the medieval village of Montalbano Elicona, perched on a hill overlooking the Nebrodi Mountains.
  • Enjoy lunch at Trattoria Sciamadda, a rustic restaurant that serves homemade pasta and hearty meat dishes.
  • Visit the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Scala, a church with stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
  • End your day with a sunset cocktail at A'Tramonta, a rooftop bar on Messina's seafront.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Messina, Italy by plane is to fly into Catania-Fontanarossa Airport and take a bus or train to Messina. Airlines such as Alitalia, Ryanair, and EasyJet fly to Catania-Fontanarossa Airport from major cities around Europe.

Car

The best way to get to Messina by car is to take the A3 highway from Naples or the A1 and A14 highways from Rome. The journey from Naples takes approximately 7 hours, while the journey from Rome takes approximately 9 hours.

Train

Messina has a train station called Messina Centrale that is well-connected to other cities in Italy. The best way to get to Messina by train is to take a direct train from Rome or Naples. The journey from Rome takes approximately 8 hours.

Boat

There are ferries that run from Villa San Giovanni on the mainland to Messina, making this the best way to get to Messina by boat. The ferries run regularly throughout the day and the journey only takes around 20 minutes.

Bus

The best way to get to Messina by bus is to take a direct bus from Rome or Naples. Buses from Rome leave from the Tiburtina Bus Station and take approximately 10 hours to reach Messina. Buses from Naples leave from the Napoli Garibaldi Bus Station and take approximately 9 hours to reach Messina.

More travel plans

Five-day adventure in Messina, Italy.

Messina, Italy, offers an exciting trip for tourists with a myriad of attractions such as the Cathedral of Messina, the Regional Museum, and the Astronomical Clock Tower. Amidst the city's rich history and culture, tourists can indulge in traditional Sicilian cuisine, visit stunning beaches, and take a stroll along the scenic seafront promenade. Visitors can also take a short ferry ride to explore the nearby Aeolian Islands for a memorable day trip.

A Romantic Day in Charming Messina, Italy

Messina, Italy is a beautiful destination for a romantic trip, where couples can explore stunning architectural wonders, enjoy delicious Mediterranean cuisine and experience a relaxed and charming Mediterranean lifestyle. From strolling along the seaside promenade to visiting historic sites like the Cathedral and the Bell Tower, Messina is full of opportunities for couples to enjoy quality time together. With its cozy cafes, wine bars and fine dining restaurants, Messina also offers indulgent culinary experiences that are perfect for a romantic getaway.

Budget Bliss: Messina, Italy in Two Days

Messina is a fantastic destination for budget travellers looking for a taste of Italy's history and culture. Despite its reputation for being expensive, there are plenty of affordable accommodation options such as hostels and B&B's. Visitors can take advantage of free walking tours, explore the historic architecture and enjoy delicious street food from local vendors.

Magical Messina: A 5-Day Family Adventure on a Budget

Messina, Italy offers a fantastic family friendly destination with its picturesque coastal views and rich history. Take your family to explore the stunning architecture of the Cathedral of Messina, or enjoy a relaxing day at the nearby beach. With its warm climate and delicious local cuisine, Messina is a perfect spot for a memorable family vacation.