Magical Messina: The Ultimate 3-Day Family Adventure!

Discover the charm of Messina, Italy - where family fun meets Mediterranean beauty.

19 July 2023

Messina, Italy offers an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip, with a perfect blend of cultural attractions, breathtaking natural beauty, and enjoyable activities for all ages. Explore the mesmerizing architecture at the famous Messina Cathedral, or take a stroll along the picturesque promenade to enjoy stunning views of the Strait of Messina. Delight in the delicious traditional Sicilian cuisine, and make unforgettable memories as you immerse yourselves in the warm and welcoming atmosphere of this vibrant city.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Messina's Magic

  • Start your day at Piazza del Duomo, where the enchanting Messina Cathedral reigns supreme.
  • Get your culture fix at the Regional Museum of Messina, home to ancient artifacts and masterpieces.
  • Marvel at the peculiar astronomical clock in the bell tower, which puts on a delightful animated show every day at noon.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the lungomare, Messina's scenic waterfront, and breathe in the salty sea breeze.
  • Munch on the city's culinary pride, arancini, at a local street food vendor for a scrumptious lunch.
  • End your day with a gelato from Gelateria Cesare, where classic flavors blend harmoniously with innovative creations.
Day 2

Sicilian Delights and Island Escapes

  • Catch a ferry to the picturesque island of Ischia, just off the coast, where crystal-clear waters beckon for a dip.
  • Explore the ruins of the ancient Greek theater, teetering on the edge of a breathtaking cliff while imagining the performances of yesteryear.
  • Sample the divine flavors of Sicilian cuisine at Ristorante Franco, a family-friendly spot offering exquisite seafood dishes.
  • Hop back on the ferry and head to the enchanting Stretto di Messina, where tales of mythical sea monsters will keep the kids entertained.
  • Savor a traditional Sicilian cannolo at Bar Trinacria, filled with sweet ricotta and memories of an unforgettable day.
Day 3

Revel in Messina's Rich Heritage

  • Start your day with a visit to the imposing Forte San Salvatore, a fortress that guarded the city for centuries.
  • Wander through the charming streets of the historic center, stumbling upon hidden gems like the Church of Santa Maria del Carmine.
  • Delve into the history of Messina at the ancient ruins of the Temple of Neptune.
  • Treat your taste buds to a traditional Sicilian lunch at Osteria del Merluzzo, where delicate seafood dishes will transport you to culinary heaven.
  • Bid farewell to this vibrant city with a sunset stroll along Via Garibaldi, soaking in the last rays of Messina's charm.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Messina

Welcome to the city where cannoli is a food group and traffic laws are merely suggestions. Get ready to experience the chaos and charm of Messina!

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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