3 Days of Fun in Messina, Italy

Experience the charm and history of Messina, Italy's hidden gem.

22 April 2023

As a tourist, Messina offers a charming blend of old-world architecture and modern amenities. Visitors can marvel at the city's historic cathedrals, bustling piazzas, and stunning seaside vistas. With plenty of museums, restaurants, and outdoor activities, Messina is a hidden gem for travelers seeking an authentic Italian experience.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Historical Messina

  • Check in at the NH Messina Palace Hotel, where you'll be greeted with stunning sea views and sophisticated decor.
  • Visit the Cathedral of Messina, which features a 60-meter bell tower and an ornate astronomical clock that dates back to the 1930s.
  • Explore the Regional Museum of Messina to learn about the city's long and varied history, from ancient Greek settlers to medieval times.
  • Stroll through the Orto Botanico Pietro Castelli, a botanical garden filled with exotic plants, fountains, and statues.
  • Have dinner at Ristorante Vineria Il Bilancione, a cozy spot that serves traditional Sicilian dishes with a modern twist.
Day 2

Coastal Charm

  • Start the day with breakfast at Salumeria Gennarino, a local shop that offers fresh pastries, coffee, and sliced meats.
  • Take a boat tour of the Strait of Messina, marveling at the stunning coastline and the views of Mount Etna in the distance.
  • Visit the Sanctuary of Montalto, a picturesque hillside church that overlooks the sea.
  • Take a dip at the Spiaggia della Cala, a secluded beach with crystal-clear waters and soft sand.
  • Dine at Trattoria Da Nino, known for its seafood dishes and homey atmosphere.
Day 3

Greek Roots

  • After breakfast at Pasticceria Savia, head to the Museo Regionale Interdisciplinare di Messina, which holds a collection of artifacts from the ancient Greek colony of Zancle.
  • Explore the ruins of the ancient theater and fortifications of Taormina, a town that dates back to the 4th century BC, perched on a hill overlooking the sea.
  • Have lunch at Osteria RossoDiVino, a charming restaurant that serves upscale Italian cuisine.
  • Discover the art of puppetry at the Museo Internazionale dei pupi, a museum that showcases traditional Sicilian marionettes and their elaborate costumes.
  • End your day with drinks at Bar Trinacria, a local hotspot that serves a mean Aperol spritz.

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

More travel plans

Magical Messina: The Ultimate 3-Day Family Adventure!

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.

Escape to Romantic Messina for a Weekend

A trip to Messina, Italy for a romantic getaway promises to be a heavenly experience. Couples can take a romantic stroll through the city and enjoy breathtaking views of the Strait of Messina. They can also indulge in authentic Sicilian cuisine and wine while admiring the stunning architecture and historical landmarks.

Budget-Friendly Fun: Messina, Italy Day Trip

Messina, Italy is an affordable destination for those on a limited budget. With plenty of free or low-cost activities available, visitors can enjoy the city without breaking the bank. From exploring the historic center and checking out local markets to savoring the cuisine and taking in the stunning views, Messina offers a wealth of experiences for budget travelers.

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.