Budget-Friendly Bliss: 3 Days in Messina, Italy

Immerse yourself in the charm of Messina without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Messina, Italy on a limited budget is perfect for those seeking to immerse themselves in the local culture without breaking the bank. Visitors can explore the historic city center, stunning beaches, and delicious food offerings at affordable prices. Budget-friendly accommodations include hostels and vacation rentals, making Messina, Italy an affordable destination for all.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival and Exploring Messina

  • Check into Hotel Mirage, a budget-friendly option with clean rooms and a central location
  • Walk to the Cathedral of Messina, a stunning example of Norman architecture and home to the world's largest astronomical clock
  • Stroll along the scenic promenade, soaking up views of the Strait of Messina and the town's charming architecture
  • Grab a bite to eat at Trattoria Messinese, a local institution serving authentic seafood dishes like swordfish and sardines
  • Finish your day with a visit to the Bell Tower, offering panoramic views of the town and the surrounding area
Day 2

Day Trip to Taormina

  • Take the local train to Taormina, about an hour's journey from Messina
  • Explore the Ancient Theater of Taormina, a well-preserved Greek amphitheater with stunning views of Mount Etna
  • Wander through the quaint streets of this picturesque town, soaking up the charming architecture and lively atmosphere
  • Enjoy lunch at Bam Bar, a local favorite serving delicious paninis, gelato, and drinks
  • Visit the stunning gardens at Villa Comunale, with gorgeous views of the sea and the town
  • Catch the sunset from the stunning viewpoint at Castelmola, overlooking Taormina and beyond
Day 3

Beaches and Museums

  • Head to Spiaggia di Capo Peloro, a stunning beach just outside Messina with crystal-clear water and a laid-back atmosphere
  • Visit the Regional Museum of Messina, showcasing the art and history of the region, including works by Caravaggio and Antonello da Messina
  • Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Osteria da Carlo, a charming spot serving homemade pasta and local wine
  • Take a stroll through the Parco Villafranca, a beautiful park with picturesque lakes and gardens
  • End your day with a visit to the Pinacoteca Comunale, a lovely art museum showcasing a range of works from the region's history

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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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.