4 Days of Magical Moments: Unveiling Messina's Delights!

Messina: Unlocking the perfect blend of culture, history, and family fun in Italy!

19 July 2023

Messina, Italy is a fantastic destination for a family-friendly trip filled with culture, history, and natural beauty. Visit the iconic Cathedral of Messina, home to an astronomical clock and stunning artwork, before exploring the picturesque beaches and crystal-clear waters of the nearby Taormina. End the day with a delightful stroll along Messina's scenic promenade, indulging in delicious gelato and enjoying breathtaking views of the Strait of Messina.

Travel plan

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Day 1

A Taste of Messina's Treasures

  • Check into the charming Hotel Eolian, where friendly staff and comfortable rooms await your family's arrival.
  • Begin your exploration at the imposing Messina Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece blessed with stunning mosaics.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque promenade "La Traversa," enjoying breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea.
  • Immerse yourself in local history at the Regional Museum of Messina, filled with ancient artifacts and fascinating exhibits.
  • Indulge in a delightful seaside dinner at Trattoria Garibaldi, where tasty seafood dishes and warm hospitality delight the senses.
Day 2

Discovering Mythical Charm

  • Journey to the enchanting Castello di Milazzo, a medieval fortress perched high on a hill, offering panoramic views of the city and sea.
  • Explore the lush pathways of Villa Dante, a tranquil garden oasis where you can relax amidst fragrant flowers and majestic statues.
  • Delve into the legend of the mythical Charybdis at the Museo Regionale Interdisciplinare di Messina, a captivating museum exploring the ancient sea creature.
  • Enjoy a traditional lunch at Gli Arancini Di Nonna Nina, savoring their delectable arancini, Sicily's iconic rice balls.
  • Head to the outdoor cinema "Cinema Paradiso" for a unique movie-watching experience under the starry Sicilian sky.
Day 3

Vibrant Markets and Festive Vibes

  • Dive into the lively atmosphere of the historic Mercato di Messina, where colorful stalls offer an array of local produce, cheeses, and exotic spices.
  • Treat your taste buds to a Sicilian delicacy, granita, at Hemingway Cafe, a hidden gem known for its refreshing flavors.
  • Join in the joyous celebrations during the Feast of the Madonna della Lettera, a traditional procession filled with music, dancing, and vibrant costumes.
  • Take a boat ride to the stunning Aeolian Islands, where you can hike along breathtaking trails and marvel at volcanic wonders.
  • Satisfy your evening cravings with a visit to Scialapopolo, a bohemian-style pizzeria known for its mouthwatering wood-fired pizzas and eclectic atmosphere.
Day 4

Farewell, Messina!

  • Embark on a scenic drive along the iconic Strait of Messina, capturing mesmerizing views of Italy's mainland and Sicily's shores.
  • Indulge in a leisurely brunch at Caffè Floresta, a charming cafe renowned for its aromatic coffee and delectable pastries.
  • Wander through the picturesque Borgo dei Medici neighborhood, admiring the quaint houses and immersing yourself in local charm.
  • Bid farewell to Messina with a visit to the iconic Fountain of Orion, a magnificent masterpiece symbolizing the city's resilience and strength.
  • Depart from this vibrant Sicilian city, taking unforgettable memories and a newfound appreciation for Messina's hidden treasures.

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.

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