4 Days in Messina: Culture, Food, and Volcanoes.

Explore the breathtaking wonders of Messina, Italy.

22 April 2023

Messina, Italy is an enchanting coastal city located in the northeast region of Sicily known for its grand cathedral and historic landmarks. As a tourist, you can immerse yourself in the rich culture, history, and cuisine of southern Italy while exploring the charming Old Town, local markets and seaside promenade. Visit the famous astronomical clock tower and indulge in fresh seafood at the picturesque harbor for an unforgettable vacation.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

The Arrival:

  • Check-in to Hotel Royal Palace, a luxurious hotel with stunning views of the Strait of Messina.
  • Head to La Piazzetta, a cozy trattoria known for its traditional Sicilian cuisine.
  • Visit the Duomo di Messina, a majestic cathedral with a fascinating clock tower that puts on a show every day at noon.
  • Take a stroll along the seafront, admiring the beautiful scenery and the iconic Fountain of Neptune.
  • End the day with a refreshing cocktail at the trendy Roof Garden Bar, overlooking the city lights.
Day 2

Taste of Messina:

  • Start the day with a coffee and a cannolo siciliano at the famous Antico Bar Marotta, a local institution.
  • Visit the bustling market of La Pescheria, where you can find the freshest seafood and local produce.
  • Join a cooking class at La Cucina del Sole, learning how to make authentic Sicilian dishes and tasting the results.
  • Grab a slice of pizza at Trattoria La Pentolaccia, a hidden gem with a wood-fired oven and creative toppings.
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth with a gelato from Gelateria Cesare, a top-notch gelato shop with unique flavors.
Day 3

Explore Mount Etna:

  • Take a day trip to Mount Etna, an active volcano and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Hike along the trails of Parco dell'Etna, exploring the lava formations and the stunning views of the landscape.
  • Stop at a local winery for a wine tasting of the famous Etna wines, paired with local specialties.
  • Visit the charming town of Taormina, perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, and wander through its picturesque streets.
  • Enjoy a seafood dinner at La Capinera, a Michelin-starred restaurant with creative dishes and a stunning terrace.
Day 4

Art and Culture:

  • Spend the morning at the Regional Museum of Messina, admiring the impressive collection of art and artifacts from ancient to modern times.
  • Visit the Annunziata dei Catalani, a beautiful church with a mix of Gothic, Arabic, and Norman styles.
  • Take a guided tour of the Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock, learning about the history and the mechanics of the clock.
  • Have a leisurely lunch at Osteria da Calogero, a cozy place with homemade pasta and local ingredients.
  • Visit the Galleria d'Arte Contemporanea di Messina, a modern art museum with a focus on local artists and avant-garde works.

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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