Messina, Italy: The Best 4 Day Budget Adventure

Experience the beauty of Messina without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Messina, Italy provides an affordable travel experience without sacrificing beauty and charm. Travelers can enjoy stunning views of the Ionian Sea from the top of the Cathedral of Messina or take a stroll through the charming streets of the historic center. Dining on classic Sicilian dishes and exploring local shops adds to the culture-rich experience.

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Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Exploration

  • Check into Hotel Morfeo, a charming budget hotel with cozy rooms and friendly staff
  • Visit the Duomo di Messina, a stunning cathedral with vibrant mosaics and intricate carvings
  • Take a stroll along the scenic promenade, admiring the view of the sea and the nearby hills
  • Explore the lively streets of the historic center, with its colorful markets, quaint shops, and inviting cafes
  • Indulge in some authentic Sicilian cuisine at Trattoria della Nonna, where the pasta alla Norma and the arancini are to die for
Day 2

Art and Nature

  • Visit the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele III, a lovely art museum with a rich collection of paintings and sculptures
  • Take a bus to the Parco Naturale dei Monti Nebrodi, a breathtaking nature reserve with rugged peaks and lush forests
  • Hike along one of the many scenic trails, enjoying the fresh air and the stunning views
  • Stop by the charming village of Santo Stefano di Camastra, famous for its colorful ceramics and traditional crafts
  • Have a picnic in the park, savoring some local cheeses, olives, and wine
Day 3

Beach and Castles

  • Head to the beach of Capo Peloro, a pristine stretch of sand and clear water
  • Relax on a sun lounger, swim in the sea, or try some water sports like windsurfing or kayaking
  • Drive to the Castello di Milazzo, a majestic fortress with a rich history and a stunning panorama
  • Enjoy a guided tour of the castle, learning about its strategic importance and its role in the local culture
  • Have a seafood feast at La Sirena Ubriaca, a cozy restaurant with a fairy tale decor and a mouthwatering menu
Day 4

Mountains and Gardens

  • Take a cable car up to the Santuario di Montevergine, a scenic pilgrimage site with a breathtaking view
  • Walk along the mountain paths, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the aromatic herbs
  • Visit the Orto Botanico di Messina, a lovely botanical garden with a wide variety of plants and flowers
  • Admire the exotic specimens, such as the giant water lilies and the rare orchids
  • Say farewell to Messina with a drink at Bar del Porto, a popular spot with a lively vibe and a stunning sunset view

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

The Ultimate Weekend in Messina, Italy

Messina is a city located in Sicily, Italy and is known for its beautiful coastal views, historical landmarks, and delicious cuisine. As a tourist, you can visit iconic attractions such as the Messina Cathedral and the Bell Tower, explore the regional museums, and indulge in local delicacies like arancini and cannolis. With its rich culture and stunning scenery, Messina is a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring Italy.

Explore Messina, Italy in One Day

Messina, Italy is a stunning coastal city boasting a rich history and culture. As a tourist, one can marvel at the impressive architecture of the Norman Cathedral and the academic excellence of the University of Messina. The local cuisine includes fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and an array of local wines that should not be missed.

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 Bliss: Messina, Italy in Two Days

Messina is a fantastic destination for budget travellers looking for a taste of Italy's history and culture. Despite its reputation for being expensive, there are plenty of affordable accommodation options such as hostels and B&B's. Visitors can take advantage of free walking tours, explore the historic architecture and enjoy delicious street food from local vendors.