Five-day adventure in Messina, Italy.

Discover the charm and beauty of Messina, Italy.

22 April 2023

Messina, Italy, offers an exciting trip for tourists with a myriad of attractions such as the Cathedral of Messina, the Regional Museum, and the Astronomical Clock Tower. Amidst the city's rich history and culture, tourists can indulge in traditional Sicilian cuisine, visit stunning beaches, and take a stroll along the scenic seafront promenade. Visitors can also take a short ferry ride to explore the nearby Aeolian Islands for a memorable day trip.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Messina

  • Check in at Hotel Liberty, a charming Art Nouveau hotel
  • Enjoy a traditional Sicilian breakfast at Bar dello Stretto before exploring the city
  • Walk along the stunning promenade, admiring the Strait of Messina and the Scylla and Charybdis rocks
  • Visit the Cathedral of Messina and see the famous mechanical clock, considered one of the largest in the world
  • Wander through the colorful shopping district of Via Garibaldi and treat yourself to some souvenirs
  • Savor a seafood dinner at Ristorante La Lampara, overlooking the port
Day 2

The Hills of Peloritani

  • Take a scenic drive up to the charming town of Taormina, located high in the Peloritani hills
  • Explore the beautiful ancient Greek Theatre with its breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the Mediterranean sea
  • Visit the beautiful Botanical Gardens of Villa Comunale, filled with exotic plants and beautiful fountains
  • Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Ristorante Al Giardino, a beautiful garden restaurant with stunning views
  • Take a walk through the picturesque streets of Taormina and soak up its glamorous atmosphere
  • Stop for a refreshing granita at Bam Bar, a delicious local specialty
Day 3

Aeolian Adventure

  • Take a day trip to the beautiful Aeolian Islands, located off the coast of Messina
  • Visit the stunning black sand beach of Stromboli and hike up to its active volcano
  • Take a dip in the crystal clear waters of Salina's Pollara beach
  • Savor a seafood lunch at Trattoria Il Piccolo Principe on the village of Panarea
  • Explore the charming island of Lipari and its fortified citadel
  • Return to Messina and unwind with a glass of local wine at Ristorante Bellavista's beautiful terrace
Day 4

Exploring the Nebrodi Mountains

  • Take a scenic drive to the stunning Nebrodi Mountains, located inland from Messina
  • Hike the beautiful trails of Monti Nebrodi National Park, surrounded by lush forests and waterfalls
  • Visit the charming town of San Fratello, known for its delicious pistachio-based cuisine
  • Savor a traditional lunch at Ristorante La Vignazza, featuring local specialties such as pasta with wild boar sauce
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of nearby village Mistretta
  • Return to Messina and unwind at the hotel spa
Day 5

Sea and Sun

  • Spend a day relaxing on the stunning beaches of the Bay of Taormina
  • Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters at Isola Bella or Giardini Naxos
  • Enjoy lunch at the delicious Tisana dei Sogni, located on the beautiful beach of Letojanni
  • Take a walk along the picturesque promenade of Giardini Naxos and admire the sea views
  • Unwind with a cocktail at the rooftop garden of the Metropol Hotel, enjoying the sunset over Mount Etna
  • End your day with a romantic dinner at Ristorante Nettuno, known for its delicious seafood cuisine.

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.

More travel plans

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.

3 Days of Fun in Messina, Italy

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.

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.

Five-day adventure in Messina, Italy.

Messina, Italy, offers an exciting trip for tourists with a myriad of attractions such as the Cathedral of Messina, the Regional Museum, and the Astronomical Clock Tower. Amidst the city's rich history and culture, tourists can indulge in traditional Sicilian cuisine, visit stunning beaches, and take a stroll along the scenic seafront promenade. Visitors can also take a short ferry ride to explore the nearby Aeolian Islands for a memorable day trip.