What to Do in Messina, Sicily from a Cruise Ship

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

Messina: A Port of Call for Cruise Ships

Messina, a port city on the northeastern coast of Sicily, is a popular destination for cruise ships. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious food, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Messina.

In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best things to do in Messina when you’re on a cruise ship. We’ll cover everything from exploring the city’s historic center to taking a day trip to Mount Etna. So whether you’re planning a short stopover or a longer stay, we’ve got you covered.

So without further ado, let’s get started!

Activity Cost Duration
Visit the Duomo $10 1 hour
Take a walk through the historic center $free 2 hours
Visit the Museo Regionale $12 1.5 hours
Take a ferry to the Aeolian Islands $50 4 hours

Messina is a port city in northern Sicily, Italy. It is located on the Strait of Messina, which separates Sicily from the Italian mainland. The city has a population of around 230,000 people and is the capital of the Messina Province. Messina is a popular tourist destination due to its rich history, culture, and beautiful scenery.

Day-Trip Options

There are many day-trip options available from Messina. Here are a few of the most popular:

  • Visit the city center. The city center is home to many historical and cultural attractions, including the Piazza del Duomo, the Cathedral of Messina, and the Church of San Francesco d’Assisi.
  • Take a ferry to Mount Etna. Mount Etna is the highest active volcano in Europe and is located just a short ferry ride from Messina. Visitors can take a guided tour of the volcano or hike up to the summit for stunning views of the surrounding area.
  • Visit the Tyrrhenian coast. The Tyrrhenian coast is located just a short drive from Messina and offers beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming fishing villages.
  • Explore the Alcantara Gorge. The Alcantara Gorge is a natural wonder located just a short drive from Messina. The gorge is carved into a lava flow from Mount Etna and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Things to See and Do

In addition to the day-trip options listed above, there are many things to see and do in Messina itself. Here are a few of the highlights:

  • Piazza del Duomo. The Piazza del Duomo is the main square in Messina and is home to the Cathedral of Messina, the Church of San Francesco d’Assisi, and the Palazzo Municipale. The square is also a popular spot for street performers and musicians.
  • The Cathedral of Messina. The Cathedral of Messina is a beautiful example of Sicilian Baroque architecture. The cathedral was built in the 12th century and has been restored several times over the centuries. The cathedral is home to many important works of art, including a marble statue of the Madonna and Child by Antonello Gagini.
  • The Church of San Francesco d’Assisi. The Church of San Francesco d’Assisi is a Franciscan church that was built in the 13th century. The church is home to a beautiful cloister and a museum that houses a collection of religious art.
  • The Church of Santa Maria Alemanna. The Church of Santa Maria Alemanna is a Byzantine church that was built in the 12th century. The church is home to a beautiful mosaic depicting the Virgin Mary and Child.
  • The National Archaeological Museum. The National Archaeological Museum is home to a collection of artifacts from the ancient Greek, Roman, and Byzantine civilizations. The museum is located in the Palazzo Reale, which was once the royal palace of the Kingdom of Sicily.

Messina is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. There are many things to see and do in Messina, both in the city itself and on day-trip excursions. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or simply relaxing on the beach, Messina has something to offer everyone.

Where to Stay in Messina

There are a variety of hotels to choose from in Messina, depending on your budget and preferences. Here are a few of the best options:

  • NH Collection Grand Hotel Excelsior is a five-star hotel located in the heart of the city. The hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites, a rooftop pool, a spa, and a fitness center.
  • Hotel Villa San Giovanni is a four-star hotel located just outside of Messina. The hotel offers spacious rooms and suites, a free shuttle to the ferry terminal, and a restaurant with panoramic views of the Strait of Messina.
  • Hotel Ambasciatori is a three-star hotel located in the center of the city. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites, a bar and restaurant, and a free shuttle to the ferry terminal.
  • Hotel Continental is a two-star hotel located near the train station. The hotel offers basic rooms and suites, a bar and restaurant, and a free shuttle to the ferry terminal.

What to Do in Messina

There are many things to see and do in Messina, including:

  • Visit the Duomo. The Duomo is the main church in Messina and is one of the most important examples of Sicilian Baroque architecture. The church is decorated with intricate sculptures and paintings, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Explore the city center. The city center is home to many historical buildings, including the Palazzo dei Giudici, the Palazzo Municipale, and the Teatro Vittorio Emanuele. The city center is also a great place to find shops, restaurants, and bars.
  • Take a ferry to Sicily. Messina is located on the Strait of Messina, which separates Sicily from the Italian mainland. Ferries run regularly between Messina and Sicily, and it is a great way to see the stunning scenery of the strait.
  • Visit the Alcantara Gorge. The Alcantara Gorge is a natural wonder located just outside of Messina. The gorge is carved into the rock by the Alcantara River, and it is a popular spot for hiking, swimming, and kayaking.

Where to Eat and Drink in Messina

Messina has a wide variety of restaurants to choose from, serving everything from traditional Sicilian cuisine to international fare. Here are a few of the best restaurants in Messina:

  • Ristorante Luciano is a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves modern Sicilian cuisine. The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and creative dishes.
  • Osteria dei Malavoglia is a casual restaurant that serves traditional Sicilian dishes. The restaurant is located in a historic building, and it has a warm and inviting atmosphere.
  • Trattoria da Nino is a family-run restaurant that serves classic Italian dishes. The restaurant is known for its friendly service and delicious food.
  • Caff Sicilia is a coffee shop that serves pastries, sandwiches, and salads. The coffee shop is located in the city center, and it is a great place to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee.
  • Enoteca Messina is a wine bar that offers a wide selection of wines from Sicily and around the world. The wine bar is also a great place to enjoy a cheese plate or charcuterie board.

Shopping in Messina

Messina has a variety of shopping options, including:

  • Mercato Centrale is a large indoor market that sells everything from fresh produce to souvenirs. The market is a great place to experience the local culture and find some unique gifts.
  • Via Garibaldi is a pedestrian street that is lined with shops and boutiques. The street is a great place to find designer clothes, shoes, and accessories.
  • Via Cavour is another pedestrian street that is lined with shops and boutiques. The street is a great place to find more affordable clothing, shoes, and accessories.
  • Corso Vittorio Emanuele is a wide boulevard that is lined with shops and restaurants. The boulevard is a great place to people-watch and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
  • Corso Italia is another wide boulevard that is lined with shops and restaurants. The boulevard is a great place to find more upscale clothing, shoes, and accessories.

Messina is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. There are many things to see and do in Messina, and it is a great place to visit for a day or a week.

Q: What are the best things to do in Messina from a cruise ship?

  • Visit the Duomo di Messina. This magnificent cathedral is one of the most important landmarks in Messina, and it’s a must-see for any visitor. The Duomo was built in the 12th century, and it features a beautiful faade with intricate carvings.
  • Explore the city’s historic center. The historic center of Messina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s home to a number of interesting attractions, including the Piazza del Duomo, the Piazza della Repubblica, and the Palazzo della Prefettura.
  • Take a walk along the waterfront. The waterfront in Messina is a great place to relax and enjoy the views of the city and the Strait of Messina. There are also a number of restaurants and cafs along the waterfront, where you can enjoy a meal or a drink.
  • Visit the Museo Regionale di Messina. This museum houses a collection of artifacts from Messina’s history, including paintings, sculptures, and archaeological finds.
  • Take a day trip to Mount Etna. Mount Etna is the highest active volcano in Europe, and it’s located just a short drive from Messina. You can take a guided tour of the volcano, or you can hike up to the summit on your own.

Q: What are the best ways to get around Messina from a cruise ship?

There are a number of ways to get around Messina from a cruise ship. The most convenient way is to take a taxi or a shuttle bus. You can also rent a car or take the bus.

Q: What are the best restaurants in Messina?

There are a number of great restaurants in Messina, serving everything from traditional Italian cuisine to international dishes. Some of the most popular restaurants include:

  • Antica Trattoria San Francesco
  • La Locanda del Capitano
  • Il Melograno
  • La Sirena
  • Il Siciliano

Q: What are the best hotels in Messina?

There are a number of great hotels in Messina, catering to all budgets and preferences. Some of the most popular hotels include:

  • NH Hotel Messina
  • Hotel Excelsior Regina
  • Hotel Villa San Giovanni
  • Hotel Liberty
  • Hotel Continental

Q: What are the best things to do in Messina with kids?

There are a number of great things to do in Messina with kids, including:

  • Visit the Aquarium of Messina. This aquarium is home to a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and dolphins.
  • Take a boat trip to the Aeolian Islands. The Aeolian Islands are a group of volcanic islands located just off the coast of Messina. You can take a boat trip to the islands and visit the different towns and villages.
  • Visit the Museo Regionale di Messina. This museum houses a collection of artifacts from Messina’s history, including paintings, sculptures, and archaeological finds.
  • Go for a swim at Lido di Messina. Lido di Messina is a popular beach located just outside of the city center. It’s a great place to relax and cool off on a hot day.

Q: What are the best times to visit Messina?

The best time to visit Messina is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. The summer months can be hot and humid, and the winter months can be cold and rainy.

Q: What are the most common scams in Messina?

There are a number of common scams in Messina, including:

  • Taxi scams: Be sure to agree on a price with the taxi driver before you get in the car.
  • Fake souvenirs: Be wary of vendors who try to sell you souvenirs that are fake or overpriced.
  • Pickpocketing: Be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables close to you.

Q: What is the best way to get from the airport to the cruise port in Messina?

The best way to get from the airport to the cruise port in Messina is by taxi or shuttle bus. The taxi ride takes about 20 minutes and costs around 20. The shuttle bus ride takes about 30 minutes and costs around 10.

Q: What are the top things to do in Messina if you only have one day?

If you only have one day

Messina is a beautiful city with a lot to offer visitors. Whether you’re on a cruise ship or staying longer, there are plenty of things to see and do.

The city’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s home to some stunning architecture, including the Duomo di Messina and the Palazzo dei Normanni. There are also plenty of museums and art galleries to explore.

If you’re looking for something a little more active, Messina is also a great place to go hiking, biking, or swimming. The city is located on the Strait of Messina, which offers stunning views of both Sicily and Calabria.

And of course, no visit to Messina would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. The city is known for its delicious seafood, and there are plenty of restaurants to choose from.

Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience, an active vacation, or just a relaxing getaway, Messina has something to offer everyone. So next time you’re on a cruise ship in the Mediterranean, be sure to add Messina to your itinerary.

Here are some key takeaways to remember when planning your trip to Messina:

  • The city’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s home to some stunning architecture, including the Duomo di Messina and the Palazzo dei Normanni.
  • There are also plenty of museums and art galleries to explore.
  • If you’re looking for something a little more active, Messina is also a great place to go hiking, biking, or swimming.
  • The city is located on the Strait of Messina, which offers stunning views of both Sicily and Calabria.
  • And of course, no visit to Messina would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. The city is known for its delicious seafood, and there are plenty of restaurants to choose from.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.