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Cruising Strait of Messina

The Strait of Messina is a narrow strait between the eastern tip of Sicily (Punta del Faro) and the coast of Calabria (Punto Pezzo) on the Italian mainland. The strait connects the Tyrrhenian Sea in the north with the Ionian Sea in the south. At its narrowest point, it is less than two miles wide. Tidal changes cause strong Venturi-effect currents through the strait, resulting in an unusual marine ecosystem that includes the presence of deepwater fish species. The current also controls a natural whirlpool located in the northern reach of the strait, that has been associated with the Greek myth of Scylla and Charybdis.

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14-DAY ADRIATIC ANTIQUITIES: STRAIT OF MESSINA & STROMBOLI

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An Insider’s Guide to Messina, Italy

By Chris Allsop

Last updated: June 4th, 2024

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Speaking practically, the historic port city of Messina, Italy, is the gateway to Sicily from the mainland. Situated on sunny Capo Peloro, on Sicily’s northeastern point, it looks across the strait that bears its name towards the rugged brown mountains and long seafront promenades of Calabria, the “toe” of Italy’s boot shape.

But Messina, home to the Mediterranean’s largest natural harbor, is more than just a gateway. It’s also a crossroads of seas and stories, where the Ionian and Tyrrhenian meet and where Odysseus narrowly survived Scylla and Charybdis. This is the location where St. Paul the Apostle arrived to convert Sicily to Christianity.

Given its location near the volcanic Aeolian Islands, it’s little surprise to discover that Messina’s history—like Sicily as a whole—has been shaped by seismic events. Despite ravages of war and earthquakes, pockets of antique splendor, thanks to much painstaking restoration work, persist in Sicily’s third-largest city. Visitors even arrive on some of the continent’s last remaining train-ferries that cross the strait, giving Messina an old-fashioned feel.

Those who take time to discover this corner of Sicily will find a welcoming city with a festival schedule as colorful as its history is eventful.

Why Visit Messina

Messina might look grand when arriving across the water, but it’s really a laid-back place to visit. Remaining as it does in the shadow of other Sicilian tourism magnets like nearby Taormina and the atmospheric Palermo, Messina’s sights, panoramic viewpoints, and seafront bars are relatively uncrowded, making it a pleasant place to spend a day.

It’s also not too large a city, so it’s possible to get around the historic highlights in a half day’s stroll, leaving time to explore further afield.

Theater Vittorio Emanuele II

A cluster of superlatives awaits you in the streets and squares clustered around Piazza Duomo. Theater Vittorio Emanuele II is Sicily’s largest theater, while the cathedral has Italy’s second-largest pipe organ.

Bell tower in Piazza Duomo

Perhaps the most unusual is the bell tower in Piazza Duomo, which contains the world’s most complex mechanical and astronomical clock.

Fontana di Orione

Arrive at noon to watch the statues on its facade complete a 12-minute dance. While you’re waiting, admire the Fontana di Orione made from Carrara marble. Its statues represent rivers like the Tiber and the Nile, as well as a plucky nearby brook.

In fact, you’ll begin to see statues everywhere as you explore Messina, triumphant on plinths, tucked into street corners, or peering out from unexpected hollows in the baroque architecture. When they’re not figures from history, they’ll usually be the likeness of a former upstanding citizen or a monied member of the elite.

This very personal touch of the artists and architects who have created this elegant city, and the astonishing story of Messina’s tragic history and ability to regenerate itself are just two compelling reasons to spend time here.

History & Culture

When Messina was founded in the 8th century BC by Greek colonists, it was originally named “Zancle” due to the natural harbor’s scythe-like shape.

For the most part, Messina’s history is in keeping with Sicily’s remarkable story as an island of strategic importance in the heart of the Mediterranean, balanced between Africa and Europe.

After bouncing between every ambitious regional power for the better part of a millennium, Sicily (and Messina with it) became part of a unified Italy in the 19th century.

Alongside this, Messina’s story is shaped by two other forces: a desire for independence and, more significantly, natural disasters, from the Black Death in 1347 and again 400 years later, to a devastating earthquake.

After decades of rebuilding—and a period of internal strife during the Risorgimento (the 19th-century reunification of Italy), a second huge earthquake caused extensive destruction in 1894.

And it didn’t end there. In 1908, a few days after Christmas, a third earthquake with an accompanying tsunami wiped out 100,000 people and much of the remaining Greek and Roman architecture. However, by the following year, the resilient city had been mostly repaired and rebuilt.

With the advent of World War II, the destruction this time was mostly man-made. As a crucial supply chain link for Axis forces in Sicily , Messina was heavily targeted by the allies. Their bombing raids leveled a third of the city.

To this day, a Greek-speaking minority exists in the city. Although it would be romantic if they could trace their lineage back to the original settlers, these Greek Messinese were actually refugees welcomed into the city in the 16th century.

Tips for Visiting Messina

Messina is a city that invites exploration on foot. If you’re visiting in the heat of summer, slow down to the pace of the locals, taking time for coffee stops , snacks, people watching, and, of course, gelato.

While wandering the streets breathing in the delicious aroma of arancini (fried rice balls) from street stalls, there are a couple of helpful stops that can give you an intriguing perspective on the city’s history. Taking time to visit these is all part of piecing together the puzzle of this fascinating place.

Church of the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani

One is the Church of the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani. This striking architectural patchwork is a survivor of the 1908 earthquake. Its sunken state acts as a dramatic marker for the original street level prior to the quake.

Messina is also home to one of the continent’s oldest and largest monumental cemeteries—the Gran Camposanto. It’s a highly atmospheric place to visit and reflect on the city’s travails.

The sculptural tombs are also extremely striking, as are the views of the coast over the aromatic Mediterranean scrub springing up around the monuments.

Madonnina del Porto

From the Gran Camposanto, head back to Messina’s sea-salt-swept center of life—the port. On the end of the Raineri peninsula, set on the San Salvatore Fort, you’ll see the Madonnina del Porto, a column over 100 ft tall, the bronze statue at the top just over 20 ft tall.

The icon is meant to bestow a blessing on all who enter the Italian port . Feel doubly blessed, though, when you stop in for a chocolate hazelnut gelato at Pasticceria Gelateria Ragusa Eventi on via Garibaldi.

Things to Do & Attractions in Messina

See the museum of the treasure of the cathedral of messina.

Cathedral of Messina

This bijou museum, found within the Duomo’s south hall, is a 400-strong trove of glinting artifacts created by the city’s goldsmiths and silversmiths across the centuries. As the name of the museum suggests, the “treasure” amounts to what was the sacred ornamentation of the Duomo.

It’s a fantastic collection to gaze upon, and of course, there’s the Duomo inside which you’re standing to explore as well.

Despite much reconstruction through the years, this remains one of Sicily’s finest cathedrals—a columned basilica with intricate mosaics in the apse and a beautifully decorated ceiling, as well as plenty of shade on a scorching Sicilian summer’s day.

Read: Discover Italy in the Summer  

Explore Gorgeous Savoca

Close to Messina, you’ll find a variety of gorgeous destinations good for a half-day excursion or more. Savoca is one of these, nearly halfway to glamorous Taormina.

Named for the savoca (“elder”) plant, the white flowers of which you’ll see popping up between the town’s fragrant rosemary and lavender shrubs, this beautifully aged hilltop hamlet straddles two peaks on the country’s eastern coast.

A visit here is to take in the atmosphere of a quintessential Sicilian town : the elegant decay, the slow pace of life, the stunning views. Pick up a cup of searingly cool granita from Bar Vitelli and look out across the Strait of Messina, over the fishing boats, and towards the faint chocolate haze of Calabria.

See Glamorous Taormina

Isola Bella, Taormina

Taormina is Sicily at its most fabulous, an idyllic town built into the side of a seaside cliff. Umbrella pines float up around it while beneath sits the picturesque Isola Bella—one of the best beaches in Italy —connected by a funicular to the town’s historic center.

Under an hour’s drive from Messina, it was an essential stop in the 19th-century Grand Tour and, in fact, Taormina has long had artistic associations. It was here that D. H. Lawrence wrote his scandal-inducing Lady Chatterley’s Lover while enjoying a two-year sojourn in this lovely town.

Corso Umberto, Taormina

Taormina’s winding streets are lined with orange trees whose fragrance haunts its shady parkland. It’s there too, carried on the breeze, to the boutique and cannoli-lined high street of Corso Umberto and tossed in the salty updrafts of sea air at cliffside Piazza IX Aprile.

Greek Theater of Taormina

Perhaps the best viewpoint of all is from the Greek Theater—a half-ruined edifice built into the mountain above the town. One of the best theaters in the world , and Sicily’s second-largest, it’s an incredibly atmospheric venue for al fresco theatrics with Mount Etna simmering in the background.

Enjoy Volcanic Vistas From Castelmola

If it’s views of Mount Etna you want, you can do worse than making your way to Castelmola, one of the best places to visit in Sicily . A little inland from Taormina, and about 10 minutes further by car from Messina, this stunning Norman fortress-turned-atmospheric hill town offers some of the island’s best views over Etna’s charismatic cone.

Once you’ve drunk in the views and the baroque architecture that Italy is known for , it’s time to find a seat on the diamond-patterned piazza outside Caffe San Giorgio and taste the village specialty, vino alla mandorla . It’s a syrupy glass of almond wine infused with citrus essence which, according to its creator Signore Blandano, is Sicily in a glass.

Take the Godfather Tour

Bar Vitelli

Sicily is forever fused with Mario Puzo’s mafia novel, The Godfather . And while it’s been half a century since the story first made the transition to the silver screen, it can feel like a current release, such is the persistent passion its fans hold for the trilogy.

Whatever your level of interest in tales of the mafia, the Godfather Tour offers both succor to film and literature enthusiasts and a rather excellent expedition through some of the island’s small towns and villages, some changed so little by time that they could still pass for 1940s Sicily, when the first novel is set.

Capo Sant’Alessio

Stop at hilltop Savoca and discover the cobblestoned lanes of medieval Forza D’Agro (and, if there’s time, stop into its museum of landmarks molded out of chocolate).

Godfather tours also visit Capo Sant’Alessio’s stunning Italian castle , a dramatic setting for a story of crime, love, and intrigue if ever there was one.

Food & Drink

While mainland Italians will find much that’s familiar on Sicilian menus when they descend for their summer vacations, the island does very much have its own distinctive culinary traditions .

You’ll encounter flavors and spices that recall Arab, Spanish, and Greek cuisine, as well as an emphasis on seafood such as sardines, lobster, and swordfish (typically hunted in a traditional felucca boat) and frequently served with Arab couscous. For a taste of this unique blend done very well, head to stalwart Taverna San Paolo near Messina’s waterfront.

Parmigiana di Melanzane

It’s also a land where the vegetable is king, and king of kings is the eggplant (with artichoke its chief rival). Try it in Vermicelli alla Siciliana , a pasta dish with a rich, primarily tomato and eggplant sauce.

Eggplant-based side dishes include caponata with fried eggplant and toasted bread, as well as the lasagna-like Parmigiana di Melanzane .

Pitoni meddinesi

Sicilian pizza ( sfincione ) is typically a relatively deep-dish pie, although the Messinese version, pitoni meddinesi , is more of a cheesy empanada or deep-fried calzone stuffed with toma cheese, tomato, anchovies, and endive. Try it at the one and only La Pitoneria on via Palermo.

There’s also a Messinese focaccia that you’ll be able to pick up at street food vendors that’s topped with a similarly signature umami mix.

Mozzarella in carozza

Other street food classics you’ll find here include the widespread breaded rice balls arancini and mozzarella in carozza —essentially a toasted mozzarella sandwich that’s been deep-fried.

When it’s time to satisfy your sweet tooth, make your way to a granita parlor. This shaved ice treat, often served with a brioche, is actually a popular breakfast option throughout Sicily as well as a flavorsome way to beat the heat.

The stainless steel granita bucket for mezza con panna al caffe (coffee and cream) is the one that empties quickest in Messina.

Read: Best Pizza in the World

Best Time to Visit Messina

Sicily’s central position in the Mediterranean may have made it strategically important to medieval kings, but it also ensures plenty of sunshine during summer in Italy . And in fact, such are its mild winters and moderate rainfall that the island is something of a year-round destination.

With daytime temperatures in the shoulder months of June, September, and October running the gamut from 68°F to 77°F, these can be fabulous times to explore the island’s hinterland and its archaeological treasures within.

August sees temperatures of between 75°F and 87°F, twisting your arm to book yet another beach day wading through the coast’s opal blue shallows.

The sea is a wonderful swimming temperature until about mid-September, although outside of the May to August seasonal sweet spot, there can be a slightly higher chance of rain. But a brief shower is hardly what the Messinese would call a disaster.

Read: Best Beaches in September to Visit

Discover the fascinating history, local color, and eggplant fetish of Messina, Italy on a cruise to the bel paese . Browse cruises to Messina and book your next unforgettable vacation.

Chris Allsop

Chris Allsop is a UK-based food and travel journalist whose writing has appeared in The Sunday Times Travel Magazine, Condé Nast Traveller, and The Guardian, among other titles. When he’s not trying to arrange yet another trip to Italy, he’s obsessively on the lookout for new farmhouse cheeses to match up with his latest sour beer.

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CRUISE PORT GUIDES

Messina – Italy

Also visit our cruise port guides for:

Valletta Naples Catania Civitavecchia< br> Barcelona

Cruise Port Guide Messina – Italy: docked

Taxis in messina.

There are plenty of taxis that will be waiting for you at the exit of the port. Negotiate a price before stepping in. Taxis are good for sightseeing and come highly recommended when visiting Mt. Etna. Please find an estimation of the taxi prices underneath: 120 euro for 3 hour sightseeing tour by taxi 150 euro for 4 hour sightseeing tour by taxi Please know taxi prices should be posted on a sign a the taxi stand, but hard negotiation is still necessary.

Train to Taormina

Find the train station about 1,5 km away from port. Exit the terminal, go left and keep following the waterline for about 1,5 km to reach the station. See map above for its exact location. You can check the train schedule on the official operators website: http://www.trenitalia.com/tcom-en Tickets cost about 4 euro each and the ride takes between 40 minutes and an hour. When you arrive at the Taormina-Giardini train station you can either choose to walk the 2 km walk uphill or take the public bus to the city centre. Busses go frequently and cost about 1,80 euro.

Public transport to Taormina

You could also opt for a public bus to get to Taormina, but keep in mind the ride will take up to 2 hours one way. This will leave you right in town. However the bus does not go as frequent. Therefore check the schedule on www.interbus.it Find the bus close to the train station (2 km walk from the port).

The coastal tram in Messina

When you exit the cruise terminal you will find tram tracks on the street in front of it. The tram runs all along the coastline and is a great way to visit the Regional Museum of Messina. Buy your tickets at a magazine or tobacco stand and validate the ticket on board of the tram.

Car Rental in Messina

There are 3 car rentals across the streets from the cruise terminal: Hertz, Avis and Sicilcar. Renting a car is a great way to see a part of the island. Traffic can be hectic but the roads are well maintained. Make reservations ahead of time.

Hop on hop off bus

There is a hop on hop off bus available at the cruise terminal. Find representatives of the bus at the terminal. The bus does its loop only in town and because it only has a few stops we don’t feel it will be worth the money.

Distance from port

City Centre Messina – 300 meter to the west of port Messina train station – 1,5 km to the south of port Taormina – 52 km to the south of port Mt. Etna – 100 km to the south of port Catania – 97 km to the south of port

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The Messina cathedral is a one of a kind beautiful structure from 1908. It’s beautiful ornate stonework and frescos are a one of a kind. There are often services at the cathedral. Find the cathedral right in the city centre.

Messina Cathedral

The view from the ship might be the best view there is in town. Make sure to snap some pictures on the outside deck!

View from the ship

You can already spot this beautiful dome from the ship. It sits on a hill overlooking the town of Messina. This structure from 1937 is a burial site for thousands of Italians killed during World War I. Every day at sunset the large bell rings to commemorate the soldier’s sacrifice.

Sacrario di Cristo Re

Sacrario di Cristo Re, Messina

At the entrance of the port of Messina you will see a golden statue of the Virgin Mary. The words “ Vos et ipsa civitatem benedicimus” means “You will bless this city”. You can reach the statue by walking all around the port or take the boat.

Stele della Madonna della Lettera, Messina

This is the largest active volcano of Europe that has gotten quite a reputation. This world miracle and eye catcher of Sicily offert a rare opportunity to visit an active volcano. Drive or walk one of the many road on the volcano. Because of the distance we recommend to go with a taxi or shore excursion.

The Messina cruise dock is located in front of the city center of Messina. You will find a cruise terminal with plenty facilities at the dock. Read our full Messina cruise port guide here with information about your docking location, transportation options and what to see and do.

Messina cruise dock

Every day at noon the the bell tower of Messina will come alive. This is one of the largest and most complex mechanical clocks in the world. As soon as the clock strikes 12 its lion will start to roar and this will start the 15 minute display depicting the religious history of the city. If you decide to spend your day in town this something you shouldn’t miss.

Messina’s bell tower

Piazza Duomo, Messina ME, Italy

Taormina might just be the most well know town of Sicily. This renowned village is famous for being a tourist town, historic landmark and for its amazing dramatic scenery. It offers the perfect combination for a day out! Reach Taormina by train, taxi or public bus.

Taormina, Sicily

At the 2nd most important church in town you will often find a tourist information centre that provides walking maps. Pick one up to get acquainted with the town of Messina! Find the church of the Catalans at a 2 minute walk from the terminal. See map above for its exact location.

Church of the Catalans

Via Garibaldi Giuseppe, 111, 98122 Messina ME, Italy

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Strait of Messina

The Strait of Messina is a 20 mile waterway that separates Sicily and Italy on either side. Its shifting currents are the cause of much difficulty for navigating the channel, and in Greek mythology, the rocks and whirlpools were thought to be two female monsters named Scylla and Charybdis. The myths were maintained with the help of the Fata Morgana which is a mirage that causes the appearance of an object onshore to be vertically elongated. The region is also well known for its archaeological remains and historical sites in cities like Messina and Reggio di Calabria.

Messina Cruise Port Guide | 12 Best Things To Do In Messina Sicily

Separated from mainland Italy by the Strait of Messina, the city of Messina lies on the northeastern coast of Sicily and is its third largest city and a major seaport.

Due to its strategic and geographical position, Messina is often referred to as “the door to Sicily” and there are daily ferries connecting it to the mainland.

Messina is also the main gateway to the breathtaking city of Taormina , located about a 45-minute drive to the south. In this article, read about:

• Messina port guide (Messina cruise terminal, getting around, helpful info)
• 12 best things to do in Messina cruise port & best Messina shore excursions (getting to Taormina and Etna, top things to do)

Visit also our cruise port guides to Catania , Palermo (Sicily) , Cagliari , Civitavecchia (Rome) , Naples

Messina Cruise Port

Messina cruise terminal is located in the heart of the city, within a 5-minute walk from Piazza del Duomo, the main square dominated by the imposing Messina Cathedral.

The cruise terminal has one berth and can accommodate 1 cruise ship at a time. There is no terminal building, but you can find all services (ATMs, currency exchange, taxis, shops, restaurants) right after you exit the terminal. Parking for tour buses is located on the pier.

The port of Messina is the main gateway to the resort town of Taormina , which is located around 52 km/32 miles (a 45-minute drive) to the south.

You can get to Taormina by train, bus, car, or with a shore excursion (read in detail further in the article).

In case your cruise ship anchors in the Bay of Naxos near Taormina, check out my article Taormina Cruise Port Guide (Giardini Naxos)  for more information.

Getting Around Messina Sicily

• The port area is flat and suitable for wheelchair users. Messina’s old town is also flat, except for the Temple of Christ the King which is located on a hilltop.
• Upon exiting the cruise terminal, cross the Via Vittorio Emanuele II (“Via” means “the street”) and you’ll reach Via G. Garibaldi where you’ll find taxis, Hop on Hop off buses, a tourist train, and lots of restaurants and pubs. Duomo di Messina (Messina Cathedral) is located right across the street from there.
• The currency in Sicily (Italy) is EURO (€). ATMs are available in town and near the cruise terminal. Local currency and credit cards are widely accepted.
• Tipping is not customary in Italy, however, there is a service fee of 15-20% of the bill (or 2€ per person) in the majority of restaurants. In some cities, restaurants may be closed between 2 pm and 7 pm (they close after lunchtime and reopen in the evening).
• There are plenty of taxis around the city, but you may not need them because you can explore the entire city on foot. Taxi drivers often offer guided tours to Taormina and other places.
• Messina Hop on Hop off city sightseeing bus departs from the company’s ticket office on Via Cesare Battisti 10 (on the corner of Via Cesare Battisti and Via G. Garibaldi, literally just across the street next to Coppedè Gelateria). There are two lines: Red Line (departs from Piazza Duomo, runs every 60 minutes and stops at Piazza Duomo, Regional Museum, Beach and Lakes) and Blue Line (departs from Coppedè Gelateria on the corner of Via Cesare Battisti and Via G. Garibaldi, runs every 45 minutes and stops at Piazza Duomo, Temple of Christ the King, Neptune Fountain, Via Garibaldi, Chiesa dei Catalani). Blue Line is recommended if you prefer to explore the city attractions, while the Red Line goes a bit outside of the city. A 1-day ticket starts at 10€. There is also the Green Line that goes only to the beach and costs 5€ (prices from 2023).
• The City Train Tour starts from Piazza Duomo and consists of over 10 stops around the city. The duration is 50 minutes.
• Messina Centrale (Messina central bus and train station) is located on Piazza della Repubblica, only 850 m (10 minutes’ walk) southeast of Messina cruise terminal. Trains in Italy are operated by Trenitalia and you can check the timetables and prices at https://www.trenitalia.com/ . Trains from Messina to Taormina run once or twice per hour, and the ride lasts from 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the train itinerary. The central bus station is located here too.
• Public buses and trams in Messina are operated by ATM (Azienda Trasporti Messina). You can check the timetables on the official webpage https://www.atmmessinaspa.it/
• Intercity buses in Sicily are operated by Interbus Autolinee and they depart from the central station. If you decide to go to Taormina by bus, you’ll take this one. Check out the timetables and prices at https://www.interbus.it/
• If you prefer to rent a car , you won’t have much trouble finding parking, because Messina is less crowded than other places such as Palermo, Taormina, and others.
• There are two airports in Sicily. The main and largest airport is Catania Fontanarossa Airport , located a 1.5-hour drive south of Messina, while Palermo Airport is located a 3h 15-min drive west of Messina.
• Check out Messina (Taormina) tours and activities
• Book a private transfer from Messina cruise port
• Search the best hotels in Messina

Watch my YouTube video on Messina cruise port!

12 Best Things to Do in Messina Cruise Port

Before I share the best things to do in Messina, I invite you to grab your copy of the “ Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide” , the most comprehensive guide to 45 Mediterranean cruise ports (including Messina) , packed with practical information, expert tips & unforgettable experiences! (PDF format/200 pages)

1. Piazza Duomo

Piazza Duomo is the main square in Messina, dominated by the imposing Cathedral of Messina  (also known as Duomo di Messina and Basilica Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta ) and its iconic Astronomical Clock .

Next to the bell tower is the lavish  Orion Fountain , a grand 16th-century fountain with statues of mythological figures built to celebrate running water. The fountain dates from 1551 and was originally constructed by a renowned architect from Florence who was a student of Michelangelo.

In the surrounding streets, you can find numerous restaurants, pizzerias, gelaterias, some shops, pubs and cafes.

On the square itself, there are a few benches to sit and relax while enjoying the Astronomical Clock’s noontime show. At this time, the square is very busy so make sure you arrive exactly at noon and get your camera ready!

Check out Messina walking tours and activities

2. Cathedral of Messina

Also known as Duomo di Messina and Basilica Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta , the monumental Messina Cathedral was built by the Normans in the 12th century and features magnificent architecture.

The cathedral was reconstructed in the 20th century, after the devastating earthquake of 1908 and World War II bombings.

The major attraction is the cathedral’s bell tower, which houses the largest astronomical clock in the world.

3. Astronomical Clock of the Cathedral of Messina

The bell tower of the Cathedral of Messina ( Campanile Del Duomo Di Messina ) contains the biggest and most complex mechanical and astronomical clock in the world.

Designed by the company Ungerer of Strasbourg for the Archbishop at the time, Mons. Angelo Paino, the 60-meter-high clock was inaugurated on August 15th, 1933.

Every day at noon, there is a show with all the bronze figurines that come out and begin to play and tell a story of the history of Messina. Quite impressive to see!

You can climb the bell tower and see the whole system up close. There is a small entrance fee and 236 steps to the top. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular 360-degree view of Messina and its port!

Explore Messina sightseeing tours and activities

4. Temple of Christ the King

Also known as Tempio di Cristo Re , Sacrario di Cristo Re and Shrine of Christ the King , the church was designed by Giovan Battista Milani in 1937 and features a beautiful Baroque hexagonal design and a large ornate dome that can be seen for miles.

The church houses the remains of the soldiers and people who lost their lives in two world wars whose gravestones you can see on the walls.

It takes about 20 minutes a slightly uphill walk from the port to reach the church. From the platform in front of it, you can admire stunning views of the city and port.

Hop on Hop off buses and City Train both stop here, so it’s a better option if you want to avoid walking.

5. Neptune Fountain

The lavish Fontana di Nettuno lies a 10-minute walk north of Messina cruise terminal and overlooks Messina Marina.

Designed by Giovanni Montorsoli in 1557, the fountain is dedicated to the sea god Neptune who is depicted in the center holding his legendary trident, surrounded by several other mythical characters.

Right behind the fountain square is a beautiful Government Palace (Palazzo del Governo) that nowadays houses the city council.

Check out the Fountain of Neptune tours and activities

6. Churches and Museums

• Chiesa Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani – This beautiful church is located right only 100 m away from Duomo di Messina, and you’ll probably see it upon crossing the street from the terminal. Built in the 12th century, the church is a fine example of Norman architecture and one of the few buildings that survived the earthquake of 1908.
• Church of Saint Mary of the Carmel – Located approximately 650 m from Duomo and 1 km from the port, Chiesa del Carmine boasts a truly unorthodox design with its Baroque architecture, a large central basilica and a wonderful light grey/blue coloration.
• Interdisciplinary Regional Museum of Messina (MUME) – This museum contains art and archaeological collections of local and national artwork and artifacts sourced from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. It is located a 10-minute drive north of the port of Messina.

7. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele III

Located only 300 m from Piazza Duomo, the galleria features a style similar to the famous Milan gallery with its large central promenade covered with a glass roof and a magnificent front facade with columns and ornate arches.

It is quite impressive inside as well, although the majority of shops were closed when I visited. The gallery opened in 1929, at the same time as the reconstruction of Messina Cathedral.

8. Zona Falcata

Zona Falcata is a lively area and home to Messina’s busy port and some interesting historic landmarks.

These include the  fort of San Salvator (Forte del Santissimo Salvatore) dating from the 17 th century and a 60-meter octagonal column ( Stele della Madonna della Lettera ) constructed in 1934, topped by a statue of Madonna della Lettera that locals call Madonnina, or “little Madonna”.

This area encompasses the city’s Marina that runs parallel to a nice waterfront promenade overlooking the Strait of Messina.

9. Taste the Sicilian Cuisine

When in Sicily, tasting the local cuisine is a must! You can choose between a wide range of pasta dishes, seafood, and pizzas, to fresh salads and various international dishes.

There are gelaterias and pastry shops on every corner, so make sure you treat your taste buds with premium quality gelatos and delicious Cannoli.

Messina is renowned for “Granita”, a semi-frozen dessert made from sugar, water and various flavorings, served with a brioche bun, a must-try when in Sicily!

Check out Messina food tasting tours and activities

10. Taormina

This jewel of Sicily sits near Mount Etna, around 55 km/35 miles (a 45-minute to 1-hour drive) south of Messina cruise port.

Perched on a 200-meter-high cliff, Taormina offers spectacular views of the sea and the Etna volcano. The history of Taormina dates back to before Ancient Greece established its first colony on Sicily in 734 BCE.

Today, visitors can admire the remarkably preserved Teatro Antico which dates from the 3rd century BC, probably one of the most stunning ancient theaters in the world.

Corso Umberto is the main street that runs through the heart of the old town and is filled with luxury boutiques, designer stores, souvenir shops, restaurants, gelaterias, cafes and small businesses.

At one end of Corso Umberto Street, Piazza IX Aprile offers the most beautiful views of the bay below and Mount Etna.

While there, make sure you check out the medieval Duomo di Taormina and Villa Communale , a peaceful oasis offering breathtaking coastal views.

From Messina cruise port, you can get to Taormina by train, bus, car, or with a shore excursion. Messina Centrale (central train and bus station) is located a 10-minute walk from the port.

Trains are quite reliable and there are up to two departures per hour to Taormina. The ride can take from 30 minutes to 55 minutes one-way, depending on the train itinerary. You can check the timetables and prices at https://www.trenitalia.com/ . In Taormina, you should get off at Taormina-Giardini train station.

Taormina-Giardini train station is located below the hill, so you’ll need to take a local minibus to take you to Taormina’s old town where all the attractions are located.

This local mini bus is red-colored and runs frequently in high season. The timetables are displayed on the board in front of the train station. The one-way ticket costs around 1.10€ and the ride takes about 15 minutes.

The minibus will drop you off at Piazza S.Pancrazio, which is in front of the Corso Umberto Street entrance.

Alternatively, you can take a taxi from the train station and it will cost you around 25-30€ per vehicle one way.

You can also take an intercity bus from Messina to Taormina. Intercity buses in Sicily are operated by “Interbus” company and they depart from Messina central station. The ride can take from 1h 10 mins to 1h45 mins one way, depending on the itinerary.

In Taormina, the bus will drop you off at Piazza S. Pancrazio, from where you can walk into the old town. Terminal Interbus Taormina (bus terminus) is located 550 m (less than a 10-minute walk) from there.

The other few options to get from the port of Messina to Taormina are by renting a car , which I don’t recommend as it’s very challenging to find parking, especially in the high season. You will most likely need to leave your car in one of the car parks below the hill and then take the minibus as well. There is one car park right next to the train station.

If you are considering a car, it would be better to arrange a private round-trip transfer to Taormina or arrange a tour with one of the taxi drivers in the port.

Lastly, you can book an organized shore excursion with your cruise ship or a reliable tour operator who will show you the highlights of Taormina. Guided tours are great because they will allow you to see most of Taormina in just one day, which is well worth it. After all, the place is a true fairytale!

Read about the top 10 things to do in Taormina in my article Taormina Cruise Port (Giardini Naxos), Things to Do, Shore Excursions  

Check out Taormina tours and activities from Messina port

Watch my YouTube video on the top 10 things to do in Taormina!

11. Mount Etna

Another popular shore excursion is a day trip to the infamous Mount Etna, one of the most dangerous and active volcanoes in Europe known for its exceptional level of volcanic activity.

It stands at a height of 3329 meters and is considered the tallest volcano in Europe after Mount Teide in Tenerife (Spain).

The volcano spreads across 59,000 hectares entirely in the province of Catania and has been erupting for a hundred thousand years. It’s constantly active, and you can see the fumes coming out of craters at all times.

There are four big craters (crater Silvestri is the best known) and hundreds of smaller ones. There are also over 200 lava caves that you can explore in the company of a professional guide. The biggest eruption took place in 1669 when the entire city of Catania was completely devastated. The last eruption was in 2024.

The best way to get to Mount Etna from Messina cruise port is either by car or with an organized shore excursion. Etna is located approximately 100 km/62 miles (a 1h 30 mins drive) from Messina port and you can explore it on your own only partially (up to 2,500 m).

If you decide to rent a car, you will drive to Rifugio Sapienza which sits at 2,000 m. Here, you’ll find a large free parking, cafes, shops and tour vendors where you can book tours to explore the higher altitudes of the volcano.

You can book a cable car , which is the most exciting option as it will take you to the summit, however, these are often canceled due to winds and bad weather conditions. Instead of refunding the tickets, they offer you an alternative (such as an off-road drive) so keep that in mind.

Alternatively, you can go hiking Mount Etna  (you can hike on your own until 2,500 m, but if you want to go to 3,000, you need a professional guide), book a 4×4 tour , or explore the caves with a guide.

Whatever you choose to do, it’s worth it because it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure! Keep in mind that roads leading to Etna are windy and it can be cold up in the mountain, so make sure to bring a jacket and comfortable shoes.

Shore excursions to Etna are also popular and there are many options available, from adventurous hikes to off-road rides, cave exploration and wine tasting. Upon booking a tour, check what’s included in it and see if there’s going to be an extra charge on-site.

Check out Etna tours and activities from Messina

12. The Godfather Movie Tour

The legendary movie “The Godfather” was filmed in Sicily and for the fans of the saga, this tour is a must! You will be visiting the town of Savoca, located near Taormina, around 43 km/27 miles (a 50-minute drive) south of Messina cruise port.

In Savoca, you will see the 1971 filming location for the wedding, as well as the Bar Vitelli where Michael Corleone asked for Apollonia’s hand.

You will then continue to Forza d’Agrò village, which is located another 25 minutes drive, to see the square that served as the main square of Corleone during the Francis Ford Coppola movie.

This tour is often offered as a combo with Taormina because they are located close to each other.

Explore The Godfather movie tours and activities

Whether you decide to stay in Messina and explore its highlights, or you decide to visit stunning Taormina, Etna, or Godfather filming locations, an awesome day is guaranteed! Make sure you plan your day ahead to get the most out of this amazing port of call!

Visit also our cruise port guides to Heraklion , Rhodes , Barcelona , Marseille , Ajaccio (Corsica) , Livorno , La Spezia

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Messina (Sicily Italy)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Mediterranean - Black Sea

Local Time 2024-09-19 15:01

Port Messina cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Messina, Sicily Italy. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Port Messina is cruise port known as “the door to Sicily”. The city is located on Sicily Island, separated from mainland Italy by Strait of Messina (width 5 km / 3 mi). The city has population around 240,000 ((metro over 650,000). By passenger shipping traffic, Italy's largest seaports are Messina, Naples and Reggio Calabria .

Messina is the island's 3rd largest city. The world-known attraction of the area is the volcano Mt Etna. The city passed a lot of tests over time – revolution (1678, against the Spanish), earthquakes (in 1783 and 1908) and bombing (in 1943, during World War II).

The main resources of the area include cruise tourism, seaport, wine productions and agriculture. Messina has been the seat of Roman Catholic Archdiocese and Archimandrite since 1548. It is also home to an international fair. The University of Messina was established in 1548 by Ignatius Loyola.

The 12th-century Cathedral, containing King Conrad's remains (ruler of Germany and Sicily during the 13th century). Following the devastating earthquake in 1908, the building had to be almost entirely rebuilt in 1919-1920, and again in 1943, because of a fire triggered by Allied bombings.

The Sanctuary of Santa Maria del Carmelo (close to the Courthouse) was built in 1931 and contains a 17th-century statue of Virgin Mary.

Messina is a popular cruise port of call on many Mediterranean Sea itineraries. Among the 2017 scheduled ship calls, the largest vessels were Majestic Princess (2 visits), AIDAaura  (1 visit), MSC Meraviglia (23 visits) and Norwegian Spirit (16 visits).

In August 2017, the port officially announced plans for building a new cruise ship terminal. Among 2017's newcomers were the liners MSC Meraviglia (23 calls), Royal Princess , Celebrity Reflection , Norwegian Spirit . For season 2018 here booked Crown Princess (9 calls) and MSC Seaview (23 calls).

Messina cruise terminal

Messina cruise port terminal is located in the heart of city downtown. The Piazza del Duomo is within easy walking distance. You can explore Messina old town on foot. Next photo shows Messina port's cruise ship docking piers (no terminal building).

Available in front Messina cruise port terminal are taxis and rent-a-car offices. The rate of the taxi should be negotiated. The closest bus and train stations are located a mile from Messina cruise port terminal at Piazza della Repubblica. Via train or bus you can also visit Taormina (approx 55 km / 35 ml south from Messina).

Messina cruise port is in the itineraries of major cruise lines including Celebrity Cruises, Carnival, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Princess Cruises, Windstar Cruises, Phoenix, MSC Cruises, Holland America Line, Cunard, Seabourn and Silversea.

Messina tours, shore excursions, hotels

City tours and shore excursions.

• Cathedral of Messina: close to Messina cruise port terminal is located the Cathedral of Messina. The building is with Sicilian Norman architecture and was originally built in the 11th century. The Cathedral was reconstructed two times – after the 1908 earthquake and after the Second World War. The bell tower of the church houses the amazing Orologio Astronomico – one of the largest astronomical clocks in the world.
• Church of the Annunziata dei Catalani: located two street from the Cathedral of Messina, direction east. The church is an original Crusader’s one and was built in the period late 12th – beginning of 13th centuries.
• Museo Regionale: or the Regional Museum is the main museum for art in Mesina. Located two miles from Messina cruise port pier.
• Fountain of Orion: located in adjacent to the Cathedral of Messina, built in 1547 by Giovanni Angelo Montorsoli.
• Porta Grazia: the gate dates from 16th century. It looks like a fortress in the Messina harbour.
• Mount Etna: the tallest European volcano (10,902 feet) is still active. Most of the cruise lines offer tours to the Mount Etna. If not, it is better to rent a car, because taxi rates from Messina cruise port are not cheap.
• The well preserved medieval town Taormina is approx 55 km (35 ml) south from Messina.
• Bus tours along Sicily's highway and coastal road allow passengers to go to Santa Teresa (between Messina and Taormina). From there, a scenic road leads to the picturesque Savoca - one of the island's most attractive tourist destinations. The village's main street climbs a hill, where three 15th-16th centuries built curches are located, as well as the ruins of a Norman castle. Savoca is also the must-visit place for all “The Godfather” mafia movie fans.

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Sailing through the Strait of Messina (Stretto di Messina)

The Strait of Messina ( Stretto di Messina)  is the narrow passage between the eastern tip of Sicily the land of The Godfather, and the western tip of Calabria southern Italy. Our film is of such a sail, between the Game of Thrones like named the Tyrrhenian Sea to the north having come from Dubrovnik , into the Ionian Sea to the south on our way to Cagliari in Sardinia. We are on board the P&O ship Aurora , and will be again in 2023 as she, like many ships, returns to the Mediterranean for the summer. We have a full ship tour of the adult only ship as we do many ships (see our ships menu above). We also track the positions of over 450 ships used for cruising. Aurora passenger area ship tour .  These seas fall on some Mediterranean cruise routes and fall between our Med-Croatia destination menus and Med-Italy destination menu of guides and films for cruisers. The Messina Straits at it narrowest point, between Torre Faro and Villa San Giovanni, is just 3.1 km (1.9 mi) wide. That is not like sailing up the Hudson into New York , and certainly not like nearly touching the mountains sailing in the Fjords , but it is picturesque. As we pass by Messina  on this 20-mile-long passage you will see close-up views of coastlines on either side. The feature as the lands close the gaps is of two of the world’s largest pylons and you are out to sea again. Join a chat site of your favourite ship.

On the Sicilian coast, Mount Etna can be seen in the distance, and if you’re lucky, you might even see some volcanic smoke rising. On the Calabrian side, you’ll see swaying pine trees and be greeted by all manner of fishing vessels. It is also an important migratory route for birdlife, so much so it can be an overpopulated bottleneck! More than 300 species are recorded in the area including several species of birds of prey, like the Honey Buzzard,   Marsh Harrier,   Bonelli’s Eagle and Egyptian Vulture . In the northern part of the strait, there’s a naturally occurring whirlpool, linked to the Greek legend of Scylla and Charybdis – two immortal female monsters who occupied the strait during the journeys of Odysseus, as chronicled in Homer’s Odyssey. These intense and alternate sea currents and whirlpools, low sea temperatures and an abundance of nitrogen and phosphorus transported to the surface from deep waters are of fundamental importance for biodiversity. The ecological rearrangement of this area simulates Atlantic conditions for species with a prevailing western distribution as well as many other marine creatures.

For many years there has been talk of a road bridge, but in 1957, a powerline was built across (under) the Straits. Those cables have since been sunk under the sea, but the pylons, amongst the highest in the world, remain and are protected as historical monuments. Arcadia ‘s Western Navigation goes through the Messina Straights.

The Port guides here on Doris Visits are a great way to remember your cruise and share with your friends. The mystery thrillers are a whole new way to experience cruising. You may not have been to the ports in the novels, you certainly won’t have been to the parts of the ship they use. All the cruise crime novels will make you feel like you are in the adventure and on the ship – dodge the bullets and stay out of the romance. Ship and cruise accurate, the novels are a great way for new cruisers to discover a ship too. Please share the Amazon link. .CRUISE SHIP HEIST https://amzn.to/3RVYtff

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Port of Messina

M u l t i f u n c t i o n a l   p o r t   w i t h   d o c k s   f o r   c r u i s e s ,   f e r r i e s   a n d   f a s t   v e h i c l e s   s a i l i n g   a c r o s s   t h e   s t r a i t   a n d   m o t o r w a y s   o f   t h e   s e a ., general information.

General Information about the port of messina

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Timetable of maritime connections in the port of Messina

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How to reach

Hot to reach the port of Messina

Characteristics

According to the current classification, the Port of Messina belongs to the 1st class of the 2nd category of National Ports. Its water mirror reaches a surface of c.a. 75 H.A.

The port areas, on the other hand, occupy a total area of ​​c.a. 50H.A. The port of Messina, fully integrated into the urban structure of the city, is a natural port entirely equipped with docks that offers a safe refuge from any wind. The port entrance, facing NW, is about 400m wide and extends between Forte S. Salvatore and the operational headquarters of the Port Authority of the Strait of Messina.

The traversal sector is 11° (Greco and Greco – Levante): the port is affected by the 1st and the 2nd quadrant winds. The seabed (essentially made up of sand) reaches a maximum depth of 65 meters in the NE area of ​​the water mirror (near the buoy for compass turns).

The average depth of the entire basin (about 100 meters from the quays) is equal to 40 meters, while the depths on the quay range from 6.5 mt to 11 mt. The docks are equipped with fixed and mobile cranes, with tracks for railway connections and extend for approx. 1,770 meters.

When entering the port it is necessary to keep the right towards the green light, located near the operational headquarters of the Harbor Master’s Office, while at the exit it is necessary to keep straight towards the red light, located near the Fort S. Salvatore. The ferry traffic between Italy and Sicily is remarkable.

Information on Terminals and Docks in the port of Messina

Port Services

All the services offered by the port of Messina

History and Myth: Port of Messina

The city of Messina has very ancient maritime traditions due to the port, which for centuries has influenced and improved its economic, commercial and political development. Its original greek name, Zancle, derives from the characteristic sickle shape of the harbor. In prehistoric period the port of Messina was located on a route of fundamental importance for the Mediterranean sea traffic . Messina became the main port on the island with the advent of the Romans. In these ages the city became the “ Civitas foederata ” of Rome, obtaining many privileges in maritime and commercial fields. The centrality and importance of Messina suffered a setback during Byzantines dominations. The Normans and Roger I in particular, brought Messina and its port back into vogue.

In this period the city became the seat of the Consulate of the Sea , a court made up of consuls freely elected by merchants and navigiorum primates which issued norms and ordinances for the regulation of relations between traders, exempted the people of Messina from taxes, customs and other payments and established other commercial advantages that enhanced even more the traffics. The Port of Messina grew up to one of the most important ports in the Mediterranean, both from a military and commercial point of view, thanks to the Consulate of the Sea, the construction of a new arsenal and the Darsena, the establishment of an Admiralty with jurisdiction over the port, the coast and shipbuilding, together with many other privileges recognized to the city. In the Middle Ages, when almost all Italian cities were suffocated by retrograde feudal institutions, Messina, as the Maritime Republics, was subjected to a very open regime.

In 1197 the concession by Henry VI of the Free Port, which allowed the people of Messina to freely import and export all the goods handled, without paying any tax or duty. Economic activity and trade flourished for centuries, but the privileges enjoyed by Messina exacerbated relations with the other competing cities of the island and especially with Palermo, whose ruling class managed to convince the Spanish rulers to reduce the advantages and benefits enjoyed by the city and the port of Messina. The Messina Senate then drove out the Spanish Stratigò and allied itself in 1674 with the French. This alliance lasted very little and the return of the Spaniards coincided with the abolition of all the privileges and of the Free Port itself. Under the Bourbons, the city tried to recover the traffic and exchanges that had made it so flourishing in the past, trying to attract foreign merchants and entrepreneurs again. The Free Port was re-established in 1784 and after various events extended to the whole city in 1848, until it was definitively abolished in 1879. At the end of the 19th century, buildings instrumental to maritime activity such as the covered market, the general warehouses and the ferry station were built in the city. The catastrophic earthquake of 1908 and the enormous damage that the whole city suffered led to a contraction in traffic and port activities. The reconstruction of the port structure in the thirties follows the nineteenth-century arrangement. The twentieth century saw the development in the port basin of a significant shipbuilding activity and the decision to make in Messina one of naval base of the Italian Navy and the related Arsenal. With the establishment of the Mechanical Vehicle Company and the Port Warehouses, absorbed in January 1995 by Port Authority of Messina , commercial operations have received new impetus and the cruise sector has enjoyed a truly significant increase in traffic so much so that the Port of Messina has become one of the first in Sicily in this sector.

Mythology and Legends

Messina is par excellence the “ City of the Strait ” which has always been the subject of mythological narratives and legends. The characteristic geological formation of the port of Messina is traced back to the myth of Saturn (Cronus): with a scythe he evaded his father Uranus, who got angry and threw the tool in the direction of the Strait originating that tongue of land with a particular shape of sickle. The mythical giant Orion, son of the god Neptune, on behalf of King Zanclo, adapted the sickle to a port basin. The separation of Sicily from Calabria, with the consequent formation of the Strait of Messina, is attributed to a powerful blow of the trident of the God Neptune (Poseidon). The Homeric myth of Scylla and Charybdis, the two monsters terror of sailors for millennia, justifies the dangerous eddies (including the one called “ u Garofalu “, just outside the port) that affect this stretch of sea.

The myth of Fata Morgana identified by a rare optical refraction phenomenon. The legend of Colapesce , a brave sailor of the Strait of Messina, who saw under the sea the Peloro column, on which lies the northen cusp of Sicily, almost broken. Then, fearing that his Messina could collapse at any moment, he wanted to replace it and ran to support it for eternity.

With D.L. 23/10/2018 n. 119, converted by the Law 17/12/2018 n. 136, the Port Authority of Messina has been replaced by the Port System Authority of the Strait of Messina with jurisdiction over the ports of Messina, Milazzo, Tremestieri, Reggio Calabria and Villa San Giovanni

The Ports of Messina and Reggio Calabria, which are under surveillance by the Port Authority of the Strait of Messina, are mainly characterised by intense cruise shipping thanks to the tourist attractions of the area and their enviable locations.

Statistics of the Port of Messina

Statistics regarding the tons of goods, the number of passengers and the number of cruise passengers transited at the Port of Messina.

7,131,391 t

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Find out more about tourism in the Strait of Messina

Visit the websites of the cities and organizations. Find out more about the places of intrerst: nature, relax, culture, food and wine and much more that the Strait is able to offer.

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The Strait of Messina

Former electricity pylon in Messina Sicily is among the highest in the world

On a beautiful Sunday afternoon, we embarked on an exhilarating journey through the historically significant Strait of Messina, cruising aboard the Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas. Our path was momentarily obstructed by a small fishing boat, its towering Sword Fishing Tower a testament to the region’s rich fishing heritage. The captain’s horn echoed, signaling the boat to clear the way.

The Strait, a slender channel, is a geographical marvel nestled between Sicily’s eastern edge and Italy’s southernmost point. Sicily’s vast cultural tapestry lay to our left, while Italy’s storied lands stretched out to our right. Notably, near the province of Messina, the strait tapers to its slimmest width, a mere 1.9 miles.

Historically, the Strait of Messina was not just a nautical challenge but a mythological one too. Ancient Greek legends speak of sea monsters Scylla and Charybdis, lurking in the strait, ready to wreck any passing ship. Such tales resonated with sailors of yore, who approached the strait with respect and caution.

Interestingly, the Strait’s water dynamics reveal two primary currents – one coursing from south to north and the other in the opposite direction. These currents oscillate approximately every six hours, causing a fascinating 6 to 8-inch water drop in the strait. To ensure our smooth passage from the Tyrrhenian Sea to the Ionian Sea, we were aided by an experienced pilot boat. The wind was bracing, yet the azure skies offered picturesque moments, captured in the snapshots below.

As adventure beckoned and history unraveled with every nautical mile, this voyage through the Strait of Messina promised an immersion into both nature’s marvels and mankind’s tales.

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Your ship will be docked only a half a block away from Messina's main streets.

From your ship you will have an exceptional view over the Strait of Messina.

The train station is a good 10 minute pleasant walk from dock, in case you want to go to Taormina .

Printable map to take along.

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Watch a destination video .

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Monthly Climate Averages for Messina Sicily Italy

Sightseeing:

Messina's natural harbor, its position on the Strait of Messina, which here is just 3km/2mi wide, and its proximity to the mainland, are factors which have determined its history from the earliest times. Today Messina , situated between the sea and the Monti Peloritani, is a modern city and a center for trade and communications, Despite the disasters as the earthquake of 1908 and the Allies' bombing in 1943.

The cathedral in Messina. This 60m/197ft high bell-tower, reconstructed using old designs, contains one of the greatest of all astronomical clocks, a work by the Strasbourg firm of Ungerer (1933); every day at midday the figures are set in motion and show scenes from the history of Messina, including the handing-over of the legendary letter of protection from the Madonna to Messina. According to tradition she gave a letter to Messinan diplomats in Nazareth, in which she wrote: "We bless you and your city".

Tours Excursions Transportation:

It pays to compare your cruise line excursions : Tours etc. offered by GetYourGuide and by Viator .

Nearby Places:

Trips outside of Messina should begin with nearby Mount Etna , where hiking and climbing are incredibly popular. One of the country's most popular natural attractions, it represents the most active volcano in Europe and the oldest one alive on the planet. Other stops in Catania include the Museo Belliniano and the Palazzo Biscari .

In the nearby Sicilian city of Taormina , the Greek Amphitheater is one of the most stunning performing arts venues in the world. Constructed in BC times, its views include the Mediterranean and Etna. Trains to Taormina . Once there, take the shuttle bus to town. Take the cable car to the beaches below town.

Shopping and Food

If you walk in the direction of the central station, you will pass all major shopping areas.

Restaurants, Pizzerias and Sidewalk cafes are in abundance

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Communication:

There are many cafes which offer free WiFi for customers.

Emergency number: 112

Opening Hours and Holidays:

Most shops and businesses in Italy open from Monday to Saturday from around 8am until 1pm, and from about 4pm until 7pm, though many shops close on Saturday afternoons and Monday mornings, and in the south the day can begin and end an hour later. In the north some businesses work to a 9am-5pm day to facilitate international dealings. Traditionally, everything except bars and restaurants closes on Sunday, though most towns have a pasticceria open in the mornings, while in large cities and tourist areas, Sunday opening is becoming more common.

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Question about the Strait of Messina and Mt. Etna

By europe10 , February 7, 2010 in Celebrity Cruises

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This is a question for those who have done Celebrities 10 or 11 day Eastern Mediterranean Cruise. When you were cruising through the Strait of Messina on the way to Santorini, was Mt. Etna visible as you passed through the Strait?

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Not when we went through. But you should see a close up of Stromboli. One time our Captain sailed around it on a day light crossing. It still puffs smoke.

little britain

Yes you can see both Etna and Stromboli

HuH! we went with P&O couldn't stop due to bad weather & couldn't see much either!!

Etna is quite a long way inland. It's also a pretty big mountain, so you ought to see it, but don't expect to see flames & lava shooting up! Much of the time it's cloud-capped anyway.

Passing through the Straits is an interesting experience; you go very close to the Sicilian side, and you get a good view of Messina harbour and town.

Actually the Etna is quite close to the coast, to the south of Messina.

Being huge it looms over the whole region so weather permitting you

should be able to see it passing the straits.

Here is a picture I took in 2006 while touring Sicily by car:

http://zenon.apartia.fr/stuff/etna_from_taormina.jpg

Have gone through the straits on 4 different itineraries on 4 different ships. Whether you see Mt Etna or not, big as it is, depends entirely on the weather. There have been times when it was completely covered with clouds so we saw nothing:)

Thnak you for all the replies.

That was supposed to be ..."Thank you for all the replies."

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

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