Messina Area

Messina is your gateway to Sicily—full of history, culture, and stunning coastal views. Start in the city centre with a visit to the Cathedral, home to Italy’s second-largest organ and the world’s most complex astronomical clock. Just next door is the famous clocktower, rebuilt in the 1930s, which puts on a show every day at noon. A short walk away, the Church of the Catalans, which survived the 1908 earthquake, blends Norman and Arab styles. Don’t miss the Shrine of Christ the King, perched on a hill, offering sweeping views of the Strait of Messina.

Though earthquakes and war damaged much of the old city, there’s still plenty to see. Wander the streets near Palazzo Zanca, the neoclassical city hall, or visit Galleria Vittorio Emanuele III—an elegant Art Nouveau shopping arcade. For culture lovers, the Messina Regional Museum is a must. It houses works by Antonello da Messina and Caravaggio, along with sculptures and relics from churches lost in the earthquake.

For something more modern, head to the MACHO Museum, which showcases contemporary Mediterranean art. Villa Dante and the Pietro Castelli Botanical Garden offer green spaces to relax, while the Torre Faro observation tower rewards you with one of the best views of the strait—just be ready for a climb.

Just outside the city, Taormina awaits. It’s a hillside gem with charming pedestrian lanes, ancient ruins, and incredible sea views. The Greek Theatre here is the second largest in Sicily, and the beach near Isola Bella is perfect for unwinding. If you’re exploring further, visit the nearby towns of Novara di Sicilia, Tindari, or Milazzo. The Venus Pool in Milazzo is great for snorkelling, and it’s a jump-off point to the Aeolian Islands.

Adventure seekers should head to the Alcantara Gorges. Here, you can walk between lava walls, raft through icy waters, or trek the surrounding parkland.

You’ll also want to try the local food. Messina-style focaccia is a soft, thick bread topped with tomato, escarole, anchovies, and cheese. Try the pidoni too—like a fried or baked calzone filled with greens, cheese, and anchovies. For mains, the city does stockfish and salt cod like nowhere else. Don’t skip the braciolette—meat rolls stuffed with cheese and grilled to perfection. Swordfish or spaghetti “alla ghiotta” are also local favourites, all made with a rich, savoury sauce.

For something sweet, grab a granita—especially the coffee flavour—with a brioche bun. Messina’s “Black and White” dessert is a local twist on profiteroles. Try piparelle biscuits with almonds and honey, or a torciglione—a brioche-style pastry filled with ricotta, custard, or chocolate, perfect for breakfast.

If you’re up for a day trip, head to Capo Peloro and the protected lagoon area. It’s great for birdwatching, has fresh seafood restaurants, and offers peaceful sea views. You can also drive up to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Dinnammare in the Peloritani Mountains. The view from the top—over the Strait and across to Calabria—is unforgettable, especially on a clear day.

Messina is more than a stopover—it’s a place full of stories, flavour, and beauty. Take your time to explore it. You’ll be glad you did.