East Sicily

Messina

Messina is a lovely town overlooking Calabria. There are many elegant buildings, several spots with superb sea views and lots of wonderful restaurants and shops. You can enjoy Sicilian warmth and a characteristic atmosphere in this beautiful seaside town.

Things to see in Messina

If you can tear yourself away from relaxing at your villa, there are many lovely things to see! Messina gives you the chance to visit beautiful fountains in the city centre, and to see amazing buildings like the cathedral. Don't miss the lighthouse and look out over Calabria!

Messina Cathedral

The cathedral has been lovingly restored after the 1908 earthquake. The mechanical bell tower is especially charming, and the astronomical clock is one of the largest...

Fountains

Messina has several beautiful fountains set in pretty piazzas. The Orion fountain and the Neptune fountain are just two great examples.

Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani

Dating from the 12th century, this Arab-Norman church sits upon the foundations of an ancient temple. Its exterior is simple stunning.

Faro di Capo Peloro

The closest point between Sicily and Reggio di Calabria is the Faro di Capo Peloro. Enjoy the atmospheric views over to the mainland in this pretty village.

Did you know?

Discover more about the town's past and present! There are so many interesting facts about the city, including the astronomical clock – the world's largest! Definitely a landmark to see during your holiday in Messina.

Oh-So Close to Calabria

The shortest distance between Sicily and mainland Italy is just 3 km between Capo Peloro and Reggio di Calabria.

Clock Tower

The bell tower next to the cathedral holds the largest astronomical clock in the world! The tower can be visited, giving you an insight into this incredible mechanism.

Zancle

Messina was founded by Greeks, and its original name was Zancle: a reference to the scythe-like shape of its harbour.

Things to do in Messina

A few hints as to how to pass the time with fun activities. Messina, the city where you can easily visit Sicily or Calabria. Reggio Calabria is only three kilometres from Messina – it's easy to visit! If you want to enjoy a break in the city, you can watch amazing performances in the Vittorio Emanuele II Theatre, or stroll along the belvedere near the sea.

A trip to Calabria

The ferry runs to Reggio regularly, and only takes around 20 minutes. Why not visit another region in Italy for a quick coffee!

Teatro Vittorio Emanuele

The beautiful theatre holds a wide range of concerts, plays and cultural events. A great way to get to know the local cultural scene!

Take in the Views

The views over to the mainland are beautiful. Stroll around the city, gazing out to Reggio Calabria!

Regional Museum Messina

Visit the Regional Museum where there is a good collection of art and antiquities.

Don't miss

A few things that we love – don't miss these during your time in Sicily! A granita, of course! They're the best in Sicily. Also wonderful views to admire.

Temple Christ the King

This church, set slightly above the city, offers superb views of the surroundings.

Granita

Some of Sicily's best granita is found in Messina. It's the best way to cool off on a hot summer's day in Sicily!

Zona Falcata

Walk through this industrial area and reach the lighthouse at the edge of the harbour's promontory. You'll see the whole of Messina and the Strait before you.

Lago di Ganzirri

A saltwater lake near Messina, Lago di Ganzirri is wonderful for a stroll or a coffee in one of the charming local bars.

Find your way around Sicily

Here's our interactive map of Sicily, that lets you organise your holiday in Sicily by looking at the most important local sights and attractions of the island.

Map

Things to see in Messina Did you know? Things to do in Messina Don't miss

North Sicily

West Sicily

East Sicily

South Sicily

Discover Sicily

Travel to Sicily

Sicily

Puglia