Vue sur Messine
View of Messina © Nancy Pauwels - Adobe Stock

Located at the northeastern tip of Sicily, Messina is a city with a rich historical and cultural heritage, often considered the gateway to the island. We particularly enjoyed visiting the cathedral, with its astronomical clock and the Orion fountain, a Renaissance masterpiece that attracts many curious visitors every day. The regional museum, which houses works by great masters such as Caravaggio, was another pleasant surprise. So, what's there to do in Messina? Don't panic, Petit Futé will guide you so you don't miss out on any of its historical and cultural treasures!

1. Messina Cathedral on the Piazza del Duomo

La cathédrale de Messine
Messina Cathedral © AlexanderNikiforov - Adobe Stock

Built in the 17th century under the reign of Roger, it was severely damaged by the 1908 earthquake, then largely destroyed by fire in 1943. Despite the incalculable losses, the building retains some precious treasures, including the imposing 12th-century carved tomb of Archbishop Palmieri. The cathedral also boasts three magnificent16th-century Gothic portals. But its most astonishing jewel is on its bell tower: an astronomical clock, made in 1933 by the Strasbourg firm Ungerer. One of the largest in the world, it comes to life every day at midday with a musical show featuring a series of bronze characters. A not-to-be-missed event!

Good to know: It's also possible to climb the 60-meter-high campanile to get a close-up view of the little automatons on this remarkable clock.

2. The Orion Fountain: a must-see in Messina

La fontaine d’Orion, à voir à Messine
The Orion Fountain, a must-see in Messina © ilolab - Adobe Stock

At the foot of Messina Cathedral, the Orion Fountain is a real eye-catcher. Designed in 1553 by Giovanni Angelo Montorsoli, a disciple of Michelangelo, this monumental work depicts the mythological hero Orion accompanied by his dog Sirio. Dolphin-mounted cherubim, naiads and tritons adorn the basins leading to the large, statuesque pool. The bas-reliefs illustrate water-related metamorphoses, inspired by Ovid's tales. A must-see during your stay in Messina!

3. What to do in Messina See the Madonnina del Porto

La Madonnina del Porto
La Madonnina del Porto © Alena Stalmashonak - Adobe Stock

At the entrance to the port of Messina standsthe Madonnina del Porto, a majestic statue of the Virgin Mary and the town's emblem. From the top of her 60-metre column, she seems to watch over the sailors and benevolently welcome all who arrive by sea. Her emblematic silhouette can be seen from many points in the city, and she dominates the panorama, particularly from the heights, where the view of the Strait of Messina is breathtaking. This viewpoint is definitely worth a detour, if only to contemplate the statue in its spectacular setting between sky and sea. At its base is the inscription: "Vos et ipsam civitatem benedicimus" ("We bless you and your city"), a quote taken from a letter supposedly sent by the Virgin Mary to the inhabitants of Messina, according to local tradition.

Read more: How to get to Sicily without flying? Itinerary tips

4. Visit the Messina Regional Museum

Enfant dans un musée
Child in a museum © JackF - Adobestock

A visit to this museum is a must, as its collections are so rich and varied. You'll discover magnificent sculptures and terracotta objects from Greek and Roman times, precious witnesses to the region's ancient history. Among the masterpieces on display, don't miss the Polyptych of St. Gregory, by the city's most illustrious artist, Antonello da Messina. You can also admire two exceptional canvases by Caravaggio, painted during his stay in Messina between 1608 and 1609: The Adoration of the Shepherds and The Resurrection of Lazarus. The museum also houses a delicate 15th-century Madonna and Child by sculptor Francesco Laurana, as well as a rare work by Flemish painter Jan de Beer, The Life of Saint John the Baptist.

Read more: Sicily's 15 most beautiful bathing beaches

5. What to do in Messina Visit the church of Santa Annunziata dei Catalani

L'église Santa Annunziata dei Catalani
Santa Annunziata dei Catalani church © Laure F - Adobe Stock

Located in the heart of Messina, the Chiesa della Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani is an often overlooked treasure of inestimable historical and artistic value. This remarkable building bears witness to the rich cultural influences that have shaped Sicily over the centuries. A masterpiece of Sicilian-Norman architecture, the church harmoniously blends Byzantine, Arab, Romanesque and Gothic elements. The apse, topped by a cylindrical dome, is particularly striking: its blind arches supported by columns, narrow windows and subtle geometric motifs create a play of shapes and colors of great finesse. There are also ancient Arabic inscriptions engraved on the uprights of the central portal, a reminder of Sicily's multicultural past.

6. And the church of Santa Maria degli Alemanni, right next door

Intérieur de l'église Santa Maria degli Alemanni
Inside the church of Santa Maria degli Alemanni © siciliasconosciuta

Located right next to the Chiesa della Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, Santa Maria degli Alemanni is, along with the latter, one of the few surviving examples of Sicilian Gothic architecture. Erected in the first half of the 13th century on the initiative of the Teutonic Order, the church went into slow decline after the departure of its founders, gradually falling into ruin. It was only after extensive restoration and consolidation work that it was preserved and saved from oblivion. Today, it stands proudly as a precious testimony to Messina's medieval past and the artistic influence of the period.

Read more: What to do and see in Sicily The 20 must-sees

7. Visit the Church of St. Francis, Sicily's first Franciscan church

L'église Saint-François
Church of St. Francis © zonzofox

Modest in appearance, this church is the first Franciscan building on the island, with foundations dating back to 1216. In 1221, after a shipwreck in Milazzo, Anthony of Padua found refuge here. Enlarged in 1254, it became a royal necropolis, housing the remains of Frederick IV of Aragon, King of Sicily, who died in 1377. The church suffered heavy damage in the 1908 earthquake; only the apses, designed by Antonello da Messina, escaped destruction. It was rebuilt in 1928, but almost all the original works were transferred to the regional museum after the earthquake.

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8. What to do in Messina Taste typical culinary delights

Arancini © Liudmyla - Adobe Stock

It's impossible to visit Messina without discovering its local specialties. The town, like the rest of Sicily, is bursting with authentic flavors that blend Italian traditions with Arab influences. Start with a granita, that creamy crushed ice served with a soft brioche, a must for breakfast, especially with almond or lemon. Or try the arancini, fried rice balls often stuffed with meat, cheese or spinach, perfect for a break on the go. Street food fans will appreciate pidoni, fried turnovers filled with escarole, anchovies and cheese. For a more substantial meal, indulge in freshly caught fish dishes, including swordfish, Messina's culinary emblem. And to finish on a sweet note, don't miss cannoli or pignolata, a fried dough-based dessert topped with lemon and chocolate glaze.

Read more: What to eat in Italy 20 culinary specialities to discover

9. Enjoy one of Messina's beaches closest to the port

Plage dans la province de Messine
Beach in the province of Messina © yassmin - Adobe Stock

If you're arriving in Messina by boat and want to enjoy a quick moment by the sea, there are several beaches to choose from, depending on whether you're looking for tranquility or a little more excitement.

  • Spiaggia Paradiso, also known as Riva dei Gabbiani, is the closest beach to the town center and port. Just 2-3 km to the north, it can be reached on foot (approx. 30-40 minutes), by bus or by car. Bordered by pebbles and sand, it 's a peaceful spot popular with locals, perfect for a quick swim or a moment of relaxation overlooking the calm waters of the Strait of Messina. You'll also enjoy a splendid view of Calabria, just opposite.
  • If you're looking for a livelier atmosphere, with beach bars, deckchairs and services, head a little further north to the beaches in the Torre Faro or Capo Peloro districts, about 20 minutes' drive from the port. Here, golden sand, crystal-clear waters and a summery atmosphere await you, with the added bonus of being able to observe the meeting point of the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas.

Read more: What to do and see in Calabria The 17 most beautiful places

10. Shopping in Messina

Shopping
Shopping © rh2010 - Adobe Stock

If you want to bring a little bit of Sicily home with you, be sure to visit the craft stores in Piazza Duomo or around Teatro Vittorio Emanuele. You'll find typical products such as colorful ceramics, Etna lava objects, Sicilian pastries (cannoli, marzipan) and local wines.

Messina also offers many places to shop. Here are the main places not to be missed:

  • Corso Cavour, the central shopping street, ideal for strolling between clothes stores, jewelry stores, bookshops and cafés.
  • Via dei Mille, a lively pedestrian street perfect for fashion shoppers. Here you'll find Italian brands such as Benetton, Motivi and Calzedonia, as well as local boutiques with Sicilian charm.
  • Centro Commerciale Tremestieri (7 km from the center), a large shopping center with supermarket, clothing boutiques (Zara, H&M, OVS), restaurants and cinema.
  • Mercato Vascone, a traditional food market with fresh produce, fruit, vegetables, cheese and fish. A good place to soak up the local atmosphere.
  • Via Oratorio della Pace market: ideal for low-priced clothes, accessories, shoes and everyday products.

11. Take a trip to Cap Peloro

Plage au Cap Peloro
Beach at Cap Peloro © lucamato - Adobe Stock

For a natural break on the outskirts of town, there's nothing like a trip to Cap Peloro, Sicily's most northeasterly point. Located some fifteen kilometers from the center of Messina, this cape offers an exceptional panorama of the strait separating Sicily from Calabria. Its turquoise lagoons, fine sandy beaches and white sandbanks make it a popular spot for swimming, relaxing and watching migratory birds. The lighthouse on the cape, the remains of the military fort and views of the impressive ocean currents make the place even more unique. A must for those wishing to discover a wilder, more unspoilt side of Messina.

12. Market days in Messina

Couple au marché
Couple at the market © jackfrog - Adobe Stock

In Messina, several weekly markets punctuate the week, offering a wide variety of food, clothing and second-hand goods:

MarketDaysMain products
Viale GiostraTuesday & Friday (7:30am-2:00pm)Food & clothing/accessories
Sant'Orsola (Viale Giostra)Monday-Saturday (7.00am-1.30pm)Fruits, vegetables, fresh fish
DowntownSaturday morningsMix of food, clothing, home
Muricello (covered)All week (focus on games/events Thursday/Saturday)Local products, cultural events

Where to stay in Messina?

Here's a selection of accommodation options in Messina, to suit different budgets and styles of stay:

Bookable right here, this small B&B is located right in the heart of Messina's historic center. Refurbished, it offers bright, charming air-conditioned rooms at affordable prices. Breakfast was a pleasant surprise, in an all-white room with a magnificent design.

  • The ideal option for discovering the region: Emme B&B

Located 100 meters from the train station, this charming B&B offers comfortable rooms with Sicilian decor, which you can book here. An impressive list of activities is on offer, giving you the chance to try something fun and original, such as a cooking class, a boat cruise to the Aeolian Islands or a guided tour of the town and surrounding area.

Located in the heart of the city, this hotel, which can be booked here, offers a warm welcome and comfortable rooms. The location is ideal for those wishing to discover Messina and take the boat to the Aeolian Islands (the port is just a 5-minute walk away). We enjoyed the excellent buffet breakfast. The best value for money for a hotel of this standing in Messina.

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