A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Corfu vs. Messina for Food, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Corfu or Messina?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Corfu or Messina, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Corfu

Corfu is a stunning, natural, and breathtaking island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Messina

Messina is a bustling, local, and historic port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Corfu and Messina: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Corfu or Messina?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Corfu. Although Corfu and Messina are popular destinations, Corfu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Corfu is very popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Messina attracts visitors for its museums and big city activities. Corfu is more touristy than Messina and is popular for its charming villages, gorgeous beaches, and pristine landscape. It is also well known for Canal d'Amour. Messina is famous for being the entry and departure point to Sicily for those traveling by ferry.

How is Corfu different from Messina?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Messina and Corfu. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Corfu or Messina?

Messina is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Corfu does not have museums and landmarks.

Messina offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of historic sights around town including the Cathedral and the Piazza del Duomo, the Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock, Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, and the Regional Museum. There are also many ornate fountains around town.

Corfu does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Corfu or Messina? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Corfu is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Corfu have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The island's local dishes are heavily influenced by the surrounding areas. You'll find similarities to Greek and Venetian dishes as well France and Mediterranean flavors. Common ingredients include wine, garlic, cloves, cinnamon, and allspice and several traditional dishes that you should try include pastitsado (red wine stew), sofrito (garlic seasoned beef), and veal fricando (roasted veal).

Messina has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city's cuisine is a mix of the cultures that have influenced Sicily over the centuries. The city has a longstanding fishing industry and one of the most popular dishes are swordfish rolls. Also try the pidone (similar to calzones with different fillings), and the focaccia (a local bread).

Is Corfu or Messina Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find high quality options in both Corfu and Messina.

The nightlife in Corfu has something for everybody. It's a large island that attracts a number of students, so you can expect a party during the summer months. The most popular areas for nightlife are Kavos, Ipsos, Kontokali, and Sidari. You'll also find clubs in many of the resorts and there are often all night parties even during the off seasons.

Messina offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the old town and you'll find a mix of locals and tourists hanging out in pubs and bars. During the summer months there are often free outdoor concerts to enjoy.

Is Corfu or Messina Better for Resorts?

Corfu is renowned for its resorts. However, Messina is not a resort destination.

Corfu is a world class resort vacation destination. The diversity of resorts, from family-friendly to romantic or all-inclusive, means there really is something for everyone. There are also a number of villages so you can find a location that perfectly lines up with your needs.

Messina is not a resort destination.

Is Corfu or Messina Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Corfu is well known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Messina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Corfu is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is large enough that it has a number of spots to choose from. One of the most beautiful is Afionas, in Port Timone. It's only accessible by boat or a 45 minute hike. Paleokastritsa is a more accessible snorkeling and dive area with facilities and luxury villas where you can stay. For scuba diving, you can also head to Agni, but the busy boat traffic means it's not the best place for snorkeling.

Messina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Corfu or Messina Better for Beaches?

Corfu is renowned for its beaches. However, Messina is not particularly known for the beache.

Corfu is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The island is known for its stunning beaches which offer a diversity of settings ranging from family-friendly to natural or party-focused. The most famous beach resort area is Paleokastritsa but other nice places include Pelekas, Agios Gordis, and Glyfada. On the western side of the island you'll find mostly long sandy beaches and on the eastern side you'll find more pebble beaches.

You can check out the beach in Messina. There are pebbly beaches in the area that are becoming more popular with tourists.

Is Corfu or Messina Better for Hiking?

Corfu is renowned for its hiking experiences. However, Messina is not a hiking destination.

Around Corfu visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The stunning natural beauty of the island means you'll find some of the most breathtaking hikes in the Greek Isles. From the lush green rolling hills to the striking blue waters, there are many places to soak up this island's idyllic setting. The island is also rich in plant life and you'll find more than 30 species of orchids here. Popular hiking trails include Vlacherna Trail (good for beginners and families), Mount Pantokrator Trail (the most challenging on the island), and Old Town Hiking Trail which takes you through the history of the area.

Messina is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Corfu or Messina?

Corfu is well known for shopping. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Corfu is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find most of the shops concentrated in Corfu Town. Popular items to purchase include leather goods, jewelry, ceramics, and items made from olive wood.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Messina. The best shopping is around Piazza Cairoli with the main shopping streets being Viale Europa and Viale San Martino. There are many small boutiques that have cheaper prices than some of the more upscale Sicilian towns.

Is Corfu or Messina Better for Families?

Corfu is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Corfu is an extremely popular island to visit for families. Because it is so beautiful with amazing beaches, it makes an ideal destination for kids and adults. There are many places where kids can swim as well as a number of great activities for everyone. The whole family will enjoy glass bottom boat rides, horseback riding, and even a visit to the popular Hydropolis Waterpark. There are also a huge number of kid-friendly resorts around the island.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Messina is very family-friendly. There are a number outdoor activities that kids will enjoy including Parco Avventura Dei Peloritani, which has ropes and obstacle courses. There's also the Karting Center, which is fun for the whole family, or a small aquarium in town. If you're looking for an excursion outside of town, head to Cascata Cataolo waterfall, which is very kid-friendly.

Is Corfu or Messina Better for Couples?

Corfu is renowned for romance. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Corfu is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's idyllic natural setting and stunning beaches make this a truly romantic island. It's a favorite honeymoon destination for newlyweds from around the world. There are luxury hotels and resorts that have spas, pools, and fine dining options. Whether you're looking for a place to relax or a more adventurous experience, you'll find it all here.

Messina makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Most visitors see the city as an arrival or departure point for Sicily, but those couples who linger will appreciate a number of historical sights and a nice atmosphere.

Is Corfu or Messina Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Corfu is well known for backpackers. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Corfu. The island is a favorite, particularly during the crowded summer months. There are a number of hostels where backpackers can stay and an active nightlife if that's your style. There are also quiet and more peaceful settings if you want to escape the crowds.

Plenty of backpackers visit Messina. If you're traveling by train or ferry, you'll likely arrive or depart from this city. There are a number of hostels and cheap guesthouses around town that offer affordable accommodation.

Is Corfu or Messina Better for Students?

Messina is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Corfu is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Messina. There are a few study abroad opportunities that bring international students to town. The city also have good transportation connections and a friendly atmosphere that is welcoming to students.

Corfu is not popular with students.

Is Corfu or Messina Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Corfu is well known for its public transit. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Corfu. There's a decent public bus system on the island. The blue buses stay near Corfu Town while the green buses go further around the island.

While Messina offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. If your legs are tired then there's an efficient bus system that you can use.

Is Corfu or Messina a more walkable city?

Corfu and Messina are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Corfu is a very walkable island. It's easy to walk around Corfu Town, and if you plan to spend most of your time at the beach there's really no need for a car.

Messina is a very walkable destination. Most of the city's attractions can be reached on foot and the port is a ten to fifteen minute walk from Piazza del Duomo.

For even more information, also check out Is Corfu Worth Visiting? and Is Messina Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Messina or Corfu?

How long in Corfu or Messina?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Corfu and Messina. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Corfu than in Messina. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Corfu, and 2-3 days is enough time in Messina.

Families should spend more time in Corfu than Messina. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Corfu, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Corfu than Messina. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Corfu that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Corfu than Messina if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Corfu.

One day in Corfu or Messina?

In Corfu, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Messina, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this local destination offers. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Corfu or Messina?

In Corfu, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Messina. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Corfu or Messina?

Corfu is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Corfu has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Messina is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Messina. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Corfu or Messina?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Corfu. In Corfu, you'll find shopping and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

You'll find food and shopping around the bustling destination of Messina. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens, The Best 10-Day Tours from Athens, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Corfu and Messina, we can see that Messina is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Corfu Expensive? and Is Messina Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Corfu or Messina?

Messina has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Corfu. When comparing the sizes of Corfu and Messina, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Corfu or Messina?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Corfu or Messina in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Corfu as well as Messina. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Corfu this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Messina for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Corfu is generally around the same temperature as Messina. Daily temperatures in Corfu average around 25°C (76°F), and Messina fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Messina. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Corfu this time of the year. In the summer, Corfu often gets more sunshine than Messina. Corfu gets 358 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Messina receives 332 hours of full sun.

Corfu usually gets less rain in July than Messina. Corfu gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Messina receives 19 mm (0.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Corfu or Messina in the Autumn?

Both Messina and Corfu are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Corfu for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Messina in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Corfu is cooler than Messina in the autumn. The daily temperature in Corfu averages around 18°C (65°F) in October, and Messina fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

Corfu usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Messina during autumn. Corfu gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Messina receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Messina. It's quite rainy in Corfu. In October, Corfu usually receives more rain than Messina. Corfu gets 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Messina receives 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Corfu or Messina in the Winter?

Both Messina and Corfu during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Corfu in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Messina for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Corfu is cooler than Messina. Typically, the winter temperatures in Corfu in January average around 10°C (49°F), and Messina averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the winter, Corfu often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Messina. Corfu gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Messina receives 115 hours of full sun.

Messina gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Corfu. Corfu usually gets more rain in January than Messina. Corfu gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Messina receives 113 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Corfu or Messina in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Corfu and Messina. Most visitors come to Corfu for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Messina because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Corfu is generally cooler than Messina. Daily temperatures in Corfu average around 14°C (58°F), and Messina fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Messina this time of the year. Corfu usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Messina during spring. Corfu gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Messina receives 207 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Corfu usually receives around the same amount of rain as Messina. Corfu gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Messina receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Messina and Corfu