A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kalampaka (Meteora) vs. Messina for Attractions, Families, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Messina?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Kalampaka (Meteora) and Messina. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Kalampaka (Meteora)

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a historic, spiritual, and dramatic destination. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food and museums.

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 food, shopping, and museums.

Kalampaka (Meteora) and Messina: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Messina?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Messina. Although Kalampaka (Meteora) and Messina are popular destinations, Messina has more sights and attractions for tourists. Messina is very popular for its nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Kalampaka (Meteora) attracts visitors for its museums and impressive beauty. Kalampaka (Meteora) is more touristy than Messina and is popular for its striking beauty, spiritual setting, and other-worldly rock formations. Messina is famous for being the entry and departure point to Sicily for those traveling by ferry. It is also well known for Piazza del Duomo.

How is Kalampaka (Meteora) different from Messina?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Messina?

Kalampaka (Meteora) is renowned for its museums and landmarks. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Kalampaka (Meteora) that are not to be missed. The Meteora monasteries are an impressive spiritual site that are set against a dramatic rock formation. They date back centuries, and, of the original 24 monasteries, there are 6 that are currently open to the public. Several have museums and many people prefer to visit as a guided tour.

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.

Is the Food Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Messina? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Messina.

Kalampaka (Meteora) has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. In town you'll find some authentic Greek restaurants. The dishes are local, and very different from the seafood based cuisine that is found along the coast. Instead, many dishes involve meatballs or stew and are slow cooked with rich flavors.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Messina area. 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Messina Better for Nightlife?

Messina is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Messina has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Kalampaka (Meteora). This is a spiritual destination where nightlife is not encouraged. There are some cafes in town that turn into bars at night and play relaxing music in a mellow setting. These can be found near the central square.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Messina Better for Beaches?

Messina is a decent place to visit for the beache. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a beach destination.

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

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Messina?

Messina is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Messina Better for Families?

Messina is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Kalampaka (Meteora). There are six monasteries of Meteora that will fascinate older children. There are also several museums affiliated with the monasteries including a Folklore Museum as well as spectacular views over the oddly shaped rock mountains.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Messina Better for Couples?

Kalampaka (Meteora) and Messina both nice destinations for a couple.

Kalampaka (Meteora) makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The setting is beautiful and unique, and its an interesting and fascinating place to visit as a couple.

Messina is a good destination for couples to visit. 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Messina Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Messina is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Unless you're willing to rent a car or scooter, or take an organized tour, this is a very difficult area to explore independently. Some visitors hire a taxi after they arrive to take them to the monasteries.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Messina Better for Students?

Messina is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not popular with students.

Plenty of students 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not popular with students.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Messina Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Messina is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Messina has some public transit options. If your legs are tired then there's an efficient bus system that you can use.

Public transit is generally limited in Kalampaka (Meteora). While there is a bus service, many people prefer to explore the six monasteries with their own car or scooter. You could also hire a taxi to take you to and from. Alternatively, there are organized tours that will provide transportation as part of the package.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Messina a more walkable city?

Messina is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

Messina is a very walkable port city. 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally not very walkable. There are walking trails in the area but most people need access to a vehicle, whether its a rental car, scooter, taxi, or bus.

For even more information, also check out Is Kalampaka (Meteora) Worth Visiting? and Is Messina Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Messina or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

How long in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Messina?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Messina. In our opinion, Messina has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Messina than Kalampaka (Meteora). However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Messina than Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Messina.

One day in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Messina?

In Kalampaka (Meteora), you'll find food and museums. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This destination 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 nightlife and food that this destination offers. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Messina?

In Kalampaka (Meteora), you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kalampaka (Meteora) has to offer.

Many people visit Messina for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Messina, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Messina?

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

The destination of Messina offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Messina?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kalampaka (Meteora). Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Kalampaka (Meteora). One reason most visitors come is for the museums. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Messina. This port city offers something for everyone. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Greece, The Best Honeymoon Tours in Greece, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Kalampaka (Meteora) and Messina, we can see that Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) Expensive? and Is Messina Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kalampaka (Meteora) or Messina?

Messina has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Kalampaka (Meteora). When comparing the sizes of Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Messina in the Summer?

Both Messina and Kalampaka (Meteora) during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Kalampaka (Meteora) for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Messina because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally around the same temperature as Messina. Daily temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) average around 26°C (78°F), and Messina fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

In Messina, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Kalampaka (Meteora). In the summer, Kalampaka (Meteora) often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Messina. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 330 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Messina receives 332 hours of full sun.

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Messina. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Messina receives 19 mm (0.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Messina in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Messina. The autumn months attract visitors to Kalampaka (Meteora) because of the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Messina this time of year.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is cooler than Messina in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kalampaka (Meteora) averages around 17°C (62°F) in October, and Messina fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives less sunshine than Messina during autumn. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 165 hours of sunny skies, while Messina receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Messina receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives less rain than Messina. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Messina receives 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Messina in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Kalampaka (Meteora) as well as Messina. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Kalampaka (Meteora) this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Messina for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Kalampaka (Meteora) is much colder than Messina. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Messina averages at about 13°C (55°F).

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

It's quite rainy in Messina. Kalampaka (Meteora) usually gets less rain in January than Messina. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Messina receives 113 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Messina in the Spring?

Both Messina and Kalampaka (Meteora) are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Kalampaka (Meteora) for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Messina in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally cooler than Messina. Daily temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) average around 14°C (56°F), and Messina fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Messina. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kalampaka (Meteora). Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Messina during spring. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Messina receives 207 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives less rain than Messina. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Messina receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Messina and Kalampaka (Meteora)