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

Should you visit Messina or Cannes?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Messina and Cannes can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Messina

Messina is a local, historic, and bustling port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Cannes

Cannes is a glitzy, opulent , and luxury resort city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Messina and Cannes: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Messina or Cannes?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Cannes than Messina. While Messina is larger than Cannes, Cannes has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Cannes is better known for its food, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Messina is more popular for its museums and big city activities. Cannes is more touristy than Messina and is known for its popularity with celebrities and its role as host for the international film festival. Also, Cannes is famous for Boulevard de la Croisette. Messina is well known for being the entry and departure point to Sicily for those traveling by ferry.

How is Messina different from Cannes?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Messina is very good for its sights and museums. However, Cannes does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Messina. 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.

Cannes does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Cannes 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 Cannes have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city is known for its fresh seafood and produce, local markets, and innovative chefs. There are also a number of traditional dishes that you should try in town including bouillabaisse, daube, and farcis niçois.

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 Messina or Cannes Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Messina and Cannes.

Messina is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Many people head to Cannes for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is all about the glamour and prestige that this city is known for. There are exclusive nightclubs and luxury cocktail bars where the goal is to see and be seen. Parties last late into the night and the glitz and glamour fill the streets.

Is Messina or Cannes Better for Music?

Cannes is renowned for live music. However, Messina is not a live music destination.

Cannes is a world class music destination. The city is famous for its music festivals, but there are also many bands, DJs, and performers who visit year round.

Messina is not a live music destination.

Is Messina or Cannes Better for Resorts?

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

Cannes is a world class resort vacation destination. The city is filled with luxury resorts and elegant hotels. Among the best are Hôtel Martinez, Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic, and Five Seas Hotel.

Messina is not a resort destination.

Is Messina or Cannes Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cannes is a resort city with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Messina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Cannes. You can arrange scuba diving and snorkeling trips from a few vendors in town. You might see sponges, sea slugs octopus, cuttlefish, lobsters and even stingrays.

Messina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Messina or Cannes Better for Beaches?

Cannes is well known for its beaches. However, Messina is not particularly known for the beache.

The beaches at Cannes attract visitors from all over. You can choose from both public and private beaches in the area. You'll find more amenities and convenience at the private beaches which are closer to La Croisette (the main promenade in town). These beaches also come with a price tag attached. The public beaches have a more relaxed and natural vibe but are a little less convenient to get to.

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

Is Messina or Cannes Better for its Old Town?

Cannes is well known for its historic old town. However, Messina does not have a historic old town.

Cannes is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Known as Le Suquet, the old town has many historic landmarks including the the Château de la Castre. There are also cobblestone streets and many great restaurants around town.

Messina does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Messina or Cannes?

Cannes is renowned for shopping. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Cannes is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. With its many affluent visitors, the shopping scene in town is filled with luxury brands and posh boutiques. Perfume and porcelain are both popular things to buy in the area.

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 Messina or Cannes Better for Families?

Messina is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cannes is not as famous, but is still a good resort city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Messina is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Cannes is a family-friendly port city. Most people associate the city with the film festival and late night partying, but there are also kid-friendly restaurants, fun beach activities, and plenty of kid-friendly entertainment along La Croisette Boulevard. Make sure you check out the Grand Carousel and the many playgrounds around town.

Is Messina or Cannes Better for Couples?

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

Cannes is a great resort city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's grand hotels and luxury beach clubs make this a perfect romantic destination. There are world class restaurants, a vibrant nightlife scene, and many romantic spots around town that make for a memorable honeymoon or couple's getaway.

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 Messina or Cannes Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Messina is very good for backpackers. However, Cannes is not a good resort city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Messina is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Cannes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's more famous for it's celebrity jetsetters than young budget travelers, but there are still several hostels and budget accommodation options tucked away in town.

Is Messina or Cannes Better for Students?

Messina is very good for students. However, Cannes is not popular with students.

Messina is a good port city to visit for students. 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.

Cannes is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Messina and Cannes.

You'll find some public transit in Messina, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. If your legs are tired then there's an efficient bus system that you can use.

While Cannes offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses that travel around the city.

Is Messina or Cannes a more walkable city?

Messina and Cannes both are superb when exploring on foot.

Messina is very walkable. 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.

Cannes is a very walkable port city. Many areas are easily explored on foot including the historic areas and the coastline.

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

Should I spend more time in Cannes or Messina?

How long in Messina or Cannes?

It's fun to spend time in either Messina or Cannes. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Cannes due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Messina, and 2-4 days is enough time in Cannes.

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

One day in Messina or Cannes?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Messina. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Cannes, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This resort city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Messina or Cannes?

Messina is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Cannes, you'll find shopping and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cannes has to offer.

Five days in Messina or Cannes?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Messina. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Cannes is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

A week in Messina or Cannes?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the local destination of Messina. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cannes. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Cannes. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Bicycle Tours in France, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France.

When comparing the travel costs between Messina and Cannes, we can see that Cannes 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 Messina Expensive? and Is Cannes Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Messina or Cannes?

Messina has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Cannes. When comparing the sizes of Messina and Cannes, 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 Messina or Cannes?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Messina or Cannes in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Messina and Cannes. Many visitors come to Messina in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Cannes for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Messina is generally a little warmer than Cannes. Daily temperatures in Messina average around 27°C (80°F), and Cannes fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In July, Messina usually receives more rain than Cannes. Messina gets 19 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Messina or Cannes in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Messina as well as Cannes. Most visitors come to Messina for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Cannes because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Messina is a little warmer than Cannes in the autumn. The daily temperature in Messina averages around 21°C (69°F) in October, and Cannes fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite rainy in Cannes. Messina receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Messina usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Cannes. Messina gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Messina or Cannes in the Winter?

Both Cannes and Messina are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Messina because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Cannes this time of year.

In the winter, Messina is a little warmer than Cannes. Typically, the winter temperatures in Messina in January average around 13°C (55°F), and Cannes averages at about 9°C (48°F).

It's quite rainy in Messina. In January, Messina usually receives more rain than Cannes. Messina gets 113 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Messina or Cannes in the Spring?

Both Cannes and Messina during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Messina this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cannes for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Messina is generally a little warmer than Cannes. Daily temperatures in Messina average around 16°C (60°F), and Cannes fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Messina usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Cannes. Messina gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cannes and Messina