A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Messina vs. Ventimiglia for Food, Families, Couples, and Beaches

Should you visit Messina or Ventimiglia?

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 Ventimiglia 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a understated, classic, and authentic seaside town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

Messina and Ventimiglia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Messina or Ventimiglia?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Messina than Ventimiglia, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Messina is better known for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities, while Ventimiglia is more popular for its food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Messina is more touristy than Ventimiglia and is known for being the entry and departure point to Sicily for those traveling by ferry. Also, Messina is famous for Piazza del Duomo. Ventimiglia is well known for its weekly market, colorful old town, and nice beaches.

How is Messina different from Ventimiglia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia?

Messina is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Ventimiglia 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.

Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Ventimiglia is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Ventimiglia makes for a great culinary experience. Italian classics are abundant including tiramisus, Italian pizzas, risotto alla milanese, and traditional lasagna. If you're in town on a Friday you should visit the local market which has stalls selling local produce and foods.

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 Ventimiglia Better for Nightlife?

Messina is a great destination for its evening party scene. However, Ventimiglia is a seaside town with minimal options for nightlife.

The people in Messina know how to have a good time. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Ventimiglia Most people don't head to town for the nightlife, but there are some bars where you can grab a drink or sip a glass of wine.

Is Messina or Ventimiglia Better for Beaches?

Ventimiglia is a seaside town with good options for its beaches. However, Messina is not particularly known for the beache.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Ventimiglia. The lungomare is a promenade along the sea that allows visitors to wander and take in waterfront views. Most of the beaches are free to access and have been influenced by the coastal erosion efforts which have led to a series of scalloped bays. If you reach the end of the lungomare you'll find a natural area where the Roya and Nervia rivers meet the ocean. This is also a popular spot for breeding birds.

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 Ventimiglia Better for its Old Town?

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

Ventimiglia is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming pastel buildings. There are also a number of historic buildings and monuments that give the town a special atmosphere.

Messina does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Messina or Ventimiglia?

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

Ventimiglia is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Most people head in town on Friday for the market, which has stalls selling crafts and local products.

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 Ventimiglia Better for Families?

Messina is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Ventimiglia offers lots of family activities. The charming town is a great place for kids to explore. There is a botanical garden and hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy as well as quiet beaches where they can play. The Italian food is also perfect for young palates.

Is Messina or Ventimiglia Better for Couples?

Ventimiglia is well known for romance. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Ventimiglia frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This quintessential Italian town offers a romantic setting with cobblestone streets and pastel buildings. There are many culinary delights and romantic settings that are perfect for couples. The hiking trails and botanical gardens are also fun places to explore.

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 Ventimiglia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Messina is a popular place for backpackers. However, Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Messina or Ventimiglia Better for Students?

Messina is a popular place for students. However, Ventimiglia is not popular with students.

Messina is popular with 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.

Ventimiglia is not popular with students.

Is Messina or Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia.

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 Ventimiglia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains and buses to town. Once you're in town it's easy to explore on foot.

Is Messina or Ventimiglia a more walkable city?

Messina and Ventimiglia both are excellent 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.

Ventimiglia is a very walkable port city. It's small size and charming atmosphere make it a great town to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Ventimiglia or Messina?

How long in Messina or Ventimiglia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Messina or Ventimiglia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Messina than Ventimiglia because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Messina, and 1-2 days is enough time in Ventimiglia.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Messina than Ventimiglia 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 Messina or Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the bustling port city of Messina. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Ventimiglia is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This seaside town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Messina or Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the bustling destination of Messina. This port city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Ventimiglia might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Ventimiglia has to offer.

Five days in Messina or Ventimiglia?

The bustling port city of Messina offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Ventimiglia is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Ventimiglia?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Messina. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Ventimiglia. Since Ventimiglia is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Walking Tours in Italy, and The Best Luxury Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Messina or Ventimiglia?

Messina has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Ventimiglia. When comparing the sizes of Messina and Ventimiglia, 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 Ventimiglia?

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 Ventimiglia in the Summer?

Both Ventimiglia and Messina are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Messina for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Ventimiglia in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite sunny in Ventimiglia. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Messina. Messina usually receives more sunshine than Ventimiglia during summer. Messina gets 332 hours of sunny skies, while Ventimiglia receives 295 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Messina or Ventimiglia in the Autumn?

Both Ventimiglia and Messina during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Messina in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Ventimiglia for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

In the autumn, Messina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Ventimiglia. Messina gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ventimiglia receives 183 hours of full sun.

Ventimiglia gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Messina. Messina usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Ventimiglia. Messina gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Messina or Ventimiglia in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Messina and Ventimiglia. Most visitors come to Messina for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Ventimiglia because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

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

Messina usually receives less sunshine than Ventimiglia during winter. Messina gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Ventimiglia receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

Messina gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Messina usually receives more rain than Ventimiglia. Messina gets 113 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Messina or Ventimiglia in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Messina as well as Ventimiglia. The spring months attract visitors to Messina because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Additionally, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Ventimiglia this time of year.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Messina this time of the year. In the spring, Messina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Ventimiglia. Messina gets 207 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ventimiglia receives 198 hours of full sun.

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

Typical Weather for Ventimiglia and Messina