A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nafplio vs. Messina for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Nafplio or Messina?

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

Should I visit Nafplio or Messina? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Nafplio

Nafplio is a romantic, beautiful, and picturesque city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

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. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Nafplio and Messina: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nafplio or Messina?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Messina than Nafplio, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Messina is better known for its big city activities, while Nafplio is more popular for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Nafplio is more touristy than Messina and is popular for its romantic atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and impressive Venetian castles. Messina is well known for being the entry and departure point to Sicily for those traveling by ferry. Also, Messina is famous for Piazza del Duomo.

How is Nafplio different from Messina?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nafplio is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Nafplio. There are a number of historic sights that are accessible from the town. One of the most iconic sights is the Palamidi Castle. You'll also find several fortresses in the area. There's also an archeological museum in town as well as the Folklore Museum.

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 Nafplio or Messina? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nafplio 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, Nafplio makes for a great culinary experience. The local restaurants serve up traditional Greek dishes that are local to the region and country. You'll find fresh seafood on most menus as well as moussaka, souvlaki, the famous Greek salad.

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 Nafplio or Messina Better for Nightlife?

Both Nafplio and Messina have excellent vibes after the sun sets.

Nafplio has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. You'll find a good concentration of bars and clubs along the waterfront. There are also a number of smaller bars and cafes near Syntagma Square and the nearby streets. In the later hours, many bars turn up the music and turn into dance clubs.

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.

Is Nafplio or Messina Better for Beaches?

Nafplio is a city with good options for its beaches. However, Messina is not particularly known for the beache.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Nafplio. If you head outside of the city, you'll find some nice beaches where you can spend a day. The most notable beaches in the area are Tolo, Kandia, and Nea Kios.

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

Is Nafplio or Messina Better for its Old Town?

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

Nafplio is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town spreads out from Syntagma Square. It's a great place to start your day with many cafes spilling into the streets.

Messina does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nafplio or Messina?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Nafplio and Messina.

Nafplio has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping in the old town is charming, but for the best retail options, you'll actually want to visit the new town. There are a variety of clothing and fashion outlets, with some of the best shopping streets being Sidiras Merarchias, Argous, and Asklipiou.

Messina is a great destination for shopping. 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 Nafplio or Messina Better for Families?

Messina is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Messina. 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 Nafplio. The charming, car-free center is fun to explore for all ages. There are several archeological sights around town as well as playgrounds and a great castle.

Is Nafplio or Messina Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Nafplio frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Many people consider this to be one of the most romantic towns in Greece. You can explore the quaint village center and sample the cuisine at one of the many restaurants. It's easy to reach from Athens and the seaside setting is perfect any time of the year.

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 Nafplio or Messina Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nafplio and Messina are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Nafplio. There are pensions and other affordable accommodation options around town, if you decide to spend a night here.

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.

Is Nafplio or Messina Better for Students?

Messina is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Nafplio 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.

Nafplio is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Nafplio and Messina.

Nafplio has some public transit options. There are buses through the region that are operated by KTEL Argolidas. Most routes leave from the central bus station.

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.

Is Nafplio or Messina a more walkable city?

Nafplio is renowned for its walkability. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Nafplio on foot is easy. There are parts of the center of town that are car-free and there are many great areas that you can explore on foot.

Messina is a very walkable 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Messina or Nafplio?

How long in Nafplio or Messina?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nafplio 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 Nafplio.

One day in Nafplio or Messina?

In Nafplio, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Messina, you'll find nightlife and food. This port 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 Nafplio or Messina?

In Nafplio, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Nafplio has to offer.

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

Five days in Nafplio or Messina?

Nafplio 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.

Messina 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.

A week in Nafplio or Messina?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nafplio. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Nafplio. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Messina. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Messina. 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 Luxury Tours to Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Greece, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Nafplio 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 Nafplio Expensive? and Is Messina Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Nafplio or Messina?

Messina has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Nafplio. When comparing the sizes of Nafplio 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 Nafplio 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 Nafplio or Messina in the Summer?

Both Messina and Nafplio during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Nafplio in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Messina for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Nafplio is around the same temperature as Messina. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nafplio in July average around 25°C (76°F), and Messina averages at about 27°C (80°F).

In Messina, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Nafplio. In the summer, Nafplio often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Messina. Nafplio gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Messina receives 332 hours of full sun.

Nafplio usually gets less rain in July than Messina. Nafplio gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Messina receives 19 mm (0.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nafplio or Messina in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nafplio and Messina. Most visitors come to Nafplio for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Messina because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Nafplio is generally around the same temperature as Messina. Daily temperatures in Nafplio average around 19°C (66°F), and Messina fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

In Nafplio, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nafplio usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Messina during autumn. Nafplio gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Messina receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Messina receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nafplio gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Nafplio usually receives less rain than Messina. Nafplio gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Messina receives 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nafplio or Messina in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nafplio as well as Messina. The winter months attract visitors to Nafplio because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Messina this time of year.

Nafplio is cooler than Messina in the winter. The daily temperature in Nafplio averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Messina fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the winter, Nafplio often gets more sunshine than Messina. Nafplio gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Messina receives 115 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Messina. Nafplio receives a lot of rain in the winter. Nafplio usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Messina. Nafplio gets 113 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Messina receives 113 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nafplio or Messina in the Spring?

Both Messina and Nafplio are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Nafplio this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Messina for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Nafplio is around the same temperature as Messina. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nafplio in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Messina averages at about 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Messina. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nafplio. Nafplio usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Messina during spring. Nafplio gets 217 hours of sunny skies, while Messina receives 207 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nafplio usually receives less rain than Messina. Nafplio gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Messina receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Messina and Nafplio