A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Palermo vs. Messina for Food, Nightlife, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Palermo or Messina?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Palermo and Messina 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.

Palermo

Palermo is a dynamic, fun, and colorful city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

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.

Palermo and Messina: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Messina?

You'll generally find more things to do in Palermo than Messina. Palermo is bigger than Messina, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Palermo is well known for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. Also, Palermo is famous for The Cathedral. Messina is well known for being the entry and departure point to Sicily for those traveling by ferry.

How is Palermo different from Messina?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Palermo or Messina.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Palermo. There are a number of grand buildings and impressive architectural buildings that you should visit. The cathedral, the Norman Palace, and Cappella Palatina are among the best.

Messina is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Palermo or Messina? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Palermo 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, Palermo makes for a great culinary experience. The islands long history and occupation by a range of different groups means that the cuisine is heavily influenced by many different cultures. You'll see influences from Phonecians, Greeks, Arabs and Normans. Local dishes include Pasta alla Norma (pasta and vegetables), Arancine (rice balls), and Cannoli.

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 Palermo or Messina Better for Nightlife?

Both Palermo and Messina are great when it comes to partying.

Palermo offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is surprisingly varied with everything from wine bars by the ocean to dance parties that flood into the street. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include the old town, Politeama, and Mondello.

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.

Is Palermo or Messina Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is a 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 Palermo. The dive season lasts most of the year and there are many beautiful dive spots that are accessible from the city. The water is clear and there is a variety of flora and fauna to see.

Messina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palermo or Messina Better for Beaches?

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

The beaches at Palermo attract visitors from all over. The city has a number of beautiful beaches, some of which are accessible by public transit. Mondello is a popular option with beautiful views. Capo Gallo is a relaxing option on a nature reserve that is good for divers and nature lovers. Addaura is a lively beach with a number of clubs.

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

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Messina?

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

Palermo is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city offers a mix of high end shopping streets as well as colorful markets that have the feel of a traditional bazaar. Whether you're looking for European brands or local merchandise, this city has an eclectic mix with something for everyone.

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 Palermo or Messina Better for Families?

Both Palermo and Messina are great to visit with kids.

Palermo is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has beaches where everyone can cool off and play in the relaxing waves. There's also a botanical garden and the fascinating Catacombs of the Capuchins. Kids will also enjoy exploring the many diverse markets throughout the city.

Messina is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Palermo or Messina Better for Couples?

Both Palermo and Messina are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Palermo is a good city for couples to visit. The city is filled with fun adventures, unique markets, and relaxing beaches. It makes a great city escape for couples who enjoy spending time outdoors but also having access to an urban setting.

Messina is a nice destination for couples. 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 Palermo or Messina Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Palermo and Messina are notable destinations for backpackers.

Palermo is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a decent number of affordable hostels around town as well as plenty of backpackers that keep the scene fun and social.

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 Palermo or Messina Better for Students?

Palermo and Messina are both notable destinations for students and younger travelers.

Palermo is a good city to visit for students. It's an affordable student destination with a relaxing and laid back vibe. There's enough activity to keep it interesting without a high pressure setting.

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.

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

Messina is a port city with good options for its public transit. However, Palermo is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Palermo. If you stick to the main city center then you can get around by city bus, but if you're headed anywhere else, you'll likely want to take a taxi or Uber.

Is Palermo or Messina a more walkable city?

Palermo and Messina both are great when exploring on foot.

Palermo is a very walkable destination. The city is walkable with a number of streets closed to cars and pedestrian only.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Messina or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Messina?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Palermo and Messina. In our opinion, Palermo has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Palermo than Messina. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Palermo, and 2-3 days is enough time in Messina.

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

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

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

One day in Palermo or Messina?

In Palermo, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Palermo or Messina?

In Palermo, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Palermo 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 Palermo or Messina?

Palermo is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Palermo or Messina?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palermo. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Palermo. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Palermo and Messina, we can see that Messina is more expensive. And not only is Palermo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Palermo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Palermo and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Messina would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Messina than you might in Palermo.

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

Which is Bigger, Palermo or Messina?

Palermo has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Messina. When comparing the sizes of Palermo 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 Palermo or Messina?

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 Palermo or Messina in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Palermo and Messina. The summer months attract visitors to Palermo because of the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Messina this time of year.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Messina this time of the year. In Palermo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Palermo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Messina during summer. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies, while Messina receives 332 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Palermo usually receives less rain than Messina. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Messina receives 19 mm (0.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Palermo or Messina in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Palermo as well as Messina. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Palermo this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Messina for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Palermo is generally around the same temperature as Messina. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 20°C (67°F), and Messina fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palermo this time of the year. In the autumn, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Messina. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Messina receives 189 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Messina. Palermo usually gets less rain in October than Messina. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Messina receives 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Messina in the Winter?

Both Messina and Palermo are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Palermo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Messina in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Palermo is around the same temperature as Messina in the winter. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Messina fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Messina during winter. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies, while Messina receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Messina. In January, Palermo usually receives less rain than Messina. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Messina receives 113 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Palermo or Messina in the Spring?

Both Messina and Palermo during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Palermo in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Messina for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

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

In Messina, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Palermo. In the spring, Palermo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Messina. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Messina receives 207 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in April than Messina. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Messina receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Messina and Palermo