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

Should you visit Palma de Mallorca or Messina?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Palma de Mallorca or Messina, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca is a cultural, historic, and beautiful island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Messina

Messina is a historic, bustling, and local port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Palma de Mallorca and Messina: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palma de Mallorca or Messina?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Palma de Mallorca than Messina, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Palma de Mallorca is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Messina is known for its museums and big city activities. Palma de Mallorca is more touristy than Messina and is popular for its strikingly blue waters, sandy beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant towns. It is also home to the turquoise water and white sand beaches. Messina is popular for being the entry and departure point to Sicily for those traveling by ferry.

The turquoise water and white sand beaches

How is Palma de Mallorca different from Messina?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Palma de Mallorca or Messina?

Messina is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Palma de Mallorca or Messina? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Palma de Mallorca 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, Palma de Mallorca makes for a great culinary experience. Food here is centered around pork, fish, and vegetables. It is flavored with garlic and olive oil and it offers that feeling of comfort that comes with home cooking.

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 Palma de Mallorca or Messina Better for Nightlife?

Palma de Mallorca is renowned for nightlife. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Palma de Mallorca is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. Head to Magaluf and Palma for the most popular places.

Many people head to Messina for the nightlife scene. 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 Palma de Mallorca or Messina Better for Music?

Palma de Mallorca is well known for live music. However, Messina is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Palma de Mallorca. Live concerts, international DJs, and a diverse range of styles have put the island's music scene on the map.

Messina is not a live music destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Messina Better for Resorts?

Palma de Mallorca is well known for its resorts. However, Messina is not a resort destination.

In Palma de Mallorca, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Top resorts on the island include The St Regis Mardavall, Viva Cala Mesquida Resort and Spa, and Nixe Palace Hotel.

Messina is not a resort destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Messina Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palma de Mallorca is a island 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 Palma de Mallorca. Head to Cala Santanyi on the south side of the island for the best snorkeling. For scuba diving, National Park of Cabrera is one of the most popular spots.

Messina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Messina Better for Beaches?

Palma de Mallorca is renowned for its beaches. However, Messina is not particularly known for the beache.

Palma de Mallorca is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The island is lined with sandy beaches and rocky coves, which have contributed to it becoming one of Europe's most popular beach destinations.

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

Is Palma de Mallorca or Messina Better for its Old Town?

Palma de Mallorca is a island with good options for its historic old town. However, Messina does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Palma de Mallorca to see the historical old town. Alcudia is the best old town on the island. It has cobblestone streets and historic walls that give it charm and history.

Messina does not have a historic old town.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Messina Better for Hiking?

Palma de Mallorca is a island with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Messina is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Palma de Mallorca. There are many beautiful hikes along the water and through the countryside that offer beautiful views and pass by quaint towns.

Messina is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Palma de Mallorca or Messina?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Palma de Mallorca and Messina.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Palma de Mallorca. Head to Palma for some of the areas best shopping.

Messina offers some nice shopping areas. 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 Palma de Mallorca or Messina Better for Families?

Palma de Mallorca and Messina are both high quality destinations for the whole family.

Palma de Mallorca is a very family-friendly destination. The beaches are large and sandy with beautiful blue waters. There's also many activities that both adults and kids can enjoy around the island including waterparks, aquariums, and amusement areas.

Messina is a very kid-friendly island. 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 Palma de Mallorca or Messina Better for Couples?

Palma de Mallorca and Messina are both good to visit as a couple.

Palma de Mallorca is a nice destination for couples. With beautiful beaches and a fun Spanish flare, Mallorca makes for a memorable honeymoon.

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 Palma de Mallorca or Messina Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Palma de Mallorca is well known for backpackers. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Palma de Mallorca. There is no shortage of hostels in Mallorca so it's easy to find an affordable place to stay and a young crowd to hang out with.

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 Palma de Mallorca or Messina Better for Students?

Messina is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Palma de Mallorca 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.

Palma de Mallorca is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Palma de Mallorca and Messina.

Palma de Mallorca has some public transit options. There is an efficient bus system that can get you around the island, but trips are less frequent on weekends. Pick up the Intermodal Card which can get you from town to town.

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 Palma de Mallorca or Messina a more walkable city?

Messina is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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.

Palma de Mallorca is a somewhat walkable place. It is a larger island that is not walkable, but Palma is generally a walkable area. If you stay in the central area you should be fine to explore on foot but if you want to get out into more rural areas, you'll need access to some type of transportation.

For even more information, also check out Is Palma de Mallorca Worth Visiting? and Is Messina Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Messina or Palma de Mallorca?

How long in Palma de Mallorca or Messina?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Palma de Mallorca and Messina. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Palma de Mallorca than in Messina. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Palma de Mallorca, and 2-3 days is enough time in Messina.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca.

One day in Palma de Mallorca or Messina?

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

With shopping and museums around the destination of Messina, there's plenty to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

A weekend in Palma de Mallorca or Messina?

In Palma de Mallorca, you'll find shopping and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

With museums and nightlife around the bustling port city of Messina, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Five days in Palma de Mallorca or Messina?

Palma de Mallorca is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Palma de Mallorca has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the local destination of Messina. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Palma de Mallorca or Messina?

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

Messina is a popular choice for travelers. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 2-Week Tours in Spain, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Palma de Mallorca and Messina, we can see that Palma de Mallorca is more expensive. And not only is Messina much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Messina would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Messina 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 Palma de Mallorca would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Palma de Mallorca than you might in Messina.

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

Which is Bigger, Palma de Mallorca or Messina?

Palma de Mallorca has a larger population, and is about 49% larger than the population of Messina. When comparing the sizes of Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca or Messina in the Summer?

Both Messina and Palma de Mallorca during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Palma de Mallorca this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Messina for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Palma de Mallorca is around the same temperature as Messina in the summer. The daily temperature in Palma de Mallorca averages around 24°C (76°F) in July, and Messina fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

In Messina, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Palma de Mallorca. In the summer, Palma de Mallorca often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Messina. Palma de Mallorca gets 334 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Messina receives 332 hours of full sun.

Palma de Mallorca usually gets less rain in July than Messina. Palma de Mallorca gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Messina receives 19 mm (0.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palma de Mallorca or Messina in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Palma de Mallorca and Messina. Many travelers come to Palma de Mallorca for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Messina in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Palma de Mallorca is around the same temperature as Messina. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Palma de Mallorca in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Messina averages at about 21°C (69°F).

In Palma de Mallorca, it's very sunny this time of the year. Palma de Mallorca usually receives more sunshine than Messina during autumn. Palma de Mallorca gets 204 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, Palma de Mallorca usually receives less rain than Messina. Palma de Mallorca gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Messina receives 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Palma de Mallorca or Messina in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Palma de Mallorca as well as Messina. Many visitors come to Palma de Mallorca in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Messina for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Palma de Mallorca is generally cooler than Messina. Daily temperatures in Palma de Mallorca average around 11°C (52°F), and Messina fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the winter, Palma de Mallorca often gets more sunshine than Messina. Palma de Mallorca gets 164 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Messina receives 115 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Messina. Palma de Mallorca usually gets less rain in January than Messina. Palma de Mallorca gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Messina receives 113 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palma de Mallorca or Messina in the Spring?

Both Messina and Palma de Mallorca are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Palma de Mallorca for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Messina because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

Palma de Mallorca is cooler than Messina in the spring. The daily temperature in Palma de Mallorca averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, 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 Palma de Mallorca. Palma de Mallorca usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Messina during spring. Palma de Mallorca gets 210 hours of sunny skies, while Messina receives 207 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Palma de Mallorca usually receives less rain than Messina. Palma de Mallorca gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Messina receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Messina and Palma de Mallorca