Messina is a local port city known for being the entry and departure point to Sicily for those traveling by ferry. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.
How much does it cost to travel to Messina?
You should plan to spend around $167 (€145) per day on your vacation in Messina. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $73 (€64) on meals
- $26 (€22) on local transportation
- $149 (€130) on hotels
A one week trip to Messina for two people costs, on average, $2,333 (€2,030). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$1,167
€1,015
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$2,333
€2,030
-
One Month
Per person
$5,000
€4,350
-
One Week
For a couple
$2,333
€2,030
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$4,666
€4,060
-
One Month
For a couple
$9,999
€8,700
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Messina cost?
A one week trip to Messina usually costs around $1,167 (€1,015) for one person and $2,333 (€2,030) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Messina on average costs around $2,333 (€2,030) for one person and $4,666 (€4,060) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Messina will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Messina on average costs around $5,000 (€4,350) for one person and $9,999 (€8,700) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Messina expensive to visit?
Messina is a smaller destination that invites a diverse group of visitors, each with unique travel styles, spending behaviors, and budget levels. Budget-conscious travelers will find suitable hotel options, but there are also high-end hotels for those seeking luxury, plus mid-range accommodations for families or couples.
Messina can be very expensive if you want it to be, but there are ways to cut down on your costs, like eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
On average, budget travelers spend $71 (€62) per day, mid-range travelers spend $167 (€145) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $354 (€308) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Messina.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Messina is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Cagliari or Lille.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Messina Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Messina?
The average Messina trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Messina travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Messina cost?
Messina on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$32
(€28)
|
$75
(€65)
|
$150
(€131)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$11
(€9.20)
|
$26
(€22)
|
$60
(€52)
|
|
Food2
|
$31
(€27)
|
$73
(€64)
|
$161
(€140)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$10
(€9.12)
|
$24
(€21)
|
$48
(€42)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$5-14
(€4-12)
|
$10-31
(€9-27)
|
$20-61
(€18-53)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to have realistic expectations for your travel budget. While many people assume they can travel to Messina without spending much money, the reality is that most people are not comfortable traveling on an extremely low "shoestring" budget. Consider what you really enjoy doing when you are on vacation and how you've traveled in the past. Do you prefer resorts, vacation rentals, or hostels? Do you like to experience all of the activities, museums, and sights? Is dining out at delicious restaurants important to you? Your answers to these questions will affect your overall travel budget and itinerary.
Messina on a Shoestring Budget?
Although you may consider yourself a budget traveler, unless you're ready to cut out many creature comforts, you'll likely spend much more than the $71 per day that young budget travelers often get by on.
For backpackers, this tight budget typically involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest eateries or fast food joints, using public transportation, and sticking to free attractions.
Do You Fit the Profile of an Average Traveler?
If you're traveling for leisure as a couple or family, you'll likely opt for a mid-range hotel, dine at trendy restaurants, and visit the main museums and attractions that require entry fees. Most tourists in Messina are inclined to explore its main attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Remember, most activities come at a cost. Hence, it's realistic to anticipate your daily budget will be about $167 per person, per day.
Messina boasts a wide array of hotels and vacation rentals. When traveling with others, you can share accommodations with a partner, friend, or children, thus reducing your expenses. Families should prioritize hotels and restaurants that are geared toward kids. Opera Relais is an excellent family-friendly option, while Blu Mediterraneo B&B is also superb. You can find additional family and couple-friendly hotels in our hotel guide for Messina here.
What Luxury Travel Looks Like
If you want a vacation with premium amenities and superior service, brace yourself for a price near $354 daily. Choosing upscale hotels, dining at award-winning eateries, enjoying lavish excursions, and using taxis or private drivers around the port city will require a luxury budget. Many high-end visitors also prefer unique experiences such as Messina private excursions of Taormina and Castelmola - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Messina
The cost of hotels in Messina can be quite surprising. Luxury accommodations come with higher prices and more amenities, especially during peak season. Off-season rates average $74, but peak season (summer) average prices jump to $138. Overall, prices range from $53 to $222. Hostels are often the cheaper option, especially in dorms. You can save by booking early, traveling in the off-season, or taking advantage of promotions.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Messina for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $149 (€130). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $75 (€65) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Messina? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Messina include:
- Vmaison Boutique Hotel starting at $107
- Residence San Martino starting at $97
- Residence Acqua del Conte starting at $75
- Antonello da Messina starting at $49
- Felicidad Siempre Bio B&B starting at $79
Messina has a good public transit system, which means you could stay outside the port city and commute in, but you'll have to balance cheaper accommodation with higher transport costs.
Messina is a very family friendly port city. If you're traveling with kids, you'll likely want to find an apartment or accommodation with more space.
Traveling in the low or shoulder season (and not in summer) means you'll enjoy lower accommodation prices and fewer tourists around.
Lots of people prefer to explore Messina on foot, so consider booking a central location. Just keep in mind that this can often be pricier.
Transportation Budget in Messina
Messina has a good public transit system that reaches some of the major sights. If your legs are tired then there's an efficient bus system that you can use. If you want to save money and get around quickly, the public transit is the way to go if it's conveniently located to where you're going. Also, you'll find taxis and rideshare services around town.
If walking is your preferred way to explore, you'll have a great time here. 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.
Public Transit: 
(good)
Walkability: (great)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $26 (€22) per person, per day, on local transportation in Messina. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Messina is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$26
€22
If you're driving, check for convenient parking at your hotel.
A few of the typical hotel transfers and transportation services include:
- From Messina round trip transfer to Taormina with 4 hours stop for $179 details
- Private Transfer from Messina Cruise Port to Messina hotels for $49 details
- Private Transfer from Messina hotels to Messina Cruise Port for $49 details
How much does it cost to go to Messina? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Messina will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Messina
The dining options in Messina are good, but they don't stand out enough to be one of the main tourist attractions. You can find a few exceptional places in the port city worth visiting. 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).
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Messina can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Messina is $73 (€64) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$73
€64
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Messina is around $73 (€64) per person, with previous travelers spending from $31 to $161. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Messina are as follows:
- Breakfast: $7 to $22
- Lunch: $11 to $29
- Dinner: $22 to $51
- Coffee: $6
- Fast Food or Street Food: $11
When dining out with children, prioritize restaurants with a kids' menu. This can help you save a fair amount of money, as those options are typically less expensive. Some eateries might not showcase kids' meals on their menus, so it's a good idea to check with the waiter.
Numerous hotels provide breakfast as part of your stay, although others may charge you extra for it. The price and quality can vary from hotel to hotel. Being informed ahead of time can assist you in determining if you need to budget extra funds. The hotel buffet might be worth your money, or perhaps a cheaper option at a nearby bakery or cafe would suffice.
Bring a water bottle instead of buying beverages everywhere. It helps the environment, too.
Be sure to check which meals are part of your tour before you go. You might be responsible for some of your own food costs, which could stretch your budget further.
If you want to experience the culture in Messina, a food tour or cooking class is a great way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Home Cooking Class & Meal with a Local in Messina for $174 details
- Cesarine: Dining & Cooking Demo at Local's Home in Messina for $119 details
- Cooking Demo & Meal at a Local's Home for $114 details
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Messina
People come to Messina in droves for nightlife, family-friendly activities, museums and attractions, and food.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Messina typically cost an average of $24 (€21) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$24
€21
A nice way to explore destinations in Messina is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Private Godfather and Taormina Tour with Luxury Van for $214 details
- From Messina Private Tours to Taormina and Isola Bella for $168 details
- Special Tour: Etna, Savoca and Taormina With Luxury Van for $239 details
Nightlife Budget in Messina
In Messina, nightlife is a lively affair, and visitors often spend their nights out at the various local bars, clubs, and parties. 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.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $21 (€18) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Messina per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$21
€18
Nightlife is a blast when traveling, but scaling back on drinks can really help stretch your travel budget.
Nightlife is fun, but be cautious when drinking. Thieves target distracted people, so stay with your group and trust your instincts to keep yourself safe.
Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Messina. A few favorites from other travelers include:
- Wine Tasting and Tour of Taormina and Messina starting from Messina for $127 details
Travel cost data last updated: May 22, 2025
Traveling in Messina
Messina is a city in the northwest area of Sicily. There are only five kilometers across the Straits of Messina to the Calabria region of mainland Italy. You can reach Messina by boats which travel every hour from the town of Villa San Giovanni in mainland Italy. There are also a couple of hydrofoils that make the trip every day from Reggio di Calabria. During the summer season don't be surprised to see cruise ships arriving with crowds of tourists. They are usually docked right downtown and are therefore hard to miss. Messina is also connected to mainland Italy by train, which are transported across the Straits of Messina by ferry.
There are a handful of sights in and around town. Make sure you visit Torre Faro, which is the former electricity pylon over Messina Strait. It's a 224 meter tall tower which now serves as an observation deck from which you can see a spectacular view of the surrounding area. You do have to walk up the 1250 steps to the top, but it is well worth the effort.
If you're looking to get a little out of town, head over to Novara di Sicilia, which is in the provence of Messina just north of Mount Etna. It's a quaint little medieval town with a pleasant population that speaks a slightly different dialect.
This is Italy after all, so there are some great restaurants around town. You'll find the city's best pizza at Pizza Capitano just off Piazza Cairoli. It's reasonably priced and has a traditional Sicilian flavor. You'll find a few bars around town offering reasonably priced drinks. A popular, although slightly more expensive option is the Irish Pub, Dockers. It doesn't have much Italian authenticity, but they do serve up a good drink. There are a couple of budget hotels around town, but plenty of mid range options. You might consider making reservations in advance, particularly if you're traveling during the peak season.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.