Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Messina?
Should you spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Messina?
Most visitors spend two to three days in Messina when visiting. The local port city offers so many things to see and explore, so you'll want to take full advantage of the limited time you have. Highlights include the nightlife, the museums and landmarks, the big city activities, and the food.
Many visitors see Messina as a gateway city to Sicily. It's a major port city where many ferries arrive and depart. It's also the third largest city in Sicily, and there are a number of sights worth visiting around town.
Do you have 3, 4, or 5 days to visit Messina? Here's our comprehensive breakdown of how much time you might need for your trip along with some suggestions for things to do.
Is 3 days enough time in Messina?
Three days is the perfect amount of time in Messina, as many people prefer to spend two to three days here. You'll be able to dance the night away, browse through museums, discover the big city activities, and taste delicious cuisine. We have some suggestions for what to do and where to start your adventure below.
How to spend 3 days in Messina
Perhaps the most famous place in Messina is Piazza del Duomo, so don't miss it. It might not be at the top of your list, but it's worth experiencing during your trip.
This port city is very popular for nightlife. After the sun goes down, head out to one of the many popular venues around town. 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.
Messina is a very walkable city. With only a day in the port city, you'll have no trouble exploring the local sights. 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.
This port city offers some good museums and historic landmarks, so it's worth your time to spend a day exploring a few of them. Pick the ones that appeal to you the most and get started. 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.
You can't miss out on tasting the fantastic cuisine at one of the best restaurants in town, so make sure you find somewhere special for lunch or dinner. 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).
A few tour suggestions include:
- Taormina and Messina Private Tour with Sicilian Cannoli tasting ($189)
- Cesarine: Small Group Market Tour & Cooking Class in Messina ($177)
Public transit in Messina is easy and efficient. In just a few days, you should be able to get around the port city quite easily. If your legs are tired then there's an efficient bus system that you can use.
Messina is large enough to spend at least a full day exploring the local neighborhoods, attractions, and activities found around town. It is the third largest city in Sicily and is an entry and departure point for many visitors to the island.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Taormina Private Tour from Hotel or Cruise Terminal of Messina ($154)
- Deluxe SicilyTaormina and Savoca Tour from Messina Cruise Port ($82)
- Best of Sicily Taormina & Savoca Tour from Messina Cruise Port ($75)
Because the nightlife scene is so popular here, you'll want to take full advantage of it more than once. From the bars and pubs to the nightclubs, there's something for everyone. Or, get some tickets to another show at the theatre such as a ballet or opera.
Is 4 days enough time in Messina?
With four days at your disposal, you'll have more than enough time to take in all that Messina has to offer, giving you the flexibility to unwind in your hotel or use Messina as a base for day trips to nearby destinations. You can relax while enjoying the nightlife, the museums and landmarks, and the big city activities at your own pace, as this medium sized city offers a variety of fun activities for families. We have some suggestions of things to do below, too.
How to spend 4 days in Messina
If you have more than 4 days in Messina, you'll appreciate the added time for everything the port city has to offer.
Shopping in Messina is very popular, and it's easy to see why. Spend time exploring the many shops and boutiques to find the perfect gift, souvenir, or outfit. 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.
Because the nightlife scene is so popular here, you'll want to take full advantage of it more than once. From the bars and pubs to the nightclubs, there's something for everyone. Or, get some tickets to another show at the theatre such as a ballet or opera.
Is 5 days enough time in Messina?
Five days is more than sufficient for an in-depth trip to Messina, giving you the freedom to set your own pace. The nightlife, the museums and landmarks, the big city activities, and the food on your own schedule. Then, unwind at your hotel or use Messina as a hub for some nice day trips in the surrounding areas.
How to spend 5 days in Messina
Having 5 days in Messina will provide you with more time to take in the best activities in the port city.
After you've explored most of Messina, take a day trip to one of the many beautiful destinations nearby.
Because the nightlife scene is so popular here, you'll want to take full advantage of it more than once. From the bars and pubs to the nightclubs, there's something for everyone. Or, get some tickets to another show at the theatre such as a ballet or opera.
More Info
If you're looking for more information about Messina, we have even more advice to help you plan your journey.
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