Should You Visit Messina?

Is Messina worth visiting?

This port city is a good place to visit for two to three days. 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.

Reasons to Visit Messina

Nightlife
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.

Museums
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.

Food
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).

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.

Authenticity
Messina has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.

Is Messina worth visiting in the Summer?

The high season for travel in Messina is the summer, so expect to see more tourists than usual. This destination is somewhat touristy, so in the high season it's usually busier.

The warm weather in summer is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 27°C (80°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 30°C (86°F).

You'll also find it quite easy to get around on foot, because this is a very walkable port city, especially in the nice weather. During this season it's fun to experience the famous sights and museums, the big city activities, and the nightlife scene.

Summer Weather in Messina

Is Messina worth visiting in the Autumn?

The weather in Messina is fairly warm during autumn, and stays around 21°C (69°F). But it can get as warm as 23°C (74°F) at times, too. It's also quite rainy during this season, so be prepared.

Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Messina, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. This destination is somewhat busy with tourists, but in the shoulder season you'll find less crowds and better deals.

This is a great time of year to browse the museums and enjoy the city's energy.

Autumn Weather in Messina

Is Messina worth visiting in the Winter?

Winter is the low season for travel in Messina. This destination is fairly touristy, but in the low season you can find fewer crowds and better deals.

Keep in mind that it can be fairly rainy during winter, and temperatures hover around 13°C (55°F).

You'll find plenty to do during winter, as you'll be able to spend time at the museums, dine out at amazing restaurants, and enjoy an evening out. Also, you can discover the big city activities.

Winter Weather in Messina

Is Messina worth visiting in the Spring?

This is the shoulder season for travel in Messina. This destination is somewhat busy with tourists, but in the shoulder season you'll find less crowds and better deals.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during spring with average temperatures around 16°C (60°F).

During this season it's fun to experience the shops and boutiques, the museums and landmarks, and the nightlife.

Spring Weather in Messina

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