Is Messina worth visiting?
Yes, you'll find numerous reasons to visit Messina, and it's a port city that everyone should see. We had an amazing time here.
Whether you're a traveling as a family, a couple, or a backpacker, this port city has a lot to offer. Any local will tell you what makes it special is the terrific nightlife and great museums and attractions.
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.
5 Reasons to Visit Messina
1. 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.
2. Museums and Attractions
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.
3. 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).
4. 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.
5. 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
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| July | 27°C (80°F) | 19 mm (0.8 in) |
| August | 27°C (81°F) | 24 mm (1 in) |
| September | 25°C (76°F) | 55 mm (2.2 in) |
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
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| October | 21°C (69°F) | 109 mm (4.3 in) |
| November | 17°C (62°F) | 107 mm (4.2 in) |
| December | 14°C (57°F) | 117 mm (4.6 in) |
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
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| January | 13°C (55°F) | 113 mm (4.5 in) |
| February | 13°C (55°F) | 98 mm (3.9 in) |
| March | 14°C (57°F) | 84 mm (3.3 in) |
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
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| April | 16°C (60°F) | 60 mm (2.4 in) |
| May | 20°C (67°F) | 32 mm (1.3 in) |
| June | 24°C (74°F) | 14 mm (0.5 in) |
Related
What is Messina most famous for?
Messina is most famous for being the entry and departure point to Sicily for those traveling by ferry. The port city is very popular for its nightlife. It is also known for its great museums and attractions, food, and shopping. It is often described as historic, bustling, and local.
What is the most famous sight in Messina?
The most popular sight in Messina is Piazza del Duomo. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Messina on our travel costs page.
Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for Piazza del Duomo and other attractions here.
How touristy is Messina? Is it a popular port city to visit?
Messina is more popular with local tourists than with international visitors. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)
- Savoca Taormina Castelmola tour: $204
- Private Pasta Experience in Messina with a Local by Cesarine: $169
- Private Godfather and Taormina Tour with Luxury Van: $209
- Taormina Isola bella : private cruise tours from Messina: $169
- Taormina Boat Tour : from Messina private cruise tours: $216
- Private Tour of Taormina and Castelmola from Catania: $234
- Cesarine: Market Tour & Dining at a Local's Home in Messina: $162
- Messina Shore Excursion: Private Tour Tindari, Milazzo And Messina: $210
How long should I spend in Messina?
The ideal length of time for a trip to Messina is two to three days. Since Messina has activities such as nightlife, many visit for up to three days.
If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Messina? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Messina?.
For guided and organized tour options, check out The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Italy and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy.
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.