Located at the tip of Sicily, the island right off the shores of Southern Italy, Messina is the gateway to Sicily and an island with a rich culture. Cruise to Messina, the largest island in the Mediterranean, to explore the home of noted poets and even a mathematician. However, the city is perhaps best known for its cuisine. Some have even gone so far as to nickname Sicily ‘God’s Kitchen’. Sicily is home to pecorino cheese and a favorite Italian dessert, the cannoli. Contact our cruise experts for help planning a cruise to Messina, Sicily. Featured below are a few of our favorite experiences for the cruise port of Messina in Sicily:
Messina, located on the northeastern tip of Sicily, offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, and stunning coastal views. As a key stop for many cruise itineraries, Messina provides the perfect mix of ancient ruins, beautiful scenery, and a taste of Sicilian life. If your cruise has you docked here for a day, here’s your guide to making the most of your visit.
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Visit the Messina Cathedral (Duomo di Messina)
Start your day by exploring the Messina Cathedral (Duomo di Messina), an iconic landmark in the heart of the city. Originally built in the Norman style, this cathedral boasts an impressive mix of Romanesque and Byzantine architecture. Don’t miss the astronomical clock on the cathedral’s bell tower, which performs a dramatic mechanical show at noon, with moving figures representing the city's history.
Tip: Arrive early to witness the clock show and explore the surrounding Piazza del Duomo, which has lovely cafés and shops.
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See the Fountain of Neptune
Just outside the cathedral is the Fountain of Neptune, a 16th-century fountain depicting Neptune, the god of the sea, surrounded by beautiful sculptures. It’s one of Messina’s most famous landmarks and offers a great photo opportunity.
Tip: After admiring the fountain, explore the nearby Piazza del Duomo for more historical landmarks and local charm.
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Take a Stroll Along the Waterfront
Messina’s waterfront offers some of the best views of the city and the Strait of Messina, where the waters of the Mediterranean Sea meet the Tyrrhenian Sea. A walk along the promenade offers beautiful views of the harbor, and you’ll get to see fishing boats and ferries crossing the strait.
Tip: Stop by the Villa Mazzini, a peaceful park along the waterfront, for a relaxing break with great views.
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Visit the Regional Museum of Messina (Museo Regionale di Messina)
If you’re interested in art and history, make time to visit the Regional Museum of Messina. The museum houses an impressive collection of works by famous artists like Caravaggio and Antonello da Messina, as well as artifacts from the ancient Greek and Roman periods. It's a great way to get a deeper understanding of the area’s rich cultural history.
Tip: The museum is located close to the city center, so it’s easy to visit after exploring the cathedral and waterfront.
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Take the Cable Car to the Sanctuary of Montalto
For stunning views of Messina and the surrounding area, take the cable car to the Sanctuary of Montalto, located at the top of a hill. The sanctuary itself is a beautiful site, and the ride up provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the city, the Mediterranean Sea, and the surrounding mountains.
Tip: The cable car ride is short but very scenic, so it’s worth taking the time to enjoy the ride and the views at the top.
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Explore the Ancient Theatre of Messina (Teatro Antico di Messina)
For history lovers, a visit to the Ancient Theatre of Messina is a must. This Greek-Roman theater, dating back to the 3rd century BC, once hosted performances and gladiator games. Though it’s not as well-preserved as some other ancient theaters, it still provides a fascinating glimpse into the city’s history.
Tip: The theater is located a bit outside the city center, so be prepared for a short walk.
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Discover the Botanical Gardens of Villa Comunale
If you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, visit the Botanical Gardens of Villa Comunale, located near the city center. These lush gardens are a peaceful retreat and a great place to enjoy some natural beauty. The park is home to a variety of plant species, including tropical and Mediterranean plants.
Tip: Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, or just relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
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Taste Traditional Sicilian Cuisine
No trip to Sicily is complete without enjoying some local cuisine. For lunch, try classic Sicilian dishes like arancini (fried rice balls), pasta alla Norma (pasta with eggplant, tomato, and ricotta), and caponata (Sicilian vegetable stew). For dessert, indulge in a slice of cannoli or cassata, two iconic Sicilian sweets.
Tip: Head to a local trattoria or restaurant along the waterfront for fresh seafood and authentic Sicilian flavors.
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Visit the Shrine of Our Lady of the Letter
A short distance from the city center, the Shrine of Our Lady of the Letter is an important religious site for the people of Messina. The church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is a place of pilgrimage for many Sicilians. The church has a peaceful atmosphere, and it’s worth a visit if you’re looking for a more tranquil stop.
Tip: The church is located on the way to the cable car, so it’s easy to combine with your visit to the Sanctuary of Montalto.
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Take a Boat Tour of the Strait of Messina
To make the most of Messina’s maritime location, consider taking a boat tour of the Strait of Messina. These tours provide the opportunity to see the city from the water and enjoy views of the coastline, the island of Sicily, and the nearby Calabria region of mainland Italy. Some tours also offer the chance to spot local wildlife, including dolphins and seabirds.
Tip: Boat tours can be arranged near the harbor or through your cruise line. They’re a great way to see the area’s natural beauty up close.
Messina is a captivating city filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring ancient landmarks like the Messina Cathedral and the Ancient Theatre, enjoying the views from the Sanctuary of Montalto, or indulging in delicious Sicilian cuisine, there’s plenty to see and do in one day. With its Mediterranean charm, rich history, and stunning landscapes, Messina will undoubtedly be a highlight of your cruise vacation!