Messina, located on the northeastern tip of Sicily, is a city often overlooked by travelers who gravitate toward more famous destinations like Palermo or Catania. However, this port city, brimming with history, art, and stunning views, offers a treasure trove of experiences for those who choose to visit. I spent a day wandering through the city’s streets, soaking in its beauty and charm, and here’s the itinerary that allowed me to explore its best sights. Whether you’re stopping by during a cruise or planning a more extended stay, these spots will give you a glimpse of Messina’s unique character.
1. Morning Stroll Through the City’s Heart: Piazza del Duomo
I began my day early, making my way to Piazza del Duomo, the beating heart of Messina. The square is surrounded by some of the city’s most important landmarks, starting with the stunning Cathedral of Messina (Cattedrale di Messina). The cathedral, with its blend of architectural styles—Norman, Gothic, and Baroque—provides a snapshot of Messina’s complex history. It was originally built in the 12th century and has been rebuilt several times due to earthquakes, the most recent being in 1908.
The most striking feature of the cathedral, apart from its ornate facade, is the Astronomical Clock perched above the entrance. It’s one of the largest mechanical clocks in the world and comes to life every hour, providing a show that draws both locals and visitors. Watching the clock strike and hearing the chimes echo through the square felt like a connection to centuries of history.
Just opposite the cathedral, the Fountain of Orion adds an extra touch of elegance to the piazza. The fountain is a masterpiece by the sculptor Giovanni Angelo Montorsoli and features a statue of Orion, the mythical founder of Messina, surrounded by playful dolphins. Standing here for a while, I couldn’t help but imagine what this bustling square must have looked like centuries ago, when it was the center of the city’s political and religious life.
2. A Quiet Moment in the Regional Museum
Next, I headed to the Regional Museum of Messina (Museo Regionale di Messina), which houses a collection of art and artifacts from the area. The museum itself is housed in a former monastery, and stepping inside feels like entering a time capsule. The collection spans several periods, from the ancient Greek and Roman eras to the Renaissance and Baroque periods. A highlight of the museum is the Annunciation by Caravaggio, a rare and stunning work by the master artist.
As I wandered through the rooms, I found myself lost in the stories of Messina’s past. The museum’s exhibits offer a deeper understanding of the city’s turbulent history, particularly the devastation caused by natural disasters like earthquakes and tsunamis. The art, though, provides a different lens—a lens that shows how the people of Messina have persevered and thrived over the centuries.
3. A Scenic Walk Along the Waterfront
By now, the morning was well underway, and I was ready to stretch my legs with a leisurely walk along the Messina Waterfront (Lungomare). This picturesque stretch of coastline offers stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the distant hills of Calabria, which can be seen just across the Strait of Messina. The waterfront is lined with palm trees and offers a refreshing breeze, which was a relief after the warmth of the city.
Walking along the Lungomare, I passed by charming cafes and gelaterias, many of which had tables set up under the shade of umbrellas. I couldn’t resist stopping for an espresso at one of these outdoor cafes, sipping it slowly while taking in the views of the sea. The sound of the waves crashing against the shore added to the peaceful atmosphere, making it the perfect moment to simply relax and enjoy the surroundings.
At the end of the Lungomare, you’ll find the Vittorio Emanuele Fountain. It’s a grand fountain, but what stood out to me was the backdrop of the city and the mountains, creating a perfect photo opportunity. Whether you’re an avid photographer or just someone who enjoys scenic beauty, this spot is one you won’t want to miss.
4. Lunch Break in a Local Trattoria
By lunchtime, I was feeling ready for a true Sicilian experience, so I made my way to one of the local trattorias near the center. I decided to try Crostini con ‘Nduja, a typical dish from the region, which consists of toasted bread topped with the spicy Calabrian sausage ‘Nduja. The combination of flavors was intense, with the smoky and spicy sausage perfectly complementing the crispy bread.
For the main course, I ordered Pasta alla Norma, a classic Sicilian dish featuring pasta with eggplant, ricotta salata, and tomato sauce. It was simple, yet bursting with flavor—each bite felt like a celebration of the island’s agricultural richness. I also paired it with a glass of local Nero d’Avola, a red wine that comes from the region, which added an earthy and rich depth to the meal.
The service at the trattoria was friendly and warm, and as I enjoyed my lunch, I couldn’t help but reflect on how important food is to the culture of Messina and Sicily in general. The quality of the ingredients, the balance of flavors, and the deep-rooted traditions all came together in this meal, offering a taste of what this place is all about.
5. Afternoon Exploration: Santuario di Montalto
After lunch, I decided to venture uphill to visit the Santuario di Montalto, a sanctuary perched high above the city. The climb up was a bit steep, but the panoramic views of Messina and the surrounding coast were absolutely worth the effort. From here, I could see the entire city stretched out before me, with the sea on one side and the rugged mountains on the other.
The sanctuary itself is dedicated to the Madonna di Montalto, who is considered the patron saint of Messina. The church is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture, with its ornate interior and serene atmosphere. Inside, I spent a few quiet moments reflecting on the sense of peace that seemed to envelop the place. It was a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the city below.
After visiting the sanctuary, I took some time to explore the surrounding area. The narrow streets leading up to the sanctuary are lined with traditional Sicilian houses, some of which are decorated with vibrant flowers. Walking here felt like stepping back in time, where life moves at a slower pace and the view of the Mediterranean stretches out endlessly in front of you.
6. Visiting the Straits: A View of the Bridge That Never Was
No visit to Messina is complete without seeing the legendary Strait of Messina, the narrow stretch of water that separates Sicily from the mainland of Italy. The strait is famous not only for its beauty but also for the ambitious project to build a bridge across it, which was never completed.
I visited the Punta del Faro, a promontory located near the northern tip of the city, where I could get an excellent view of the strait. The sight of the water flowing between the two continents, with the distant coastline of Calabria visible on the horizon, was breathtaking. The idea of a bridge spanning this gap, once a dream of modern engineering, seemed almost surreal against the natural landscape.
At Punta del Faro, there is also a lighthouse, which stands as a symbol of Messina’s role as a maritime hub. The lighthouse has been guiding ships safely through the strait for over a century, and it’s easy to understand why. Standing here, watching the waves crash against the rocks below, it felt like I was at the edge of the world, with the Mediterranean stretching endlessly into the horizon.
7. A Relaxing Evening at the Teatro Vittorio Emanuele
As the evening approached, I made my way to the Teatro Vittorio Emanuele, one of the oldest and most prestigious theaters in Sicily. The neoclassical building, built in the 19th century, is a beautiful place to end your day in Messina. I had the chance to catch a performance here—a local opera that brought the city’s cultural heritage to life.
The interior of the theater is opulent, with golden accents, red velvet seats, and a grand chandelier that hangs from the ceiling. As the lights dimmed and the music began, I was transported into another world, one filled with passion and drama, perfectly reflecting the vibrant culture of Messina. Even if you don’t have time to attend a performance, simply standing in front of the theater, admiring its architecture, is worth the visit.
Messina may not be as famous as some other cities in Sicily, but it’s a place with its own unique charm. The combination of history, art, and natural beauty offers a perfect way to spend a day in this often-overlooked corner of the island. From the dramatic cathedral to the peaceful sanctuary and the stunning views of the strait, Messina is a place that captivates with its quiet elegance and timeless appeal.