Things to Do in Messina

Discover the wonders of the city of the Strait

In the city centre, between amenities and culture

The Cathedral decorated by Antonello da Messina, housing one of the largest pipe organs in Europe, and its bell tower with the Astronomical Clock — the largest in the world — which every day at noon puts on a fascinating show.

The Orion Fountain, a Renaissance masterpiece by Giovanni Angelo Montorsoli.

The Church of the Catalans, one of the few buildings to survive the 1908 earthquake that destroyed the entire city, built in the Norman era.

The Shrine of Christ the King, with the most spectacular panoramic view over the Strait.

The Monte di Pietà, a baroque gem hidden in the historic centre.

The Teatro Vittorio Emanuele, with frescoes by Guttuso and an active cultural programme throughout the year.

The Regional Museum, home to works by Antonello da Messina, Caravaggio, Alonzo Rodriguez and other artistic treasures from the 12th to the 18th century.

For lovers of the sea and nature

The beaches of Torre Faro, Capo Peloro, Santa Margherita and Contemplazione, ideal for relaxing and swimming.

The Ganzirri Lakes, nestled in peaceful surroundings, perfect for strolling or waterside aperitifs.

The Punta Faro Pylon, an iconic engineering and landscape landmark of the Strait.

The Capo Peloro Ecological Park, with protected wildlife and views over Scylla and Charybdis.

Diving and snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters between the two shores.

And the unmissable experience aboard the Feluca — the traditional swordfish fishing boat — watch the hunt and enjoy a typical lunch on board.

Day Trips

Taormina, with its Greco-Roman theatre, boutiques, Isola Bella and postcard-perfect views.

Giardini Naxos, the first Greek colony in Sicily.

The Alcantara Gorges, for nature adventures through lava canyons and crystal-clear waters.

Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe, reachable by guided tours and excursions.

Savoca, a small medieval village ranked among the most beautiful in Italy, perched on a hill surrounded by citrus groves, vineyards and olive trees. Famous as a filming location for Francis Ford Coppola’s iconic film “The Godfather”.

Milazzo, with its medieval Castle, the Old Town, Capo Milazzo, the Venus Pool and ferries to the Aeolian Islands.

Tindari, with the Sanctuary of the Black Madonna, the Greek theatre, the Marinello lakes and breathtaking spiritual views.

Food and Wine Experiences

Historic trattorias, seafood restaurants on the Strait, rosticcerie and focaccerie will delight your palate with the typical dishes of Messina’s culinary tradition.
NOT TO BE MISSED:
Messina granita with brioche
Messina focaccia with tuma cheese
Arancino with ragù
Fried pidoni
Ricotta cannoli
Bianco e nero
Artisan gelato
Pignolata

Messina in the Evening

Aperitifs at bars in the historic centre or at beach clubs along the riviera, with live music or disco nights.

Relaxing walks along the seafront.

Cultural events, exhibitions, concerts and shows that liven up the evenings, both in summer and winter.

Choosing GARIBALDI R&B means having everything within reach: art, beauty, flavours, nature and perfect connections to experience the most authentic Sicily.