Schengen area rules apply. EU citizens need only ID. Many non-EU nationals need a Schengen visa. Check with your local Italian embassy.

What is the currency?

Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry cash for small shops and markets.

Is English widely spoken?

Not as much as in tourist-heavy areas. Basic Italian phrases are helpful. Younger people and those in tourism speak some English.

How do I get from the airport to Messina?

The nearest major airport is Catania Fontanarossa (CTA). From there, take a bus (Interbus or SAIS) directly to Messina (~1.5 hours, €10-15).

Can I visit the Aeolian Islands as a day trip?

Yes, hydrofoils from Messina port reach Lipari, Salina, and others in 1-2 hours. Check schedules as they vary by season.

What is the local cuisine specialty?

Try arancini (rice balls), granita with brioche, fresh swordfish, and Messina's own chocolate and almond pastries.

Is it safe to drink tap water?

Yes, tap water is generally safe, but many prefer bottled water for taste.

What is the tipping etiquette?

Tipping is not expected but appreciated. Round up the bill or leave 5-10% for good service in restaurants.

Messina

CitySicily, Italy

Messina is a CITY in Sicily, Italy.

Messina, the gateway to Sicily, sits on the northeastern tip of the island, facing the shimmering Strait of Messina. This historic port city is a vibrant blend of ancient and modern, with a dramatic past marked by earthquakes and rebuilding. The Norman Duomo, with its astronomical clock, is a must-see, as is the nearby Fontana di Orione. Stroll along the bustling Via Garibaldi for shopping and people-watching, or take a ferry to the Aeolian Islands for a day trip. The city's cuisine is a delight, with fresh seafood, granita, and arancini. Messina offers a more authentic, less touristy Sicilian experience, with a lively local atmosphere and stunning views of the Calabrian coast. It's a perfect base for exploring the northeast of Sicily.

Best time to visit Messina

The best time to visit Messina is spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). The weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for exploring without the intense summer heat or crowds. Summer (July-August) is hot and busy, with many locals on holiday, but the beaches and Aeolian Islands are at their best. Winter is mild but can be rainy, and some attractions have reduced hours.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Mild 16-23°C, some rain

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Harvest season, good for food tours

Know before you go

Getting there

CTA

Catania Fontanarossa Airport

International

100 km away

REG

Reggio Calabria Airport

Domestic

15 km away

PMO

Palermo Falcone-Borsellino Airport

International

230 km away

Getting around

"Messina is walkable in the historic centre. For longer distances, use the ATM buses (tickets ~€1 from tabacchi). The train station connects to major Sicilian cities and the airport in Catania. Ferries and hydrofoils from the port serve the Aeolian Islands and Reggio Calabria. Taxis are available but can be expensive; always confirm the fare. Renting a car is not recommended in the city due to limited parking and ZTL (limited traffic zones)."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Widely available in hotels, cafes, and some public areas

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport or shops from €5

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Generally safe, but be cautious in crowded areas and at night near the port.

Night safety

7/10

Generally safe, but be cautious in crowded areas and at night near the port.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Messina is generally safe, but like any city, be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas like the train station, markets, and on public transport. Avoid poorly lit streets at night, especially near the port. Scams targeting tourists are rare but possible; always agree on taxi fares beforehand. Keep valuables secure and out of sight. The city has a visible police presence, and emergency services are reliable."

Police

113

Ambulance

118

Fire

115

EU Emergency

112

Entry and health

Health information

"No specific vaccinations are required for Messina. Tap water is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is widely available. Pharmacies (farmacia) are common and can provide basic medical advice. For serious issues, head to the Ospedale Papardo or Ospedale Policlinico. EU citizens should bring their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for reduced-cost care. Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all visitors."

Culture

Local customs

"Sicilians are warm and expressive. Greet with a handshake or a kiss on both cheeks among acquaintances. Dress modestly when visiting churches (cover shoulders and knees). Lunch is the main meal, typically from 1-3 PM, and many shops close for a siesta (usually 1-4 PM). Dinner is late, often after 8 PM. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service (round up or leave 5-10%)."

Italian (official)GermanFrenchSloveneLadinItalian

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$12 | a cheap local meal costs ~$12

Hotels

$50-100 | budget hotels range $50-100/night

Local transport

$1.20 | local bus ride ~$1.20

Cost notes

Prices are lower than in Rome or Milan. Mid-range hotels offer good value.

Timezone

Europe/Rome
Local time 22:29

More facts

Population

219,948

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Mesina, Messana, Messina, Messine, Mesyna, Missina, QME, mesina, messhina, mo xi na, msynh, mysyna, Месина, Мессина, מסינה, ميسينا, メッシーナ, 墨西拿, 메시나, Mecina, مسينة, Месіна, মেসিনা, Μεσσήνη, Mesino, ಮೆಸ್ಸೀನ, മെസ്സീന, Мессіна, Ζάγκλη

Major HubHistoricCoastalFoodCulturalGateway to Aeolian Islands