- Must visit
Museo Regionale Interdisciplinare di Messina
The city’s main museum displays works by Caravaggio, Antonello followers and artefacts recovered after the 1908 earthquake.
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Complete guide to Messina
Things to do in Messina
Discover the best of Messina — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Messina trip today.
- Recommended
MUMA Museo del Mare
University museum with zoological and natural science collections, useful for visitors interested in academic heritage and research.
- Recommended
Monte di Pietà
Museum space dedicated to local visual culture and temporary exhibitions, offering a quieter stop beyond the headline sights.
- Must visit
Piazza Duomo
Messina’s main square, framed by the cathedral, clock tower and fountain, and a natural starting point for exploring the centre.
- Recommended
Passeggiata a Mare
Seafront promenade with open views across the Strait, ideal for walking, people-watching and seeing daily harbour activity.
- Recommended
Viale San Martino
Broad central avenue lined with shops and historic buildings, useful for an urban stroll between key monuments and stations.
Involtini di pesce spada
Swordfish rolls stuffed with breadcrumbs, cheese, herbs and often capers, then grilled. A Messina Strait classic reflecting the city’s long fishing tradition.
- Gluten-free
Stoccafisso alla messinese
Stockfish slowly stewed with tomatoes, potatoes, olives and capers. It is a festive Sicilian dish closely associated with Messina and north-eastern Sicily.
Pasta ’ncasciata
Baked pasta with ragù, peas, cheese and often aubergine. This Sicilian Sunday favourite is especially beloved in and around Messina.
Ristorante Kajiki
Refined restaurant serving Sicilian seafood and seasonal dishes in a polished setting, suited to a longer lunch or dinner.
Pasticceria Irrera 1910
Historic pastry and ice-cream venue known for granita, brioche and classic Sicilian sweets in an elegant central setting.
Trattoria Da Pippo
Traditional Messina spot popular for seafood dishes and local specialities, with a relaxed trattoria atmosphere near the centre.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Sicily. Hotels and dining are often cheaper than Rome or Milan, while ferries, trains and local buses stay fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for a simple meal or takeaway.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- €1.20-2.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or minimal. Round up in cafés and taxis, and leave 5-10% in restaurants for very good service, though it is not obligatory.
Flights to Messina: related information
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