Messina is a lively Sicilian port city set between the Ionian Sea and the Strait of Messina. Known for its elegant waterfront, colourful history and dramatic views of Calabria, it is the main gateway to northeastern Sicily and a popular starting point for excursions to Taormina and Mount Etna.

The city has been shaped by Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Arab, Norman and Spanish influences, although much of Messina was rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1908. Cruise ships dock close to the historic centre, making it possible to explore Messina on foot or combine a short city visit with a shore excursion to Taormina.

Taormina, perched high above the coast, offers one of Sicily’s most memorable day trips. Its ancient Greek Theatre, flower-filled lanes and spectacular views towards Mount Etna and the sea make it a favourite destination for cruise passengers visiting Messina.

Top attractions and sights

• Messina Cathedral and Bell Tower: The cathedral is the heart of the city and stands on Piazza del Duomo. Its impressive astronomical clock tower presents a mechanical show at set times during the day, while the square also features the elegant Fontana di Orione.
• Church of the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani: This distinctive medieval church combines Norman, Byzantine and Arab architectural details and is one of Messina’s most important historic buildings.
• Regional Museum of Messina: The museum displays important Sicilian artworks, including paintings by Caravaggio and Antonello da Messina, as well as sculptures and decorative pieces from the region.
• Christ the King Sanctuary: Located above the city, this monument provides broad views across Messina, the harbour and the Strait of Messina. It is especially rewarding on a clear day.
• Taormina Greek Theatre: Built originally by the Greeks and later enlarged by the Romans, the theatre is Taormina’s signature sight. Its setting, with Mount Etna and the Ionian coast in the background, is exceptional.
• Corso Umberto and Taormina’s historic centre: Taormina’s main pedestrian street runs between Porta Messina and Porta Catania, passing boutiques, cafés, churches and lively piazzas.
• Villa Comunale: Taormina’s public gardens offer a peaceful break from the busy centre, with unusual plants, ornamental structures and beautiful coastal viewpoints.

Beaches

Messina’s waterfront is not primarily a beach destination, but several attractive coastal areas can be reached by local transport or as part of an organised excursion. Capo Peloro, at the northeastern tip of Sicily, is known for its beaches and its position between the Strait of Messina and the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Near Taormina, Isola Bella is the most famous coastal spot. This small nature reserve is linked to the shore by a narrow strip of beach and is admired for its clear water and dramatic setting. The nearby seaside resort of Giardini Naxos also has a long beach, waterfront restaurants and views towards Taormina. Access to some beaches involves steps or uneven paths, so comfortable footwear is useful.

Local products and shopping

Messina and eastern Sicily are excellent places to shop for regional food products and traditional crafts. Look for Sicilian citrus preserves, pistachio specialities, almonds, locally produced olive oil and bottles of Sicilian wine. The area around Mount Etna is particularly associated with wines made from grapes grown on volcanic slopes.

Traditional Sicilian ceramics, decorated tiles and hand-painted pottery make distinctive souvenirs. Shops in Taormina also sell locally made jewellery, leather goods, embroidered textiles and colourful Sicilian decorative items. For an edible gift, almond sweets, pistachio products and citrus-flavoured treats are easy to carry home. Browse carefully for products labelled as made in Sicily rather than generic souvenirs.

Food and local cuisine

Messina’s cuisine combines seafood, citrus, vegetables and hearty Sicilian street food. Try a pidone messinese, a folded pastry filled with ingredients such as endive, cheese and anchovies, or sample Sicilian arancini, fried rice balls commonly filled with ragù, cheese or other savoury combinations.

Fresh swordfish is a local favourite and may appear grilled, baked or served in pasta dishes. Other Sicilian classics worth trying include pasta alla Norma, made with aubergine, tomato, basil and ricotta salata, and caponata, a sweet-and-sour aubergine dish.

For something sweet, order a granita with a soft brioche, especially in almond, lemon or coffee flavours. Cannoli, cassata and pignolata messinese, a traditional pastry covered with honey or chocolate and lemon icing, are also popular choices. Sicilian wines and citrus-based drinks pair well with many local dishes.

Tips for cruise passengers

• Start with the city centre: Messina’s cruise port is close to the historic centre, so many key sights can be reached on foot. Piazza del Duomo, the cathedral, the astronomical clock and the Fontana di Orione are convenient first stops.
• Allow time for the clock show: Check the day’s schedule locally if you want to see the astronomical clock’s moving figures and plan to arrive in Piazza del Duomo beforehand.
• Choose Taormina for a full-day excursion: Taormina is outside Messina and is best visited by organised shore excursion, pre-arranged private transfer or carefully planned public transport. Allow sufficient time for the return journey and follow the cruise line’s recommended all-aboard time.
• Expect crowds in Taormina: The historic centre can be busy, particularly around Corso Umberto and the Greek Theatre. Visiting the theatre early in your excursion can make the experience more comfortable.
• Wear suitable shoes: Messina is relatively easy to explore in the port area, while Taormina has steep streets, stairs and uneven paving. Comfortable footwear is also important for beach access.
• Try local food near the centre: A quick snack of arancino, pidone or granita makes it easy to enjoy Sicilian flavours without spending too much of your port day in a restaurant.
• Keep an eye on return travel: Traffic and seasonal crowds can affect journeys between Messina and Taormina, so independent visitors should build in extra time before returning to the ship.