1. Messina has a large port where active navigation is carried out even at night. Here, tourists are offered interesting tours of other Sicilian cities, as well as trips to remote beaches.
2. Messina can hardly be called a typical beach resort, but there are still some comfortable beaches in the city and outside it. Even experienced swimmers are not recommended to swim far into the sea, as strong undercurrents pose a serious danger.
3. The easiest way to get to Messina is by ferry from the mainland Italian city of Reggio Calabria. A 5-kilometer ferry ride from one city to another will take no more than 30 minutes.
4. Messina is linked to all the major cities of Sicily by rail and regular bus connections. There are intercity buses of various comfort levels. The fare on some of them may be about 10 euros, and 4 times more expensive on comfortable ones.
6. The main types of public transport in Messina are buses and trams. Public transport tickets can be purchased right at stops. The cost of a 2-hour ticket is about 2 euros.
7. The city's most expensive hotels are concentrated on the main streets and in the historic district. In the immediate vicinity of Messina, there are wonderful beach hotels offering much more affordable prices.
Messina will be a great place to experience traditional Sicilian cuisine. Amazing dishes be tasted at every step in the city. On lively streets, you will find stalls and small cafes with … Open
9. In order to save some money, tourists prefer to eat not at restaurants but local bars. In the daytime, some of them are more like ordinary cafes offering visitors a wide selection of dishes.
10. A large part of popular souvenir shops is concentrated in the central city square, near the port. Prices for souvenirs are the highest here. Away from the center, you can buy no less interesting souvenirs at reasonable prices.
11. You can bargain with sellers at markets and in private stores, but you shouldn't expect big discounts. In malls and large stores, goods are sold at fixed prices.
12. Active tourists should have some cash with them. Some street cafes and small shops may not accept payments by card.
13. In summer, it is quite hot in the city, so it is not the best period for active tourists. If your priority is excursions and active entertainment, it's better to go to Messina in spring or autumn.
14. In the vicinity of Messina, you will find beautiful beaches and popular attractions, which can be visited with regular bus tours. It'd be more convenient for active tourists to explore the surroundings by rented car.
15. Large cruise ships visit the city regularly. Given this, the most expensive shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues are located near the waterfront.