Making the most of Messina Sicily
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Ships berth only half a block from Messina's main streets.
From the ship, enjoy an exceptional view over the Strait of Messina.
A new terminal is proposed.
For Taormina, the train station is a pleasant 10 minute walk from the dock.
Take a printable map along.
Messina's natural harbour, location on the Strait of Messina, only 3km/2mi wide here, and closeness to the mainland have shaped its history from the earliest times. Between sea and Monti Peloritani, the city is now a modern communications and trade centre despite disasters including the 1908 earthquake and Allies' 1943 bombing.
Messina Cathedral's 60m/197ft bell tower, reconstructed from old designs, contains one of the world's greatest astronomical clocks, created by Strasbourg firm Ungerer in 1933. Each day at midday, its figures come alive to show scenes from Messina history, including Madonna's legendary protection letter. Tradition says she handed the letter to Messinan diplomats in Nazareth, writing: "We bless you and your city".
Getting around
A 24 hour Hop On Hop Off bus, with multilingual audio guide, costs about $17 euro per person.
Nearby places
Trips beyond Messina should begin at nearby Mount Etna, where hiking and climbing are extremely popular. It is one of Italy's leading natural attractions, Europe's most active volcano and the planet's oldest still living volcano. Other Catania stops include Museo Belliniano and Palazzo Biscari.
Taormina's Greek Amphitheater is among the world's finest performing-arts sites. Built in BC times, it overlooks the Mediterranean and Etna. Take the train to Taormina, then a town shuttle and cable car down to the beaches.
Food and shopping
If you walk in the direction of the central station, you will pass all of Messina's main shopping areas.
Restaurants, pizzerias and pavement cafes are plentiful.
Money
The currency is the Euro.
Staying connected
Italian is spoken.
Many cafes provide customers with free WiFi.
Dial 112 for emergencies in Messina.
Opening Hours and
Most Italian shops and businesses open Monday-Saturday from around 8am until 1pm, and from about 4pm until 7pm. Many close Saturday afternoon and Monday morning, while southern hours can start and finish an hour later. In the north, some businesses keep a 9am-5pm schedule for international dealings. Traditionally all but bars and restaurants close Sunday, though most towns have a morning pasticceria and Sunday opening is becoming more common in larger cities and tourist areas.