But Messina is much more than its sea.

It’s about art and architecture: it’s the thousand-year-old Cathedral (Duomo), the bell tower with the largest astronomical clock in the world, the baroque fountains, and the history-rich churches.

It’s about Mediterranean taste and tradition: granitas made from ancient recipes, ultra-fresh seafood, fragrant fruit, desserts that evoke memory, and wines that tell the story of the land.

Just behind the city, the Peloritani Mountains design breathtaking scenes of deep forests, panoramic trails, ancient villages, and the fascinating path of the Via Francigena, a journey through history, nature, and spirituality.

From those heights, the majestic Umbertine Fortresses stand guard over the city—silent, powerful bulwarks of a time gone by.

And when the sun sets, Messina truly lights up!

The beach clubs (lidi) along the coast become vibrant spots for music, dancing, and parties, hosting the nightlife scene with evenings under the stars. Think incredible DJ sets, live concerts, and unique atmospheres right on the sea.

Throughout the year, the city transforms into a major stage for events and concerts that bring the biggest names in Italian music right here. Get ready for unforgettable excitement in our squares, theaters, and open spaces.

Messina is also about faith and identity, a popular culture that comes alive through its historic festivals.

These include the imposing Vara, one of the largest votive floats in Europe; the solemn Walk of the Giants, symbolizing the city’s mythical origins; and the Spectacular Landing of Don John of Austria, which annually re-enacts the glorious Battle of Lepanto in a historical spectacle that involves numerous Mediterranean cities.

Messina is pure emotion for those who love the sea, but also for those seeking spirituality, nature, culture, fun, or simply authenticity.

It’s a city that you can’t tell the whole story of all at once. It must be lived, slowly, letting yourself be surprised.