Messina Italy, Mediterranean Cruises Port Profile

Overview

 
A trip to Sicily is incomplete without exploring the magical charm of the third largest city on the island-Messina. It is located three miles across the Strait of Messina at the north-east corner of Sicily just in front of the Villa San Giovanni and north to Reggio Calabria. The grand buildings, amazing sightseeing attractions and natural sites throw light on the glorious past of this Italian city. Founded in the 8th Century BC by Greek colonists, Messina is one of the old natural harbours, which was earlier named as the Zancle. It is the chief port of entry for several visitors coming to Italy through ferries.

Arrival

After arriving at the beautiful land of Messina, a visitor will find himself encircled by a group of steep hills known by the name of Peloritan Mountains. There are also some steep valleys formed in the mountain range that is known for giving rise to seasonal streams. Tourists fall in love with artistic treasures and the historic monuments that abound in the region. Warm reception by friendly locals makes a large number of tourists extend their stay in this beautiful island city. Upon arrival, one has to locate the best accommodation that offers a pleasant experience of staying in this Italian city.  There are several deluxe hotels, motels, bed and breakfast hotels as well as small resorts that offer good amenities. 

Transportation

Getting around Messina is easy as the city has well-developed transportation means. Tourists can reach Messina from other Sicilian cities by plane, trains or ferries. Catania is the nearest airport located nearly 100 kms from Messina. Travellers can avail the local, public transportation system (ATM) to reach one place from the other inside the city. The transportation mode is fast, cost-effective and hassle-free. Availing the local transportation bus system will prove to be quite inexpensive. Some travellers also prefer to hire a car on rent to explore the treasures around the fascinating city. One can also walk on foot to capture the sights and sounds of the colourful streets, while also saving a considerable amount of money on transportation via car or other system. It is safe to walk on the streets of Messina and taking the public transportation is another hassle-free method of discovering the magic of the city.

Telecommunication

Travellers taking a trip to Messina will not have a tough time locating an Internet café as there are several outlets in the city. Most of the hotels in the city also provide guests with an Internet facility to help them establish communication with their associates, friends and family members across different parts of the world while staying in Messina. Telephone booths are scattered across the city, with most of them being lined up along the streets close to the ferries and terminal station. People in urgent need of money can withdraw cash from the ATMs of some of the prominent globally recognized banks.

Shopping

There are a few places where visitors can go for shopping and one of them is the city center. Stores lined up on the city centre around Piazza Cairoli and the avenue ‘il corso’ sell fashionable, quality clothes and shoes. These shopping streets also feature some good designer shops, beauty and jewellery shops. Stores remain open from 09.30 a.m. to 7.30 p. m. and close in between for lunch. Shopping malls have everything that customers need; from branded to local made stuff. Shoppers are recommended to take a trip down to the old quarter of the city to experience the vibrancy and the charm of real Sicily. Ancient markets and small stores sell some of the best quality artefacts and unique items. Main shopping points are located along Via Garibaldi and Viale San Martino.

Attractions

Art aficionados and people interested in exploring the historic treasures are sure to have a great time while undertaking a sightseeing tour in Messina. There are churches, sanctuaries, tombs, grand buildings, museums and galleries that are architecturally marvelous and have a rich past. While taking a driving trip around the beautiful sights of the city one can see a greater influence of different rulers existing in different periods. Some of the highly rated attractions include:

o Cathedral
o Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani
o Regional Museum (Museo Regionale)
o Naxos - Excavations
o Volcano of Stromboli
o Chiesa di San Paolino
o Chiesa dello Spirito Santo
o Chiesa del Carmine
o The Palazzo di Giustizia
 
Travel agencies conduct excursions and short trips in and around the city of Messina at affordable rates. Short tours to the popular resort town of Taormina and Palermo- Sicily’s capital located to the west are also organized by travel companies at reasonable rates.

Dining 

Epicureans are sure to fall in love with the local flavours and the delectable international food served in some of the fine dining options present in Messina. Osteria Del Campanile and Jolly Hotel dello Stretto are some of the top restaurants offering gourmets a taste of the authentic Sicily. The combination of good food and great ambience at Trattoria al Padrino also makes it a perfect dining choice for people who want refinement. Ristorante l'ossidiana and Le Due Sorelle offer guests some really tempting meals along with great service to make dining a pleasurable experience.

Travel Tips

Take a map of Messina when travelling on foot or driving through the city to explore the beautiful attractions. Visitors are recommended to carry all the important documents such as visa, identity proof and others to ensure that the do not get into trouble with any of the Messina authorities. 
 

Original Article Written for www.mediterraneanfuncruises.com