Port Overview

Port Messina is a cruise port known as “the door to Sicily”. The city is located on Sicily Island, separated from mainland Italy by Strait of Messina (width 5 km / 3 mi). The city has population around 240,000 ((metro over 650,000). By passenger shipping traffic, Italy’s largest seaports are Messina, Naples and Reggio Calabria.

Messina is the island’s 3rd largest city. The world-known attraction of the area is the volcano Mt Etna. The city passed a lot of tests over time – revolution (1678, against the Spanish), earthquakes (in 1783 and 1908) and bombing (in 1943, during World War II).

The 12th-century Cathedral, containing King Conrad’s remains (ruler of Germany and Sicily during the 13th century). Following the devastating earthquake in 1908, the building had to be almost entirely rebuilt in 1919-1920, and again in 1943, because of a fire triggered by Allied bombings.

The Sanctuary of Santa Maria del Carmelo (close to the Courthouse) was built in 1931 and contains a 17th-century statue of Virgin Mary.

Messina cruise port terminal is located in the heart of city downtown. The Piazza del Duomo is within easy walking distance. You can explore Messina old town on foot.

Tours & Activities