Things to do in Province of Messina

Our most recommended things to do in Province of Messina

Taormina: Ancient Theater Skip-the-Line Ticket & Audio Guide

Taormina: Ancient Theater Skip-the-Line Ticket & Audio Guide

Pre-book your entry ticket to the Ancient Theater of Taormina and enjoy the added perk of skip-the-line entry privileges. Take a stirring journey through the archaeological ruins and enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace. After the one of Syracusa, the Ancient Theater of Taormina is the largest building for shows in the Italian Peninsula. The archaeological site offers the opportunity to step back into the past as well as enjoy the views of the surrounding landscapes. The Greek building, built in a dominant position, dates back, by layout, to the III-II century B.C., but the monument you can admire today appears in the forms acquired in the roman imperial age under the emperor Trajan or Hadrian. It becomes an amphitheater under the emperor Caracalla and, in the same period, the orchestra was converted into an arena to host gladiator fights. After centuries of neglect, in 1465, part of the monument was used as a palace of residence of the Zumbo family.

Sicily: Etna and Alcantara Gorges Full-Day Tour with Lunch

Sicily: Etna and Alcantara Gorges Full-Day Tour with Lunch

Discover the fascinating landscapes of Etna’s northern slope on a guided tour. Enjoy the impressive views of Etna’s foothills, see up close and touch ancient lava flows, admire craters still in activity, and appreciate a typical Sicilian landscape with its crops and rural villages. Stop for a lunch break at a local etnean restaurant and take a more relaxing turn with a visit to the refreshing Alcantara Gorges lava canyon. Start your tour with pickup from an arranged meeting point in locations such as Taormina, Giardini Naxos, Catania, and Linguaglossa. Travel by SUV or minivan (up to 8 passengers/vehicle) to the first stop of your tour, an off-road route to the massive 2002 eruption lava front, the largest eruption of recent times which destroyed the Piano Provenzana ski facilities and part of the Ragabo Pine Forest. Pass through the Ragabo Forest, following the Mareneve road, and reach the starting point of the trek to the Monti Sartorius craters near Rifugio Citelli. Enjoy a hike of easy difficulty, suitable for everyone, on a route about 3 km long, starting from an altitude of 1665 m and arriving at an altitude of about 1775 m. Hike along a characteristic Etnean path, among white birch trees and "button" side crater (“bottoniera”), the Sartorius Craters, on the northeastern slope of Etna. Reach several vantage points with unique and spectacular views of Calabria and the Aeolian Islands. Explore an Etna volcanic cave after your trek to the Sartorius, the Grotta dei Ladroni (also called Grotta delle Nevi). Equip yourself with the helmet and flashlight we will provide and venture inside this lava flow tunnel to discover its formation and history. This lava flow tunnel was partially excavated by man, as evidenced by the date engraved on a stone on top of the entrance: 1776. Learn how Etna’s inhabitants used this cave in centuries past to store snow in the winter months, later reselling it in the warmer months. Stop at an Etnean restaurant to rest and enjoy a delicious meal: a first course dish, water and coffee are included in the price. Continue to the Alcantara Valley, passing through Castiglione di Sicilia, one of the “most beautiful villages in Italy”, with features similar to a medieval village, famous for its wineries producing excellent Etna wines. Visit the Alcantara Gorges, also known as the Larderia Gorges, located in the “Alcantara River Park”. Admire the Gorges, which are a fascinating natural lava canyon excavated by the Alcantara River through lava flows of ancient times. Descend inside the Alcantara Gorges via the municipal entrance, the entrance fee is included. Freely relax by the beach or take a walk/swim in the refreshing Alcantara River. After visiting the Alcantara Gorges the tour will end going back to the initial meeting point. The program of the excursion may be subject to changes at the discretion of the guide, depending on the weather conditions of the day and to always ensure the safety of the participants.

From Milazzo: Panarea and Stromboli Boat Trip by Night

From Milazzo: Panarea and Stromboli Boat Trip by Night

Departure from Milazzo at 12.30**. After Having left the Port of Milazzo we sail in direction of Panarea. (Stop in Panarea of about 2 Hours). Panarea, the smallest, most ancient and less elevated island of the Aeolian archipelago, is also the most glamorous, frequently visited by the VIPs’ who love its sea, its beaches as well as its lively nightlife. The historic centre, a canvas coloured deep blue and candid white, illuminates the narrow streets that lead you to Saint Peter’s Church. On foot or in one of the typical island taxis, we recommend a visit to the prehistorical village of Capo Milazzese, important archaeological site of the island, which proves the ancient origins of Panarea (dating back to 1400 BC.). You must also visit the Cala Junco Bay, in the shape of an amphitheatre. The particular shape of this bay defined on its sides by strange rocky masses, creates a spectacular natural swimming pool, ideal for underwater swimming. Finally, to lie on the sandy beach Cala degli Zimmari, is a luxury for few. Having left Panarea, we will sail along the route of the inlets Basiluzzo, Spinazzola, Lisca Bianca, Dattilo, Bottaro, Lisca Nera and the rocks Panarelli and Formiche. All these, form a micro- archipelago between Lipari and the island of Stromboli. Arrival at Stromboli Scari Porto (Stop of about 2 Hours and 15 Minutes). Stromboli, one of its kind, is the island of one of the most active volcanoes in the world. The rhythmical explosions of ash and lapilli give the island a fascinating and wild appearance. During our stop, you will be able to visit Saint Vincent’s Square, named after the church dedicated to the same Saint, and the house in which Rossellini and Ingrid Bergman lived during the shooting of the film “Stromboli terra di Dio” (Stromboli land of God). Looking out from the square, the panoramic view of the port with the Strombolicchio, the oldest volcano of the Aeolian Islands, can be enjoyed. Furthermore, there are breath-taking scenarios at night, when the fire of the eruptions and the dark sky clash with each other providing ever-changing colourful creations in the Sciara del Fuoco, visible from the sea during the return journey. Arrival in Milazzo between 22.00 and 23.00 depending on the sunset. ** From 15 of September the departure will be at 11:00 am and the Arrival in Milazzo at about 21:30. ATTENTION: ALL STOPPINGS AND RELATIVE DURATION ARE ALWAYS SUBJECT TO POSSIBLE ORDINANCES IN FORCE AT THE TIME OF TRAVEL NB. ONLY SMALL DOGS ARE ALLOWED ON BOARD ADDING A SUPPLEMENT OF EURO 10.00 TO BE INTEGRATED AT THE TICKET OFFICE IN MILAZZO.

Taormina: Boat Tour with Aperitif on Isola Bella

Taormina: Boat Tour with Aperitif on Isola Bella

Boat excursion to Taormina aboard a typical Sicilian boat guided by expert skippers. We will take you on a boat trip to Taormina to visit one of the most beautiful bays in all of Sicily that will make you fall in love. Boat excursions in Taormina include the Blue Grotto of Taormina and all the bays of the marine reserve. We will sail along the entire bay of Giardini Naxos to try to meet the dolphins that have always populated this stretch of sea. You can admire the Taormina coast from the Bay of Naxos and then off towards the tip of Capo Taormina, to head to the bay of Mazzaró inside the protected marine park. During this journey we will stop in the bay of the sirens. You will enter the blue grotto of Taormina with the whole boat, famous for the seabed illuminated by the sun's rays that manage to penetrate through spaces in the submerged rock, giving an intense fluorescent blue backdrop. To round off our boat tour in Taormina, we will stop at the beautiful island. Famous rocky islet close to the coast with a piece of beach characterized by unique views in the world. Here you can dive and refresh yourself in these crystal clear waters among seabeds full of local colors and corals. This fantastic boat ride in Taormina will be framed by an aperitif and enriched by typical local fruit and drinks. Our goal will be to capture the time spent in these heavenly places in your memories.

From Milazzo: Lipari and Vulcano Day Trip

From Milazzo: Lipari and Vulcano Day Trip

Departure from Milazzo 9.30. Having left the port, we will proceed towards Lipari. (Stop of about 2 Hours and 45 Minutes). Lipari, where the contrast between the blue of the sea and the white of the pumice mountains provides the setting for the two famous rocks “Petra Lunga” and “Petra Menalda”, is the largest and most populated island of the Aeolian archipelago. We recommend a visit to Lipari’s Castle where you will find the Church of Saint Bartholomew, the Patron of Lipari, or an exploration of the archaeological site in ”Contrada Diana” visiting the archaeological Museum “Luigi Bernabo Brea”. Finally, a walk along the narrow picturesque streets of the historical town centre will offer you the chance to do some shopping and immerse yourself in the typical Aeolian life-style. In order to discover the best panoramic sights of the island of Lipari, we recommend a bus tour. Departure from Lipari, short navigation and arrival in Vulcano. (Stop of about 2 Hours and 30 Minutes). Vulcano, born from the fusion of “ Vulcano della Fossa” and “ Vulcanello” offers the chance to take advantage of a Walk on Vulcanello or simply relaxing on the beautiful black-sand beaches of vulcanic origin. For all trekking fans the climb to the main crater of Vulcano is a must (Check for any restrictions). From here you have a 360° panoramic view of all the other islands or you can visit “La Valle dei Mostri” (The Monster Valley) and “La Grotta del Cavallo” (The Horse Grotto). During the excursion we will do a mythological tour by motorboat to visit the "Faraglioni", the "Scoglio di Papa Giovanni", the "Grotta dei Angeli", the "Scoglio della Mummia", the "Scoglio della Sirenetta" and the "Piscine di Venere" from the Sea. The Tour could be carried out on the way there journey or on return journey. In case of Failure of the Mythological Tour due to adverse weather conditions there won't be any refund. Arrival in Milazzo at about 17.45 NB. ONLY SMALL DOGS ARE ALLOWED ON BOARD ADDING A SUPPLEMENT OF EURO 10.00 TO BE INTEGRATED AT THE TICKET OFFICE IN MILAZZO.

Stromboli: Sunset Trekking at Sciara del Fuoco

Stromboli: Sunset Trekking at Sciara del Fuoco

Embark on a guided hiking trip and witness Stromboli Island at sunset. Marvel at the breathtaking island views and watch the active volcano light up the night sky. Meet your guide and set off from Piazza San Vincenzo 2 hours before sunset. After a safety briefing, start your hike from a nature trail that leads to 400 meters, the maximum altitude allowed with a volcanological guide. Soak up the dramatic views of the summit craters and Sciara del Fuoco. During the trek, take breaks to take in the views and even visit the old island cemetery. Cross the Mediterranean shrubs, accompanied by the constant view of the Strombolicchio.  On arrival at Sciara del Fuoco, marvel at the sunset that colors the Aeolian archipelago red and witness the volcanic eruptions lighting up the night sky. Then, make your way downhill in the dark, equipped with torches, and return to the starting point.

Catania: Etna Morning Tour with Transfer

Catania: Etna Morning Tour with Transfer

Discover Etna and its wonders on this guided day trip tour from Catania! We will explore a lava cave and discover the legends surrounding it. During our trek we will reach the top of a series of extinct craters and from there enjoy breathtaking views of the volcano, the coast and also Taormina Together we will discover the history of the volcano, its peculiarities and observe how its landscape has changed according to the flows that have shaped it. Hear the tale of the infamous Etna eruptions from your knowledgeable guide.

Taormina: Opera Performance in the Nazarena Theater

Taormina: Opera Performance in the Nazarena Theater

Relax with a glass of Prosecco and enjoy an evening of Opera at the Nazarena theater. Enjoy an Operatic experience featuring a varied repertoire of famed Operas. Embark on a journey through the works of Mozart, Verdi, Puccini, Donizetti, and Rossini. Admire international performers who are some of the best voices on the national and international scene, accompanied in the hall by professional pianists. Savor your complimentary glass of Prosecco and take in the magnificent panoramic views from the terrace overlooking the bay of the Perla dello Ionio.

From Milazzo: Panarea & Stromboli Cruise Excursion

From Milazzo: Panarea & Stromboli Cruise Excursion

As soon as we leave the port of Milazzo we will sail towards the island of Panarea, the smallest and most "fascinating" of the Aeolian Islands, with arrival and disembarkation at the port of San Pietro. Panarea is truly unique in its charm and beauty. From the port there is direct access to the picturesque village of San Pietro with typical white houses arranged next to each other, set in a colorful nature. From here, among the many meeting places, restaurants, small shops, and boutiques scattered along the narrow streets that cross it, it is possible to reach the main points of attraction (on foot or with typical local taxis): the Church of San Pietro - with its valuable mosaic and the terrace from which you can enjoy a beautiful panorama, Drauto, the Cala degli Zimmari – with its particular sandy beach. A path of steps leads to the promontory of Capo Milazzese and the suggestive Cala Junco bay, an incomparable cove with breathtaking colors and a crystalline sea that hosts a small pebble beach. Above, in the frame, a prehistoric village dating back to the Bronze Age (1400 BC) with the remains of 22 oval-shaped stone huts and one with a quadrangular shape, perhaps a place of meeting and worship of the community. ** At 16.00 a.c. there is a direct connection that will allow you to reach the island of Stromboli. During this connection you will cross the ancient volcanic caldera of Panarea, you will be able to see the volcanic remains that have emerged, islets and rocks that have formed a mini-archipelago: Formiche, Dattilo, Panarelli, Lisca Nera, Bottaro, Lisca Bianca, Basiluzzo and Punta Spinazzola. Stromboli, "iddu", the black giant that emerges in all its grandeur from the deep blue sea. For millennia it has been one of the most active volcanoes in the world, with its "Strombolian shots" - explosions of lapilli, ashes and magma visible at regular intervals of 15/20 minutes - it is like a beacon for sailors. From the port of San Vincenzo "Scari", immediately attacked, long black beaches of pebbles and sand alternate. From here, a road crosses the village and allows you to reach the Church of San Vincenzo with its panoramic square in front of which you can see Strombolicchio, also known as the "grandfather of Stromboli", above which the lighthouse of the island resides. Continuing along the same road, it is possible to reach the "Casa di Ingrid", today a house museum, where the famous film "Stromboli Terra di Dio" by Roberto Rossellini was filmed with Ingrid Bergman. At dusk, while in all the other islands the evening is spent in a conventional way, with an aperitif, dinner or two visits to the disco, in Stromboli we embark and, passing under the Sciara del Fuoco, it is possible to watch from the sea to the show of incandescent lapilli. When there are effusive eruptions, as happened in 2019, the lava river slides down the slope and ends up in the sea, releasing large columns of steam.

Sicily Catania Airport: Bus Transfer to and from Taormina

Sicily Catania Airport: Bus Transfer to and from Taormina

Enjoy our comfortable buses between Catania Fontanarossa Airport and Taormina City Center. Ride in a regularly-maintained, air-conditioned bus. Avoid the hassle of navigating the public transportation system before or after a long journey, instead, relax and enjoy the views of Italy from the comfort of your seat. Board a modern bus to leave your worries behind, and arrive on time at your destination at the airport, or in the city. Enjoy comfort on board with the cooling ventilation and accessible area for wheelchairs. Moreover, pets are allowed as long as they are in boxes or cages of appropriate sizes and that do not bother other passengers. Blind and deaf people can travel with their guide dogs.

Top sights in Province of Messina

All activities

423 activities found
Sort by:
Recommended

Immersive experiences

Frequently asked questions about Province of Messina

What top attractions are a must-see in Province of Messina?

The must-see attractions in Province of Messina are:

See all must-see sights in Province of Messina

Top Attractions in Province of Messina

Experiences in Province of Messina

Tours in Italy

Things to do in Italy

Other Sightseeing Options in Province of Messina

Want to discover all there is to do in Province of Messina? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Province of Messina

Overall rating

4.5
(5,110 reviews)

I was planning on going to Taormina from Catania on my own but injured my back a few days before arriving. I saw this tour option and thought it was best if I left the driving and planning to someone else. Giovanni was an excellent guide, very chatty and answered all the questions the group had. even gave us recommendations for other things to see. the tour includes Taormina and two other villages that I never would have seen on my own. the views from each are stunning!

We booked this tour because my Godfather obsessed sister insisted I must. And boy was she right!!! First of all, our guide, Marcelo, was spectacular. Not only is he doing what he knows, he is doing what he loves! Beyond the movie-focused tour, we also had the opportunity to experience small-village local Sicily. Needless to say, the moment we got back to the Airbnb we immediately started to rewatch the trilogy! Thank you Marcelo!

Salvatore was an engaging and informative guide. Nothing was too much trouble for him, he was a patient and enthusiastic leader who made the day a truly enjoyable experience.

Trip was great, I recommend this trip. Very nice city and the coast to see. Lunch in Castelmole was prefect, with the view on the coast. Guide Danilo was nice 👍🏼

Great experience. Massimo was a pleasure to be with and have great tips.