Messina Sicily, Italy Travel Guide
Temperatures typically range from 15-22°C (59-72°F). Rainfall is moderate, and the landscape is lush and blooming. Days are long and sunny.
Hot and dry, with temperatures between 25-35°C (77-95°F). July and August often see temperatures exceeding 30°C (86°F). Sunshine is abundant, and precipitation is very low. Sea breezes can bring some relief, but the sun is intense.
The Strait of Messina, due to its unique geography, experiences strong winds, specifically during winter. These winds might occasionally affect ferry schedules, leading to minor delays or cancellations.
Heatwaves are a possibility during summer, with temperatures occasionally soaring beyond average, needing careful hydration and sun protection. Pay attention to local weather forecasts during your visit.
Peak tourism
Warmest weather, perfect for beaches and swimming. Long daylight hours for extensive exploration.
Crowds are larger, especially in July and August. Prices for flights and accommodation are at their peak. Very hot temperatures make extensive sightseeing uncomfortable, especially during midday.
Ideal balance
Temperatures are pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Crowds are fewer than in summer, creating a more relaxed experience. Prices for flights and accommodation are lower than in high season. May and September stand out as especially pleasant months. The sea is warm enough for swimming in May and September.
Some coastal facilities or smaller lidos may have reduced hours or be closed in April and October. Occasional rain showers can occur, especially in late autumn.
Quiet & economical
Fewest tourists, offering a genuine local experience. Prices are at their lowest for accommodation and flights. Winters are mild compared to northern Europe, making it a good escape for those seeking a quiet Italian getaway.
Cooler temperatures and higher chance of rain. Some tourist services, attractions, or specific restaurants may be closed or have limited hours. Coastal towns can feel quiet.
Citizens of many non-EU/EEA/Swiss countries need a Schengen visa. This visa permits stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period for tourism or business across the entire Schengen Area. To apply, submit forms, valid passport, biometric photos, a detailed travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, and evidence of sufficient financial means to an Italian embassy or consulate in your home country. Citizens from numerous countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Japan, and South Korea, do not require a Schengen visa for stays up to 90 days. However, from mid-2025, visa-exempt travelers will apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorization prior to travel. This is not a visa but a pre-travel authorization similar to ESTA for the USA. If you plan to stay longer than 90 days for purposes like study, work, or residency, you will need a specific national visa for Italy. Obtain this from an Italian embassy or consulate in your country of origin well in advance of your planned departure.
Carry these documents, both original and copies, during your travel: Passport (valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area, issued within the last 10 years and contains at least two blank pages for stamps), Visa (if applicable, correctly affixed in your passport), Return/Onward Ticket, Proof of Accommodation, Proof of Sufficient Funds, Travel Insurance (mandatory for Schengen visa applications, with a minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical emergencies and repatriation), and Photos (passport-sized, biometric photos are for visa applications).
No general entry fees to Italy. Standard immigration procedures apply.
No special permits are generally needed for tourism activities in Messina or elsewhere in Sicily.
No specific health-related entry requirements for Italy beyond general international travel health advice.
From mid-2025, visa-exempt travelers will apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorization prior to travel.
For stays longer than 90 days, a specific national visa for Italy is necessary, obtained from an Italian embassy or consulate.
Prices can fluctuate based on the season and your travel style.
The official currency in Messina, and throughout Italy, is the Euro (€, EUR). ATMs are widely available in Messina, especially in the city center, for convenient cash withdrawals. Most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops accept major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard).
Tipping is not as common or expected in Italy as it is in some other countries, like the United States. Many restaurants include a "coperto" (cover charge, typically €1-€3 per person) or a "servizio" (service charge) on the bill.
A general guide for typical costs.
Italy is a safe travel destination, but awareness of local conditions is always wise.
No specific vaccinations for Italy for most international travelers.
Ensure your routine vaccinations are up to date (MMR, Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis, Varicella, Polio, annual Flu shot).
Hepatitis A and B are recommended for most travelers. Consult your doctor or a travel clinic at least 4-6 weeks before travel for personalized advice.
High Hygiene Standards
Tap water in Messina is generally safe to drink unless a specific sign indicates otherwise (e.g., "acqua non potabile" - water not drinkable). Bottled water is readily available everywhere.
Food hygiene standards are high in Italy. Eating at busy establishments with good turnover is a good practice. Ensure hot food is served hot.
Drinking bottled water is a good precaution if concerned about tap water.
Use 112 to reach all emergency services: police, ambulance, and fire department.
Messina has major public hospitals, including "Ospedale Papardo" and "Policlinico Gaetano Martino".
Pharmacies (identified by a green cross sign, "farmacia") are numerous and provide advice for minor ailments and over-the-counter medications.
Messina is generally safe for tourists. Violent crime is rare.
Awareness of regional geological and weather patterns is a good idea.
Sicily is an active seismic zone. While major earthquakes are infrequent, minor tremors can occur. Familiarize yourself with earthquake safety procedures: Drop, Cover, and Hold On. Hotels often post evacuation plans.
Mount Etna is an active volcano. Messina sits at a safe distance from immediate volcanic hazards. During eruptions, ash fall may occur in Messina, typically a minor air quality inconvenience but not dangerous to health.
Extreme heat during summer months can pose health risks. There is a risk of wildfires during hot, dry summer months, especially in rural and mountainous areas. Care is needed with open flames or discarding cigarettes.
