Essential Messina Walking Tour
Tour Times: 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM
Don't Port,
Don't Pay Security
Back-to-Ship
Guarantee
Hassle-free
Cancellation
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup and Dropoff at the Cruise Port Included
Overview
Discover the fascinating history of Messina, one of Sicily’s oldest cities, founded in the 8th century BC by the Greeks under the name Zancle.
Despite being almost completely destroyed by the devastating earthquake of 1908, Messina has risen proudly from the ruins and continues to preserve a rich cultural and artistic heritage.
Our walking tour begins along the picturesque seafront promenade, where you’ll admire the Monument of the Virgin Mary of the Letter, patron saint of the city, standing watch over the Strait of Messina that separates Sicily from Calabria.
We’ll then stop at the Fountain of Neptune, a 16th-century masterpiece and one of Messina’s most iconic landmarks, perfect for memorable photos.
Strolling along Via Garibaldi, the city’s main boulevard, you’ll be surrounded by elegant neoclassical and Liberty-style buildings that define the historical center.
Along the way, we’ll admire the Theatre, the impressive City Hall (Palazzo Zanca), and enjoy sweeping views of the skyline dotted with the Temple of Christ the King and the Sanctuary of Montalto.
The highlight of the tour is Cathedral Square, home to the magnificent Duomo of Messina and its world-famous Bell Tower.
Inside the Cathedral, you’ll marvel at exquisite works of art and glittering Byzantine mosaics.
At noon sharp, you’ll witness the spectacular mechanical show of the Bell Tower, the largest astronomical clock in the world, built in 1933, a truly unforgettable experience.
Our journey continues with a visit to the Museum of Sicilian Puppets, showcasing the treasured Gargano family collection, a five-generation tradition of craftsmanship dating back to the 1800s.
You’ll even have the chance to meet members of this historic puppeteer family.
Next, we’ll visit the Church of the Catalans, a remarkable example of Norman architecture from the 12th century, standing at the original level of the medieval city.
We’ll conclude the tour with a tasting of traditional Sicilian desserts in one of Messina’s most renowned pastry shops, a sweet ending to a day filled with art, history, and culture.
What's Included
- English Speaking Guide
- Entrance Fees
- Headsets to listen to guide
- Museum of The Sicilian Puppets
- Sweet Tasting
- Food and Drinks
- Personal Expenses
- Tips/Gratuities
- Entrance to the Bell Tower
- Transportation
Itinerary
Meet and Greet at the Cruise Port
Tour Start
Walking 10 Minutes
From the Port to the Promenade
Photo Opportunity
Monument of Virgin May
Walking 10 Minutes
Strait of Messina and Fountain of God Neptune
Walking 10 Minutes
Theatre Vittorio Emanuele
Walking 10 Minutes
Palazzo Zanca (City Hall) European Union Square
Walking 15 Minutes
Bell Tower Show
Visit 15 Minutes
Museum of the Sicilian Puppets
Pastry Shop Stop 15 Minutes
Enjoy a typical Sicilian dessert
Return back to cruise port
Tour End
Note: The itinerary timings are approximate and may change on the day
Considerations
-
Swimwear is not allowed in The Cathedral
-
Minimum number of guests per group is 4 guests
-
Maximum number of guests per group is 25 guests
Special Instructions
-
Wear comfortable walking shoes
-
Bring your sunscreen, sunglasses and sunhat
-
This tour can accommodate foldable wheelchairs
-
Bring cash and/or credit card for any additional purchases on the day
-
Bring your camera to capture wonderful memories of your time ashore!
Book Now
Please select a date and time and number of participants to continue.
Price Info
Essential Messina Walking Tour
Per Adult
USD $ 50.00
Per Child - Ages 4-12
USD $ 40.00
Per Infant - Ages 0-3
USD $ 15.00
Tour added successfully
POPULAR DESTINATIONS
- Destinations
- Tours & Packages
- Travel Agents
-
Cart
-
USD
GBP
AUD
EUR
CAD
-
(888) 927-3620
United States -
+44 (0) 800 208 8722
United Kingdom
Your Currency
Contact Us
Log in to Venture Ashore
Great Experiences Await!
Forgot your password?
Back-to-Ship Guarantee
Guaranteed return to ship on transportation included excursions. See full terms.
Don't Port, Don't Pay Security
Ship itinerary change? If this port is skipped, you don’t pay. Zero hassle, zero risk.
Create a new account
You'll zip through it!
Email *
Confirm Email *
Password *
Confirm Password *
First Name *
Last Name *