Essential Messina Walking Tour
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Hassle-free
Cancellation
2.5 hours (approx.)
Small Group Tour
Moderate
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.
ITINERARY
- • Meet and Greet at the Port
- • Walk from the port to the promenade (10 mins)
- • Monument of Virgin Mary (10 mins)
- • Strait of Messina and Fountain of God Neptune (10 mins)
- • Theatre “Vittorio Emanuele” (10 mins)
- • Palazzo Zanca (City Hall)and European Union Square (10 mins)
- • Messina Cathedral (10 mins)
- • Bell Tower Show (15 mins)
- • Museum of the Sicilian Puppets (15 mins)
- • Piazza Antonello and Church of Catalans (15 mins)
- • Stop at a local pastry shop for a tasting of typical Sicilian desserts (cannolo, granita or gelato) (15 mins)
- • Return back to cruise port
Please note, the itinerary timings are approximate and may change on the day
- • Return back to cruise port
- • Stop at a local pastry shop for a tasting of typical Sicilian desserts (cannolo, granita or gelato) (15 mins)
- • Piazza Antonello and Church of Catalans (15 mins)
- • Museum of the Sicilian Puppets (15 mins)
- • Bell Tower Show (15 mins)
- • Messina Cathedral (10 mins)
- • Palazzo Zanca (City Hall)and European Union Square (10 mins)
- • Theatre “Vittorio Emanuele” (10 mins)
- • Strait of Messina and Fountain of God Neptune (10 mins)
- • Monument of Virgin Mary (10 mins)
- • Walk from the port to the promenade (10 mins)
What's Included
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English Speaking Guide
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Entrance Fees
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Headsets to listen to guide
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Museum of The Sicilian Puppets
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Sweet Tasting
Considerations
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Food and drinks are not included (Except where stated)
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Transportation
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Entrance to the Bell Tower
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Museum of The Cathedral
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Crypth of The Cathedral
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Swimwear is not allowed in The Cathedral
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Minimum number of guests per group is 4 guests
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Maximum number of guests per group is 25 guests
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Gratuities/Tips are not included in your tour, if you would like to leave a tip, please bring cash
Special Instructions
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Wear comfortable walking shoes
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Bring your sunscreen, sunglasses and sunhat
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This tour can accommodate foldable wheelchairs
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Bring cash and/or credit card for any additional purchases on the day
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Bring your camera to capture wonderful memories of your time ashore!
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup and Dropoff at the Cruise Port Included.
Book Now
Please select a date and time for this tour to continue.
Price Info
Essential Messina Walking Tour
Per Adult
USD $ 55.00
Per Child - Ages 4-12
USD $ 40.00
Per Infant - Ages 0-3
USD $ 15.00
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