Historical Walking Tour in Messina’s Old Town
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all ages with basic walking fitness.
Overview
Step back in time with a 2.5-hour guided walk through Messina’s historic centre, featuring medieval churches, the famous Bell Tower show, and Sicilian sweets.
Messina walking tour of the historical centre
From 35€ • For all ages • 2,5 hours walking tour • Cultural and historical tour
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About This Adventure
Explore the historical center of Messina on a captivating 2.5-hour walking tour. Discover medieval churches, the stunning Piazza Duomo, and the famous Bell Tower show. Savor authentic Sicilian cannoli and visit the unique Museum of Puppets Theatre, showcasing a cherished family collection. Experience the rich culture and history of Messina!
Visit the historical centre of Messina with its main attraction: the Bell Tower!
Rates
- Adult (group max 30 people): 35 €
- Adult (group max 16 people): 50 €
- Adult (private tour): 71 €
- Child: 22 € (does not apply to private tours)
- Infant: Free (does not apply to private tours)
Duration
2,5 hours
About
Choose a Messina walking tour and discover the cultural heritage and the history of Messina Sicily city center: from the medieval churches to the modern style monuments, built after the 1908 earthquake and the bombings of the Second World War, the city has many tourist attractions to offer.
Among the other Messina tours from the port, this 2,5 hours long Messina walking tour gives you the opportunity to fully appreciate the highlights of the city, enjoying a relaxing and cultural stroll: our tour guide will show you some of the most precious gems of our city, such as the Catalani Church, one of the few elements that we didn’t lose after the earthquake of 1908.
During the tour your tour guide will take you to a pastry shop to taste delicious Sicilian cannoli or granita, to experience typical Sicilian flavors.
Another highlight of the tour will be Piazza Duomo, to visit the medieval Cathedral with its impressive mosaics and many works of art. After attending the Bell Tower show at noon, when all the statues located in the main front of the bell tower move.
To end the Messina walking tour you will visit the outstanding Museum of Puppets Theatre of the Gargano family. Here you will admire part of the priceless collection of Sicilian Puppets that the Gargano family preserves from generation to generation since the earliest years of the XIX century.
More information
When there are more than 15 people on the tour, headsets will be provided so everyone can hear the commentary.
What to bring
comfortable shoes, umbrella.
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable shoes
Cobblestone streets and uneven pavement require sturdy, comfortable walking shoes.
Bring a camera
The Bell Tower’s mechanical show and intricate architecture offer amazing photo opportunities.
Stay hydrated
Carry water, especially in warm months, as the tour involves continuous walking outdoors.
Check the Bell Tower schedule
Plan your visit to coincide with the clock show times for the full experience.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Sicilian swifts soaring above the city
- Pigeons commonly found in Piazza Duomo
History
Messina’s port has been a strategic Mediterranean gateway since ancient Greek times, influencing its diverse cultural heritage.
Conservation
Local efforts focus on preserving historical landmarks and promoting sustainable tourism to protect Messina’s urban heritage.
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Adventure Hotspots in Messina
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Needed for navigating uneven historic streets.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during the stroll.
spring;summer;fall;winter specific
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Protect yourself from Sicilian sun exposure.
summer;spring;fall specific
Camera or smartphone
Capture moments of the Bell Tower show and architecture.