Messina
Discover a remarkable myriad of ancient Moorish and European influences that includes Baroque architecture, Greek temples and ruins, Arab-style Norman churches and Roman mosaics. This third largest city on the island of Sicily also boasts of sweet treats to its visitors such as marzipan, pastries, cannoli, gelato, cassata and other Arabic creations.
SuperStar Libra Shore Excursions:
Alcantara Gorges (LMES-1)
Enjoy a drive through the main centre of this lively port until the Alcantara Grottos, which is a long corridor of strangely formed basalt. Wearing special waterproof trousers and boots, enter the gorge and walk into the water along the river.
Beach Naxos (LMES-2)
Enjoy a ride towards Giardini Naxos – the first Greek colony in Sicily, passing by the Taormina bay. You will see sights of Mediterranean vegetation, flowers, orange trees, lemon trees, little villages along the Ionian coast and beautiful panoramic view of the straits of Messina. Upon arrival, enjoy some free leisure time at the Naxos seaside.
Messina and Its Museums (LMES-3)
Enjoy a guided tour of Piazza Municipio, Via Garibaldi, Piazza Cairoli, Via Cannizzaro and Corso Cavour. Next, head towards Cristo Re Church and then to the Museum where you will find famous paintings of Caravaggio and Antonello da Messina. Stop by at the Cathedral Square with its astronomical clock tower before visiting the interior of the Cathedral.
Mt Etna (LMES-4)
Enjoy a drive up the mountain, passing through the town of Giarre and the village of Zafferana. This mountain is the largest active volcano in Europe. From the top, you will be able to admire the Gulf of Catania and the major attraction – the crater and remnants of the awe-inspiring streams of lava.
Mt Etna and Taormina (LMES-5)
Enjoy a drive up the mountain, passing through the town of Giarre and the village of Zafferana. This mountain is the largest active volcano in Europe. From the top, you will be able to admire the Gulf of Catania and the major attraction – the crater and remnants of the awe-inspiring streams of lava.
After lunch, you will be driven to Taormina. View the famous Gothic Corvaja Palace and then the impressive Greek Theatre reconstructed in Roman style in the 2nd century A.D. It is the 2nd largest theatre in Sicily after Syracuse. Spend some free time exploring the pedestrian area and shop for some local products.
Savoca and Forza D’Agro (LMES-6)
Take a walk to the Church of the Capucines, the Chiesa Madre and Chiesa di S. Lucia. Next, visit the famous Bar Vitelli used during the filming of the Godfather series movies. Explore the steep alleys and the ruins of the medieval castle. Proceed to Forza D’Agro. Here you will find the Church of the Annonciation.
Taormina (LMES-7)
Taormina is one of the most popular Mediterranean sun spots. View the famous Gothic Corvaja Palace and then the impressive Greek Theatre reconstructed in Roman style in the 2nd century A.D. It is the 2nd largest theatre in Sicily after Syracuse. Spend some free time exploring the pedestrian area and shop for some local products.
