Rent a Campervan in Messina | Campcruisers
Welcome to Messina, the gateway to Sicily! Your adventure begins here. Rent a campervan in Messina and unlock the freedom to explore ancient ruins, stunning coastlines, and the majestic Mount Etna at your own pace. With Campcruisers, your ideal RV is waiting. Start planning your unforgettable Sicilian road trip today.
No Data Found
Discover Messina: The Gateway to Your Sicilian Adventure
Welcome to Messina, the vibrant city that serves as the majestic gateway to Sicily. Situated in the northeast corner of the island, Messina is a city defined by its strategic location on the Strait of Messina, a narrow body of water separating Sicily from mainland Italy. With a population of over 230,000 people, it's the third-largest city in Sicily and a bustling hub of commerce, culture, and history. Its history is a rich tapestry woven with threads of triumph and tragedy. Founded as a Greek colony named Zancle (meaning 'scythe' because of its natural harbor's shape), it has been ruled by Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, and Normans, each leaving an indelible mark on its architecture and culture. A pivotal moment in its history was the devastating earthquake and subsequent tsunami of 1908, which leveled the city. The resilient spirit of its people led to a complete reconstruction, resulting in the modern, elegant city you see today, with wide streets and earthquake-resistant buildings.
The famous Renaissance painter Antonello da Messina is one of the city's most celebrated sons, a testament to its artistic heritage. When you rent a campervan Messina, you are positioning yourself at the perfect starting point for an epic Sicilian journey. The city's climate is typically Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The best time to rent an RV Messina is during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is perfectly warm for sightseeing and outdoor activities, the landscapes are lush and vibrant, and the tourist crowds are smaller than in the peak summer months of July and August. An RV gives you the ultimate flexibility to chase the sun along the coast or seek cooler air in the nearby Peloritani mountains. Choosing to rent a campervan Messina is not just about a vehicle; it's about embracing the freedom to discover Sicily's soul, from its ancient history to its breathtaking natural beauty, all on your own schedule.
Top Sights and Unforgettable Activities Around Messina
Once you've settled into your campervan, Messina and its surroundings offer a treasure trove of sights and activities. Your journey begins in the heart of the city at the Piazza del Duomo. Here, you'll find the magnificent Messina Cathedral (Duomo di Messina), a Norman-era masterpiece that has been rebuilt multiple times. Its main attraction is the astronomical clock in the bell tower – the largest of its kind in the world. Be sure to be there at noon to witness the spectacle of gilded bronze statues moving to the sound of Schubert's Ave Maria.
Just a few steps away, admire the Fontana di Orione, a stunning Renaissance fountain created by a student of Michelangelo. For a dose of art and history, drive your camper to the Regional Museum of Messina (MuMe), which houses priceless works of art, including two masterpieces by Caravaggio, rescued from the rubble of the 1908 earthquake. For panoramic views, a visit to the Sacrario di Cristo Re is a must. This monumental shrine sits atop a hill, offering breathtaking vistas of the city and the strait. The flexibility you get when you rent an RV Messina means you can easily explore beyond the city center. Drive up into the Peloritani Mountains for hiking and to discover quaint, hidden villages. Or head south to the stunning nature reserve at Isola Bella near Taormina. Having your accommodation on wheels allows you to experience both the cultural highlights and the natural wonders of this region without being tied to a single location. Whether you are looking to rent a 4x4 camper Messina for more rugged exploration or a comfortable family RV, the region is yours to discover.
Unforgettable Road Trip Itineraries from Messina
Messina is the perfect launchpad for some of Sicily's most spectacular road trips. With your campervan, you have the freedom to follow the coastline, venture inland, and wake up to a new, incredible view every day. Here are a few tour ideas to get your adventure started:
🚐 The Ionian Riviera & Mount Etna (3-4 Days)
This classic route takes you down Sicily's stunning eastern coast. It's a perfect first journey when you rent a campervan Messina.
Day 1: Messina to Taormina. Drive south along the coast, stopping at charming seaside villages like Savoca (a filming location for 'The Godfather'). Park your camper and explore the world-famous town of Taormina, with its ancient Greek Theatre and breathtaking views of the sea and Mount Etna. Find a campsite nearby for the night.
Day 2: Mount Etna Exploration. Today is all about Europe's most active volcano. Drive up the winding roads of Mount Etna to Rifugio Sapienza. From here, you can take the cable car and a special 4x4 bus to get close to the summit craters. It's an unforgettable experience. Spend the night at a campsite on the volcano's slopes.
Day 3: Catania and the Cyclops Riviera. Descend from Etna and head to Catania, Sicily's second-largest city. Explore its vibrant fish market and baroque architecture. Afterwards, drive north along the Riviera dei Ciclopi, named after the mythical one-eyed giants. Admire the sea stacks at Aci Trezza before heading back towards Messina or continuing your journey.
⛵ The Tyrrhenian Coast & Aeolian Islands Gateway (3-4 Days)
Explore the beautiful northern coast of Sicily and the gateway to a volcanic archipelago.
Day 1: Messina to Milazzo. Drive west to the peninsula of Milazzo. Explore the town's impressive castle and enjoy the beaches. Milazzo is the main port for ferries to the Aeolian Islands. Park your camper securely at a local campsite for a couple of nights.
Day 2: Aeolian Island Hopping. Leave the camper for the day and take a hydrofoil to explore the stunning Aeolian Islands. You could visit Lipari, the largest island, hike the volcano on Vulcano, or see the chic island of Panarea and the fiery Stromboli at night.
Day 3: Tindari and Cefalù. Retrieve your camper and continue west. Stop at the Sanctuary of the Black Madonna of Tindari, perched high on a cliff with incredible views. End your day in the beautiful medieval town of Cefalù, with its Norman cathedral and sandy beaches. This is one of Sicily's most beloved spots.
Returning Your Campervan Spotless in Messina
Before you return your vehicle from your trip where you decided to rent a campervan Messina, it needs to be clean, inside and out. Finding a car wash that can accommodate the height and width of a campervan or motorhome can be tricky. Standard automatic car washes are too small. You need to look for a manual wash bay (autolavaggio self-service) with high ceilings or a facility specifically designed for trucks and large vehicles (lavaggio camion).
This is essential to avoid any issues upon returning your camper. Here are a few suitable locations in and around Messina where you can get your campervan sparkling clean:
1. Lavaggio Self Service Tir C&G
This facility is specifically designed for trucks (TIR) and large vehicles, making it a perfect choice. It offers high-pressure hoses and ample space to maneuver your campervan.
Address: Via Adolfo Celi, 1, 98125 Messina ME, Italy
2. Autolavaggio TIR Lanzafame
Located a short drive outside Messina in Villafranca Tirrena, this is another excellent option specialized in washing large commercial vehicles. They have the equipment and space needed for a thorough clean.
Address: Contrada Fiumarella, 98049 Villafranca Tirrena ME, Italy
3. Area di Servizio Tremestieri Sud
If you are traveling on the A20 motorway towards Messina, this service station often has facilities for larger vehicles. It's a convenient option to clean your camper just before entering the city to drop it off.
Address: A20 Messina-Palermo, 98128 Messina ME, Italy (Southbound lane)
Always check the height clearance before entering any wash bay and bring some coins or small bills, as many self-service stations operate on them. Planning this final step will ensure a smooth and easy return of your campervan.
How to Get to Messina: Your International Travel Guide
