Via I Settembre
Messina's bustling central street, alive with shops, eateries, and local charm. A vibrant hub for daily life and culinary exploration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant atmosphere
Via I Settembre
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Messina's bustling central street, alive with shops, eateries, and local charm. A vibrant hub for daily life and culinary exploration.
"A lively artery in Messina, perfect for soaking in local life, delicious food, and a bit of shopping."
🚶♀️ Stroll and Explore
Enjoy a leisurely walk along Via I Settembre to discover hidden gems and local life. :walking:
🍽️ Taste Local Delights
Don't miss trying focaccia and other Sicilian specialties from local vendors. :pizza:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Piazza Cairoli
Near Via I Settembre
The vibrant heart of Messina, perfect for people-watching and soaking in the city's atmosphere.
Local Gastronomy
Various eateries along Via I Settembre
Savor authentic Sicilian street food and traditional dishes at local trattorias and pizzerias.
Shopping Experience
Boutiques and shops on Via I Settembre
Discover unique local crafts, fashion, and souvenirs in the diverse array of shops.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Messina's Heart
Local Flavors and Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stroll and Explore
Enjoy a leisurely walk along Via I Settembre to discover hidden gems and local life. :walking:
🍽️ Taste Local Delights
Don't miss trying focaccia and other Sicilian specialties from local vendors. :pizza:
🎶 Check for Events
Messina often hosts concerts and festivals; check local listings before your visit. :musical_note:
🚗 Be Mindful of Traffic
Via I Settembre can be busy; allow extra time if driving. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stroll and Explore
Enjoy a leisurely walk along Via I Settembre to discover hidden gems and local life. :walking:
🍽️ Taste Local Delights
Don't miss trying focaccia and other Sicilian specialties from local vendors. :pizza:
🎶 Check for Events
Messina often hosts concerts and festivals; check local listings before your visit. :musical_note:
🚗 Be Mindful of Traffic
Via I Settembre can be busy; allow extra time if driving. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Via I Settembre is a lively and central street in Messina, praised for its vibrant atmosphere, diverse dining options, and shopping opportunities. Visitors appreciate its accessibility and the chance to experience local Sicilian life. Some find parking challenging and the street can get crowded during peak times.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Via I Settembre is a main street in the heart of Messina. It's easily accessible by public transport, with several bus lines stopping nearby. If you're arriving by train, it's a short walk or a quick taxi ride from the Messina Centrale station. Many visitors also find it convenient to explore on foot once they are in the city center.
Parking can be challenging in the immediate vicinity of Via I Settembre due to its central location and high traffic. There are paid parking lots and street parking available, but they can fill up quickly, especially during peak hours. It's often recommended to use public transport or park a bit further out and walk.
The best way to experience Via I Settembre is on foot. This allows you to fully appreciate the shops, cafes, and the general ambiance of the street. You can easily hop between different points of interest without the hassle of traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Via I Settembre is a public street, so there are no entrance fees to walk along it or explore the shops and cafes. Any costs would be associated with purchases made at the establishments located on or around the street.
Most shops on Via I Settembre follow standard Italian business hours, typically opening in the morning (around 9:00 AM) and closing for a lunch break (around 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM), then reopening until the evening (around 7:30 PM or 8:00 PM). Some may have extended hours or remain open through lunch.
Yes, Via I Settembre is accessible at night. Many restaurants and bars remain open, offering a different, often lively, atmosphere. The street is well-lit, making it safe for evening strolls.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Via I Settembre and its surrounding areas offer a diverse culinary scene. You'll find traditional Sicilian trattorias, pizzerias serving authentic Neapolitan and Messinese style pizza, cafes for coffee and pastries, and gelaterias. Some spots, like Via Lanterna, offer contemporary dining experiences with gourmet pizzas and unique dishes.
Absolutely! You can find budget-friendly options like focaccerias, street food vendors, and cafes offering lunch deals. For example, Via Lanterna has lunch promotions starting around €12.90 for a meal. Look for 'menu fisso' or 'menu pranzo' for good value.
While many places offer focaccia, Torre Pizzeria Focacceria in Rometta (near Messina) is highly recommended for its delicious focaccia messinese. Exploring the local bakeries and pizzerias along Via I Settembre and its side streets will also yield fantastic options.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant street life, the architecture of the buildings lining the street, and the bustling atmosphere of Piazza Cairoli. The local markets, if present, also offer colorful scenes. Don't forget to photograph the delicious food you try!
Yes, it's generally easy to take photos. However, be mindful of pedestrians and traffic. For more artistic shots, consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for softer light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When dining, look for restaurants with more casual settings or those offering simpler dishes. Many pizzerias and focaccerias are great for a quick and satisfying family meal. Be mindful of the street's busyness during peak hours, and consider visiting during quieter times for a more relaxed experience with younger children.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Exploring the street itself is free, and you can enjoy the atmosphere, window shop, and people-watch without spending a euro. Public transport is also an economical way to reach the area from other parts of Messina.
🛍️ Shoppers
While the street itself is a main thoroughfare, exploring the side streets can reveal hidden gems and artisanal shops. Keep an eye out for local crafts and products that offer a true taste of Sicilian culture. Remember that some shops might close for a midday break, so plan your shopping accordingly.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Messina's Vibrant Street Life
The presence of Piazza Cairoli nearby further enhances the street's liveliness, acting as a central meeting point and a stage for impromptu gatherings. During local festivals or events, Via I Settembre can transform into a vibrant hub of activity, with music, food stalls, and a festive atmosphere. It's this constant flow of life that makes exploring Via I Settembre a truly immersive experience.
Culinary Delights of Via I Settembre
Beyond focaccia, the area boasts numerous pizzerias, trattorias, and modern eateries. Restaurants like Via Lanterna are noted for their contemporary design and innovative cuisine, offering everything from seafood to gourmet pizzas, with attractive lunch promotions. Whether you're looking for a quick espresso, a traditional Sicilian lunch, or a sophisticated dinner, Via I Settembre provides a rich gastronomic journey.
Events and Entertainment
One notable event is 'La Vara di Messina', a traditional procession held on August 15th, which sees the city's streets, including those around the center, come alive with a grand spectacle. Even outside of major festivals, the street's cafes and restaurants often provide a pleasant backdrop for evening entertainment, with locals and visitors alike enjoying the city's vibrant nightlife.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit