- Must visit
Museo Regionale Interdisciplinare di Messina (MuMe)
The city’s main museum, known for works by Caravaggio and Antonello da Messina, plus archaeological finds and decorative arts from the wider province.
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Civitavecchia to Messina among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $66. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 9h 19m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $66, and a train costs an average of $35.
Distance: 334 miles (538 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$97 Average price | $66 Average price Cheapest | $151 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 49m Average total duration Fastest 9h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 20h 19m Average total duration 19h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 14m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Civitavecchia to Messina:
A bus is $31 (€25) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Civitavecchia to Messina costing on average $97 (€79).
Other travel options to Messina take longer:
Bus takes on average 19h 49m.
Tickets start at around $97 (€79) compared to roughly $151 (€124) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $55 (€45). The journey takes 9h 19m versus 8h 14m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Compare bus and train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Trains from Civitavecchia to Messina run on average 6 times per day, taking around 9h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $35 (€29) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:35, the last at 22:10. The fastest train covers the 334 miles (538 km) distance in 9h 53m.
Distance 334 miles (538 km) |
Average train duration 9h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price $35 (€29) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 9h 53m |
First train 12:35 AM |
Last train 10:10 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 35 days |
Discover the best of Messina — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Messina trip today.
The city’s main museum, known for works by Caravaggio and Antonello da Messina, plus archaeological finds and decorative arts from the wider province.
Museum treasury linked to the cathedral, displaying liturgical objects and sacred artworks that help explain Messina’s religious and artistic history.
Contemporary art venue connected with the Horcynus Orca cultural foundation, often appreciated for exhibitions in a more alternative setting near the strait.
The symbolic heart of Messina, home to the cathedral, astronomical clock, and major monuments, making it the essential starting point for most visits.
The waterfront promenade is a popular walking area with harbour views, open space, and an easy way to experience the city’s relationship with the strait.
A panoramic viewpoint near the shrine of Cristo Re, especially popular for sunset photos over the harbour and the Strait of Messina.
Fried rice balls, usually filled with ragù, mozzarella, or butter and ham. A classic Sicilian street food widely loved in Messina.
A traditional Messina stuffed turnover, typically filled with escarole, tuma cheese, anchovies, and tomato, then baked or fried.
Messina’s signature focaccia topped with escarole, tomatoes, tuma cheese, and anchovies. It is one of the city’s most distinctive savory specialties.
A respected restaurant in Messina appreciated for refined Sicilian cooking, seafood specialties, and an elegant setting.
An established Messina seafood restaurant known for classic Sicilian dishes, polished service, and a traditional atmosphere.
Historic pastry and café venue famous for granita, cannoli, and classic Sicilian sweets in a lively, traditional setting.
Generally moderate by Italian standards. Cafes and casual meals are affordable, while seafront dining and summer stays cost more.
Service is often included or a coperto may apply. Tipping is not required, but leaving EUR 1-2 at cafes or 5-10% for very good restaurant service is appreciated. Round up taxis.
Official public transport app
Messina Centrale, Messina -> Piazza Cairoli, Messina
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Civitavecchia to Messina by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Messina, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need