- Must visit
Museo Regionale Interdisciplinare di Messina (MuMe)
The city’s main museum, known for important works by Caravaggio and Antonello da Messina, plus archaeology and sculpture collections that explain local history.
Cheapest price
$78
Average price
$104
Fastest journey
8 h 9 m
Average duration
8 h 13 m
Trains per day
11
Distance
487 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Rome to Messina is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Rome to Messina will cost around $104 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $78.
Of the 11 trains that leave Rome for Messina on Mon, May 25, 8 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, May 25 the direct trains cover the 487 km distance in an average of 8 h 13 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 9 m .
On Mon, May 25 the slowest trains will take 8 h 29 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
Intercity 723
Intercity 727
Intercity 727
Intercity 723
Intercity 723+
Regionale 21693
Intercity 723
Intercity 727
Intercity 727
Intercity 723
FRECCIAROSSA 9325+
InterCityNotte 1955Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Rome to Messina among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $21. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 38m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $21, and a train costs an average of $48.
Distance: 302 miles (487 km)
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$87 Average price | $42 Average price Cheapest | $56 Average price | $164 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 42m Average total duration 8h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 50m Average total duration 9h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 38m Average total duration Fastest 1h 38m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 7h 22m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | 1.5 - 2.9kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Rome to Messina:
A bus is $14 (€11) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Rome to Messina costing on average $56 (€45).
A bus is $45 (€36) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Rome to Messina costing on average $87 (€70).
Other travel options to Messina take longer:
Train takes on average 8h 12m.
Bus takes on average 9h 20m.
Tickets start at around {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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.
Direct services run with Intercity, Intercity Notte.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
The table below shows live departures for Rome to Messina trains for today, Sunday, May 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Intercity 723 | 6:10 AM Rome Termini | 9h25 | 3:35 PM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Intercity 723 | 6:10 AM Rome Termini | 9h25 | 3:35 PM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Regionale 23363+ Intercity 723 | 6:15 AM Rome Termini | 9h20 | 3:35 PM Messina Centrale | 1 transfer | |
Regionale 23363+ Intercity 723 | 6:15 AM Rome Termini | 9h20 | 3:35 PM Messina Centrale | 1 transfer | |
Intercity 727 | 10:50 AM Rome Termini | 8h45 | 7:35 PM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
Intercity 727 | 10:50 AM Rome Termini | 8h45 | 7:35 PM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
FRECCIAROSSA 9515+ Intercity 727 | 11:40 AM Rome Termini | 7h55 | 7:35 PM Messina Centrale | 1 transfer | |
InterCityNotte 1955 | 8:16 PM Rome Termini | 8h59 | 5:15 AM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
InterCityNotte 1955 | 8:16 PM Rome Termini | 8h59 | 5:15 AM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
FRECCIAROSSA 9325+ InterCityNotte 1955 | 8:46 PM Rome Termini | 8h29 | 5:15 AM Messina Centrale | 1 transfer | |
InterCityNotte 1959 | 11:00 PM Rome Termini | 9h05 | 8:05 AM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
InterCityNotte 1959 | 11:00 PM Rome Termini | 9h05 | 8:05 AM Messina Centrale | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train, bus, and flight 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 Rome to Messina run on average 9 times per day, taking around 8h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $48 (€39) but you can travel from only $21 (€17) by bus.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:35, the last at 23:53. The fastest train covers the 302 miles (487 km) distance in 8h 9m.
Distance 302 miles (487 km) |
Average train duration 8h 12m |
Cheapest ticket price $48 (€39) |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 8h 9m |
First train 12:35 AM |
Last train 11:53 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 91 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 important works by Caravaggio and Antonello da Messina, plus archaeology and sculpture collections that explain local history.
A historic early-20th-century gallery valued for its architecture and elegant interior. It is often visited as both a cultural stop and a photogenic city landmark.
A contemporary exhibition space in a historic fortification area, occasionally hosting art and cultural displays with strong views over the harbor.
The city’s main square and the best place to experience the cathedral, clock tower show, and some of Messina’s most important monuments together.
The scenic northeastern tip of the city where the Ionian and Tyrrhenian seas meet, popular for coastal views, photography, and social-media-friendly scenery.
A pleasant waterfront promenade for walking, sea views, and watching ferry traffic across the Strait, especially popular in the evening.
Stuffed rice balls, usually filled with ragù, ham and cheese, or butter and mozzarella, then breaded and fried. A Sicilian street-food classic found throughout Messina.
A traditional Messina stuffed turnover, typically filled with escarole, tuma cheese, anchovies, and tomato, then baked or fried. It is one of the city’s signature savory foods.
Thin rolls of meat stuffed with breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs, then grilled. This is a beloved local specialty often served in homes and traditional trattorie.
Recognized seafood-focused restaurant with contemporary Sicilian cooking, especially local fish and swordfish, served in a modern atmosphere.
Established fine-dining restaurant known for refined Sicilian seafood dishes, elegant presentation, and a polished atmosphere in central Messina.
Well-known traditional restaurant popular for classic Messina and Sicilian specialties, including seafood and hearty local pasta dishes, in a casual setting.
Prices are moderate by Italian standards. Cafes and casual meals are reasonable, while seafront dining and summer stays cost more.
Service is often included or covered by coperto. Tipping is not required, but leaving EUR 1-2 at cafes or 5-10% for great restaurant service is appreciated.
Official public transport app
Messina Centrale, Messina -> Piazza Duomo, Messina
The train connection between Rome and Messina offers a convenient way to travel across Italy, with several options available for passengers. You can choose from Intercity, Intercity Notte, and Italo trains that provide comfortable seating and scenic views along the journey. Whether you're looking for a daytime trip or an overnight adventure, these providers ensure you have a pleasant experience as you traverse the beautiful landscapes of Italy.
Traveling from Rome to Messina takes approximately 8 hours and 5 minutes. There are 2 direct connections available each day, departing from Roma Termini and arriving at Messina Centrale.
The first daily journey from Rome to Messina departs at 05:24, while the last train leaves at 22:44. This schedule provides travelers with a range of options for their journey between these two cities in Italy.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Rome to Messina is €51. The average ticket price typically hovers around €73, making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore Sicily's beautiful coastlines and rich history.
Welcome to Messina, where history and beauty intertwine! Our first stop is the magnificent Messina Cathedral, or Duomo di Messina. Built in 1197 and reconstructed after a devastating earthquake in 1908, this stunning example of Norman architecture not only serves as a spiritual center but also houses remarkable artworks that reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Next, we’ll marvel at the Fountain of Orion (Fontana dell'Orione), an exquisite masterpiece completed in 1547 by renowned sculptor Giovanni Angelo Montorsoli. This fountain stands out for its intricate sculptures depicting mythological figures and symbolizes both water's life-giving properties and the city's historical connection to maritime trade. As you admire it, consider how it has become a beloved emblem of local pride over centuries.
Finally, let’s head towards the Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock located adjacent to the cathedral. Completed in 1933 with its impressive mechanism designed by master craftsmen from all over Italy, this clock features animated figurines that perform daily at noon—a spectacle that draws crowds eager to witness time come alive before their eyes. The tower not only marks time but also tells stories through its unique blend of artistry and engineering brilliance!
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rome 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.

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