Messina’s Elevated Escapes: Discovering the City’s Best Rooftop Bars
Ah, Messina. A city where history whispers from ancient ruins, vibrant markets buzz with life, and the Strait of Messina shimmers with an almost magical light. While many come to explore its magnificent Duomo, the awe-inspiring Fountain of Orion, or the historic churches, there’s a whole other dimension to experiencing Messina that often gets overlooked: its burgeoning rooftop bar scene. As a proud Messinese, I can tell you that there’s nothing quite like enjoying an aperitivo with the salty breeze on your face and panoramic views of this stunning corner of Sicily. Forget the crowded piazzas for a moment; let’s ascend and discover where to find the best elevated sips in our beloved city.
Why Rooftop Bars in Messina?
Messina, with its strategic position overlooking the strait, offers some truly spectacular vistas. From a rooftop bar, you can gaze across the water towards the majestic silhouette of Reggio Calabria, watch the ferries crisscross the channel, or simply admire the rooftops of Messina stretching out towards the rolling hills. As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple, these elevated spots transform into truly romantic and memorable settings. They offer a different perspective, a chance to see our city from a new angle, and a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.
My Top Picks for Rooftop Revelry in Messina
While Messina might not boast the sheer number of rooftop bars found in larger Italian cities, the ones we do have are curated with a distinct Sicilian charm and offer quality experiences. Here are my personal favorites, the places I recommend to friends and family visiting, and where you’ll often find me enjoying a well-deserved drink.
1. Terrazza Novecento
Nestled in the heart of the city, near Piazza Cairoli, Terrazza Novecento offers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. This is one of the established names in Messina’s social scene, and its rooftop is a true gem. The view here is primarily of the bustling city center, the elegant architecture of Messina, and on a clear day, you can even catch glimpses of the Peloritani Mountains framing the skyline. It’s particularly lovely in the early evening as the city lights begin to twinkle.
What to Expect: Excellent cocktails, a well-curated wine list featuring local Sicilian vintages, and a selection of appetizing snacks (stuzzichini) to accompany your drinks. The ambiance is chic but unpretentious, making it suitable for a romantic evening or a catch-up with friends. They often play a good mix of music, adding to the enjoyable atmosphere.
Insider Tip: Ask your bartender for a recommendation from their signature cocktail list. They are known for their creative twists on classics, often incorporating local ingredients like prickly pear or almond. It’s also a great spot to start your evening before heading to dinner in the nearby historic center.
2. Il Giardino dei Ciliegi (The Cherry Garden)
This is a bit of a hidden treasure, often frequented by locals who appreciate its serene ambiance and beautiful setting. Located a short distance from the immediate city center, it requires a bit more effort to reach, but the reward is a tranquil escape. The name itself, ‘The Cherry Garden,’ hints at a charming, perhaps slightly more intimate experience, and that’s exactly what you get. The views here often encompass a wider panorama, sometimes including parts of the harbor and the strait.
What to Expect: A more laid-back vibe compared to Terrazza Novecento. Expect refreshing drinks, often with a focus on lighter fare, perfect for a warm Sicilian afternoon or evening. The garden aspect might mean it’s a bit more verdant and less strictly ‘rooftop’ in the skyscraper sense, but the elevated position and open-air feel are undeniable.
Insider Tip: This place is perfect for a lazy afternoon drink or a pre-dinner aperitivo when you want to avoid the usual crowds. It’s a place to linger and truly soak in the Messinese atmosphere. Check their opening hours, as they can sometimes be more seasonal or have specific afternoon/evening slots.
3. Rooftop Bar at Hotel Excelsior Palace
For a touch of classic elegance and breathtaking views, the rooftop bar at the Hotel Excelsior Palace is an absolute must-visit. This historic hotel overlooks the harbor and the iconic Messina lighthouse, offering some of the most commanding and picturesque views of the Strait of Messina. The panorama is simply spectacular, especially at sunset when the water glows and the Calabrian coast is bathed in golden light.
What to Expect: A more upscale experience. Expect expertly crafted cocktails, a premium selection of wines and spirits, and attentive service. The setting is refined, often with comfortable seating and ambient lighting, making it ideal for special occasions or when you want to indulge a bit.
Insider Tip: This is arguably one of the best spots in Messina to watch the sunset over the Strait. Arrive a little before sunset to secure a good spot and order your drink to fully appreciate the spectacle. While it’s part of a hotel, non-guests are welcome, but it’s wise to check if reservations are recommended, especially during peak season.
4. Discovering Pop-Up and Seasonal Spots
Messina’s social scene, like many Italian cities, can be dynamic. Beyond the established venues, keep an eye out for seasonal pop-up bars or temporary rooftop events, especially during the summer months. These often appear on top of less obvious buildings, sometimes advertised through local social media groups or word-of-mouth. These can offer unique, sometimes more bohemian, experiences with stunning, albeit sometimes less polished, views.
What to Expect: A more casual and potentially surprising experience. Drinks might be simpler, but the atmosphere is often lively and authentic. These are the places where you might stumble upon local DJs or live music, offering a very ‘of the moment’ Messina vibe.
Insider Tip: Follow local Messina event pages or ask your hotel concierge if they know of any temporary rooftop bars or special events happening during your visit. These often offer a more authentic, local experience.
What to Drink: A Taste of Sicily from Above
When you’re sipping drinks on a Messina rooftop, it’s the perfect opportunity to embrace local flavors. Don’t just stick to standard cocktails; explore the Sicilian offerings!
- Sicilian Wines: Ask for local wines like Nero d’Avola (a robust red), Grillo (a crisp white), or Etna Bianco. Many rooftop bars will have a good selection of regional wines that perfectly complement the sea air.
- Aperol Spritz/Campari Spritz: The quintessential Italian aperitivo. Enjoying this classic with a view of the Strait is a must-do.
- Local Liqueurs: Try a shot of Amaro (a bitter herbal liqueur) or Limoncello (a sweet lemon liqueur) after your meal or as a digestif. Some bars might even have their own unique infusions.
- Signature Cocktails: As mentioned with Terrazza Novecento, many places pride themselves on signature cocktails. These often incorporate Sicilian citrus, almonds, or even local herbs.
Practical Tips for Your Rooftop Experience
To make the most of your elevated evenings in Messina, here are a few tips:
- Check Opening Hours: Rooftop bars can be seasonal and their hours can vary. It’s always a good idea to check their social media pages or call ahead, especially if you’re visiting outside of the peak summer months.
- Dress Code: While Messina is generally a relaxed city, most rooftop bars, especially those at hotels or more upscale venues, appreciate smart casual attire. Think nice shorts or trousers, a stylish shirt or blouse. Avoid beachwear.
- Reservations: For popular spots or during busy periods (like weekends or holidays), making a reservation is highly recommended, especially if you want a table with a prime view.
- Weather: Sicily can be windy, especially near the coast. While this is part of the charm, it might be wise to bring a light jacket or shawl, even on a warm evening.
- Getting There: Most of these bars are located in accessible areas of Messina. If you’re staying in the city center, many will be within walking distance. Otherwise, taxis are readily available.
Beyond the Drinks: The True Value of a Rooftop Bar
More than just a place to grab a drink, Messina’s rooftop bars offer an experience. They are perfect for a romantic date, a celebratory toast, or simply a moment of quiet contemplation overlooking a city rich in history and culture. They provide a perspective that ground level cannot, allowing you to appreciate the scale of the Duomo, the sweep of the harbor, and the connection between Messina and its Calabrian neighbor across the water.
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So, the next time you find yourself in Messina, after you’ve marveled at the astronomical clock, visited the regional museum, or simply enjoyed a granita by the sea, make sure to ascend. Seek out one of these elevated oases. Raise a glass to the Strait, to the city, and to the unparalleled beauty of Sicily. Buon aperitivo!
