The crystal clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea bathe the splendid city of Milazzo, with its peninsula extending boldly into the sea, as if it wanted to touch the sun.
The beaches and promontories gracefully adorn this thin strip of land that runs over seven kilometers of the northern Sicilian coast. The hilly area is a true natural wonder, dividing itself into two neighborhoods: an ancient one, positioned at the top, and a modern one, which extends towards the sea.
Milazzo is a city rich in history, with a fascinating architectural heritage. The combination of its natural beauty and the hospitality it offers makes this city an ideal place to spend a holiday among breathtaking landscapes and crystal clear sea.
The undisputed symbol of Milazzo is the Federico II Castle, the largest in Sicily. This majestic and imposing structure extends over more than seven hectares of land and covers almost 14,000 square meters, testifying to the influence of multiple dominations over the centuries. The Normans made the castle even stronger, building the Keep between the 11th and 12th centuries, while the Swabians, Aragonese and Spanish subsequently expanded it to underline its strategic importance.
In Milazzo, you absolutely cannot miss a visit to the suggestive Ancient Cathedral, which boasts a thousand-year history. Built with skill between the 17th and 18th centuries, it stands majestically near the majestic castle. Right next door it is possible to admire the suggestive ruins of the old Palazzo dei Giurati, which once housed the ancient Senate of the City. But the architectural wonders don't end here! You cannot miss visiting the New Cathedral of Santo Stefano, which, dedicated to the Protomartyr, stands imposingly in the heart of the city and was built in the middle of the last century. Navigating the streets of the ancient village, you will also come across other centuries-old churches with elegant facades, which date back to the Renaissance and Baroque periods. I advise you to admire the majesty of the Church of San Rocco, the elegance of the Church of the Immaculate Conception and the evocative atmosphere of the Church of the SS. Savior. And never forget that the historic sixteenth-century church of Nostra Signora del SS. Rosario, with its unique architecture, was even the seat of the Tribunal of the Inquisition until 1782.
Walking curiously through the streets of Milazzo, you can admire sumptuous Art Nouveau buildings, such as the evocative Villa Vaccarino and the fascinating Trifiletti Theatre, dating back to the early twentieth century. It is a must to explore the Vaccarella district, where the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore stands majestically, built between 1610 and 1621. Garibaldi stopped one day on its steps to enjoy a simple meal of bread and onions. Here we also find the suggestive Church of San Giacomo Apostolo, dating back to the fifteenth century, and that of the late sixteenth century, dedicated to the Madonna del Carmine. On the subject of places of worship, one cannot help but mention the wonderful Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, famous for the apparitions of the Madonna and her Child. You cannot miss a visit to the Museum of the Tonnara and the Sea, located in Piazza Caio Duilio, full of precious testimonies on the history of the courageous tuna fishermen and their slaughter ritual.
Among the enchanting beaches of Milazzo, the magnificent Tono bay shines, the final stretch of the panoramic walk along the western sea.
With crystal clear waters stretching to the horizon, it is impossible not to notice the charm of the Aeolian Islands. With a length of approximately twenty-five kilometers, the inhabitants of Milazzo affectionately call it 'Ngònia, a term that derives from Greek and means corner. This stretch of coast, initially linear for kilometers, suddenly curves and then bends around an imposing rocky ridge.
In the picturesque little square of 'Ngònia, which extends towards the south, you can admire the ancient warehouses that were once used as tuna fisheries, while the owners of the time had elegant buildings built nearby. Furthermore, the presence of a lovely little church cannot be missed, where the simulacrum of the black Madonna of Tindari is venerated. From here, you can start climbing towards the Manica district, enjoying an exceptional panoramic view of the entire promontory.
Another unforgettable stretch of beach is located on the promontory of Capo Milazzo. Here, you can breathe an authentic maritime atmosphere, between the bright colors of the green-blue sea and the brown tones of the suggestive rocky spurs that overlook the waters. In this area there is also the area of the Venus lakes, natural pools that fill at high tide. We cannot forget to mention the suggestive lighthouse, located on the solitary Secca di Ponente, the rock which here is affectionately called "the artichoke", and the Bay of Sant'Antonio, with its shallow and rocky seabed.
These splendid beaches of Milazzo are an authentic paradise that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the scenic beauty and marine atmosphere. An unmissable destination for sea lovers and for those who wish to experience an unforgettable holiday.
For a unique shopping experience, we recommend exploring the fascinating shops and workshops surrounding the port, the ancient village and the castle of Milazzo. Here you will find a vast selection of typical products, ceramics and decorative woods, perfect for bringing home a unique and authentic piece.
To reach Milazzo, you can opt for different itineraries. If you are traveling from Messina, Catania or Palermo, you can take the SS 113 or the A20 motorway, both well signposted and easy to access. Alternatively, there are numerous buses connecting the city with Messina and other surrounding locations, including the extra-urban services Giuntabus and AST, which offer an efficient transport network within Milazzo.
Milazzo is also well connected from a railway point of view, being positioned along the main lines that cross the south and east-west of the country. Furthermore, it is also possible to reach the city by sea, using the navigation services offered by the companies Navigazione Generale Italiana, Siremar and Ustica Lines. This option could add an adventurous touch to your trip.
The main airports of Reggio Calabria, Catania and Palermo represent the most convenient and closest arrival points to Milazzo. You can choose the airport that best suits your travel needs.
So, regardless of the means of transport you choose, you will be able to easily reach and enjoy everything that Milazzo has to offer, whether it is shopping or exploring this fascinating place.
