Car Rental in Messina Center

Messina sits on the Strait of Messina and is Sicily's port to the mainland, with ferries to Reggio Calabria departing continuously. With 10 rental agencies in the center, you have a wide selection of cars to explore northeastern Sicily. Taormina is located 45 km south and you can reach Etna in less than an hour.

Messina center stretches along the strait and the A18 motorway takes you south toward Catania (90 km) and A20 west toward Palermo (235 km). The port area along Via della Libertà is the city's hub with the ferry terminal and rental offices. Reggio Calabria on the mainland is reached in 20 minutes by ferry.

Drive to Capo Peloro (10 km north) to see the narrowest point of the Strait of Messina and the picturesque lagoons. Visit Santuario di Montalto above the city for fantastic views over the strait and the Calabrian coast. Take the A18 motorway south and turn off toward Savoca (30 km), which is famous from The Godfather filming locations.

Can I take the rental car on the ferry to Reggio Calabria? Yes, most rental agencies allow this but you must inform them in advance. The ferry takes about 20 minutes and departs regularly from the port.

How far is it from Messina center to Catania Fontanarossa airport? It's about 90 km via the A18 motorway and takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Is it easy to park in Messina center?

Parking in the center can be challenging. There are parking garages at the port and along Via Garibaldi at reasonable rates of 1-2 euros per hour.

We compare prices from all major providers at Messina Center so you can see the total cost upfront - including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.