Milazzo is the main connection point to the Aeolian Islands. All those who want to reach the beautiful Sicilian archipelago must pass through here to embark for the wonderful Lipari, the crackling Vulcano, the mythical Stromboli, the surprising Panarea and the magical Alicudi and Filicudi.
Milazzo is located a few kilometres west of Messina, on the north coast of Sicily, at the foot of the Capo Milazzo peninsula. The town has over 30,000 inhabitants and a history stretching back thousands of years.
With its beaches, caves, splendid churches and ancient monuments, Milazzo is much more than a short stopover for the Aeolian Islands; on the contrary, it can become a real stopover for a Sicilian holiday, where you can spend two or three days before embarking for the islands.
What are the things to see in Milazzo? If, on your way to the Aeolian Islands, you feel like stopping off in Milazzo for a while, you will certainly find interesting points of interest not to be underestimated.
Ancient Cathedral of Milazzo
Of all the churches in the town, the Duomo Antico is one of the largest and most beautiful to see. Built in the early 1600s to a design by Camillo Camilliani, it was renovated around 1800 and named Duomo.
Ancient village
The old town of Milazzo as we know it today dates back to the 15th century, and is the most interesting part of the city to visit; inside the Borgo you can find many things to visit such as the Palace of the Viceroys and Governors, the Grotto of Polyphemus and a series of historic churches.
Walking through the streets of the old town you can still breathe the air of times gone by, and it is pleasant to get lost in the shady streets overlooked by the houses in the centre.
Milazzo Castle
The castle of Milazzo, or ‘Città Murata’ as it is known among the people, is one of the symbols of the town and at the same time the largest fortified citadel in Sicily, occupying an area of no less than 7 hectares. It is located on the southern side of Capo Milazzo, just above the old town, and has ancient origins, as artefacts dating back as far as 4000 BC have been found.
Today, the castle has been reborn thanks to a major restoration that lasted in alternating phases from 1991 to 2010, and hosts cultural events, festivals and museums.
Beaches in and around Milazzo
Lying along Capo Milazzo, the town is surrounded by beaches frequented mainly by locals.
Ponente Beach
The Spiaggia di Ponente (Western Beach) is a long strip that stretches for several kilometres on the west coast of Capo Milazzo. It is mostly free, but there are also equipped lidos where you can hire sunbeds and umbrellas, and areas dedicated to services such as pedalo hire, restaurants and bars.
In the part closest to the historic centre, the beach can be quite crowded in summer, but it is enough to move a few hundred metres south or north to enjoy the deserved peace and quiet. The water is clear and warm, and the beach has fine gravel.
Pool of Venus
The Piscina di Venere is a beautiful natural pool among the rocks on the northern tip of Capo Milazzo. The road to get there is a bit of a trek, but it is well worth the effort, walking along a scenic path through unspoilt nature until you reach this natural inlet between the rocks, where you can snorkel and enjoy the beautiful Sicilian sea.
The area is almost secluded and has no facilities, so you’ll want to bring plenty of sun cream, water and something to eat.
Tours and activities in and around Milazzo
The most obvious tour in Milazzo is to the Aeolian Islands, which we highly recommend if the archipelago is not the final destination of your trip. If, on the other hand, you are in Milazzo as an intermediate stop before setting off for the islands, don’t miss the very special IllusionVille, also suitable for children, a museum dedicated to illusions that will catapult you into a reality made up of surprises around every corner, and will make you question all your certainties.
Milazzo is not to be missed!
