Tusa, hidden among hills covered with olive groves and vineyards, is an ideal destination for those who love nature, culture, and the traditional flavors of Sicily. Located in the province of Messina, this little gem offers breathtaking views and a thousand-year history reflected in its monuments and local products. But how to get there? In this article we will guide you through the main means of transportation (train, car and plane) starting from the cities of Messina, Catania and Palermo, also highlighting the characteristic landscapes that you can admire during your trip.
The bus is a less frequent but still available option. Rides may vary depending on the day of the week and season. It is recommended to consult local company websites for up-to-date schedules.
Travel time: between 1h 8 min and 1h 30 min
Ticket cost: from €7.10
Frequency: up to 12 trains per day
Station of arrival: Tusa (Palermo-Messina railway line)
Trenitalia regional trains connect Palermo to Tusa with direct runs or with a change. It is an economical and comfortable option, suitable even for travelers without a car. Tickets can be purchased on Trenitalia's website, via app or at the station.
Distance: about 95 km
Walking time: about 1 hour and 6 minutes
Estimated cost: €15-23 (including fuel and tolls)
Driving from Palermo to Tusa is a convenient and flexible choice. The recommended route is via the A20 highway in the direction of Messina, exiting at Tusa. Ideal for those who want to travel independently and visit the surrounding areas.
Travel time: variable (average 2h 30 min - 3h)
Approximate cost: €50-70
Bus service is more limited than train service, with less frequent schedules and longer travel times. However, it can be useful in case of special needs or when no trains are available.
Travel time: about 1h 15 min - 1h 40 min
Ticket cost: from €7.10
Frequency: about 7-9 trains per day
Station of arrival: Tusa (Messina-Palermo line)
Regional trains operated by Trenitalia connect Messina to Tusa with several daily runs. Some are direct, while others may involve changes (usually at Patti or Sant'Agata di Militello). It is advisable to consult updated schedules before departure.
Distance: about 110 km
Walking time: about 1 hour and 15 minutes
Estimated cost: €15-25 (fuel + any tolls)
The fastest and most flexible way to reach Tusa from Messina is by car. The route follows the A20 highway in the direction of Palermo, exiting at Tusa. The road is scenic and well-maintained, also perfect for an out-of-town trip.
Travel time: between 3h 30 min and 4h
Approximate cost: €15-25
Some companies offer connections from Catania to Tusa by direct bus or with changes (usually in Palermo or Cefalù). Schedules vary by season and day of the week, so it is advisable to inquire in advance.
Duration of the trip: about 3h - 3h 30 min
Ticket cost: from €10-20
Frequency: several runs daily
Route: Catania → Palermo or Messina → Tusa (with 1 or 2 changes)
There is no direct train from Catania to Tusa, but it is possible to get there with a change (in Palermo or Messina, or sometimes even Sant'Agata di Militello). The journey requires some patience, but it remains a good, inexpensive alternative.
Distance: about 170 km
Walking time: about 2 hours
Estimated cost: €20-30 (fuel + tolls)
The recommended route by car involves the A19 Catania-Palermo highway, with a subsequent junction onto theA20 towards Messina. The exit is that of Tusa. This is the most flexible solution, ideal for those wishing to explore the surrounding area as well.
Castel di Tusa toward Messina
5:20 a.m.; 7:00 a.m.
Messina to Tusa
11:45 a.m.; 2:15 p.m.
Castel di Tusa toward Tusa
6:00; 13:40; 14:20; 17:15
Mistretta to Tusa
Departure from Mistretta 13:40
Arrival in Santo Stefano 14:05
Arrival in Castel di Tusa 14:20
Arrival in Tusa 14:40
Departures to Cefalù
Tusa 8:00 a.m.
Castel di Tusa 8:20 a.m.
Milianni 8:30 a.m.
Arrival in Cefalù 09:00 a.m.
Cefalù to Tusa
Departure from Cefalù 13:00
Arrival in Milianni 13:30
Arrival in Castel di Tusa 13:40
Arrival in Tusa 14:00
Santo Stefano toward Tusa
5:45; 14:05; 16:30
Distance to Tusa: about 125 km
By car: about 1h 30 min, driving along A29 → A20 exit Tusa
By train: take the train from "Punta Raisi" station (at the airport) to Palermo Centrale, then continue to Tusa (Palermo-Messina line). Total duration: about 2h - 2h 30 min
By bus: less recommended, but possible with change in Palermo
Recommended: train or rental car (convenient, frequent, fast)
Distance to Tusa: about 170 km
By car: about 2h, via A19 (Catania-Palermo) + A20 (toward Messina), exit Tusa
By train: bus or train to Catania Centrale → train to Palermo or Messina → change for Tusa. Duration: 3h - 4h
By bus: possible, but long and with changes (not direct)
Recommended: rental car if you want autonomy; train if traveling light and unhurried
