The Ultimate Guide to Catania, Sicily

Piazza del Duomo in Catania, Sicily

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Catania, Sicily is a beautiful, Baroque city on the east coast of the Mediterranean’s largest island. The powerful Mount Etna stands tall over the city and dominates the skyline. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a history that dates back to the 8th century BC.

Catania is the perfect mix of Greek and Roman history mixed with Baroque charm, delicious food and vibrant locals.

This is the perfect getaway for a solo traveler who wants to mingle with the locals at a wine bar in the evening, or couples who want a romantic dinner with fresh seafood and good wine, followed by a stroll through the maze of attractive alleys lit up with twinkling lights.

Have I got your attention yet?

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Complete Guide to Catania, Sicily

History of catania, sicily.

Living in the shadow of an active volcano has it’s consequences, and has shifted the landscape around Catania more than once. The worst being the eruption in 1669 that wiped out the southern part of the city and extended the city’s coastline over a kilometer.

The city was once again devastated on January 11, 1693 when an earthquake with a 6.2 magnitude destroyed most of the city. The main quake lasted for 4 minutes and the aftershocks continued for at least 3 more years! The entire southeastern area of Sicily was destroyed, recording 54,000 deaths and 12,000 deaths in Catania alone (63% of the population at the time)!!

The region bounced back and rebuilt in the 17th century Baroque style we see today.

streets of catania

Tips For Your Trip to Catania, Sicily

  • It’s HOT – bring some sunblock… bring a lot of sunblock! Seriously… a lot.
  • Skip the make-up during the day, it’s not worth it
  • Bring your walking shoes… I ruined two pairs of sandals *face palm*
  • Plan for a few days in Catania if you want to see everything, it’s a lot bigger and more spread out than you think
  • Always have an action plan for your day trips… do you need to book an excursion to Mount Etna? Pre-plan your route through Taormina? Pin some locations for possible dinner options on google maps?
  • If you bring cash to exchange, there’s only a few places around town. ATMs are also very sparse … I only saw a couple of banks throughout the city that had a cash machine on the outside of the building.
  • Don’t forget siesta time ! (Why can’t the UK have a designated nap time?!?!) There are very few places that are open between 2pm-5pm, so plan accordingly. There’s also plenty of restaurants that don’t even open until 7pm!
  • “Via” means “street” and it comes before the street name (example: Via Etnea) and the number of the building comes AFTER the street name (example: Via Etnea, 454 – in English it reads 454 Etnea Street). Definitely helpful when taking taxis or googling addresses!
  • Save Via Santa Filomena on your google maps NOW. If you’re wandering around aimlessly looking for a place to eat, you will absolutely find something on this street!!

How to Get to Catania from Catania-Fontarossa Airport

There’s two main airports in Sicily, Palermo and Catania. While it’s possible to travel by train from Palermo Airport to Catania (about 4 hours with only one change!), I’m only going to be covering Catania-Fontarossa Airport!

The airport is about 20-30 minutes from the city center of Catania… it’s SO CLOSE… literally right next to the city.

Yes, there is a major train station in Catania and the tracks run RIGHT BEHIND the airport… however, there is no train station at the airport. You have three options.

the view of Catania from the airplane

By far the easiest way to get to the city center… but also the more expensive choice. It’s about 30-40 euros to get from the airport to the center with a taxi and that’s worth it to not be on an overcrowded bus during the Covid-19 pandemic. BEWARE of the “taxi drivers” holding up the taxi signs as soon as you exit the terminal… they are NOT metered and will DEFINITELY screw you over with cost. They are also conveniently blocking the way to the taxi rank and the airport bus stop, so keep your mask on!

Definitely the cheaper option, however, the amount of people that wait for the airport bus is A LOT. Imagine everyone getting off the flight and choosing to take the bus… and you get crammed in!

The bus is convenient and runs a circular route through the city every 20-30 minutes (so there will always be a bus). My advice if you’re trying to budget – splurge on a taxi from the airport when you arrive and then hop on the airport bus when you’re departing – it won’t be as full!

This one would normally seem like the easy way out. You don’t have to deal with everyone else’s timetable, you can come and go as you please… BUT, you need to consider the crazy Italian drivers.

If you’ve driven in New York City, Washington DC, Paris, or Bangkok… then you’ll be alright. I don’t think there’s any road rules in Sicily. There’s signs, speed limits and markings on the road, but I don’t think anyone obeys them! It will also work out to be more expensive per day!

If you’re worried about flying to Catania, Sicily after lockdown – DON’T WORRY! I have an entire post with everything you need to know about flying from the UK to Catania, Sicily

What to Do in Catania, Sicily

Piazzo del duomo.

This is the main city square in Catania… it’s also the busiest square in Catania. Surrounded by cathedrals, cafes, and buildings made of lava stone and limestone, this piazza is a MUST-SEE for anyone visiting Catania.

Piazza del Duomo in Catania, Sicily

Cattedrale di Sant’Agata

This Cathedral dedicated to St. Agatha was originally built in 1073, but badly damaged in a 12th century earthquake and then practically left in ruins during the 1693 earthquake. Like much of the city, the cathedral was rebuilt in the beautiful Baroque style.

You’ll have to go to the church to see the opening times, because the times found online are sometimes incorrect.

Elephant Fountain

You CANNOT miss the photo opt with the Elephant Fountain! This is the symbol of Catania and the locals are very proud of it!

No one really knows what the elephant means or why the Romans chose an elephant…

The elephant was carved out of lava stone in the Roman times and the obelisk was added sometime after (but no one really knows when), in the 1700’s, architect Giovanni Battista Vaccarini restored the statue and created what you see in the piazza today.

Castello Ursino

Castello Ursino

Price: €3 per person

This 13th century castle was on the coast and harbor of Catania prior to the Mount Etna eruption in 1669 which added more then 1km of coastline. Now the castle is in the city center, surrounded by Baroque townhouses, churches, and a small park.

At 3 euros per person, this is a steal and a great place to escape the heat for an hour! There’s 3 levels packed full of Greek, Roman, Norman, and modern history… and I LOVED it here! If you’re big on history then visiting this castle and museum is a BIG must!

The top level does have bathrooms, vending machines and a place to sit down. There is no cafe in the castle.

Benedictine Monastery of San Nicolò l’Arena

Price: €8 – Guided tours only

The Monastero dei Benedettini di San Nicolò l’Arena is Europe’s second largest Benedictine monastery and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monastery was founded in 1558.

Catania's largest church

Today the monastery is used as the the Department of Humanities for the University of Catania.

Attached to the Monastery is the Church of San Nicolo l’Arena and it’s the largest church in Catania. Definitely worth walking around with it’s incomplete facade and minimalist interior (compared to other churches in Catania).

This is probably the most famous, and most popular street in Catania. It’s the main shopping hub for the city and it’s always bustling with locals and tourists. It runs from Piazzo Duomo all the way up to Parco Gioeni.

You don’t even have to go into any of the stores (although there’s plenty to choose from – including some super cute local boutiques), you can just walk up and down enjoying the street and people watch while eating your cannoli or devouring your gelato.

Roman Amphitheatre

Dating back to the 2nd century AD, this Roman amphitheatre seems like it comes out of nowhere! One second you’re walking down Via Etnea and the next you’re looking down into a Roman amphitheatre!

roman amphitheatre in Catania

If you don’t want to walk around the ruins or they are closed, you can still look down on them and it’s definitely worth a looksy since you’ll probably be in the area anyway!

La Villa Bellini

Need a place to get away from it all? Then come to this beautiful park! It’s the perfect place to climb to the top gazebo and admire the view of the city and Mount Etna.

Villa Bellini in Catania, Sicily

It’s normally pretty peaceful here, so you can have a park bench all to yourself while you indulge in your cannoli.

The entry is free and the main entrance is right on Via Etnea.

Visit the Fish Market

The Catania fish market is one of the largest in Italy and Rick Stein describes it as the best in Europe. (He filmed episode 3 of Mediterranean Escapes here if you wanted to watch as a reference).

The fish market is every weekday 7am – 2pm with varied hours on Saturday.

It’s always super busy and hectic and has become somewhat of a tourist attraction in Catania. Even if you don’t buy anything (let’s be real… I wouldn’t know what to do with a WHOLE SWORDFISH – but I do love swordfish), it’s a lot of fun to look around.

Walk down Via dei Crociferi

This is a VERY popular Baroque street. I actually didn’t read anything about it prior to visiting and just stumbled upon it while I was walking around. It is a VERY attractive street… the gorgeous architecture, the winding stairs, the stoned streets… seriously… attractive!

baroque street in Catania Sicily

It’s close to Piazza del Duomo and on the way to the castle… so you have NO EXCUSE not to walk this street!

On that note – you NEED to get lost in the labyrinth of streets in Catania! It’s not just Via dei Crociferi that’s a beautiful street, there’s so many other amazing streets and alleyways.

Most are lined with umbrellas or pinwheels or lanterns or rainbow colored ribbons…

I could go on…

One of my favorite areas to walk around is the San Berillo Art District. The art is quirky and it’s not as touristy as some places around in the area. (If you walk down the alleyway past the Street 54 restaurant – you’ll feel like it’s a dead end – it opens up to an eccentric courtyard with restaurants and bars! I HIGHLY recommend First for pre-dinner drinks)

Catania is a small city (compared to a lot through mainland Italy), but it’s still HUGE!

I also think the heat doubles your journey time! Google usually lies to me – if a walk is 15 minutes according to google maps, it will probably take you 30 minutes!!

Also, avoid MASSIVE blisters on your feet… bring sneakers everyone, not sandals from Primark!

Where to Eat in Catania, Sicily

There’s so many restaurants, cafes, and trattorias to choose from that it can get really overwhelming… or you can just eat continuously all day and make it to all of them!

I’m pretty sure most of my time in Sicily is spent eating and drinking.

It’s a tough job researching all the time… but someone’s gotta do it! Do you see the sacrifices I make for you guys? *wink wink*

And I’m not even going to talk about my journey to find the BEST Aperol Spritz in Catania ! *smirk*

This isn’t a full list (I’ll save that for another post), but it’s a place to start for your own food journey in Catania.

You can always book a food tour on Viator and get a walking tour AND a food tour all rolled into one!

food and drink of Catania, Sicily

Bar Brasserie

Address: 43/44 Piazza Stesicoro Website: No Website

This is the first place I ate at in Catania… and it was a lasting impression! The Aperol Spritz were delicious, the atmosphere had a great vibe, the owner is super friendly with great recommendations and the food is on point!

Go here for lunch and get the antipasto platter… it is absolutely unbelievable! This is the perfect taste of Sicily to start your holiday off right with a selection of meats, cheeses, and some Sicilian staples.

Alè Ristorante

Address: 41 Via Santa Filomena Website: Official Site

If you pick one street to eat dinner on every night, it has to be Via Santa Filomena and if you only pick one restaurant on that entire street, it has to Alè Ristorante. I feel like this is a hidden gem among the slew of restaurants on this street.

The entrance is right next to another restaurant (which leads you to believe that both doors actually belong to the same place)… but they don’t! I wanted to go into the other restaurant and accidentally walked through the wrong door because the other restaurant’s door was blocked by two people chatting.

Best mistake ever.

The food is fresh (straight from the fish market!), delicious, and the manager had plenty of recommendations… ALSO, you sit in a secret garden that’s in a beautiful courtyard with twinkling lights – it’s a great place to get away from the hectic streets of Catania during dinner time.

restaurants in catania

Macondo Wine and Book

Address: 95 Via Vittorio Emanuele II Website: No Website

This is the perfect place to chill out and have an after dinner drink… or two… or three…

Funky chairs made from repurposed pallets, leather couches, and local art line the outdoor alleyway of this trendy bar. If you want to escape the heat inside, then you can enjoy the reading area or play a board game!

Pasticceria Savia

Address: 300 Via Etnea Website: No Website

This place is ALWAYS busy… but it’s not packed with tourists, it’s filled with locals! You know that’s a good restaurant…

This is the perfect place for a light snack or you can grab a to-go treat, like the infamous cannoli!! They are delicious here!

It’s directly across from La Villa Bellini (that big park I talked about earlier…) on Via Etnea, so it’s centrally located and easily accessible!

Where to Stay in Catania, Sicily

I cannot recommend  454 Etnea Luxury Rooms  enough! It’s just an amazing all-around wonderful experience!

The location is the perfect mix of “in the middle of everything” and “far enough away for peace and quiet”. This boutique hotel is located on Via Etnea, just past Villa Bellini on the right. The hotel is a 17 minute walk to the main tourist area of Piazza Duomo, an 8 minute walk to delicious food and drink and a 25-30 minute walk to Catania Centrale Train Station.

The hotel is modern, clean and comfortable… you guys, there’s a mini bar! Everything is controlled by your room key and a touch pad in your room! The owner is wonderful and has some great tips for local spots – many of which I used!

etnea 454 luxury rooms

The price is perfect for everyone, especially budget travelers and it includes breakfast! So more time for exploring, less time worrying about where to eat breakfast before your day starts! Book DIRECTLY with them (avoid booking.com and other third party sites) and save about 10 euros a night!

Best Day Trips from Catania, Sicily without a Car

Catania train station and ocean view

Having the train station so close to the city center is super convenient, which makes day trips from Catania really easy! There’s also lots of reasonably priced tours on Viator and GetYourGuide! (What I always use).

Catania Centrale Station Tips

  • Train tickets are SUPER cheap! (I ALWAYS use Trainline.com to check out train times)
  • You don’t need to pre-purchase your ticket! Buy it at the train station and don’t forget to add your return ticket too!
  • You’ll need your passport when you purchase tickets at the train station, HOWEVER, I just had my UK drivers license and that was good enough. The next time I bought tickets, I didn’t get asked for ID. (I don’t know if that’s a regular thing or just a tourist thing?)
  • Most of the tickets you purchase will be open ended tickets so you can take any train to and from your destination!
  • To give you an idea of how cheap tickets are – my roundtrip to Taormina was under 10 euros
  • Always try to take the express train! There will be fewer stops and you’ll get there faster, duh!
  • Try to avoid trains between 11am-1pm because EVERYONE coming from the airport is trying to get to their destination with their suitcases! It can be chaos!
  • There are bathrooms on the platform that cost a euro to use the facilities! However, they are some of the cleanest bathrooms I have seen in a public area!
  • There is a small cafe where you can purchase snacks or water for the journey.
  • Announcements are also said in English, so you won’t miss anything important like platform changes!
  • I always look at trainline.com to see the train schedule and make sure I am getting on the correct train because, unlike the UK, they don’t show where the train is calling at, only the final destination. So a train to Taormina is to Roma and a train from Siracusa is to Messina.

Can I really write a post without including a day trip to Etna? Absolutely NOT!

Mount Etna is Europe’s highest active volcano – it’s also one of the most active volcanoes in the world!!! And trust me, it’s VERY active! You can’t miss Mount Etna if you’re staying in Catania… it’s always in the background smoking away.

Trekking Mount Etna in Sicily

I learned SO MUCH about Mount Etna and got to see everything I wanted to see without even trekking to the summit! There’s definitely some walking involved, but it’s the perfect tour to get a taste of Etna… you’ll see the Valle del Bove, explore a lava tube cave, and end your tour with trekking around the Silvestri Craters.

They even pick you up at your hotel/Air BnB in Catania!!

This is the EXACT tour I did ( see below ) and I cannot rave enough about Simone’s knowledge and authenticity and how much fun I had! (Not sponsored – I just had a blast!). There was only 4 people on the tour so it felt very personal.

*I did this tour right after lockdown ended and everyone had to wear masks in the car, keep their distance when possible and all items that were used were santized prior to us using them. I felt VERY safe.

If you don’t have Get Your Guide, this is the exact same tour on Viator .

This is the most popular day trip from Catania and it’s super easy to get to! This beautiful baroque town pours down the foothills of Mount Etna into the beautiful Ionian Sea.

The main attraction is the second largest Greek Theatre in Sicily – with a pretty amazing view too!

Taormina Greek Theatre

The train leaves from Catania Centrale Station and goes direct to Taormina- Giardini Naxos Station. You’ll have to take a taxi to either the bottom of the cable car or the top of the hill… don’t try walking it!

I recommend getting dropped off at the bottom of the cable car because the ride up is beautiful!

Siracusa and the Island of Ortigia

Siracusa is ANOTHER baroque town on the east coast of Sicily. Fun fact: The famous ancient Greek mathematician, Archimedes was born here in 287 BC back when Sicily was a Greek colony.

There’s plenty of things to see and it’s almost unfair to do a day trip to this city and not spend more time here, you can check out the Neapolis Archaeological Park with the Greek Theatre or the old town Siracusa, better known as the Island of Ortigia.

Siracusa Cathedral and Piazza Duomo

Honestly, I would skip the Greek Theatre (I think Taormina’s is better because of the view) and focus on Ortigia.

The ruins of the Temple of Apollo greets you as you enter the island and the main square is beautiful and bright with the Cathedral of Syracuse dominating the piazza.

Visit the castle on the tip of the island  and walk past the Fountain of Arethusa. Oh, and bring your bathing suit if you want to relax in the teal waters of the Ionian Sea!

To get to the island from the train station, walk out the main entrance and turn left. It’s only a 15-20 minute walk to the island, so there’s no need to take a taxi and it’s a straight shot from the station!

Do you have any more questions? And feedback is always appreciated! Are you planning your trip to Catania, Sicily? Let me know in the comments below!!

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Please let me know the Etna Tour you did – the link is not showing for me

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Mount Etna Morning Tour

If that link doesn’t work then you can try the search term “Catania Mount Etna” on getyourguide and it should be the first one. The title is Etna in the Morning: Half Day Excursion from Catania

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On the Luce travel blog

Churches and cannoli: The best things to do in Catania, Sicily

Posted on Last updated: February 23, 2024

Discover the best things to do in Catania in Sicily in Southern Italy, from Baroque architecture and vibrant markets to cooking delicious local dishes and climbing to the top of volcanic Mount Etna.

* This site contains affiliate links , where I get a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

Churches and canoli: The best things to do in Catania, Sicily

Built into the foothills of Mount Etna, Catania is Sicily’s second-largest city. But when it comes to tourism, it’s often overshadowed by more famous Sicilian spots like Palermo or Taormina. Catania has a reputation for being a bit chaotic and scruffy, but just like its northerly neighbour Naples, the rough edges are all part of Catania’s charm.

Catania has beautiful buildings around every corner – whether that’s a Baroque cathedral or a crumbling palazzo . It’s heaven for food lovers with local produce and regional dishes packed with flavour. There’s a real buzz to Catania too, from the frenzy of the morning fish market to the bars packed with students from the city’s university by night.

So here’s my pick of the best things to do in Catania, whether you’re planning an offbeat Italian city break, visiting on a day trip, or using it as a base to explore Sicily.

The best things to do in Catania, Sicily

Catania and Mount Etna at sunset, Sicily

Explore the Baroque architecture

Mount Etna has left its mark on Catania in more ways than one. Although it survived Etna’s largest volcanic eruption in 1669, a severe earthquake in 1693 wiped out most of the city and killed two-thirds of its inhabitants. Afterwards Catania was rebuilt from the ground up in the decorative Sicilian Baroque architectural style you can still see today.

Catania and other towns in the Val di Noto region were redesigned with wide streets, huge piazzas and endless ornate churches and palaces built using Etna’s black volcanic rock. The result is a unique style that’s made the area a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Cathedral of Sant’Agata, one of the top things to do in Catania, Sicily

Catania’s Centro Storico (historic centre) is dotted with Baroque masterpieces, centered around the Piazza del Duomo. The square is overlooked by the elaborate Cathedral of Sant’Agata, designed by Sicilian architect Gian Battista Vaccarini. Sant’Agata is Catania’s patron saint and is honoured with a huge festival and procession on 5th February.

The Piazza del Duomo is also home to the quirky Fontana dell’Elefante, a fountain topped with a black lava statue of an elephant balancing an Egyptian obelisk on its back.

The Fontana dell’Elefante and Basilica della Collegiata in Catania

The city’s main architectural sights are easily walkable from the Piazza del Duomo. Take a stroll along the Via dei Crociferi to admire its 18th-century palaces and churches. Follow Via Giuseppe Garibaldi towards the Porta Garibaldi gate for views back over the historic centre. Or head down Via Etnea to visit the grand Basilica della Collegiata.

The Centro Storico has lots of interesting little backstreets to explore too. This is definitely not a perfectly preserved, museum piece of a city, but rusting ironwork, peeling paint and graffitied walls add to the character and give it a feeling of fading grandeur.

Catania's backstreets

Experience the fish market

La Pescheria in Catania is one of Italy’s biggest fish markets, and the atmosphere has hardly changed in hundreds of years. Makeshift tables are piled high with weird and wonderful fish and seafood. It’s a hub of chaotic activity as stallholders haggle with customers over prices and compete to see who can shout the loudest.

Fishmongers wield dangerous looking cleavers, slicing thin steaks from giant tuna on chopping boards marked with blood and knife marks from years of use. Colourful tarpaulins provide shade, and fish heads are lined up to show how fresh they are.

Catania fish market (La Pescheria) in Sicily

A visit to La Pescheria is one of the most popular things to do in Catania. It runs from 7am–2pm every day except Sundays, but get there early for the full street theatre experience (wear closed-toed shoes and watch where you stand as it can get messy).

You can also try some of the produce at the restaurants around the edge of the market like Scirocco, which serves up cones of freshly fried seafood.

La Pescheria takes place in Piazza Alonzo di Benedetto, under the arches of the Archi della Marina. At the entrance to the market is the Fontana dell’Amenano, which marks where the Amenano river used to run before it was buried by Etna’s 1669 eruption.

Fresh fish for sale at Catania fish market (La Pescheria)

Shop for local produce

Sicilians love their food, and part of the reason it tastes so good is because of the fantastic fruit and vegetables produced in the region, much of it grown in Mount Etna’s fertile soils. Catania’s markets are overflowing with local, seasonal produce, full of colour and flavour, from ripe tomatoes and glistening bowls of olives to spiky wild artichokes.

A general produce market in the streets surrounding the fish market sells fruit and vegetables, meat, cheese, spices and dried fruits. Stalls spread down into narrow alleyways, with boxes piled high with delicious ingredients, including cheeses and mushrooms which are brought down from mountain villages around Mount Etna.

It’s well worth a visit to soak up the atmosphere as well as pick up some picnic supplies or food for dinner if you’re self-catering, with the colours and smells hard to resist.

Fruit and vegetable markets in Sicily, Italy

Go back to the Roman era

Catania has been ruled by the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines and Spanish over the years. And you can still see some of the remains of its Roman occupation. Catania’s second-century amphitheatre was the second biggest in Italy – only beaten by the Colosseum in Rome.

Much of the amphitheatre was buried in the 1693 earthquake, but you can still see a section in Piazza Stesicoro. Better preserved is Catania’s Graeco-Roman Theatre and Odeon, which is tucked away among residential buildings on Via Emanuele II.

It was built in the first century AD using Etna’s lava rock, on the site of an older Greek theatre. It would have once held 7000 spectators, with the Odeon used as a rehearsal theatre. You can wander around the ruins and through the tunnels below the seats. And artifacts discovered during excavations are on show in Casa Liberti next door.

The Roman amphitheatre in Catania

Learn to cook like a Catanian

In Sicily, the most revered cooks aren’t Michelin-starred chefs but home cooks making recipes passed down through generations. Invaders brought new ingredients and cooking techniques to the island, but the Sicilian identity always stayed strong. And it’s a strongly local one too with regional specialities from every part of the island.

Catanian cuisine mixes peasant dishes – cucina povera – with more elaborate dishes brought over by French chefs who worked for Sicilian noblemen. And you can learn how to make them on a cookery class *, which ends with a three-course feast.

Sicilian cookery class in Catania

One of Catania’s most famous dishes is Pasta alla Norma . This pasta dish is served with a tomato, basil, aubergine and ricotta sauce, and gets it’s name from an opera by local composer Vincenzo Bellini. There’s also peperonata agrodolce (sweet and sour peppers), polpette di cavallo (meatballs made with horse meat) and arancini (risotto balls).

And don’t miss trying a glass of the local Etna wine while you’re in Catania, with both red and white versions made using grapes grown on the volcano’s high-altitude slopes.

Peperonata agrodolce – Sicilian sweet and sour peppers

Get to know Vincenzo Bellini

One of Catania’s most famous sons is the composer Vincenzo Bellini. He was born in Catania in 1801 to a musical family and started composing as a child. He produced 10 operas, with Norma , La Sonnambula and I Puritani being the best known.

As well as Pasta alla Norma , Bellini also left his mark on the city at the Teatro Massimo Bellini . It was built in Baroque style but is actually much later, opening in 1890 with what else but a performance of Norma . And the Giardino Bellini, a shady green space on Via Etnea that’s decorated with ponds, fountains and busts of notable local figures.

The Giardino Bellini in Catania, Sicily

Feast on cakes and cannoli

Sicilians have a real sweet tooth, and many of the island’s classic desserts were created by convent bakers. They combined ingredients from North Africa like sugar cane, pistachios, spices and candied fruit with cookery techniques from French pastry chefs.

One of the island’s most famous treats is cannoli . A crisp tube of fried pastry dough filled with ricotta and honey, then decorated with crushed pistachios, glacé cherries or chocolate. There’s also cassata , a sponge cake layered with ricotta and candied fruit.

Or there are marzipan fruits, icy granitas and  Minni di Sant’ Agata (aka St Agatha’s breasts, where the gory story of her being tortured and having her breasts cut off has been turned into a tasty cake complete with cherry nipple). Caffè del Duomo and Prestipino Boutique – next door to each other on Piazza Duomo – are good spots for a sugar fix.

Minni di Sant’ Agata Sicilian sweets

Get up close to Mount Etna

Mount Etna is an ever-present backdrop to Catania. It’s Europe’s highest and most active volcano, shrouded in vapour clouds with lava flows erupting from the summit. If you want to take a closer look, you can explore the craters and lava fields of the Parco dell’Etna.

You can hike Mount Etna independently by catching the public bus from Catania’s Stazione Centrale to Rifugio Sapienza, then taking the cable car up to 2590 metres high, from where it’s a 2km walk or a 4WD tour to reach the Torre Del Filosofo.

But if you want to get up onto the crater over 3000 metres up then you need to be on an organised tour * with a qualified guide, which has the option of a pick up from your hotel in Catania. Either way make sure to wear decent hiking shoes (which are supplied on most tours if you don’t have any) and warm clothing as it gets cold at the summit.

Tours of Mount Etna

Visit the volcanic coast

Catania might be a coastal city, but most of the seafront is filled with a busy harbour so it’s not somewhere you’d come for a beach break. But you don’t need to go far to get a taste of sea air. Just north of the city there are a string of former fishing villages, where dark volcanic rocks meet the clear turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea.

Aci Trezza and Aci Castello are a hugely popular day trip for Catanian locals, and easily reached using the 534 bus, which takes 45–60 minutes. You can also visit on a boat trip * from Catania which explores the coastline and a marine nature reserve.

Off the coast of Aci Trezza are three tall, rocky outcrops known as the Cyclops Islands. Legend has it they were formed when the king of the Cyclops threw giant rocks at Odysseus. And at Aci Castello a towering rocky cliff is topped by Norman castle carved from lava rock, which dates back to 1076 when it had a strategic position guarding the Messina Straits.

Aci Castello castle in Sicily

The details

When to visit catania.

Sicily has a Mediterranean climate, with long hot summers and short mild winters. Summer in Catania is very hot and dry, with average high temperatures of 32ºC (90ºF) in July/August, so many locals abandon the city and head to cooler climates.

Spring and autumn are the b est times to visit Italy – when the weather’s perfect for sightseeing and outdoor dining. Temperatures in Catania are much more comfortable, particularly in May and October when average highs lie around 25ºC (77ºF).

Catania doesn’t get that cold during the winter either, with average highs of 14°C (57ºF) and lows of 8ºC (46ºF) in January, which is the coldest month. But the days are fairly short and rainfall peaks in November/December, so be prepared for a few wet days.

Views over the rooftops of Catania in Sicily

How to get to Catania

Catania–Fontanarossa Airport is 5km south of the city centre, and the two are connected by the AMT Alibus. The bus runs around every 25 minutes, costs €2.50 and takes 25–30 minutes, depending on traffic. Or you can pre-book a transfer with Welcome Pickups ,* whose English-speaking drivers will meet your flight and take you to your hotel.

You can also get to Catania by train from mainland Italy . It’s an unusual journey too as the whole train gets on board the ferry for the short trip across the Straits of Messina. There’s a sleeper train all the way from Milan to Catania which takes an epic 18 hours. Or daytime trains to Catania take around 7 hours from Naples or 9 hours from Rome.

Trains also connect Catania with many other destinations in Sicily, including Taormina (1 hour), Syracuse (1 hour 15 minutes), Cefalù and Palermo (both around 4 hours).

Catanian doors and windows

Where to stay in Catania

The Palace Catania UNA Esperienze * is a stylish, elegantly designed hotel on Via Etnea, a 10-minute walk from the cathedral. There’s a Turkish bath and gym. But the biggest plus is the roof terrace bar and restaurant, which has fantastic views of Mount Etna.

Asmundo di Gisira * is an 18th-century palazzo turned luxurious bed and breakfast that’s perfect for art lovers. Each room is unique, with a mix of ‘art rooms’ showcasing contemporary artworks and ‘neoclassical rooms’ decorated in historic style. The hotel is right next to the Pescheria fish market, an easy walk to all the main sights.

Or if you prefer self-catering, the colourful and bright Scene Suites Apartments * have one or two bedrooms plus sofa beds, so can sleep either four or eight people. Each comes with a small kitchenette and dining area and some have a private balcony or terrace.

Looking for somewhere to stay in Catania?*

Roof terrace at the Palace Catania UNA Esperienze hotel

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Discover the best things to do in Catania in Sicily in Southern Italy, from Baroque architecture and vibrant markets to cooking delicious local dishes and climbing to the top of volcanic Mount Etna | Top things to do in Catania | Visiting Catania Sicily | Catania travel guide | Places to visit in Sicily

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Thursday 27th of February 2020

Great post. We've been to Catania and at the beginning, we regret our decision to be there but finally, we are in love with this city. For sure we will come back and visit places we haven't been like Etna volcano. It is so amazing city and we've brought a lot of great memories.

Monday 9th of March 2020

It's a great place! Hope to get back ans see some more of Sicily sometime soon.

Wednesday 8th of May 2019

Excellent stuff! Off to Catania in a fortnight and this will come in handy! Thanks very much

Tuesday 14th of May 2019

Have a brilliant time!

Français

Visit Catania: The 15 Best Things to Do and Must-See Attractions

Things to do in catania: all highlights and best places to visit.

You have chosen to visit the east coast of Sicily during your next trip?

You will then certainly land at Catania airport. Most people then choose to go directly to Taormina or Syracuse , but if you have time, Catania is worth at least a day of your time!

In order to help you plan your stay in town, I have written this guide of the best things to do in Catania and around .

In addition to the best things to do and must see attractions , I will also give you itineraries to visit Catania in 1, 2, 3 days or more as well as the list of my favorite accommodations, depending on your budget.

So, what are the best points of interests? Where to stay in Catania?

Let’s plan your trip!

1. Piazza del Duomo

2. duomo di catania, 3. la pescheria, 4. via etnea, 5. piazza dell’universita, 6. villa bellini, 7. via crociferi, 8. catania roman theatre, 9. ursino castle, the best activities in catania, 11. acireale, 12. aci trezza, 13. taormina, 14. syracuse et l’île d’ortigie, 15. agrigento valley of the temples, bonus – visit the filming locations of “the godfather” movie, where to stay in catania, where to eat in catania.

  • How to go to Catania ?

Renting a boat in Catania

You’re traveling in sicily these articles will help you, visit catania: the 15 must-see attractions.

If you have rented a car at the airport and want to visit the city, you will first have to solve the parking problem. Finding a parking place in the largest Sicilian cities is often a real challenge!

And the same goes for getting used to the Sicilian driving style. It’s part of the local folklore 😆

Your best choice here is to spend a night in a hotel with a parking service.

Once you’re parked, Catania can be entirely visited on foot.

Start by going to piazza del Duomo , which is (as everywhere in Sicily) the heart of the city.

Standing in the center of the square, you can admire the city’s emblem: The Elephant’s Fountain (fontana dell’ elefante in Italian). This fountain depicts an elephant carved in black lava, topped by an Egyptian obelisk.

Legend has it that this statue holds the power to appease Etna’s volcano anger .

On this square, you can also see Catania’s Palazzo Municipio .

If you don’t want to walk, It’s good to know that Piazza del Duomo is the starting point for city tours by bus or tourist train. Both options allow you to view most of the city’s must-see attraction during a 40 minutes tour with multilingual audio guide.

And if you’re looking for the most exciting way to discover Catania , you should really do a Segway guided visit. Everyone can participate, and it’s a lot of fun!

To book your 3 hours guided tour of Catania by Segway, you need to click the button below:

fontana dell elefante

Behind the fountain, there is Catania Cathedral , which can be visited free of charge every day of the week.

Its exterior facade is very beautiful, all in white marble and the interior is dedicated to Saint Agatha , a young virgin tortured after refusing the amorous advances of a Roman prefect.

This Christian martyr became the patron saint of the city, celebrated every 5th of February during the Feast of Sant’Agata. Its relics are located inside the cathedral.

In the cathedral, you can also see the tomb of Vincenzo Bellini , the famous classical composer. Born in Catania in 1801 , he is the author of numerous operas, including the “Norma” , his masterpiece.

cattedrale di Sant' Agata

Just behind the piazza del Duomo , go for a walk in the fish market, the Pescheria . But beware it’s a real authentic market! You will stroll among decapitated swordfish, live lobsters, sardines and anchovies.

Fishes are emptied in front of your eyes and you may have to wade around a little bit in water and blood.

Adjacent to La pescheria is a more classic market, renowned for its vast choice of cheeses but also, and this is less appealing, for selling carcasses of animals and sheep’s heads , horns included!

The markets are held every morning on weekdays.

Another great way to discover Catania markets and local gastronomy is to opt for a Street food guided tour.

You will learn more about Catania history and taste amazing Sicilian specialties!

You need to book it here:

From piazza del duomo , take Via Etnea , the main street of Catania . You guessed it, this street’s name comes from the view you will have there.

At the end of the road, if the weather is clear, you will be able to see the silhouette of the famous volcano that many tourists from all over the world come to admire: the Etna .

While you’re here, you can do some shopping in Via Etnea’s many shops , or drink a coffee and enjoy a pastry!

At the southern end of Via Etnea, there is the Piazza dell’Universita .

This square is surrounded by two magnificent palaces facing each other: The Palazzo dell’Universita which houses the old university and the Palazzo San Giuliano. Both palaces have beautiful facades and nice inner courtyards, don’t hesitate to enter the university to admire them.

To see: The four lampposts, each symbolizing a mythical episode of Catania.

Palazzo dell'Università

You should definitely go to the gardens of Villa Bellini , they are ideal to enjoy a bit of freshness, take a rest or picnic. This park, located Via Etnea, is open until 10 pm.

You can stroll around the large trees and many fountains or simply sit on a bench in the shade. The place is very pleasant, with a children playground (in case you have kids!). Festivities, such as concerts, are regularly organized there.

You can also take advantage of the opportunity to visit the Villa Bellini (if you are lucky enough to have it open).

You’re going to Catania?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

And that’s even worse in big touristic cities like Catania 😅.

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Catania on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Catania.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Catania, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Catania!

villa Bellini

Via Crociferi is the 2 nd street to walk along during your visit to Catania . It could be nicknamed “the Church Street” as you can admire not less than 4 churches along the street.

Here are the churches you can visit there:

  • The  San Francesco   Church: to be seen for its giant candelabra
  • San Benedetto , said to have been built in one night
  • San Benedetto Church, dedicated to Saint Benedict
  • San Giuliano Church
  • San Nicolo all’ Arena Church: certainly not the most beautiful, as the construction was never finished.

If you want to visit the churches, you should note that most of them are only open in the morning.

The must-see attraction of Via Corciferi is certainly the former Benedictine Monastery of San Nicolò l’Arena, which now houses a part of the university. It’s the 2 nd largest in Europe, and you can visit it freely or with a guide.

Guided visits are only in Italian, but you can follow them thanks to the explanatory leaflet written in English.

You can read more about the schedules and entrance fee on the monastery official website .

If you would like to visit a magnificent place, totally unknown by tourists , I strongly recommend you to go to the “ Biblioteca Ursino Recupero “, located next to the Monastery. The visit takes around 1h

Benedictine Monastery

There’s not much left of it today, but if you have time, go have a look at the Roman Theatre, next to Piazza del Duomo . You will be surprised by its architecture and vaults. Seeing it there, standing in the middle of modern buildings is quite surprising!

Catania's Roman amphitheatre

Ursino Castle is an ancient Norman fortress that now houses the Municipal Museum (free visit).

Originally, this castle located at the top of a hill was built on a cliff, overlooking the sea . It’s really hard to imagine, as it’s today about 1km inland!

Many earthquakes and the huge volcanic eruption of Etna in 1669 completely changed the landscape of the area. Hopefully, the lava flows surrounded the castle without damaging it.

The castle museum houses an important archaeological collection consisting of ceramic vases, sculptures and numerous paintings.

Castello Ursino

From Catania, many tours companies offer day trips to Etna . They will take you to the foot of the volcano, provide a guide and equipment, and organize the 4 Wheel-drive ride to the crater. Probably the best option in terms of safety!

You can also take a bus (daily departure around 8am for the Sapienza refuge at 5.60€ for a round trip) or go there by car, Etna is about 20 kilometers from Catania.

However, keep in mind that you will only be able to reach the 1st level of Mount Etna on your own. To reach the crater, the climb to the second level must be done in a guided minibus .

If you want to go to the Etna Volcano during your stay in Catania, I highly suggest you to book your tour with Getyourguide. It’s simple, they have the best English speaking guides! And the price is very good too.

Click on the following button for more info about the trip to Etna volcano:

This trip to Etna can also be done at the end of the afternoon, to enjoy the sunset over the Volcano.

To book your Etna sunset trip, simply click on the button below:

Etna Sicily

In addition to all the best places to visit I told you about, here is the list of the best activities you can do in Catania!

Simply click on the links below for more information and to book your activities:

  • Diving in the Gulf of Catania, in the marine reserve of the Cyclopean Islands
  • Kayak guided tour along the coast, to see the cyclopean rocks
  • Snorkeling tour, also in the marine reserve to admire the underwater volcanic formations
  • Mountain bike tour on the slopes of Etna (transport from Catania included)
  • Half-day buggy tour on Mount Etna .

And if you’re more in the mood for a quieter activity , you can maybe opt for a boat trip .

It will allow you to discover the Cyclops Bay and its Faraglioni. And if you’re lucky enough, you may even see dolphins! The excursion also includes a snorkeling break to observe the underwater fauna of the marine reserve.

To book your 4-hour boat tour from Catania , simply click on the button below:

This boat trip is also offered in a small group version on a sailboat, with lunch included . It’s simply amazing! You can book this VIP cruise right here:

The Best things to do around Catania

A few kilometres from Catania , you can visit the small baroque town of Acireale . The city is famous for its numerous churches: There are about 100 for only 60,000 inhabitants!

You guessed it, the main ones are of course located around piazza del Duomo . It’s worth a visit, as it’s on the road between Catania and Taormina .

Piazza dell Duomo of Acireale town

The main attraction of Aci Trezza , a small seaside resort, are the faraglioni or “Rocks of Cyclops”.

The Legend has it that theses 8 basalt rocks would have been thrown by Polypheme the giant from Etna on Ulysses to prevent him from fleeing the island.

The town itself isn’t anything special, but it’s good enough to enjoy the sea and sun with its many bars and restaurants.

acitrezza-faraglioni

Taormina is for sure the most famous town next to Catania.

This beautiful small town offers great views over the sea and Etna volcano. If you want to enjoy the scenery, the best viewpoints are located at the piazza IX Aprile belvedere and at la Chiesa Madonna della Rocca , above Taormina.

During your visit, don’t forget to go to Taormina Greek Theater , one of the most well preserved in the world!

And if you want to take a dip, head to Isola Bella , a beautiful pebble beach with crystal clear waters.

You can find detailed information about Taormina in my article: The 10 best things to do in Taormina .

To visit Taormina, you can also opt for a day trip from Catania.

They will come pick you up at your hotel and you will enjoy a full day guided visit to both Taormina and the Etna.

To book this excursion, you just have to click on the button below:

Taormina Greek theatre

During your trip to Sicily , you can also go to Syracuse , a nice town located south of Catania.

The city is especially renowned for its charming old town, Oritigia island , and for the Neapolis Archaeological park. It features a huge Greek Theater with a capacity of more than 20 000 people!

If you want more details about the best things to do in Syracuse, you should read my article: Visit Syracuse: the definitive guide.

If you don’t have a car, you can visit Syracuse and Ortigia with an organized day trip from Catania.

Everything is included in the price: Transportation, professional guide and entrance to the archaeological park. You will also go to t he beautiful baroque town of Noto.

Simply click on the button below to book your trip:

Ortigia Island

From Catania, you can also go to Agrigento Valley of the Temples .

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site , this famous archaeological Site is a must-see during a trip to Sicily!

If you don’t have a car, there is even an organized day trip leaving from Catania . They will come pick you up at your hotel in the morning and take you to the Valley of The Temple . A packed lunch made of Sicilian street food is also included.

After visiting the Valley, you will go eat your lunch at the famous Scala dei Turchi beach , where white limestone cliffs plunge into the sea. A magnificent natural site!

And at the end of this great day of visits, you will go back to your hotel in Catania.

What’s great is that it’s a small group excursion , you won’t be more than 8 people!

To book this day trip to the Valley of the Temples from Catania, you need to click here:

And if you want to learn more about the Valley of the Temples, you should ready my article: How to visit Agrigento Valley of the Temples.

Valley of The Temples fallen Icarus statue

You may know that the famous “The Godfather” movie has been shot in Sicily. Your stay on the island is therefore the ideal opportunity to follow in Michael Corleone’s footsteps!

The best way to do discover the movie filming locations is for sure to opt for a day tour with a passionate local guide who knows the movie and the region perfectly.

He will take you to explore the villages of Savoca and Forza , the church of Santa Lucia (where Michael got married), the Vitelli bar or even the Castello Degli Schiavi.

This awesome “The Godfather” tour needs to be booked in advance by clicking the button below (limited availability):

And if you prefer to book a “The Godfather” filming locations private tour, you need to book it there:

  • City-In Hostel B&B : Located opposite Ursino Castle. Bed in dormitory from 17€, breakfast 3€. Free Wifi. Free public parking. Tip: Avoid rooms on the street side, they are a bit noisy.
  • Tra L’Etna E Il Mare B&B : Located one kilometer from the piazza duomo. Large room with refined decoration from 50€ per night. Breakfast included. Free Wi-Fi. Strong points: Free private parking . It’s the best value for money in Catania!
  • Il Giardino Di Piazza Falcone : Located about fifteen minutes’ walk from the piazza duomo. Large bright room from 68€ per night. Breakfast included. Free Wi-Fi. Public parking at 10€ per day. Strong points: a large garden with terrace.
  • Duomo Suites & Spa Catane : Located at only 100 meters from piazza del Duomo, the heart of Catania. Beautiful large and bright double room starting at 190€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the perfect location, the comfortable bed, the view from the terrace. It’s my favorite hotel in Catania, perfect for a luxury stay!
  • Canni & Pisci-Meat & Fish : Seafood and fish restaurant, nicely furnished in a vaulted room. Very quiet. Typical Sicilian cuisine. Menu at 25€ or 30€, very copious and very good dishes. Reservation recommended.
  • Eat Pizzeria  : Very good pizzeria. Wide selection of excellent and copious pizzas. Very good value for money. Friendly atmosphere, welcoming staff..
  • Feelin’ Good  : Restaurant specializing in salads and burgers. You can make your own salad. Fresh produce. Good burgers for a reasonable price. Suitable for vegans.

How to go to Catania  ?

By plane, most airlines fly to Catania from the major cities, Easyjet company often being the cheapest . If you book early enough, the round trip can cost you 60€ (without checked baggage).

The airport is about 7km from the city center, and there are many buses doing the transfer (1€, every 30 minutes).

You can also rent a car when you arrive , the prices are not very high but be careful when choosing your rental company and the insurances offered. make sure to double read your contract!

Prefer agencies that offer you to return the car with full tank (to do it yourself before returning), as else they will automatically charge you full double fare!

When you pick up the car, note the slightest scratch or impact and when you return, insist on going around with the rental company.

The most frequent scam, when your flight is outside of the rental agency’s opening hours, is to tell you to drop the keys in the mailbox and the agency will take care of the returned car check.

Once back home, you will be debited 300 à 900€ for fake damages ! (Yep, it happened to me also).

It’s unfortunately a common scam in Sicily, and that’s why you must take an insurance when booking your car in order to get a refund. Remember to keep all the documents given by the car rental agency, they will be asked during the refund procedure.

To rent a car at the best price, I always use Rentalcars.com website for 3 reasons

  • It allows you to compare prices between all the rental companies . It’s the best way to save money!
  • They offer Free modification/cancelation of your booking: you change your mind? No problem, you can cancel or modify your booking for free.
  • You can choose the “Full Protection insurance” when booking. You would get complete excess refund in case of car accident (or any damage done to your rental car) as well as rental agency’s scams. They are unfortunately very common in Sicily, they costed me more than 1300 euros, hopefully all refunded by Rentalcars.com Full Protection insurance!

To book your can now, simply click on the button below:

They simply have the best car rental insurance on the market, the “full protection”.

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your trip to Catania, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental.

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Sicily? 😊

Do you plan to visit Catania during your trip to Sicily?

Sicily travel Guides

  • Buy the Lonely Planet Sicily guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
  • Buy the DK Eyewitness Sicily guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Sicily : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Sicily are listed there.

  • The 20 Best Things to Do in Sicily – The ultimate bucket list!
  • Itinerary: 2, 3, 4, or 5 days in Sicily – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions! (East + West)
  • Itinerary: 1 week in Sicily – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions! (East coast)
  • Itinerary: 10 days in Sicily – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions! (West coast)
  • Itinerary: 2 weeks in Sicily – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions! (Full Sicily tour)
  • Agrigento: The 10 best things to do in and around the city
  • Palermo: The 15 things to do in the capital
  • Syracuse: The 15 best things to discover
  • Taormina: Top 10 things to do and must-see!
  • Trapani: The 10 best things to do
  • Agrigento Valley of the Temples: visit the archaeological site with my detailed guide!
  • Zingaro nature Reserve: All my best tips to enjoy this wonderful hike

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

visit Catania

Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Discussion 7 comments.

Chris

Excellent information. Thanks. I don’t normally leave ratings but this is a good article.

Marie Schrittwieser

Thank you great information about Catania I hope to spend two days there before joining my daughter and Ragusa

Vincent

I am glad my article is helping you to plan your trip to Catania!

If you have any question, don’t hesitate to ask me.

Enjoy your stay in Sicily 🙂

suzanne perschky

Is it possible to walk to a beach from Piazza del Duomo area?

Hello Suzanne,

From the Piazza del Duomo of Catania, the closest beach is at 30 min on foot. However, it’s located right next to the harbor and it’s not very nice. If you want to go to a nicer beach, you will have to take the bus or rent a car.

David

Hi Vincent!

Can you recommend a good beach (or beaches) close to Catania?

The closest beach to Catania is the “playa di Catania”. It’s a very long beach in the South of Catania and the only one sandy beach around the city. However, it’s clearly not the nicest beach of Sicily!

You can also find other beaches (not sand) around Aci Trezza and Acireale, North of Catania. But, again the environment is not very nice.

Honestly, if you want to enjoy beautiful beaches, Catania is not the best place to stay. You will have to go around Taormina (50 min by car from Catania) or around Siracusa and the South of Sicily (Avola etc..)

If you have any other question, don’t hesitate to ask me. Enjoy your stay in Catania and Sicily!

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14 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Catania

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Sicily's second largest city after Palermo , Catania's main attraction is its Baroque architecture. Founded by Ionian Greeks in 729 BC, Catania prospered as an agricultural center and remained so after it became a Roman colony.

Eclipsed by Syracuse and Palermo in the Byzantine and Arab periods, it regained its importance as a trading and seafaring power under Norman rule. Spanish rulers fostered the town's prosperity, founding a university there in 1434, but natural catastrophes befell the town: the plague in 1576; lava flows in 1669 that destroyed the western part of the town; and the great earthquake of 1693, which left the rest in ruin.

The 18th-century reconstruction, much of it designed by Giovanni Battista Vaccarini, left Catania its rich legacy of Baroque buildings , which are its major attractions for tourists. So are the views of Mt. Etna from rooftop terraces and at the end of Via Etnea, Catania's main promenade-like shopping street.

Catania made world news in the summer of 2021 as wildfires swept through that region and other parts of Sicily. Beach areas south of the city center were affected, especially the resort of Le Capannine, which was almost completely destroyed. But facilities were quickly rebuilt, and the beaches are again open.

Discover the attractions in this vibrant Sicilian city with our list of the best things to do in Catania.

See also: Where to Stay in Catania

1. Basilica Cattedrale Sant'Agata

2. piazza del duomo & fontana dell'elefante, 3. monastero dei benedettini, 4. stroll through villa bellini gardens, 5. castello ursino, 6. palazzo biscari, 7. teatro romano, 8. teatro massimo bellini, 9. badia sant'agata, 10. day trip to mount etna, 11. museo civico, 12. day trip to noto, 13. san nicoló l'arena, 14. porta garibaldi, where to stay in catania for sightseeing, catania, italy - climate chart.

Basilica Cattedrale Sant'Agata

The cathedral of Sant'Agata stands, according to tradition, on the spot where Saint Agatha died a martyr's death in 251, and it was begun between 1086 and 1090, shortly after Catania was conquered by the Normans.

Remains of the Roman springs of Achilles and other ancient buildings were used to construct the three-aisled cross-shaped basilica. During the reconstruction after the earthquake of 1693, the nave was rebuilt under the direction of Girolamo Palazzotto, and in 1736, Vaccarini completed the façade.

The impressive interior was designed to be Catania's pantheon, and you'll see immediately on entering, the simple tomb of the famous opera composer Vincenzo Bellini, who was born in Catania. From the right transept, a 1545 portal by Giovanni Battista Mazzolo leads to the Norman Cappella della Madonna , with Roman and medieval sarcophagi containing the remains of Aragonese kings.

The Cappella di Sant'Agata , behind a wrought-iron gate in the right transept, has a marble triptych on the altar by 16th-century artist Antonello Freri. The life of Saint Agatha is illustrated in the richly carved 16th-century choir-stalls, and in the choir are more tombs of Aragonese kings of Sicily. In the sacristy is a contemporary portrayal of the eruption of Mount Etna in 1669, with the lava flow that reached the Castello Ursino.

Address: Piazza del Duomo, Catania

Catania - Cathedral of Sant' Ágata - Floor plan map

Catania has a number of lovely squares, but none more gracious–or spacious–than Piazza del Duomo. The cathedral square is the center of the city and preserves the Baroque appearance conferred on it by Giovanni Battista Vaccarini in the early 18th century.

Around the elephant fountain on the east side are the cathedral, altered in the Baroque style from 1730 to 1739, and the church dedicated to the city's patron saint, Sant'Agata, built from 1737 to 1767. In the northwest is the Palazzo del Municipio (1741) and in the south, the Porta Uzeda–all created by Vaccarini.

Vaccarini's charming Fontana dell'Elefante , an elephant made of black lava supporting a small Egyptian obelisk, was inspired by Bernini's elephant obelisk in Rome. From the southwest corner of the Piazza del Duomo, the busy Via Garibaldi runs past Piazza Mazzini to the Porta Garibaldi . To the north of Piazza del Duomo, on either side of the Via Etnea, lies the heart of the Baroque area, with its broad streets and well-defined squares.

Monastero dei Benedettini

One of the biggest Benedictine monasteries in Europe, the former monastery behind the church of San Nicolò l'Arena was begun in 1500, and its long-continuing construction incorporated styles of several eras. The late Baroque façade features rusticated pilasters and sculptured window decorations, and there are two lovely inner courtyards.

Tour options include both cloisters, the 16th-century cellars, and 18th-century cellars by Vaccarini. The monastery, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the Department of Humanities of the University of Catania .

Address: Piazza Dante 32, Catania

Official site: http://www.monasterodeibenedettini.it/benedictine-monastery-catania.htm

Villa Bellini Gardens

Giardino Bellini is a spacious urban park with fountains and walking paths shaded by giant tropical and subtropical trees. Benches provide plenty of places to enjoy the quiet. Highlights are an elaborate Belle Epoch bandstand, the Collinetta del Salvatore, and a flower clock. The Viale degli Uomini Illustri is lined with busts of famous Catanians. On clear days, you can get good views of Mt. Etna framed by trees.

Garden lovers might also want to visit the University of Catania's Botanic Garden (Orto Botanica), a small but well organized garden that's especially strong in cactus, agave, and other succulent plants.

Address: Via Etnea 397, Catania

Castello Ursino

Castello Ursino is a sturdy building of lava stone in 1239. This defensive fortification from the Hohenstaufen period in the High Middle Ages shows close affinity with the castle of Frederick II in Syracuse.

The ground-plan consists of four wings around an inner courtyard; the four wings form a square with towers at the corners and four smaller towers halfway along each side. Decorative elements are sparse; on the entrance side to the north you can spot an eagle seizing a rabbit.

The castle originally stood right by the harbor, until the great stream of lava in 1669 flowed past its west side (it can still be seen here) and pushed the coastline eastwards. Today, the castle occupies a spacious site in the middle of a residential area.

Address: Piazza Federico di Svevia, Catania

Palazzo Biscari

Palazzo Biscari is still privately owned and lived in by descendants of the Prince of Biscari, who commissioned its building between 1707 and 1763. The palace's façade is one of the city's most flamboyant; you can't help noticing the ornate window and door frames.

Ignazio Biscari, the grandson of the man who had originally commissioned the palace, extended it in order to create space for his extensive art collections, much of which have since been donated to the Museo Civico . The inner courtyard features a large double staircase, and the opulent interior includes a Rococo dining hall with mirrors, stuccoes, and frescoes.

Elsewhere are paintings, marble floors, more frescoes and elaborate stucco work, and a small museum with the artifacts that were not donated to city museums. Check with the tourist office to see when tours of the interior are being offered (the reference to audio tours on the sign in front merely indicates that the palace is discussed in the city's audio tour).

Address: Via Museo Biscari 10-16, Catania

Official site: http://www.palazzobiscari.com

Teatro Romano

On the southern slope of the old acropolis is the Teatro Romano (Roman Theater), which was built in the second century BC on the site of a Greek building. The auditorium has a diameter of 100 meters with two perimeter passages.

The steps are made of lava, while the orchestra and seating rows are covered in marble. Adjacent to the Teatro Romano to the west is the Odeon , a small theater whose orchestra is on the same level as the highest corridor in the theater. The Odeon is built entirely of lava.

Address: Via Vittorio Emanuele 266, Catania

Teatro Massimo Bellini

Named for the Catania-born opera composer, Vincenzo Bellini, the ornate distinctive Sicilian Baroque-style theater was opened in 1890 with a performance of his most famous work, the opera Norma . The 1200-seat theater is spectacular, with tiers of ornate galleries rising to a golden dome with frescoed medallions picturing scenes from Belllini's most famous operas.

The marble foyer, where there is a statue of Bellini, is decorated with intricate stucco work, as are the elegant reception rooms. Seats throughout the theater are upholstered in red plush, and even the curved passageways leading to the boxes are filled with exquisite decorative details. Tours of the opera house are offered in English by reservation.

The exterior of the house matches the distinctive Sicilian Baroque style of the neighboring buildings of the late 17th century

The performance schedule includes, as you might expect, works by Bellini, but also a full repertoire of operas and classical concerts. Teatro Massimo Bellini is especially known for it outstanding acoustics.

Address: Via Giuseppe Perrotta 12, Catania, Italy

Official site: https://www.teatromassimobellini.it

Badia Sant'Agata

The convent church of Sant'Agata, opposite the north side of the cathedral, was built between 1735 and 1767, and is the principal work of Giovanni Battista Vaccarini. The massive building, dominated by a huge octagonal dome, is fronted by a superb facade, the middle section of which is concave in shape.

The central structure has four arms of unequal length around the square occupied by the dome. The longest of the four arms contains the west entrance, which supports the nuns' gallery.

Catania Cathedral with snowcapped Mount Etna in the distance

A day trip to Mount Etna is one of the most popular things to do near Catania. At about 3,300 meters (its height varies with eruptions), Etna dominates the eastern Sicilian skyline, close to the coast and northwest of Catania. Continental Europe's tallest active volcano and Italy's highest mountain south of the Alps, it is designated as a national park . With only meagre vegetation, the porous upper slopes absorb rainfall that drains rapidly to meet an impervious bed of rocks and emerges in springs.

More than 250 volcanic vents are around the flanks of the mountain. On the south slope, where the sun shines for 3,000 hours a year, stands a solar power-station. Oranges and lemons grow up to about 500 meters; olives and vines to 1,300 meters. In the winter, ski lifts operate near the summit.

As Etna is never really inactive, the area close to the crater is always changing its shape from eruptions and is too dangerous for visitors to get very close. But you can ascend the mountain in various ways–climbing, by car, and by cable car–to walk in its rugged, moonlike landscape.

Mount Etna

A road leads to the Sapienza Refuge, south of the crater at 1,910 meters. A cable car begins here, rising to an altitude of 2,500 meters, where you can walk or ride in special terrain vehicles as far as about 2,900 meters.

The narrow-gauge Ferrovia Circumetnea railway runs partway around the volcano from Catania to Riposto, or you can drive a 144-kilometer loop from Catania via Misterbianco and Paternò, where there's a 1073 castle. At Adrano is a magnificent view of Etna and a Norman castle containing an Archeological Museum .

About nine kilometers southwest of Adrano, the little town of Centuripe has a first century BC archeological site with a museum. From Adrano, the road continues via Bronte, Maletto (the highest point on this route, at 960 meters), Randazzo, and Linguaglossa to Fiumefreddo. You can return to Catania on the motorway A18 or SS114.

A stress-free way to see Mt. Etna is on the Etna and Taormina Full-Day Tour from Catania , a nine-hour, action-packed trip that includes exploring a natural lava cave and an optional ride by cable car to the summit of Mount Etna. There's time for a cooling swim at Isola Bella island, before an afternoon in Taormina visiting the ancient Greek theater, medieval churches, and shopping streets.

Etna Map - Tourist Attractions

Housed in a portion of Castello Ursino, the Museo Civico displays finds and collections from the surrounding area, among which are many Hellenistic and Roman sculptures. Highlights include the torso of a Roman emperor and a Hellenistic relief of Polyphemus being blinded by Odysseus.

Other things to see include porcelains, fragments of mosaics and inscriptions, and a collection of rare weapons and sculptures from the Middle Ages to the 18th century. Smaller antiquities include bronze statues, ceramics, and terra-cotta. On the upper story is a collection of paintings from the 15th to 18th centuries, including works by Pietro Novelli, Mattia Preti, and Fra Angelico.

Noto, Sicily

Following the devastating 1693 earthquake, old Noto was abandoned, and with the help of a number of well-known master-builders, completely rebuilt 16 kilometers away. As a result of the unique town layout and the churches and palaces designed by these prestigious architects, today Noto is one of Sicily's most attractive Baroque towns.

The buildings have individual variety within a stylized unit, and thanks to the use of the light-colored local limestone, the effect is bright and lively. The impressive Cathedral of Santi Nicola e Corrado , dominates Piazza del Municipio from atop a broad flight of steps, faced by the elegant, two-storied Palazzo Ducezio , the town hall built by Vincenzo Sinatra in 1746. The cathedral, finished in 1770, has a magnificent twin-towered front and a splendid doorway created by G. F. Pirrone in 1982.

Near the cathedral stands the Bishop's Palace in a square with the former monastery church of Santissimo Salvatore adjoining it. Opposite is the church of Santa Chiara , with a square facade and long oval interior designed by R. Gagliardi.

To the left of the cathedral is the 19th-century Palazzo Landolina di Sant'Alfano . Other distinguished buildings line adjacent streets, making Noto one of Sicily's most rewarding cities to explore.

You can combine admiring Noto's stunning Baroque architecture with a visit to the ancient Roman and Greek sites in Syracuse, on the eight-hour Syracuse Ortigia and Noto Day Trip from Catania . A local guide will be sure you see the highlights of Noto's many Baroque buildings and learn their history, while in Syracuse you'll see the Neapolis Archaeological Park, with its Greek theater, massive Roman amphitheater, and ancient quarries.

Noto Map - Tourist Attractions

On the site of the Greek acropolis, the Benedictines began building the Church of San Nicoló in 1702, along with the monastic buildings Monastero dei Benedettini . Work on the church continued until the end of the 18th century, but it was never finished.

This gives the incomplete façade a strange almost forbidding appearance, its pairs of massive columns on raised plinths ending abruptly, and the pegs that should hold its facing stones still protruding like bristles.

A large dome surmounts the plain, three-aisled interior, which has an 1841 meridian in the transept; 18th-century choir stalls; and the great organ made famous by Goethe, built by Donato del Piano between 1755 and 1767. From the dome is a beautiful view as far as Mount Etna (you can request access to the dome from the sexton).

Porta Garibaldi

The monumental gate of Porta Garibaldi was erected in 1768 in honor of King Ferdinand IV and his consort Maria Carolina, daughter of the Empress Maria Theresa. The architects were Francesco Battaglia and his stepson Stefano Ittar, who designed a striking gate with dramatic horizontal layers of white limestone and black lava.

The side facing the city is simpler, the west-facing side has concave wings and is crowned by a clock placed between two winged figures, symbolizing glory.

Address: Via Garibaldi, Catania

We recommend these great hotels in convenient locations near Catania's top tourist attractions:

Luxury & Mid-Range Hotels:

  • In a quiet city location, the four-star Liberty Hotel is highly rated for its old-world charm and helpful staff. Breakfast is included. In a great location on the main shopping street, Palace Catania | UNA Esperienze occupies a building dating to the early 1900s, restored to reflect local styles and ambience. The rooftop restaurant has Mount Etna views. The traditional Sicilian breakfast and minibar are both included, and the hotel offers indoor parking.
  • The small family-run Hotel Centrum Catania is a short walk from the airport-to-city bus stop, near the Bellini Theatre and Via Etnea's many shops and restaurants. Guests remember the generous breakfasts and the massaging multi-head showers. The outdoor courtyard is a great place to relax after a day's sightseeing.
  • The highly rated Airone City Hotel is four kilometers from the historical center and Piazza Duomo, but guests appreciate its quiet location, spacious modern rooms, and bountiful buffet breakfast. You can rent electric bikes here for touring the city. It's well located for those traveling by car.

Budget Hotels:

  • A 10-minute walk from the city center, Hotel Villa Romeo has a colorful décor and a lovely courtyard where guests can relax under the stars on warm evenings. Breakfast is included, and the hotel has family rooms. This is a mid-range hotel at budget prices.
  • Just off Via Etnea, opposite the Bellini Gardens and near the botanical gardens, the three-star Hotel Etnea 316 has rather grand high-ceilinged rooms and a friendly staff. Breakfast is included.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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Where to Go from Catania: Many of the top places to visit in Sicily are nearby, including the remarkable Greek and Roman theaters and other tourist attractions of Syracuse . Also easily visited on a day trip, Taormina can be combined with a trip up Mt. Etna.

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Discovering More Ancient Sites: Sicily is rich in remnants of ancient civilizations, including the spectacular mosaic floors at Villa Romana near Enna . The Valley of the Temples is among the top attractions in Agrigento , on the south coast.

Catania Map - Tourist Attractions

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10 Best Things to do in Catania, Sicily

10 Best Things to do in Catania, Sicily

In the shadows of the powerful Mount Etna, full of culture and liveliness, lies the second-largest city of Sicily – welcome to Catania. The moment you step into this bustling metropolis, you’ll be greeted by a captivating blend of history and the irresistible charm of Sicilian life. Explore the winding streets in the lovely old center, where colorful markets come alive with the scents of freshly brewed espresso, citrus fruits, and delicious street food. From the stunning Cathedral of Sant’Agata to the lively piazzas where the locals gather, take a day to discover the versatile city of Catania in Sicily, Italy.

Things to do in Catania, Sicily

Situated on the island’s eastern coast, Catania makes a great starting point for a Sicily road trip . With its rich architectural heritage, the city stands proudly against the backdrop of the majestic Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano. It’s a bit gritty but packed with interesting history and personality.

Must-read: What to do in Sicily, Italy

Best things to do in Catania Sicily

Soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Sicilian hospitality and the warm Mediterranean sun as you make your way through the city. You’ll come across beautiful Roman remains, baroque architecture, and incredible terraces where conversations fill the air. Discover all the best things to do in Catania, Sicily.  

Hotels in Catania 😴

Dome

Did you know? Catania is also known as ‘the black city’, as the soot and ashes of the volcano blacken the buildings. Though it’s been destroyed in the past, the city always rises from the ashes, becoming more beautiful each time.

catania tourist video

1. Cathedral of Saint Agatha

In the vibrant center of Catania, you’ll find the stunning Cattedrale di Sant’Agata. This grand cathedral serves as the heart of the city. Designed in a beautiful Baroque style, it’s the main centerpiece to look at. Despite its turbulent history of destruction, the current building standing dates as far back as 1711.

10 Best Things to do in Catania, Sicily

Inside, you’ll be greeted by a blend of luxurious designs. Though the cathedral’s main hall is rather subdued, the apse and side chapels are covered in beautiful paintings and details. Besides its beautiful architecture, the cathedral has a special meaning to the city as it’s where the patron saint of Catania met her martyrdom.

Here are all your hotel options in Catania.

Best things to do in Catania Sicily Italy

Chiesa della Badia di Sant’Agata

Next to the grand cathedral, you’ll find a church bearing the same name. Apart from its architecture, it’s also an incredible viewpoint, offering 360-degree vistas of the entire city and Mount Etna. Because of this, it’s a lovely spot to visit during sunset. Climb up halfway to be struck by the breathtaking views. Or, head up even higher through a small staircase to get to the absolute top. 

Entrance Fee & Opening Times: The church is open daily from 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM and reopens from 4 – 7 PM. The entrance costs 5 EUR (5.45 USD).

Best things to do in Catania Sicily Italy

2. Fontana dell’Elefante

Begin your journey through Catania by immersing into the vibrant atmosphere of the Piazza del Duomo. This is the city’s main square and beating heart of the historic center. Join the locals, and take in the peaceful atmosphere amidst the impressive buildings that line the square. From the stunning Palazzo dei Chierici to the Catania Cathedral, there’s a lot of Sicilian Baroque architecture to marvel at here. 

Best things to do in Catania - Fontana dell'Elefante

At the center of it all, you’ll spot the elegant Elephant Fountain, an iconic city symbol that graces the square. Listen to the streams of water as you relax at one of the many lively cafes on the square. This is a beautiful spot to grab a refreshing drink or dive into local Sicilian specialties.

catania tourist video

3. Ursino Castle

Venture south and discover another facet of Catania’s interesting past – the impressive Castello Ursino. This striking medieval fortress, built in the 13th century as the royal castle of the Kingdom of Sicily, bears witness to the city’s historical stories. Enduring many natural disasters and the test of time, Castello Ursino still stands proudly today. Inside the formidable walls, you’ll now find the Civic Museum of Catania. 

Step inside to take in the collection of the beautiful historical collection of weapons, sculptures, and incredible paintings. 

Tip: Visiting as a European citizen? Many things to do in Catania are half-priced for those under 25 years old!

catania tourist video

4. Catania Fish Market

Nestled just a stone’s throw away from the picturesque Piazza del Duomo awaits the Catania Fish Market. This is a bustling spectacle where locals of all ages passionately sell their fresh catch (open daily till 2 PM). It’s an impressive and somewhat chaotic scene that really shows the city’s essence. 

Fish Market Catania Sicily things to do

From small shrimps to massive swordfish, there’s plenty of seafood around, proudly presented in the stalls. As you stroll the streets and market, you’ll witness locals and visitors join in with the vibrant ambiance of the place.

Catania Fish market stand Sicily italy

We recommend having breakfast before heading to the market, as the smells are sometimes quite pungent. Besides fish, you’ll also find plenty of cheeses, fruits, and other delicious treats that you can get for lunch.

Vendor Fish Market Catania Sicily

5. Bellini Gardens

Located along the charming Via Etnea in Catania, Sicily, the Bellini Gardens make another location to get away from bustling city life. The ornate gardens of Villa Bellini, the oldest public park in Catania, are an incredible to-do. Make your way through the enchanting green oasis and take some time to relax from all the sightseeing downtown. 

Also visit: Valley of the Temples in Sicily .

things to do catania sicily bellini gardens

The Chiosco Bellini Park is a great place to unwind, with many walking paths and picnic spots. Bring a pastry and coffee to-go from the renowned Pasticceria Savia, and make your way through the freshly trimmed hedges. While you stroll through the garden, an elegant staircase will lead to the park’s centerpiece – a beautiful fountain with a floral clock. From there, you’ll be greeted lastly by the stunning pavilion crafted from iron.

Also read: Best Things to do in Palermo, Sicily .

Bellini Gardens Catania Sicily

6. Botanical Garden: Orto Botanico dell’Università di Catania    

A natural haven full of luscious flora lies within the city, tucked between the darkened buildings. This idyllic oasis showcases the region’s rich biodiversity and makes a great escape from the urban bustle. Stroll along the meandering paths between the greenery while you soak up the tranquil atmosphere.

Orto Botanico dell'Università di Catania Sicily

From towering palm trees swaying gently in the wind to vibrant and beautiful flowers, the Botanical Garden is one of the best things to do in Catania. Each one of the species here shows the diverse flora of Sicily and beyond. Stroll past the ponds adorned with water lilies and watch as colorful butterflies make their way amidst the flowers.

catania tourist video

7. Roman Amphitheater Catania

Head back in time to 300 B.C. by exploring the remarkable remains of the Roman Amphitheater in Catania, Sicily. This ancient theater is one of the city’s highlights, offering a small glimpse into the island’s rich history. Step through a small museum and get transported back in time to an arena that once accommodated up to 7,000 spectators. 

Roman Amphitheater Catania Italy things to do

Wander through the rows of seats, explore the outer hallways, and catch a glimpse of the neighboring Greek Odean. This one is much smaller but adds to the historical site’s allure, showcasing the diverse groups that inhabited Sicily over time. 

Best things to do in Catania Sicily

8. Monastero dei Benedettini di San Nicolò l’Arena

As you venture uphill away from the charming Via dei Crociferi, you’ll encounter the Monastery of San Nicolò l’Arena, one of the architectural gems of Catania. This 16th-century monastery, now part of the University of Catania, exudes grandeur and has quite a historical significance. While it may have transformed over the years, the building’s beauty remains intact and makes it a must-see when visiting Catania. 

Monastero dei Benedettini di San Nicolò l'Arena Catania Sicily things to do

Inside, wander through the halls and explore the stunning marble cloister, the centerpiece of the construction. Watch as the monastery comes to life with students studying in what is now the library. Though the beautiful building is easily explored by yourself, consider joining a guided tour if you’d like to learn more about the monastery’s history.

Best things to do in Catania Sicily Italy Monastero dei Benedettini

9. Trip to Mount Etna

Just one hour’s drive from Catania stands the incredible Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe at 3300 meters. Hike to the summit for incredible views over the whole island, and explore the volcano’s craters, lava fields, and ice caves. Best of all, some of the most delicious wines in Sicily are produced in this area, making it great to combine the hike with a winery tour and tasting on your way back to Catania.

Join this Mount Etna Tour that includes a wine tasting

Trip to Mount Etna Catania

Mount Etna Tour

There are multiple tours available depending on your time and budget. Keep in mind that it’s quite expensive, as you have to go up the mountain with a guide for safety reasons. However, it’s more than worth it! Tours usually include transport up the volcano, return tickets for the cable car, and the cost of a 4×4 van, which drops you off at the summit trailhead. 

Viewpoint Mount Etna Catania Italy

You can explore Mount Etna by yourself; however, only up to 2900 meters. The best time to do this tour is during spring or autumn when there are fewer tourists, and it’s not too cold. Make sure to book in advance, as it’s one of the best things to do in Catania, Sicily. Note that many of the tours to Mount Etna start from the neighboring town of Taormina .

Getting to Mount Etna Catania Sicily Italy

Getting to Mount Etna

From Catania, it’s a one-hour drive to the car park at Rifugio Sapienza (also known as Etna South), located at 2000 meters high. Here, you can park your car for free and walk in the visitor’s center. Then, you can walk or take the cable car up, which costs 35 EUR (38 USD) for a return ticket. 

We recommend to rent a car in Sicily through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Once you get up, walk to Torre Del Filosofo (40 minutes) to start the summit trail or take a 4×4 (30 EUR / 32.55 USD return). Make sure to check your tour details, as some don’t include these additional transport costs.

Tip: Even in summer, it can be very cold up on the mountain. Because of this, bring layers wear good shoes to go hiking.

Viewpoint Mount etna Catania Sicily Italy

10. Trip to Taormina  

The picturesque clifftop town of Taormina is one of the most beautiful and luxurious places on the island of Sicily. With its pastel-colored houses, ancient churches, palazzos, and panoramic views overlooking the sea and Mount Etna, it looks as if the town could come straight off a postcard. 

Best things to do in Catania - Taormina beach

Once you’ve explored the historical center of Catania, neighboring Taormina makes the perfect next stop on your Sicily road trip . Spend your days exploring the narrow alleyways and tiny staircases, enjoying fresh seafood on the beach, and cooling off in crystal-clear waters.

catania tourist video

The center is mostly car-free, adding to the ‘dolce vita’ atmosphere and making it a very relaxing place to stroll around. Discover cute cafes and Sicilian ceramics as you make your way through town, taking in the stunning views on every corner. 

Read more: the best things to do in Taormina, Sicily

isola bella taormina trip from catania sicily

Best Restaurants and Cafes in Catania

Discover the flavors and aromas of delicious and traditional Sicilian cuisine as you make your way through the city. In the historical center, you’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants that bustle with a vibrant atmosphere of locals and visitors. Try the Catania street food specialty ‘Arancini’, fried rice balls with ragout and mozzarella, while you navigate the lively streets. Some of our favorite restaurants were:

  • A Putia Dell’Ostello (in a lava cave)
  • Morgana Lounge Bar (picturesque cocktail bar)
  • Vinicolo cocktail bar
  • Trattoria U Fucularu

You can also join a Catania street food tour , which takes you along the vibrant markets and little alleyways to try the versatile flavors of the city. A must-try for any foodie!

catania tourist video

Where to Stay

Catania offers a range of accommodation options for every budget, from beautiful B&Bs in the historical center to hotels with seaside or mountain views.

Stay in or near the old piazza to be only a stone’s throw away from all the best things to do in Catania, Sicily. This way, it’s just a short walk to the city’s highlights and best restaurants, and you’ll be amidst all the beautiful architecture. 

catania sicily travel

How Many Days in Catania?

The gritty city of Catania makes the perfect starting point for a Sicily road trip . Most of the highlights lie inside the old center, so you can easily explore everything for a day. However, if you’re looking to tour Mount Etna, staying for two is recommended. 

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Cathedral Catania Sicily

How to Visit Catania, Sicily

Just like Palermo and Trapani , Catania has an international airport with flights from all over Europe. From the airport, it’s just a 20-minute drive to the city center.

If you’re traveling the island of Sicily by train, you can also make your way to Catania. From Palermo , it’s about a 4-hour journey, and about 1 hour from Syracuse and Taormina. Trains are a comfortable way of getting around the island, driving through the beautiful countryside and along the coast. 

If you’re flying into Catania airport, you can also hop on the train just outside that takes you to Catania Centrale station. 

Browse your train tickets here

Best things to do in Catania Italy

As the second-largest city on the island, Catania also makes a great starting point for an incredible Sicily road trip. Explore the city first, then head out to see all the other beautiful locations, such as Taormina and Cefalù . 

Keep in mind that parking in Sicily can be an issue. Like many other Italian towns, Catania has ZTL zones, especially around the old center, making parking difficult. Because of this, we recommend renting a car in Sicily after exploring the city.

catania sicily italy by car

Getting Around

Catania is a very walkable city, with many of the main sights close to each other in the city center. Most of the area is also prohibited from vehicles. This is great as you can peacefully explore all the historic streets and side alleys. 

catania tourist video

How Much Does Catania Cost?

Like many other places in Sicily, Catania is a reasonably-priced city, especially when it comes to the activities and food to try. If you’re traveling on a budget, opt for cheaper accommodation and visit the street food markets for a good (and affordable) lunch. 

Costs of Traveling in Catania

Travel on a budget in Catania, from $220 − $380 USD weekly per person, mid-range $640 − $1290 USD, and high-end from $1180 − $1650 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

  • Hotels: $50 − $100 USD Check available hotels
  • Hostels: $20 − $40 USD Check available hostels
  • Transport: $2 − $20 USD Book public transport
  • Car Rental: $40 − $80 USD Book a rental car
  • Food: $5 − $40 USD
  • Activities: $2 − $10 USD See tickets & tours
  • Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

restaurants catania sicily

The Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Catania, Sicily, is during the late spring or early autumn. From mid-March to June (or mid-September to November), you still have nice weather but get to avoid the peak tourist crowds. 

During this time, accommodations are often lower priced, but attractions might also have shorter opening hours.

Best time to visit Catania Sicily

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Catania travel guide

Catania is Sicily’s second-largest city, with a population of around 300,000. It lies on the Ionian Sea, under the shadow of Mount Etna , or A Muntagna as the locals refer to it.

Mount Etna is ever-present and has to a large extent shaped both the history and the actual existence of Catania. On several occasions, volcanic eruptions destroyed the city, the most devastating of which happened in the 17th century. In 1669 Catania was covered in lava and then, just 24 years later in 1693, an earthquake shook the town down to its foundations.

The reaction to this latter catastrophe was amazing: the entire old part of town was rebuilt in Baroque style , with large, wide-open squares and avenues. The most remarkable aspect, however, was the building material used: lava! Catania is essentially a “grey” city and unique in the world for this.

Map of Catania

What to see in Catania

Visiting Catania is quite easy, as the old town centre is relatively small. An ideal starting point would be the main square, Piazza Duomo.

This delightful square and all its surrounding buildings were designed by one man, Giovanni Battista Vaccarini from Palermo (don’t mention this to Catanians, however, as their rivalry with Sicily’s capital is intense!).

The Cathedral, dedicated to St. Agata, the city’s patron saint, stands on the site of an 11th Century church that was almost entirely destroyed in the 1693 eruption. Its replacement is a very impressive, imposing Baroque structure that incorporates some Roman columns taken from the amphitheatre. These are not the only Roman elements, however, as underneath are some Roman baths. Inside, the Baroque theme continues with several ornate chapels and a fresco recording the 1693 earthquake. Bellini, Catania’s most famous son, is buried here, as are (in ash form) three Aragonese kings: Frederick II, Louis and Frederick III.

The other sides of the square are equally impressive and include the Diocesan Museum and the Municipio, (town hall) built in 1741. In the centre stands the city’s symbol, a lava elephant fountain carrying an obelisk. It bears an enigmatic inscription, MSSHDEPL, which according to some is an acronym for “The mind of St. Agata is sane and spontaneous, honouring God and liberating the city”. Such is the devotion to St. Agata in Catania that there are another two churches named after her, one just across the road from the Cathedral, the other just a short walk away off Via Etnea.

Heading south from the piazza you will go under the 17th-century arch of Porta Uzeda towards the port. A quick right here will take you into Catania’s colourful, bustling and odorous fish market. Get here before lunch and you will enter a different world, an atmosphere that has remained virtually unchanged for hundreds of years.

If you don’t get lost in the hullabaloo of the market and head southwest, you will come to Piazza Federico di Svevia and the old fortress of Castello Ursino. This imposing structure was built by Frederick II of Hohenstaufen in the 13th century on a rocky cliff overlooking the sea. However, the massive lava spill of the 1669 eruption pushed the sea back, creating in one fail swoop a new coastline and stripping Castello Ursino of its strategic position.

Moving back northwards you will come across a rather different aspect of the city: its ancient origins. Catania was founded in the 8th Century BC by Greeks from Chalcis. It subsequently became a Roman city and amazingly, considering the dramatic series of volcanic eruptions and earthquakes that have so afflicted the area, three theatres have survived from this period.

The Teatro Romano, in Via Vittorio Emanuele, was built on the site of a Greek theatre in the 2nd century CE. Its use of lava stone demonstrates how long the excretions of Etna have been put to good use. Next door is the Odeon, a smaller theatre used for more intimate occasions, such as musical performances. The amphitheatre, found in Piazza Stesicoro at the crossroads of Via Etnea and Corso Sicilia is and not usually open to the public, though can be viewed from outside. It is well worth enquiring about a special tour, however, as it was the largest amphitheatre in Sicily, said to accommodate around 15,000 spectators. A fascinating warren of passages runs underneath it, bringing to mind its more famous cousin the Colosseum.

The area around the first amphitheatre is given over to a series of churches and the Museo Belliniano,  dedicated to Catania’s most famous son, the composer Vincenzo Bellini. A short walk northeast will take you to another building dedicated to his memory, the opera house Teatro Massimo Bellini. The opera season runs from around October to June and is well worth a visit if opera is your thing.

After a performance, you could go for a bite to eat in one of the many restaurants in the area. The signature dish of Catania, Pasta alla Norma , is also dedicated to Bellini and consists of fried chunks of aubergine, a rich tomato sauce and salty ricotta cheese..... Buon appetito !

Insider tip: If you're feeling peckish, do as the locals do, and head for Bar Savia in Via Etnea: they have some of the best arancini and cannoli you are likely to find!

Villas in Sicily near Catania

catania tourist video

We are Palermo

The Complete and Essential Guide to Catania for First Time Visitors

Within this article I can tell you all that you need to know so you get the most of your visit to one of the most desirable and alluring destinations Sicily has to offer: Catania.

Catania Sicily

Ciao to everyone, My name is Don Tano Bongiorno, and I am a semi-official tour guide to the beautiful Mediterranean island of Sicily.

Today, along with some local friends, I took a tour through the streets of Catania . I enjoyed a cannolo, a coffee, and even a delicious glass of Sicilian Amaro.

Just to give you a little bit of information, this particular amaro was named Amaro Amara , and it was well worth the tasting.

So, with that one glass, and possibly one or two more, my friends and I comprised a series of useful tips to make your holiday unforgettable.

By now you have already come to know that my intentions are to help you experience Sicily like the locals do , and not just like any other tourist that might land on our beaches.

To put it in other terms, make it like you were born here and lived here all your life.

What you will read here is not the boring and stereotypical tourist guide that you can find somewhere else online, but actual tips that can help you that come directly from the locals.

But you have to be patient.

This city manual is very length, and it is going to take you at least 10 minutes to get through it entirely. You just need to get comfortable and commit to read it all, because the information it contains can absolutely change your entire holiday.

So without further ado, let’s get right to it. Shall we?

Brief Summary

Let me introduce Catania to you in just a few words, though admittedly it would take thousands to learn it completely due to its extensive history.

There are a few cities whose names are capable of expressing their very own nature, and Catania happens to be one of them.

It’s name comes from the Greek prefix “kata”, and this means ‘in the vicinity of’ or ‘leaning on’. It is added on to the name of the volcano Etna to give you Catania.

This came to be because of Catania’s construction at the foot of the highest European volcano, Mt. Etna . This magnificent area overlooks the Ionian coast of Sicily.

Etna Volcano

Few places are like it in the world, as this is quite literally a location where fire and water have met to provide a foundation for the city that UNESCO has declared a World Heritage Site, the seven municipalities of Val di Noto also have this accreditation.

Much like the rest of Sicily, there is an extensive history for Catania.

Since it was founded in 729 B.C. by the Greeks from Chalkidiki, the city has gotten invaded multiple times. Each of these incidents became another enrichment to the arts, architecture and cultural heritage that so uniquely blends together today.

The people of Catania have also been changed by this upswing of cultural influence.

Many different people have colonized the area over the centuries and continue to nurture the defining character of its modern citizens. They continue to show hospitality and peace as their primary way of life.

Not only the history, sea and nature.

The city has been dubbed the “ Milan of the South ” because of its very active nightlife . There are pubs, bars, nightclubs, and restaurants that bring Catania to life every evening.

To generalize it…

This is a city that can offer you almost anything you are looking for. For those that seek history, culture, nature, and impressive events, Catania is a place you need to be. If you visit Sicily, but do not take the time to see some of the later listed places, you might severely regret it.

When Is the Best Time to Visit?

Best Time to Visit Catania

While the climate remains fair for most of the year, there are times that are better than others to visit Sicily or Catania specifically.

Actually, Catania has momre of a subtropical climate throughout the seasons, making its weather even more favorable for travelers year round.

Summer can last for many months here . Despite higher temperatures, travelers do not experience excessive humidity which can exasperate the heat. Rainfall is typically fairly low throughout the year, and it is most likely to get seen through the January and February months.

Winter is incredibly mild , and often only amounts to a few days’ worth of rainfall.

In a Nutshell…

You can come here whenever it suits you throughout the year, but if you really want to enjoy the sea, I would recommend a trip between April and October.

How Do You Get Here?

You can get to Catania in several different ways.

Airplane – There is an international airport of Catania-Fontanarossa “Vincenzo Bellini”. This is the first airport in southern Italy designed for passenger traffic.

You can get direct flights to this airport from Rome, Milan, or other major Italian provincial capitals thanks to Alitalia, but many lower cost airlines also offer flights to Catania.

airplane fontanarossa

This airport is situated nearly 7km from the center of the city, but is accessible through a convenient shuttle service.

Train – A primary railway junction in Catania consists of Central Station of Catania (located in Piazza Papa Giovanni XXIII), which exists at the intersection of main thoroughfares throughout the city.

This station is connected to the port, which makes it then connected to the whole of Italy by long distance trains that provide car transport service to Central Bologna, Milan San Cristoforo, Rome Terminals, and Turin Porta Nuova.

Ship – The port in Catania can easily get reached from Naples or Genoa by a car. If you have one, you can also opt for the port of Palermo, and reach Catania in about 2 hrs.

port of catania

Car – For those that enjoy traveling with a car, just take the A1 Naples-Milan motorway and continue to Salerno-Reggio Calabria. Upon your exit at Villa San Giovanni, you can embark for Sicily to the ports of Palermo of Messina.

To reach Catania from Messina, you have to take the A18 motorway and cover 95km. To get there from Palermo, you have to travel 195 km and take the A19.

Essentially…

You can reach Catania by many methods from anywhere in Italy, and it has an airport for direct flights arriving from all over Europe.

Where You Should Stay in Catania

You should take the time to explore this city if you can.

For this reason, it is wise to carefully decide where you want to stay when you are here to appreciate the history and cultural influences (Greek/Roman, Byzantine, Arab, and Norman), unique architecture and monuments, and the Sicilian Baroque style that ties it all together.

It is a very lively city when the sun goes down.

This entire historical center, which is focused within a 1km radius, is full of people and pubs. You can also find buses and metros throughout this area that are reliable and functional.

Here are the best three areas for you to stay in Catania :

Historical Centre

Historical Centre of Catania

The main square of Catania is via Etnea, which leads to Piazza Duomo in the center of the city. This area is full of shops and often very crowded .

There are also other main streets throughout this area, such as Via Garibaldi, Via Vittorio Emanuele, and Via Mario Rapisardi. You can stay on one of these streets as well, but bear in mind, they are going to be busy.

Corso Italia

Corso Italia in Catania

The area here is elegant, but it is quite a far walk from the centre . Also, because of a larger number of offices, this area is less active in the evenings. You can also make the same argument for the Corso Sicilia area.

Lungomare

Last, but not least is the area of Lungomare around Via Ruggero di Lauria and Via San Giovanni Li Cuti is beautiful and distinct .

It is very busy throughout the summer evenings, and the centre can get reached with just a shorter 30-minute walk. There are two beaches here as well, one is sandy, and the other is made from black lava cliffs.

The historical centre is the best option for where you want to stay, but if you have a car, it can be difficult to park it near your accommodations. In the summer, Lungomare is an excellent alternative to the city centre.

These are the best areas, so let’s take a look at some of the best actual accommodations you can choose from.

Hotels, B&Bs and Apartments in Catania

Hotel Centrum Address: Monsignor Ventimiglia 37

Hotel Centrum

This is an excellent location to be in the heart of Catania’s historic centre, located behind the Massimo Bellini Theatre and only 500 m from the Duomo.

The owners here are very welcoming to travelers and attentive to the needs of their customers. Breakfast is high quality and the location is very strategic.

👉 See the price and availability of Hotel Centrum here

Catania Inn B&B Address: Via Gagliani 13, 95124

Catania Inn B&B

The B&C Catania Inn is an ideal location close to the bus station and the city centre. The staff here are helpful and the property is welcoming, nice, and clean.

You can have a hearty breakfast before you set out for the day and have yourself a relaxing cup of tea any time throughout the day. The only drawback here is that the street is located on is not very beautiful, but it is very close to the city centre.

Furthermore, those who have cars can possibly park in a garage near the accommodations.

👉 See the price and availability of Catania Inn B&B here

Hotel Villa Romeo Address: Via Platamone 8, 95131

Hotel Villa Romeo

This is a three star hotel, but it is worth 4. This hotel is just a 20 minute walk from the beach, only 10 minutes from the city centre, and only a two minute stroll to the train station and bus stop that takes you to Mount Etna.

The rooms and bathrooms are very spacious, clean, and elegant. There is a wide spread for breakfast catering to those who like sweet and savory options. You can also appreciate 24-hour reception service from the helpful staff.

This accommodation also features a private garage exclusively used for their guests.

👉 See the price and availability of Hotel Villa Romeo here

Hotel Trieste Address: Via Leonardi 24 Catania

Hotel Trieste

Although this might be situated in a lower-cost neighborhood, this 1-star hotel will amaze you. The hospitality of the owners, the cleanliness of the rooms, and the central location all demand a higher star rating for this hotel.

It is only 300m from the cathedral, a 5-minute walk from the Duomo, and only a 20-minute stroll to the beach.

👉 See the price and availability of Hotel Trieste here

Hotel La Ville Address: Monteverdi 15, 95131

Hotel La Ville

This is a really nice hotel with helpful staff. The breakfast buffet here is abundant and excellently prepared.

This location is a great value for your money and its location is perfect. It is in the city centre, within the main shopping district. It Is great for those staying in Catania that want to get to the station or the Le Ciminiere Conference Centre.

👉 See the price and availability of Hotel La Ville here

Liodoro Catania B&B Address: Via Gagliani, 13, 95124

Liodoro Catania B&B

You can appreciate this location when you see the spacious rooms and how available and courteous the staff are to the guests that stay here. You will find a spread of local products for breakfast as well.

The location is worth noting as well, as it is only a few steps from the Duomo. Since it is challenging to park in the area, you can put your car in a private garage nearby the B&B for a small fee.

👉 See the price and availability of Liodoro Catania B&B here

Moving Around the City

AMT manages the public transport system here, and this organization stands for Azienda Metropolitana Trasporti, or Metropolitan Transportation Authority .

This is a good system , not without its faults, but much better than one you might find in Palermo.

It is not only equipped with buses and trams to get you around, but there is also a subway that is underused and thereby less than efficient.

One of the best ways to get around the city is through the orange city buses that help you to get from point to point in effective ways.

What You Need to Do and See

Catania is a wonderful city, and there is a plethora of cultural attractions for the traveler to see.

The location of the city, overlooking the Ionian Sea, makes it ideal for holidays on the beach. It is also great for excursions, mainly due to the paths that lead to the discovery of the still active Etna volcano.

Nearby, towns of their own beautiful merit like Taormina and Caltagirone make their own worthwhile day trips.

10 Best Places to Visit

I can tell you the 10 must-see things to do while you are visiting this area.

Piazza del Duomo

Piazza del Duomo

This is the centre of social life in Catania. The square is surrounded by Baroque style buildings that fascinate the senses. This has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO .

Fountain of the Elephant

Fountain of the Elephant

This is in the square opposite of the Duomo, where the elegant Via Etnea starts. It is a monument dating back to the 18th century which consists of a lava stone elephant topped by a granite obelisk. This is considered to be a symbol of both good luck and charm in the city.

Saint Agatha

Duomo also houses the Cathedral of Sant’Agata. The remains of this patron saint of Catania lies within its marble walls. The procession throughout Catania is dedicated to Sant’Agata every February. It is one of the most important buildings in the entirety of the city.

Bellini Civic Museum

Bellini Civic Museum

The most famous Sicilian composer, Vincenzo Bellini was born here in Catania. He has created multiple masterpieces, such as Norma, La Straniera, and La Sonnambula, and these works are renowned around the world. The museum here honors this maestro with artifacts and history, and stands as one of the most interesting museums in Catania.

Roman Theatre

Roman Theatre

One of the most well-preserved Roman ruins in the city can get found in Via Vittorio Emanuele. The Roman Theatre includes gladiator tunnels and a circular auditorium, and is surrounded by buildings from days long ago.

Etna Trekking

This is the largest volcano in Europe, and is located between Catania and Taormina, and stands at an impressive 3,300m tall. Even though it regularly erupts, it is possible to climb this mountain without reaching its four craters in total safety, as this area is continuously monitored for changes.

Massimo Bellini Theatre

Massimo Bellini Theatre

This is the musical heart of the city. It hosts performances by world class artists, and so it is often very crowded when events are taking place. You can visit the beautiful interior (dating back to over a century ago) through some guided day tours.

Etnaland

Etnaland is three amusement parks: one water park full of slides and pools, a prehistoric park with dinosaur and primitive animal replicas, and another where you can experience merry-go-rounds and other fun activities. In short, this is an ideal location for a child of any age.

Monastery

This is a masterpiece of the Sicilian Baroque period. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well, and that is in part because of its symbolism for the city. It is a monumental and marvelous complex constructed in the 17th-century that will take your breath away.

Caltagirone

Caltagirone

This is a small town, less than 70 km from Catania, and it is the capital of ceramics for the island of Sicily. You can admire some of the architectural masterpieces in the streets here, especially some of the decorated walls along the Steps of the Scala di Santa Maria.

There are many events that happen in Catania that showcase the dynamic, creative, and unique citizens here.

I cannot give you a list, as they are going to vary each and every year.

I will tell you about one celebration that you should attend if you can , however.

The Feast of St. Agatha , taking place every year between the 3rd and 5th of February is something that brings all of Catania together.

This event is highlighted by the evocative processions on the 4th and 5th of February, which sees the city crossed by a river of white silhouettes.

No, they are not ghosts.

These are the participants in white shirts, who are transporting the swaying candles and the ferrule of the patroness, making their way through the crowd.

But do not think that Catania is only a city of tradition and folklore, it hosts many musical and art events throughout the year . These all often feature local talents and local products.

Where (And What) To Eat

With the abundance of the land here, Catania is always thriving with fresh vegetables, horticultural products, and fruit. This has helped to spurn a very rich and diverse gastronomy .

Arancini

I can give you a few tips on what you should eat:

  • Seafood salads prepared with octopus, shrimp, ox eyes, and boiled (mollusks typical in this sea region)
  • Pasta with cuttlefish ink
  • Pasta with masculini (fresh anchovies in tomato sauce, cuttlefish, and cuttlefish ink)
  • Arancini (fried rice balls stuffed with ragu)
  • Pasta alla Norma (with sauce and fried aubergines)
  • Pasta Siciliana (thin dough of fried pasta stuffed with tuna and anchovies)
  • Cannoli, Cassata, and Frutta Martorana (almond-based pasta)
  • Brioche with Ice Cream

Honestly, the list is endless but you can try all of these dishes. If you do, you have sampled some of the best fare you can find in Catania .

Bars and Nightlife

Catania is a university city, and as such, has a large number of nightclubs and bars that get frequented by young people studying here.

One of the local favorite options is the beach. Though, as you might expect, this is only ever popular during the summer months.

During the day, they host guests of all ages who can relax in the sun and enjoy a swim. After sunset, they transform into outdoor discos with music and entertainment.

Here are some of the better spots for you to spend an evening.

Mercati Generali

Mercati Generali Catania

This is probably one of the most famous nightclubs in all of Sicily (and regularly is included in international rankings). It is located about 10 km from the City Centre, but it is most certainly worth the trip. It attracts a fashionable crowd that enjoys having fun and can keep the party going.

Zo Cultural Centre

Zo Cultural Centre offers guests a wide range of events, shows, entertainment and more. There is a romantic candlelit dinner to appreciate inside as well, where you can choose among a long and varied wine list.

A Putia Dell’Ostello

This is a spot heavily frequented by locals, especially the porous interior. It is renowned for its superb variety of vegetarian / vegan dishes. On Sunday it serves a vegan lunch, on Wednesdays you can find a DJ, and Friday you can expect to hear live jazz music.

Razmataz Wine Bar

Razmataz Wine Bar

You can find wine, cocktails and beer a plenty served to you in the outdoor area of this restaurant. It is a cherished location for many Catania citizens from aperitif hours. In addition to the drinks you can find here, you will also be able to choose among a food menu that changes daily.

Nievski

This location has a very colorful interior and is a popular desination for the artsy, alternative crowd of Catania as well as university students. This is a great spot for them to get a pre-disco drink. Even the stairs in front of the club become filled with young people on favorable temperature evenings.

Shopping Through Catania

You will find that there are many places that you can shop here in Catania.

Here are some of the most popular places to do this.

  • Via Etnea, Corso Sicilia and Via Umberto for clothing stores, department stores and ice cream shops.
  • Corso Italia and Via Monfalcone for luxury designer shopping
  • Historical market “La Pescheria” for the purchase of local gastronomic products

La bottega del puparo

Not so much a street but a shop that I would recommend visiting would be the “ La Bottega del Puparo ” in Via Reitano 55. The is an historic shop of the Neapolitan family that has existed for generations and focused on making puppets used in performances at the Stabile Theater of the Opera dei Pupi.

Which is Better to Visit: Catania or Palermo?

This is one of the questions that I get asked quite a lot and my answer never changes: both. If you want to make a choice between the two, that depends on multiple factors.

Neither is actually better than the other.

Catania, Briefly

It can be considerd as a proper look at Sicily, since it contains a complete look at the major cultures that offered their influence into the growth and changes of the island. You can find impacts from the Greek-Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, Baroque, Aragonese, and even 19th century Art Nouveau.

With all of this within a small travel radius, it is ideal for those that want to visit a highly cultured city without a lot of time to explore.

This is a city that has a lot of stories that it can tell.

It is a city that has been rebuilt and reborn after destruction and cataclysm . It is a city of Saint Agatha, whose presence is everywhere, and not just limited to the places of worship.

Three points of favor for Catania:

  • It is easy to get around
  • There are large malls and areas for shopping
  • It is close to an active volcano to explore

Regarding security, Catania is deemed a safe city, even though its crime rate is higher than Palermo’s according to recent statistics.

Palermo, Briefly

It is a representative of the entire historical life of Sicily. Glory, opulence, and even the evil deeds of men still monumentalized in the city.

Monuments here integrate different styles and cultures, first and foremost being the Arab style which stands as a basis for much of the modern construction and new techniques today.

It is a city that does not renounce a popular spirit, which can be evidenced by the popular street markets and becoming a world-renowned city for street food.

Palermo is instantly discernable, but it is a place that takes a long time to explore completely if it can be done at all. It has so many hidden treasures beyond its main attractions and monuments.

From palaces to churches, Palermo stands as one of the most significant historical centers in all of Europe.

Three points in favor of Palermo:

  • History and culture (featuring the largest historical centre in all of Europe, though many argue its second-largest)
  • Historical markets and street food ( Street food ranked 1st in all of Europe and 5th worldwide by Forbes Magazine)
  • The seafront and proximity to incredible islands like Ustica and Favignana

Regarding security, Palermo ranks among the safest in Italy for street crime. Obviously, as with any major city in the world, you should exercise the appropriate precautions.

If you have any questions or concerns about Catania, do not hesitate to reach out with a comment below and I will get back with you as quickly as I can.

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About Don Tano

I’m full-blooded Sicilian born from the noise of the Vucciria market and the gentle sound of the waves of Mondello. I grew up eating “pane e panelle” and “pasta con le sarde”. But most of all, I grew up with an awareness: Palermo is a beautiful city to live intensely and to love without question!

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Home » Travel Guides » Italy » 15 Best Things to Do in Catania (Italy)

15 Best Things to Do in Catania (Italy)

As the second largest city on the Italian Island of Sicily, Catania is an important economic hub for the country and is actually the 7th largest metropolis by area. With a population of 315,000 and a greater metropolitan population of 767,000, Catania lies on the eastern coast of Sicily directly in-between Pachino in the South and Messina in the North. This city was originally founded as a Greek colony in ancient times and since then has been part of numerous Empires and cultures including the Carthaginians, the Roman Republic, the Ostrogoths and eventually became part of the Kingdom of Italy.

During the Renaissance period, Catania was one of the most influential cities in the country and was known for its rich culture, arts and history. Today, Catania maintains a huge amount of its heritage and culture and offers a plethora of interesting structures and museums such as the Basilica Sant’Agata and the Museo Civici. Furthermore, this charming Sicilian city lies in close proximity to the legendary Mount Eta and offers a great amount of different day trips and outdoor sight-seeing excursions.

Lets explore the best things to do in Catania :

1. Basilica Cattedrale Sant’Agata

Cathedral of Catania

The Cathedral of Catania is a simply beautiful structure and is a masterpiece of Norman and Baroque architecture.

Located in the centre of the old town, the cathedral can be found in the self-styled Piazza Del Duomo and is in close proximity to many of the other sights.

Originally constructed in 1078 over the ruins of a Roman Baths, the cathedral has been restored many times due to earthquakes in the region.

The front façade features a grey stone design with a series of ornate statues depicting religious figures and a large domed basilica sits at the back of the main aisle.

Inside, there is a large amount of beautiful details such as the frescos at the main altar, the decorative artwork and paintings, and the tomb of the notable composer Bellini.

2. Ursino Castle

Castello Ursino

Sicily has several fine castles that serve as remnants from the period of conquest that saw the island change hands from various different ruling factions.

Ursino Castle is a relic from the 13th century and was built as part of the Kingdom of Sicily by Emperor Frederick II. Today the castle stands in remarkable condition and all four of its original towers and walls still stand without damage; furthermore, remnants of the surrounding walls can also be seen in the castle grounds.

Walk around the castle for some photographic opportunities, but also visit inside to see the fantastic Museo Civico which is housed within the castle walls.

3. Mount Etna

Mount Etna and Catania

Catania virtually sits in the shade of the immense Mount Etna, and this active stratovolcano is one of the main tourist attractions of Sicily.

Mount Etna stands at a height 3329m and is considered the tallest active volcano in Europe.

The most recent eruption was in 2015 and the volcano actually discharged some lava.

When travelling to Catania, you cannot pass up on the chance to climb Mount Etna and witness its gaping caldera up close.

Various tour operators offer day trips to the Volcano – You can choose to hike, cycle, or even ride an ATV or a jeep – The choice is yours.

When at the top of Mount Etna, on a clear day the scenery is unbelievable and you are granted with fantastic views of Sicily.

4. Monastero dei Benedettini

Monastero dei Benedettini

This Benedictine Monastery complex is located in the centre of Catania and is one of the most important and largest examples of its kind in Europe.

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this monastery is a stunning piece of architecture and was originally founded in 1558. As an amalgamation of many styles, the complex is an interesting site and notable structures include the Marble Cloister, the Red Hall, and the Basilica of Saint Nicolo.

Consider climbing to the top of the basilica dome for panoramic views of the city; admire the front façade that features sculptured window decorations, and walking through the cloisters to see the fantastic arches and fountains.

5. Piazza Del Duomo

Piazza Del Duomo

As the main square in Catania, the Piazza Del Duomo has a great deal to offer in terms of attractions.

Located in the heart of the city close to the port area, this central square is a regular gathering place for the locals and a great tourist spot.

In the centre of the square is the impressive Fontana Dell’Elefante, the Fontana Dell’Amenano, Catania Cathedral and the Palazzo degli Elefanti – All fine pieces of architecture.

Furthermore there is a series of cafes and restaurants with ideally situated outside seating so you can have a drink, a bite to eat, and enjoy the fine Sicilian weather.

The Piazza Del Duomo is a great place to start a walking tour of Catania, and from here you are in close proximity to many of the main sights.

6. Catania Museo Civico

Catania Museo Civico

The Civic Museum of Catania is actually housed within the walls of Castle Ursino and stands as an important source of relics, artefacts and history of the city and surrounding region.

Inside the museum is a vast collection that was originally housed in the Biscari Museum and was one of the most important in Europe at the time.

The collection features a myriad of different exhibitions including Hellenistic and Roman sculptures, porcelain, pottery, mosaics, ancient weaponry and other finds from Sicily.

Furthermore, the second floor of the museum contains a selection of paintings from the 15th to 18th century.

7. San Nicoló l’Arena

Catania San Nicoló l'Arena

Connected to the Monastero dei Benedettini, the Chiesa di San Nicoló l’Arena is built over the site of a Greek Acropolis and several of the original columns still stand on the front façade.

This is actually the largest church in Sicily and is one of the most bizarre – Its front façade has never been complete therefore looks quite strange and sinister.

Furthermore, the ancient Greek columns do not really compliment the design therefore the church looks quite mismatched.

Inside, the church is more pleasing and features a myriad of columns, arches and religious decoration.

8. Teatro Romano

Teatro Romano

Sicily has several Roman Theatres all of which are in fantastic condition, and the Teatro Romano in Catania is no exception.

Located in-between the Benedictine Monastery and Catania Cathedral the theatre is easily accessible and is a great site to visit whilst exploring the historic centre of the city.

Created in the 2nd century BC, the theatre features a main seating area and also a smaller Odeon theatre to the left hand side.

The seats of the theatre and several other sections are actually created from lava taken from Mount Etna and the structure remains in fantastic condition.

9. Porta Garibaldi

Porta Garibaldi

Possibly one of the most impressive structures in Catania, this monumental gate was created in 1768 and dedicated to King Ferdinand IV and his wife Maria Carolina.

Designed and built by Francesco Battaglia and Stefano Ittar, the arch is now named after Giuseppe Garibaldi who was instrumental in the unification of Italy during the 1800’s.

Aside from the various stone and marble statues that top the arch, the white and black striped walls and frame create a fantastic contrast and make the arch stand out.

At the pinnacle of the gateway is an inscription and also a working clock that is crowned with and eagle.

10. Giardini Bellini/Parco Maestranze

Giardini Bellini

A fine public space for relaxation and enjoying nature, the Giardini Bellini and the Parco Maestranze are located to the west of the Piazza Carlo Alberto in the town centre.

The Bellini garden is located at the east side of the park and contains a beautiful fountain and several flower beds.

Furthermore there is an ornate bandstand and many varieties of tree.

Aside from the Giardini Bellini, the Maestranze Park features a series of shaded walking trails covered by luscious forest.

11. Aci Castello

Aci Castello

If you travel for approximately 10 miles to the north of Catania along the coast, you will arrive at the charming village of Aci Castello – This village was originally constructed around the castle that lies on the coast and has stood there since the Norman conquests of Sicily.

The castle is indeed the main sight here and sits apart from the village on a rock outcrop facing the sea.

Built in 1076 the castle has stood for hundreds of years and is an iconic landmark on this section of Sicilian coast.

Today you can explore the grounds of the castle and climb up to the top battlements for fantastic views out to the sea and the surrounding countryside.

12. Catania Orto Botanico

Catania Orto Botanico

The Botanical gardens of Catania are located in the grounds of the University in close proximity to the Bellini Garden in the centre of the historic old town.

If you are looking for a relaxing trip and a place to expand your knowledge and admire Mother Nature, this is the place for you! The Botanical garden contains a fantastic display of trees, plants, shrubs and exotic species from all over the world.

The gardens are extremely well organized and are extremely pleasant to walk around.

13. San Giovanni Li Cuti

San Gionvani Li Cuti

This beach is a true natural phenomenon and features black volcanic sands, ash and a multitude of volcanic rocks.

Located on the east coast of Sicily, opposite the Via Zoccolanti, the San Giovnani Li Cuti is a great place to explore and escape from the busy city.

A small harbour is located at the northern end of the beach and is full of old wooden fishing boats that are still used by the locals, and behind this is several bars and restaurants.

There is also several sections of wooden decking complete with sunbeds – consider relaxing for a while here, enjoying the sea air and exploring the volcanic beach.

14. Lido Azzurro

Lido Azzurro

One of the main stretches of beach next to Catania, the Lido Azzurro is a great place to relax, soak up the sun and have some fun.

This fantastic beach is located approximately 15 minutes to the south of Catania in close proximity to the port and harbour.

Beautiful golden soft sand stretches for miles and the warm Mediterranean Sea laps gently against the shoreline.

At the beach there are plenty of sun loungers and parasols so you can sit back, with a cocktail maybe and enjoy the gorgeous weather.

Furthermore, there is also a children’s play area complete with slides and climbing frames, and a several beach bars and shops where you can get a snack or some supplies.

15. Via dei Crociferi

Via dei Crociferi

This historic street is one of the main arteries of the city and features a plethora of historical buildings.

Located in-between the Roman Theatre and the Giardini Bellini, the Via dei Crociferi features four spectacular churches – The Church of St. Francesco Borgia, The Church of San Benedetto, The Church of St. Francis Assisi and the Church of San Giuliana.

Each building has its own unique design and offers something different.

Furthermore, there is also the San Benedetto Arch and the cloisters of the Jesuit College.

Consider visiting this street in conjunction with a trip to the Roman Theatre.

15 Best Things to Do in Catania (Italy):

  • Basilica Cattedrale Sant'Agata
  • Ursino Castle
  • Monastero dei Benedettini
  • Piazza Del Duomo
  • Catania Museo Civico
  • San Nicoló l'Arena
  • Teatro Romano
  • Porta Garibaldi
  • Giardini Bellini/Parco Maestranze
  • Aci Castello
  • Catania Orto Botanico
  • San Giovanni Li Cuti
  • Lido Azzurro
  • Via dei Crociferi

The World Was Here First

The Ultimate 1, 2 or 3 Days in Catania Itinerary

Last Updated on January 10, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

catania tourist video

Sicily’s second-largest city often gets overlooked compared to vibrant Palermo when planning a trip to the Mediterranean’s largest island. However, planning to spend 1, 2 or 3 days in Catania is never a bad idea and planning a Catania itinerary is not a difficult task at all when you consider all there is to do in this lively city.

As a hub for countless budget airlines connecting Sicily to countless destinations across Europe, Catania often serves as the first entry point to the island but is often quickly left for the hills of Taormina or the beaches of Cefalu.

However, Catania has a lot to offer in and of itself and it is so worth planning to spend a bit of time exploring this energetic and vibrant city.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Catania?

After asking yourself is Catania worth visiting or if you should visit Catania or Palermo , another question many will arrive at is how many days to spend in Catania.

This can be tricky, because it can seem, on the surface, that Catania doesn’t really have a lot to offer. This, however, is very much not the case and you can easily fill a few days in this city (and surrounding area) and not get bored.

If you only have one day in Catania, this is a good amount of time to get a feel for the city. Fortunately, most of the main sites lie within easy reach of each other and you can easily cover a lot of ground within the span of a few hours.

However, if you really want to get the most out of the city, then planning to spend 2 days in Catania is probably ideal. You will be able to explore at a more leisurely pace (in line with how a lot of the locals move about the city) and have more time to experience different sides of this dynamic metropolis.

If you’re fortunate enough to have 3 days, then you will also have time to go on a day trip from the city. The popular tourist town of Taormina is within easy reach, as is the beautiful city of Siracusa. If you’re dealing more active and adventurous, you could also opt for a visit to Mt Etna.

Exploring Catania

Getting To & Around Catania

If you’re coming to Sicily from elsewhere, you will likely be flying into Catania as it has quite a high-traffic international airport that connects many major cities to the island.

Catania airport is located quite close to the city centre and you can grab a bus (called Ali Bus) that will take you to the central train station – though it may make sense to get off earlier depending on where your accommodation is. The bus is €4 per person and you can purchase tickets directly from the driver.

If you’re not arriving in Catania via plane, the city is also very well connected via train and bus to many other nearby towns and cities (and not just on the island of Sicily). You can view schedules here.

Once you’re in Catania, you will find that it is quite easy to get around on foot – the vast majority of the main sites are all within easy walking distance of each other. If you plan to do a day trip, you’ll find that many places are easy to reach either by bus or train, as well.

Though having a car for a longer Sicily itinerary is definitely advantageous, you definitely don’t need a car to get around Catania. If you plan on renting a car, you can browse Rentalcars.com for options as it compares many providers.

Catania Duomo

1, 2 or 3 Days in Catania Itinerary

No matter how long you have in Catania, this itinerary will help you get the most out of the city.

The first day takes you around the main highlights, the second day allows you to dig a bit deeper and the third day allows you to explore a bit of the area surrounding the city.

Day 1 – City Centre Highlights

Coffee & cornetto.

Begin day one of your trip to Catania as the locals do – with a coffee and a pastry from a local bar!

There are lots of bars and pasticcerias where you can get a traditional Italian breakfast (or colazione ) scattered around Catania, but we recommend heading to Bar de Curtis where you can get a coffee and a pastry for about €2.50 per person. It’s a place popular with locals but is located only a stone’s throw away from the Piazza Duomo.

The traditional Italian breakfast is usually a cornetto – an Italian-style croissant filled with things like nutella, pistachio cream or vanilla custard. If you want to go a bit more Sicilian, you also would be wrong in ordering a granita with a fresh brioche roll on the side.

Italian Breakfast @ Bar de Curtis

Piazza del Duomo

After you’ve been sufficiently fed and caffeinated, then make your way over to Catania’s main square – the Piazza del Duomo.

Home to, unsurprisingly, the Catania Duomo (cathedral), this is the main meeting place in the city and is always bustling and full of people.

You can see the cathedral, admire the beautiful fountain and even see the elephant monument in the centre of the square. This is really the centre of Catania so it’s worth taking in all of the sites and activity in the main square before moving on.

Piazza Duomo

Fish Market

Just past the main square, behind a beautiful fountain lies one of the top attractions (in my opinion) and best things to do in Catania – its central fish market. Even if you’re not a seafood fan, this is a great stop because it is such a cultural insight.

The market is loud and lively and you will be able to see what kind of fish is fresh (so you know what to order when it comes time to eat!) and also what is local to the waters surrounding the city. Vendors actively yell and butcher swordfish and tuna and hawk everything from cuttlefish to mussels to clams to anchovies.

There are a few different arteries to the market that sell more than fish where you can pick up some fresh fruit and vegetables, some marinated Castelvetrano olives or even some spices, pestos or oils.

There are also a few places to eat around the market. One of our favourites was the Scirocco Sicilian Fish Lab , which serves up fresh fish dishes (take-away style) and very affordable prices. Note that it can be really hectic to eat here at lunchtime, but it quiets down in the evening when the market is no longer open.

If you want to learn more about the food scene in Catania, heading out on a food tour of the city is a great option. This will help you get a deeper knowledge of the street food available in the city and its origins.

Catania Fish Market

Chiesa Badia di Sant’Agata

Moving away from the hustle and bustle of the market, make your way to the Chiesa Badia di Sant’Agata. This church, located across from the Catania Duomo, is well-known for its impressive dome that provides excellent views over the entire city and, on a clear day you can get the best view of Etna from Catania.

Entry to the dome is €5 per person and note that there is no elevator, so you do need to climb the stairs. The staircase is wider and in good nick compared to many other church towers we’ve climbed before so it makes the ascent much easier.

Once at the top, you will be rewarded with beautiful panoramic views of the entire city, the Mediterranean and Mount Etna in the distance.

Views from Chiesa Badia di Sant’Agata

University Square

Climb down from your viewpoint and head to the University Square, a lively square adjacent to the Piazza Duomo. There are a few benches in this square where you can take a load off and people watch a bit and it is also the entry point to Via Etnea, the main shopping street in the city of Catania.

University Square

After a busy morning of sightseeing, it’s time to head to lunch – which is an activity in and of itself in Catania!

There are so many delicious dishes to enjoy here that it’s worth heading to a traditional trattoria to sample as much as you can handle. From arancini to caponata to pasta alla norma and more, there is so much great food to try in this city that you’re sure to be in heaven.

For your first day, we suggest heading to Ristorante da Antonio which is located close to the Castello Ursino and has a lot of great, local dishes on offer at affordable prices.

Casarecce Alla Trapanese @ Ristorante da Antonio

Greek-Roman Theatre

After you’ve had your lunch, it’s time to head to another great Catania attraction, the Greek-Roman Theatre. Located only about a five-minute walk from the main square, this ancient amphitheatre is really worth exploring when in Catania.

Believed to have been constructed in the 2nd Century CE, the theatre was only fully excavated in the 19th Century. You can visit the theatre and climb over a good portion of the seats and it’s a great thing to do during your time in Catania.

Entry into the theatre is €6 per person and allows you access to most of the structure.

You can see a lot of the sites above and more if you choose to go on a walking tour of Catania . This will allow you to have a bit more insight and knowledge of the history and culture of the city with a qualified guide.

Greek-Roman Theatre

After a long day of sightseeing, end your day like a local and grab a drink and a couple of snacks at one of the many cafes or bars that line the streets of Catania. The culture of aperitivo is pervasive in the majority of Italy and it’s the same in Sicily.

And while you likely won’t get a large plate of food with a drink order here, many bars do have good drink deals and the opportunity to purchase quite affordable snacks if you’re a little bit hungry.

If you’re looking for a great option, then we recommend heading to Vermut – a vermouth bar that also offers lots of snacks and platters along with plenty of great drink deals (not just vermouth!).

Apertivo @ Vermut

Day 2 – Dig Deeper in Catania

Teatro bellini.

If you have 2 days in Catania, make the first stop of your sightseeing for the be the beautiful Teatro Bellini. Catania is home to noteworthy composer Vincenzo Bellini and this theatre is his namesake. You will see homages to this famed composer everywhere in Catania.

The theatre was inaugurated in 1890 with a performance of Bellini’s opera Norma (the namesake of the famed Catanese dish pasta alla norma). Today, the theatre overlooks a tranquil piazza that is very much worth relaxing in – especially in contrast to the hustle and bustle of the rest of the city.

Teatro Bellini

Coffee or Granita

Today is a more relaxed day of your Catania itinerary but it still includes cultural stops that are internal to Catanese life – and that includes grabbing a coffee or a granita at a local cafe!

Granita is one of the best things about a visit to Sicily and, I have to admit, I was sceptical about it before visiting this Mediterranean island.

Could shaved ice really be a good replacement for creamy, rich gelato? It turned out it definitely can — so much so that we didn’t have a single gelato during our time in Sicily and indulged in a granita nearly every day.

Granita in Sicily is different than what you will get elsewhere – it’s not a slushy that you sip through a straw but rather delicate ice crystals that you eat with a spoon – similar to ice cream.

It also is very good at cutting through the intense Sicilian heat. You can find granita in many different flavours, but it is most common to find lemon, mulberry and strawberry and nut flavours like hazelnut, almond and pistachio.

For those looking for some of the best granita we sampled in Sicily, then head to Comis Ice Cafe , which is located Piazza Bellini right next to the theatre. For those who simply want a caffeine pick-me-up (or a late breakfast), then head to the adjacent Caffe Opera for a coffee.

Granita from Comis Ice Cafe

Mercato di Piazza Carlo Alberto

From the Piazza Bellini, it’s time to wander down Via Etnea (the main shopping thoroughfare in Catania) and head in the direction of Piazza Carlo Alberto.

On the way, you will pass the Roman Amphitheatre, which isn’t open to the public right now, however, you can peek through and see some of the ruins. I will stress that it isn’t nearly as impressive as the Greek-Roman Theatre.

Once you reach the Piazza Carlo Alberto, you will be greeted with one of Catania’s most vibrant and hectic street markets. This market is a lot busier (and bigger) than the fish market and its offshoots and it’s a very good place to wander through to get a good feel for the food, culture and cuisine of the area.

There is also a bit of a flea market surrounding the food market where you can find all kinds of things and it can be interesting to browse. Keep in mind that this market is very busy and loud, so it can get overwhelming.

Mercato di Piazza Carlo Alberto

Villa Bellini

After wandering through the hectic market, head over to the nearby Villa Bellini. These gardens are a tranquil escape from the chaos of Catania and include plenty of benches, manicured hedges, a gazebo and also some great views of Mt Etna.

Entry into the gardens is free and it is an excellent place to find a shady place to sit down, relax and watch the world go by.

Villa Bellini

Monastero dei Benedettini di San Nicolò l’Arena

It’s a little bit of a walk from the Villa Bellini to our next stop of the Monastero dei Benedettini di San Nicolò l’Arena, but it is worth the fifteen to twenty minutes it will take to get here.

This former Benedictine Monastery is situated in an absolutely beautiful building that is wonderful to take in.

The monastery itself is free to enter and wander around, however, you can also opt to take a guided tour to gain more understanding of the place – they run every hour during opening hours. If it interests you, you can also opt to climb the bell tower of the abbey for great views of the city – this is €3 per person.

Abbey of Benedictine Monastery

It’s likely you’ve worked up quite an appetite after exploring so much! Obviously, there are countless great places to eat in the city, however, if you are after a truly local experience, we highly recommend heading to A Putia Do Calabrisi.

This down-home restaurant doesn’t have a written menu and you simply choose from a meat or a fish option and they cook what is fresh. For €10 per person, you can enjoy 3 courses of proper Sicilian fare and some of their delightful homemade wine. Keep in mind that this place is cash only!

Antipasti from A Putia Do Calabrisi.

Castello Ursino

Make your final stop on your 2-day itinerary the Castello Ursino. This castle was built in the 13th Century as a royal caste of the Kingdom of Sicily. Today, however, it is home to an archaeological museum for of various fascinating antiquities and history from the region.

For those who are interested in the ancient history of Catania and Sicily (and the history spans centuries), this is a great stop.

After visiting the museum, end your day by simply wandering around the city as it comes alive in the evening and popping into a bar or cafe to enjoy an aperitivo. A great way to end this day is on this Spritz and Sunset Sail Tour on the beautiful Ionian Sea.

Castello Ursino

Day 3 – Day Trip to Taormina, Siracusa or Mt Etna

If you have 3 days, use your final day to go on a day trip to some nearby areas. The coastal cities of Taormina and Siracusa (Syracuse) are great options, as is a visit to Mt Etna.

Planning a Taormina day trip is probably the most popular option when it comes to places to visit in all of Sicily . This hilltop town overlooking the Ionian sea is well-known for its Greek-Roman theatre and the beautiful coastline that lies outside of the town.

You can easily reach Taormina by either bus or train from Catania in about an hour. However, if you don’t want to go independently, there are a few tours that you could opt to go on, as well.

This small-group tour includes a morning stop at Mt Etna before taking you to enjoy the afternoon in Taormina. Alternatively, this full-day tour also includes stops in both Mt Etna along with a lovely afternoon in Taormina.

Taormina

Another incredibly popular day trip from Catania is to the imposing Mt Etna. This active volcano looms over the city and it is a fascinating place to visit, whether you choose to hike on the volcano itself or visit the world-class wineries that lie in the foothills.

You can visit Etna independently via bus to Refugio Sapienza and, from there, you can take a cable car to the top.

For those who would rather have a guide, then this small-group tour will take you first to the volcano for a guided walk and then wine tasting in one of the region’s vineyards.

If you’re looking to be more active and pass through a lava channel, this guided trekking tour of Etna could be a great option. And if you’re simply searching for the best views you can find, this sunset jeep tour is a fantastic choice.

Mt Etna from Catania

Another of the most popular day trips to Catania is to the lovely town of Siracusa. Located south of Catania, this is a great option for those looking for beautiful scenery and more Roman and Greek ruins.

You can easily reach Siracusa from Catania via either bus or train, or you can opt to visit via an organised tour.

For instance, this small-group tour from Catania guides you around Siracusa proper before taking you onward to explore the towns of Noto and Ortigia.

Where to Stay in Catania

Hotel Centrum – This mid-range hotel has an excellent location just behind the Teatro Bellini, meaning it’s close to everything Catania has to offer. They have a range of comfortable rooms on offer, breakfast available each morning and offer an airport shuttle service among other amenities.

Liberty Hotel – If you’re looking for luxury while visiting Catania, then this 4-star hotel is a great option. They have beautiful rooms and plenty of great amenities (including a buffet breakfast, room service and an airport shuttle).

La Dimora del Barbiere – For those who would like their own space in Catania, these apartments are a great choice. There are a range of flats to choose from (varying in size) and an excellent location for exploring Sicily’s second-largest city.

The Yard Hostel – If you’re travelling solo or on a tight budget, then this hostel is a fantastic choice. Centrally located in Catania, they have both dorm beds and private rooms on offer. They also have great common areas that make it easy to meet other travellers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Catania!

Spending a few days in this Sicilian city is an excellent way to enjoy one of Sicily’s most energetic and dynamic cities. Whether you only have one day here or more, you’re sure to fall in love with the vibrant streets of this incredible metropolis.

Are you trying to create an itinerary for Catania? Have any questions about visiting? Let us know in the comments!

catania tourist video

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

3 weeks in Sicily unsure of where to stay. Flying in and out of Palermo. We are older and feel that maybe day trips with fewer moves would be best. Possible if need be 3-4 nights per town would work. thanks for any suggestions

We have a guide to the best places to stay in Sicily so you can choose what works best for you 🙂 You can find it here: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/best-places-to-stay-in-sicily/

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Cosmopolitan, exuberant, eclectic. Catania is a multicoloured universe, from the glittering whiteness of its Baroque stuccoes (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) to the lava black of the Liotru , the elephant sculpted from basalt that greets us in Piazza Duomo in the heart of the city.

catania tourist video

Catania Piazza Duomo – ph. Paolo Barone

But we mustn’t waste time! Here are ten sights not to be missed in and around the city.

  • Palazzo Biscari

This is the city’s most important palazzo and a symbol of Catania’s Baroque architecture.

Following a devastating earthquake, the building was rebuilt by Ignazio Paternò Castello III, the fifth prince of Biscari, a great scholar, archaeologist and lover of the arts, who not only made it his home, but also established the first major Museum open to the public, containing his great archaeological collection.

It was here that the prince received Goethe during his European Grand Tour , who later described the magnificence of the collections and the palace in detail in his writings. History, charm and beauty all come to mind when describing the building.

catania tourist video

Palazzo Biscari a Catania – ph. Paolo Barone

The palazzo is accessed via a large gate on Via Museo Biscari , which leads to the central courtyard, adorned with a large double-ramp staircase. Its interiors include the rococo ballroom with its complex decoration of mirrors, stucco and frescoes.

Today, as well as being the home of the Biscari family, it is also the venue for cultural and prestigious events and, with prior booking , you can visit the palazzo and listen to stories of its past and its families, told by the descendant of the princes himself.

  • The Fish Market

Behind the cathedral in Catania, a tunnel created in the city walls built by Charles V houses the fish market ; it is partly covered and partly in the open air. A place where every day, under the big red tents and on the white marble stalls, the ritual of selling fish, meat and fruit has continued since ancient times.

The shouts of the vendors, the stalls with steaming roasted peppers and tripe sold to passers-by make it one of the city’s most emblematic landmarks , the ideal place in which to immerse yourself in Catania’s popular and fascinating culture. But also (and above all!) to immerse yourself in Sicilian street food !

catania tourist video

La Pescheria di Catania – ph. Paolo Barone

  • Catania’s Historic Monastery San Benedetto in via Crociferi

A UNESCO heritage site in Catania, it is one of the city’s symbols, recognisable by the arch that opens onto Via Crociferi .

catania tourist video

Via Crociferi a Catania – ph. Paolo Barone

The monumental monastic complex is now, after centuries of absolute and impenetrable seclusion, a historic and artistic site that offers visitors a cultural tour, a synthesis of an extraordinary combination of history, art and contemporaneity.

Observing a respectful consideration for the cloistered nuns who still live in the Monastery, visitors can enter with a guided tour to admire many magnificent works of art. These include the ancient 18th-century parlour, the set of Franco Zeffirelli’s film “ Storia di una capinera – ‘Sparrow’ in the English title “, based on the novel of the same name by Giovanni Verga; the Church of San Benedetto and its imposing entrance staircase, known as the Scalinata degli Angeli – Staiway of the Angels ; the Sicily Museum of Contemporary Art (MACS in its Italian acronym) , located in the Monastery’s smaller abbey.

  • The Benedictine Monastery of San Nicolò l’Arena

At a 10-minute walk from Catania Cathedral you will find the Monastery of San Nicolò l’Arena , a jewel of late Sicilian baroque architecture and one of the largest Benedictine complexes in Europe.

The monastic building, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the Humanities Department of the University of Catania . It houses a Roman domus , cloisters and a splendid hanging garden.

The Monastery is a unique place that recounts the human and historical events of Mount Etna’s city , from antiquity to the present day. A daily preset itinerary is open to all, with extra activities comprising guided tours outside regular hours, theatre and music performances, children’s workshops, cookery courses, workshops and events.

catania tourist video

Monastero dei Benedettini di San Nicolò l’Arena a Catania – ph. Paolo Barone

  • Catania’s kiosks

Let’s stop at a cioscu (or better still “u’ciospu” in the local dialect) to pay homage to an ancient but enduring Catania tradition. These kiosks are identitary meeting places, a form of “popular institution” that encapsulates all of Catania’s history. They are refreshment and meeting points in the neighbourhoods, both by day and by night – a universal symbol of daily life in this city.

We find them in Piazza Roma , Piazza Cavour and Piazza della Borsa , to name but a few in the city centre, but the most famous are those in Piazza Umberto , a stone’s throw from the Fera o’ Luni , Catania’s market .

The history of kiosks dates back to the end of the 19th century, when circular wooden structures began to appear in the corners of the city in the shade of trees. From the window-like openings, the vendors offered passers-by “ acqua e zammù “, water with a few drops of aniseed extract.

Today, the kiosks have become cult places , nighttime haunts where you can end your evenings out on the town with a delicious refreshing drink from the kiosk, even in the middle of the night!

Ingredients and implements have always been the same: sugar, fruit, mixers, small glasses, measuring cups and presses for squeezing citrus fruits.

Today, natural plain water is mixed with sparkling water from the slopes of Mount Etna, syrups and soda. Catania’s “ cioscari ” compete to make their products more inviting, often producing syrups made with Sicilian citrus fruits to make mandarin and tamarind drinks, the famous “orzata”, or the famous “sciampagnino” (citronette with water and soda), and the “completo” (orzata, fresh lemon juice, aniseed and soda). The traditional drink is made from freshly squeezed lemons, soda water and a generous spoonful of salt: the effect is highly thirst-quenching and digestive.

  • Underground Catania

Catania’s wonders are not all bathed in sunlight. Mount Etna most certainly played its part, with its rivers of lava that over the centuries have repeatedly covered the signs of the City’s past, artefacts that remain slumbering beneath the chaos of the city.

These include the Achillian Baths and the Roman Amphitheatre , one of the largest Roman amphitheatres in Italy, inferior only to the Flavian amphitheatre in Rome (the Colosseum) and that of Verona. Then there is the Church of S. Gaetano alle Grotte , whose dating is still a mystery, with its underground tunnels. Gaetano alle Grotte, whose dating is still a mystery, with its underground tunnels, was perhaps once used as a catacomb complex , and the body of St. Agatha is thought to have been buried there. The Amenano ingrottamento , the Roman Hypogeum , is also known as the “Square Hypogeum”. Other fascinating underground sites are the Gammazita Well with its fascinating legend, the Crypt and the wash-houses of S. Agata la Vetere, the City’s first church; Agata la Vetere, the city’s first cathedral, where the martyr’s breasts were severed; the Gladiators’ Baths at S.Agata al Carcere and the Bonajuto Chapel , a Byzantine monument set in the heart of Catania’s Baroque.

catania tourist video

Catania sotterranea – ph. Paolo Barone

In short, under Catania’s “ basule “, layers of ash extend as they have done for ages, chronicles of the city’s thousand-year history, with its streets, churches, baths, palazzi and even road signs.

At numerous spots, you can descend into the depths, in whose darkness, far from indiscreet eyes, nuns and monks engaged in amorous affairs and bandits hid from justice.

  • The Festival of St. Agatha

The 3rd, 4th and 5th of February are the high point of the of St. Agatha commemoration event . The three days of worship are preceded by a month of intense preparations, during which Catania gathers with great faith and devotion around its Saint. But this is also the third most popular religious festival in the world in terms of participation of the faithful, after the Holy Week in Seville, Spain, and the Corpus Christi festival in Cuzco, Peru.

Counting the faithful and visitors, up to a million people visit the city every year.

Candelora Sant'Agata

Tipica Candelora per la Festa di Sant’Agata – ph. Paolo Barone

The procession retraces the sites of the martyrdom and the oldest roads in the city, with the parades featuring the “ Candelore “, monumental, richly decorated candlesticks, carried on the shoulders of the devotees in their typical white sack vestments, to the cry “ All ye faithful, all citizens, long live Saint Agatha “.

The spectacular fireworks remind Catania’s townspeople that Saint Agatha is always there to watch over Mount Etna’s fire .

The counters of all Catania’s pastry shops are full of sweets linked to the history of the virgin, patron saint of Catania: the “ Cassateddi di Sant’Aita “, also known as “ Minni di Sant’Aita “, and the “Olivette”. The former refer to the martyrdom and brutal severing of the girl’s breasts at the hands of the Roman emperor Quinziano for refusing his love and deciding to consecrate her life to the Christian faith.

The little olives, on the other hand, refer to the legend according to which the young girl, pursued by Quinziano’s guards, while stopping to rest and bending down to lace up a stocking, saw an olive tree growing out of nowhere that protected her from the guards’ view and gave her its fruit to feed herself.

  • The coastal villages built on lava rock

This is an ideal itinerary for those who want to enjoy an unusual experience and admire the scenic beauty of the Etna Ionian Riviera .

With their natural and historic points of interest close to the city, let’s explore the picturesque coastal villages near Catania.

From San Giovanni Li Cuti and its small port of Ognina to Acitrezza , passing through Acicastello and, in the Acireale area, from Capomulini to Santa Maria La Scala , passing through the splendid Timpa Nature Reserve with the evocative and silent Chiazzette and the hamlet of Santa Caterina , from you can enjoy splendid and evocative seascapes.

catania tourist video

Acicastello – ph. Paolo Barone

And again from Scillichenti to Riposto , touching on the seaside villages of Stazzo , Pozzillo and Torre Archirafi : a fascinating journey along the Villages built on lava bedrock , enhanced and made unique by breathtaking views, sensations, points of interest, with scents and fragrances typical of our Mediterranean scrub.

Let’s spend a day on a deep-sea fishing boat with the fishermen, exploring the calm waters, the coastal environment and the secrets hidden in the depths of the sea. On these boat trips, we can enjoy those special bathing spots that can’t be reached from land, discovering small natural gems.

And, why not, we can enjoy freshly caught fish on board or ashore in one of the charming restaurants, rediscovering traditional local recipes.

  • Open-air cinema in summer: Catania’s arenas

On summer evenings, after a long day under the beach umbrella at Plaja beach, what could be better than an extra round of relaxation in these unusual down-town spots?

Films we may have missed during the winter are projected on large canvas screens in a jasmine-scented courtyards, with sound that is never perfect. But the vintage atmosphere will make the experience truly unique. We take our seats in one of the rows of blue chairs, strictly made of iron: luckily, the modest cost of admission also includes a cushion!

To finish, in true Catania style , let’s have a “gazzosa e semenza”.

As soon as you land on the runway of Catania’s Fontanarossa Airport , you can’t help but notice it: Mount Etna , Europe’s highest active volcano, situated between the Alcantara and Simeto rivers, towers over the whole of Sicily.

This extraordinary natural oasis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the “most emblematic and active volcanoes in the world”.

An exclusive destination for summer hikers visiting the active craters on the summit areas, in winter this volcano offers an amazing opportunity for snow sports, just a few kilometres from the sea and with a breathtaking view of the Ionian Sea.

Excursions on foot climb along the paths of the Etna Park , through woods and verdant orchards, up to the highest altitudes with fascinating views of lunar landscapes, age-old lava flows, caves and active fumaroles, revealing all the fascination of this area.

Find out more about Catania on the izi.TRAVEL audio tours

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People at roadside granita stall.

For all the noise, chaos and scruffiness that hit the visitor at first glance, Catania has a strong magnetic pull. This is Sicily at its most youthful, a city packed with cool and gritty bars, abundant energy and an earthy spirit in sharp contrast to Palermo’s aristocratic airs.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Teatro Massimo Bellini

Teatro Massimo Bellini

Completed in 1890 and made for homegrown composer Vincenzo Bellini, Catania's opera house is suitably lavish, from the stucco-and-marble extravagance of…

La Pescheria

La Pescheria

Catania's raucous fish market, which takes over the streets behind Piazza del Duomo every workday morning, is pure street theatre. Tables groan under the…

Monastero delle Benedettine

Monastero delle Benedettine

The Monastero delle Benedettine covers two adjacent sites: a Benedictine convent and the Chiesa di San Benedetto. Top billing goes to the church, built…

Fontana dell'Elefante and Saint Agatha cathedral, Piazza del Duomo, Catania, Sicily, Italy

Piazza del Duomo

A Unesco World Heritage Site, Catania's central piazza is a set piece of contrasting lava and limestone, surrounded by buildings in the unique local…

Monastero dei Benedettini di San Nicolò l'Arena

Monastero dei Benedettini di San Nicolò l'Arena

This is one of Europe's largest monasteries and an example of the wealth enjoyed by the Benedictine order. Built in 1703 and now part of the city…

date: 2006/09/06 | release status: NR

Fontana dell'Elefante

Taking centre stage on Catania's showpiece Piazze del Duomo is the city's most memorable monument, the smiling Fontana dell'Elefante (Fountain of the…

Via Etnea

It's not difficult to see how Catania's main shopping street got its name – on a clear day you can see Mt Etna rising majestically at the end of it. Via…

Cattedrale di Sant'Agata

Cattedrale di Sant'Agata

Inside the vaulted interior of this cathedral, beyond its impressive marble facade sporting two orders of columns taken from the Roman amphitheatre, lie…

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15 Best Things To Do In Catania Cruise Port (Sicily) | Port Guide

Badia di Sant'Agata Church - the view of Piazza Duomo Catania

Welcome to Catania cruise port, Sicily (Italy)! (Post updated: March 2024)

Nestled on the island’s east coast, Catania is one of the oldest and largest cities in Sicily. It sits at the foot of Mount Etna, one of the most dangerous and active European volcanoes that shaped the city to this day. With its unique Baroque architecture, lively streets and a variety of things to offer, Catania is a frequent stop in Mediterranean cruise itineraries with Messina, Taormina and Palermo. In this article, read about:

  • Catania cruise port (Catania cruise terminal, getting around, helpful info)
  • Top 15 things to do in Catania port & best Catania shore excursions

Visit also our cruise port guides to Messina , Taormina , Palermo , Civitavecchia (Rome) , Naples , Cagliari

Catania Cruise Port

Catania cruise terminal is located in an industrial area within a 15-minute walk from the city center. There is a dedicated berth for cruise ships ( Sporgente Centrale Pier ), however, there is no dedicated terminal building for cruise ship passengers. The port area itself is not pretty because it’s an industrial port but the city is within easy reach and there are plenty of things to do. The port of Catania also serves ferries to mainland Italy and Malta (Valetta) daily.

Taxis, buses and trains are available upon exiting the cruise ship terminal terminal, as well as numerous restaurants and bars. To get to the city center, turn left upon exiting the terminal and continue walking until you reach a roundabout backed by Giardini Pacini Park. Here you’ll also find a bus station and public parking space, and the main square Piazza del Duomo is right across the street.

Catania cruise port - the view from Badia di Sant'Agata Church

Getting Around Catania Sicily

  • The port area is flat and suitable for wheelchair users. Catania city center is also mostly flat and easy to navigate.
  • Be careful when crossing the street, especially around the port area. I haven’t noticed many traffic lights when I was visiting, and drivers tend to drive fast.
  • Taxis and public buses are available upon exiting the terminal. The nearest bus station is Piazza Paolo Borsellino , located around a 10-minute walk from the pier. Here, you’ll find local and intercity buses, as well as ALIBUS, which will take you directly to Catania Fontanarossa Airport.
  • Catania cruise port offers parking facilities at an outdoor car park on Molo Sporgente Centrale. Another public parking is available at Piazza Paolo Borsellino.
  • Guest Information Center kiosk is available on the pier to provide you with useful information on getting around the city. They offer a selection of souvenirs, free city maps, tours and car rentals.
  • The currency in Sicily (Italy) is EURO (€). ATMs are available in town and near the cruise terminal. Local currency and credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Tipping is not customary in Italy, however, there is a service fee of 15-20% of the bill (or 2€ per person) in the majority of restaurants. In some cities, Catania included, restaurants may be closed between 2 pm and 7 pm (they close after lunchtime and reopen in the evening).
  • Catania city center is quite compact and you can visit all major city attractions on foot.
  • Catania Hop on Hop off bus tours are available in the city center. They depart from Via Vittorio Emanuele II (“via” means the “street” in Italian) located next to Piazza Duomo and include stops at major city spots such as Piazza Stesicoro – Anfiteatro Romano, port of Catania, central station and Corso Italia. The majority of these buses also go to Acitrezza and Aci Castello, two scenic coastal towns located about 14 km/9 miles (a 30-minute drive) to the northeast. The buses depart every hour, the tickets start from 15€ and the tour takes 80 minutes. The first departure is at 10:00 am and you can hop on and off as many times as you wish. The audio guide is available in 6 languages. Book Catania Hop on Hop off sightseeing bus tour
  • Catania Tourist Tram also departs from Via Vittorio Emanuele II near Piazza Duomo, the main city square. It runs through the historic center of Catania and includes the following stops: Cattedrale S. Agata, Palazzo Biscari, Piazza dei Martiri, Teatro Massimo Bellini, Piazza Stesicoro, Anfiteatro Romano, Villa Bellini, Monastero dei Benedettini, Teatro Greco, Arco di Via Crociferi, Castello Ursino and Pescheria-Porto.
  • Besides tourist buses and trams, on Via Vittorio Emanuele II you’ll also find taxis, tours and car rentals.
  • Catania Centrale (central train and bus station) is located approximately 1.3 km/0.80 miles (a 15-minute walk) northeast of Catania cruise port. Just exit the terminal and keep walking to your right until you reach it. There’s a lot of traffic on this street that runs parallel to the port, so be careful when crossing the street. Trains in Sicily (Italy) are operated by Trenitalia and you can find all timetables and prices on the official webpage https://www.trenitalia.com/ .
  • Catania is well connected by train to other cities in Sicily including Palermo , Messina , Taormina , and Syracuse. There are multiple departures every day and in case you’re staying longer and want to visit several cities in a few days, a 3-day train ticket is available for only 29€ (with unlimited rides). There’s no need to book a ticket in advance, however, if you’re buying it at the train station, make sure you have an ID with you.  
  • Public buses in Catania are operated by AMTS and the main bus station is at Catania Centrale. The ticket costs 1 € and is valid for 90 minutes from the time of validation. You can check the timetables and prices at https://www.amts.ct.it/
  • Intercity buses in Sicily are operated by Interbus Autolinee and they depart from the central station. Check out the timetables and prices at https://www.interbus.it/
  • There are two airports in Sicily. The main and largest airport is Catania Fontanarossa Airport , located only 6 km/4 miles (a 15-minute drive) southwest of Catania port. ALIBUS is the name of the bus that runs between Catania Fontanarossa Airport and Catania Centrale (and also stops at the city center). A one-way ticket costs 4 € and is valid for 90 minutes. The buses run frequently, every 15 to 30 minutes. The second airport is Palermo Airport, located a 3h 10-minute drive northwest of Catania. 
  • Catania’s most popular beach is Playa de Catania , located a 10-minute drive south of Catania cruise port. Bus Line D stops along this long sandy public beach.
  • Renting a car in Catania may not be the best idea because the city is quite congested and it may be challenging to find parking in the city center. However, there are a few car parks available near the cruise terminal in case you decide to leave your car there. Check out Catania rent-a-car deals and prices
  • Explore Catania tours and activities
  • Book a private transfer to/from Catania
  • Check out the best hotels in Catania (I spent 7 days at Luxury BB Iolanda and I highly recommend it!)

Catania Centrale

Watch my YouTube video on Catania cruise port!

Top 15 Things to Do in Catania Cruise Port

The city of Catania was affected by numerous earthquakes and volcanic eruptions over the centuries, which changed the city’s landscape. A major eruption took place in 1669 and completely changed the shape of the city. The city was rebuilt with lava brick in the Baroque style which has given a grey look to the city. Due to its unique architecture, Catania’s old town has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Before I share the best things to do in Catania, I invite you to grab your copy of the “ Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide” , the most comprehensive guide to 45 Mediterranean cruise ports (including Catania) , packed with practical information, expert tips & unforgettable experiences! (PDF format/200 pages)

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1. Piazza del Duomo

Piazza Duomo is the main square of Catania and is located only a 15-minute walk from the Catania cruise terminal. This beautiful square is dominated by the Elephant Fountain (Fontana dell’ Elefante), carved in black lava and topped by an Egyptian obelisk, which is believed to be holding the power to appease Etna’s anger. On the square, you can also find the magnificent Duomo di Catania (Catania Cathedral), Badia di Sant’Agata Church , and the Town Hall housed in the 17th-century Palazzo degli Elefanti.

The city’s main street Via Etnea starts here, and Via Vittorio Emanuele II intersects the square. The Hop on Hop off bus tours, tourist trams, taxis and tours in general normally depart from Via Vittorio Emanuele II, right across from Badia di Sant’Agata Church.

Check out Catania walking tours and activities

Piazza del Duomo Catania

2. Duomo di Catania

The Cathedral of Catania, also known as Duomo di Catania and Basilica Cattedrale di Sant’Agata , is dedicated to the Christian martyr Sant Agata, whose relics are kept in the cathedral. Originally built in the 11th century, the cathedral was destroyed many times in earthquakes and volcano eruptions. After the 1693 earthquake, it was completely rebuilt in Baroque style boasting a columned white marble façade, doomed roof, frescoes, and paintings. Inside the cathedral, you can see the tomb of Vincenzo Bellini, a world-famous classic composer who was born in Catania in 1801.

Catania Cathedral (Duomo di Catania) at night

3. Badia di Sant’Agata Church

Located on Via Vittorio Emanuele II, next to Duomo di Catania, this 1700s Baroque church is famous for its dome that you can climb for 5€ and admire the best panoramic views of Catania and Etna volcano. On a clear day, you can see the mighty Etna volcano towering over the city.

Check out Catania city sightseeing tours and activities

Badia di Sant'Agata Church - the view of Piazza Duomo Catania

4. La Pescheria

Catania Fish Market is a historic market located right behind Piazza del Duomo. Here you can immerse in the local culture and experience the sounds, smells and sights of this daily centuries-old tradition. Fishes are emptied in front of your eyes, including swordfish, live lobsters, sardines, anchovies, shrimps, octopus and many others.

There are several restaurants and bars, however, if you decide to have your meal here, be prepared for fishy smells and a lot of noise! The markets are held every morning on weekdays. Next to La Pescheria, there is a classic market where you can find meat, fruits, vegetables and more diverse goods.

Check out La Pescheria tours and activities

La Pescheria Catania

5. Via Etnea

Via Etnea is the main street in Catania that extends from Piazza del Duomo to the Parco Gioeni city park. The street is almost 3 km/2 miles long and boasts hundreds of shops, restaurants, cafes, and small businesses. Only a small portion of the street is pedestrianized, so be mindful of cars, buses and trams.

Along the street, you’ll find squares ( Piazza Università , Piazza Stesicoro ), churches ( Basilica della Collegiata , Chiesa di san Michele Arcangelo ai Minoriti …), historic palaces, Roman Amphitheater of Catania , Villa Bellini , Botanical Gardens , and many other city landmarks.

The street is mostly filled with shops and you won’t find as many restaurants as you may expect on the main street. For the best dining and nightlife experience, you can check out Via Gemmellaro and Via Santa Filomena streets which run parallel to Via Etnea. Keep in mind that many restaurants may be closed between 2 pm and 7 pm (they close after lunchtime and reopen in the evening).

Explore Via Etnea guided tours and activities

Piazza Stesicoro Catania

6. Via Crociferi

Via Crociferi is one of the oldest streets in Catania dating from the 18 th century. It is located within a 5-minute walk from Piazza Università and Via Etnea and is known for Baroque churches and grandiose villas. Within a span of 200 meters, you can find 4 churches (San Francesco Church, San Benedetto Church, San Giuliano Church, and San Nicolo all’ Arena Church).

I highly recommend you visit Chiesa di San Benedetto (Church of San Benedetto) which is adjacent to Monastero San Benedetto (Monastery of San Benedetto). The church boasts a spectacular interior with the 18th-century vault entirely frescoed by Giovanni Tuccari. The entrance fee is 6€ and the visit takes about 15 to 30 minutes.

Explore Via Crociferi guided tours and activities

Via Crociferi

7. Castello Ursino

Located 700 m from Duomo, this 13th-century Norman fortress was built as a royal castle of the Kingdom of Sicily and throughout centuries was mainly used for defensive and military purposes. Originally located at the top of the cliff overlooking the sea, the castle is now a kilometer inland as a result of volcanic eruptions and earthquakes that changed the landscape of the city.

Nowadays, Ursino Castle houses a Municipal Museum featuring a royal archaeological collection consisting of ceramic vases, sculptures and numerous paintings. The visit takes about an hour.

Check out Ursino Castle tours and tickets

Ursino Castle Catania

8. Villa Bellini

Giardino Bellini is a city garden nestled along Via Etnea, about a 10-minute walk from Piazza Duomo. This quiet park is the oldest and largest urban park in Catania and features shaded paths, giant tropical trees, benches, fountains, and statues of local musicians, writers and politicians.

Check out Villa Bellini guided tours and activities

Villa Bellini Catania

9. Teatro Massimo Bellini

Only a 5-minute walk from Piazza del Duomo, you will reach Piazza Vincenzo Bellini dominated by an ornate 19th-century opera house honoring a local composer. The theater boasts a lavish gilt-edged auditorium staging major operas and concerts.

Check out Teatro Massimo Bellini tours and activities

Teatro Massimo Bellini Catania

10. Taste the Local Cuisine

Honestly speaking, Sicilian cuisine is the most delicious cuisine I’ve ever tasted in my life! From mouth-watering pizzas, pasta and seafood dishes to premium quality gelatos, pastries and desserts. While in Catania, make sure you taste Pasta alla Norma , a typical dish of Catania, made with fried eggplant, fresh tomato sauce and an abundance of Ricotta cheese. Top it off with delicious Cannoli in pasticceria “Savia”, one of the best in the city, or tiramisu cake in Ficarra Luigi pastry shop, both located a stone’s throw from Villa Bellini.

Explore Catania food-tasting tours and activities

Pasta alla Norma in Be Quiet restaurant on Via Etnea, Catania

11. Mount Etna

A day trip to Etna volcano is by far the most popular shore excursion in Catania cruise port. Etna stands at a height of 3329 meters and is known as one of the most dangerous and active volcanoes in Europe known for its exceptional level of volcanic activity. Etna volcano covers 59,000 hectares in the province of Catania and has been erupting for a hundred thousand years. It’s constantly active, and you can see the fumes coming out of craters even in the wintertime.

The biggest eruption took place in 1669 when the entire city of Catania was completely devastated, while the last one was in 2021. There are hundreds of small craters and four big ones including crater Silvestri, as well as over 200 lava caves that you can explore in a company of a professional guide.

Mount Etna in December

Etna is located 35 km/22 miles (a 1-hour drive) northwest of Catania cruise port and the best way to get there is by car or on a shore excursion. If you decide to rent a car , you will drive to Rifugio Sapienza which sits at 2,000 m. Here, you’ll find a large free parking, cafes, shops and tour vendors where you can book tours to explore the higher altitudes of the volcano.

You can book a cable car , which is definitely the most exciting option as it will take you to the summit, however, these are often canceled due to winds and bad weather conditions. Instead of refunding the tickets, they offer you an alternative (such as an off-road drive) so be mindful of that. The cable car general admission fee is 30€, and if you want a professional guide to accompany you, the price is almost double!

Rifugio Sapienza Mount Etna, Sicily

Alternatively, you can go hiking (you can hike on your own until 2,500 m, but if you want to go to 3,000, you need a professional guide), book a 4×4 tour , or explore the caves with a guide. Whatever you choose to do, it’s absolutely worth it because it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure! Keep in mind that roads leading to Etna are windy and it can be cold up in the mountain, so make sure to bring a jacket and comfortable shoes.

Shore excursions to Etna are also popular and there are many options available, from adventurous hikes to off-road rides, cave exploration and wine tasting. Upon booking a tour, check what’s included in it and see if there’s going to be an extra charge on-site.

E xplore Etna tours and activities from Catania

12. Acitrezza and Aci Castello

If you want to explore outside the city of Catania, the coastal towns of Acitrezza and Aci Castello are very popular options. Both towns are located around 13 km/8 miles northeast of Catania and you can reach them in a 30-minute drive. Hop on Hop off buses that depart from Piazza del Duomo include stops in these towns, so that may be a convenient option as well.

Acitrezza is a charming resort town famous for Faraglioni of the Cyclops , three tall, prominent sea stacks that were, according to local legend, the great stones thrown at Odysseus by the monster Cyclops in the epic poem  The Odyssey. The islands are thus often referred to as the Isole Ciclopi (Cyclopean Isles) by locals.

Aci Castello is known for its 11th-century Norman castle (Castle of Aci), which towers above the town and offers magnificent views of the coast. In the resort, you can find many restaurants, bars and a resort-like atmosphere.

Check out Acicastello and Acitrezza tours and activities

Aci Trezza Catania

13. Taormina

Taormina is a gorgeous resort town and jewel of Sicily perched on a 200-meter-high cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. This ancient town dates from 734 BC and boasts remarkably preserved Teatro Antico that you can visit while in town.

Corso Umberto is the main street that runs through the heart of the old town and is filled with luxury boutiques, designer stores, souvenir shops, restaurants, gelaterias, cafes and small businesses. At one end of Corso Umberto street, Piazza IX Aprile offers the most beautiful views of the bay below and Mount Etna. While there, make sure you check out the medieval Duomo di Taormina and Villa Communale , a peaceful oasis offering breathtaking coastal views.

Greek Theater in Taormina

Taormina is located 56 km/35 miles (a 1-hour drive) northeast of the port of Catania. You can reach Taormina by train (there are hourly departures from Catania central station and the ride takes about 30-45 minutes one-way depending on the itinerary), car, or intercity bus. You can read in detail about Taormina and the top 10 things to do in my article Taormina Cruise Port, Things to Do, Shore Excursions

Explore Taormina tours and activities from Catania

14. Syracuse

Nestled in the southeast corner of Sicily, 65 km/40 miles (a 1-hour drive) southeast of Catania cruise port, Syracuse is a 2,700-year-old city renowned for its rich Greek and Roman history, culture, amphitheaters, and architecture. It is the birthplace of the Greek mathematician and engineer Archimedes, well known for his inventions and scientific discoveries.

Ortigia , the historic heart of Syracuse, is located on a peninsula and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Notable for its Greek heritage, it features the Temple of Apollo , considered the oldest and largest Greek Doric temple in Sicily dating from the 7 th century BC. Syracuse Duomo (Cathedral of Syracuse) is the symbol of the city and was built on the Greek pillars of the Temple of Athena dating from the 5 th century BC. While there, make sure you check out Piazza Archimede with its elegant Fontana di Diana and Castello Maniace offering breathtaking coastal views. If you are into archaeology, visit the vast Neapolis Archaeological Park featuring an ancient Greek theater, church, caves and other Roman relics.

The best way to get to Syracuse is by train. The ride takes about 1h 20 minutes and there are several daily departures from Catania Centrale.

Explore Syracuse tours and activities from Catania

Syracuse marina

15. The Godfather Movie Tour

The legendary movie “The Godfather” was filmed in Sicily and for the fans of the saga, this tour is a must! You will be visiting the town of Savoca , located 74 km/46 miles (a 1h 10-minute drive) northeast of Catania cruise port. In Savoca, you will see the 1971 filming location for the wedding, as well as the Bar Vitelli where Michael Corleone asked for Apollonia’s hand.

You will then continue to Forza d’Agrò village, which is located another 25 minutes drive, to see the square that served as the main square of Corleone during the Francis Ford Coppola movie. This tour is usually offered as a combo with Taormina because the two locations are close to each other.

Explore The Godfather movie tours and activities from Catania

Visit also our cruise port guides to  Livorno (Florence) , Piraeus (Athens) , Santorini , Rhodes , Crete (Heraklion) , Barcelona , Kotor , Istanbul , Kusadasi

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Bang in the middle of the Ionian coast, Catania is Sicily’s second-largest city, a major transport hub, a thriving commercial centre, and a lively, energetic place with a more international outlook than Palermo. Defined by Etna – even the city’s main street is named after the volcano – and the ubiquitous black-grey volcanic stone in pavements and buildings, there’s more openness and space than in Palermo, but far less to see, as the ancient and medieval city was engulfed by lava in 1669, and then devastated by an earthquake in 1693. Spearheaded by architect Giovanni Vaccarini, Catania was rebuilt swiftly and on a grand scale, making full use of the lava that had been the old city’s nemesis.

Things to do in Catania

Pizza del duomo, beaches in catania, when to visit catania, tailor-made travel itineraries for italy, created by local experts.

Experience the hit TV show 'The White Lotus' in Sicily

8 days  / from 2671 USD

Experience the hit TV show 'The White Lotus' in Sicily

Stay in beautiful Taormina with gorgeous views of Mount Etna and discover Sicily, including famous filming locations. Go on exclusive wine tastings, discover the Greek theater in Taormina with a private guide, visit other Sicilian towns and enjoy the crystal clear water on this week-long trip.

Enchanting Italian Lakes

8 days  / from 3319 USD

Enchanting Italian Lakes

Experience the picturesque lakes of Northern Italy, including Lake Garda, Como, Lugano and Maggiore; explore the charming Borromean Islands – former favourites of Ernest Hemingway – and stroll the romantic streets of Verona and Milan. All of this, and much more, with this self-drive trip!

From Venice to Florence: A Grand Tour of Northern Italy

16 days  / from 3319 USD

From Venice to Florence: A Grand Tour of Northern Italy

From the atmospheric canals of Venice and the picturesque coastline of Cinque Terre, to the trendy designer boutiques of Milan and the Renaissance-infused streets of Florence, Northern Italy has plenty to offer. Experience it all with this comprehensive trip.

Florence: A Trip Back In Time

5 days  / from 1630 USD

Florence: A Trip Back In Time

Florence. A mere mention of the name conjures up grand images of Renaissance romance, awe-inspiring art and astonishing architecture. Come and see for yourself.

Eternal Rome for the Weekend

4 days  / from 1036 USD

Eternal Rome for the Weekend

Welcome to this whirlwind tour of Rome, also known as the Eternal City. Rome is one of the most photogenic cities on earth, so make sure you pack your camera.

Wine and food in Tuscany

6 days  / from 2725 USD

Wine and food in Tuscany

Stay at a beautiful hotel in San Gimignano, a medieval hill town half way between Florence and Siena. Tuscany is known for its wines and food and that's what you'll be exploring on this itinerary - several wine and food pairings await. All hand-picked by your local travel specialist.

Fascinating Southern Italy: Naples, Sorrento and Capri

10 days  / from 3107 USD

Fascinating Southern Italy: Naples, Sorrento and Capri

Southern Italy is the dream of many: charming towns to explore on the Amalfi Coast, crystal clear waters around the island of Capri, a heaven for foodies in Naples and surroundings as well as historical sights such as Pompeii are at your fingertips to discover.

Trieste - a combination of hiking and culture

5 days  / from 861 USD

Trieste - a combination of hiking and culture

Experience Trieste, not just visit it! Discover this reality from another angle, the local one, made up of small daily rituals and places hidden from tourists. Keeping you company along the routes will often be the blue of the Adriatic and the wonderful views of the Gulf of Trieste.

Best of South Italy: Rome, Naples, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast

10 days  / from 2889 USD

Best of South Italy: Rome, Naples, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast

Colourful villages draped over steep cliffs, cities steeped in culture and history, crystal-clear warm waters and cities frozen in time – South Italy has a lot to offer. Experience it for yourself with this exciting trip.

From Country to Coast: A Driving Tour of Sardinia

12 days  / from 3379 USD

From Country to Coast: A Driving Tour of Sardinia

Sardinia has a long history dating back to the late 6th century. Buildings remain from various eras and can be found across the island. Add to this the raw beauty of the limestone rocks and the rustic coastal beaches, and this island will not leave you wanting.

Legend and Legacy: A Tour of Sicily

11 days  / from 2725 USD

Legend and Legacy: A Tour of Sicily

A picturesque Mediterranean island just off the ‘toe’ of Italy’s ‘boot’, Sicily was once the centre of the known world. Today, the island’s winding coastal roads, charming towns, and picture-perfect scenery make it ideal for exploring by car.

Lakes and mountains for the whole family in Italy & Switzerland

7 days  / from 2725 USD

Lakes and mountains for the whole family in Italy & Switzerland

Spend your first 3 nights at Lake Como in Italy, discovering the area by boat or foot, before heading to Zermatt in Switzerland. Zermatt with its peaceful nature is the ideal backdrop for strolls, hikes and other activities with the whole family.

Romantic Venice

4 days  / from 1581 USD

Romantic Venice

Enjoy a weekend getaway in the most romantic of cities. This compact trip features a pleasant walking tour, which provides a unique insight into the history, art and architecture of Venice, and a gondola ride. You will also have some free time to explore this labyrinthine city.

Dive into Apulia - cuisine & culture

10 days  / from 2725 USD

Dive into Apulia - cuisine & culture

Explore Apulia in a rental car. From Gargano to Salento, Puglia is a treasure trove of priceless wonders. Lecce, Bari and Taranto together with Ostuni, Polignano and Alberobello are just some of the delights you will find in Puglia.

Wonders of Rome and the Amalfi Coast

8 days  / from 2338 USD

Wonders of Rome and the Amalfi Coast

From the narrow streets of Rome to the colourful houses perched on the Sorrento Peninsula, the charm and elegance of Italy are seductive. On this unique trip, you will experience spectacular sites and breathtaking views in both iconic destinations.

Piedmont Discovery

10 days  / from 3488 USD

Piedmont Discovery

Piedmont is a culinary heaven, with world-class wines and truffle waiting to be discovered. The capital city Turin is a cultural center with a picture perfect skyline. Afterwards, continue to the countryside around Alba, with wine tastings, cooking classes and enjoying the mountains and nature.

A gastronomic journey in Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast

11 days  / from 3553 USD

A gastronomic journey in Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast

This is truly a trip that gets all your senses tingling. Taste the most wonderful and freshly made Italy food in Naples one day and enjoy the most beautiful views of the Amalfi Coast the next. Experience the smells, taste, feels and sights of Italy when traveling from Florence to the Amalfi Coast.

Italian Cities of the Renaissance

8 days  / from 3265 USD

Italian Cities of the Renaissance

Enjoy a week in Italy, discovering the historical landmarks that the country's top cities have to offer; from the ancient sites of Rome, to the waterways of Venice and the cobbled streets of Florence.

An Italian dream trip: Rome, Sicily and the Amalfi Coast

11 days  / from 5396 USD

An Italian dream trip: Rome, Sicily and the Amalfi Coast

Savour la dolce vita on this fantastic trip to the real Italy. Discover ancient history and take a cookery class in Rome, before marvelling at Baroque architecture and iconic Mount Etna on the island of Sicily. Exploring the rugged scenery on the Amalfi Coast and Capri concludes a wonderful trip.

Exploring Vatican City and Assisi

6 days  / from 1575 USD

Exploring Vatican City and Assisi

Soak up sights and delights of Ancient Rome, with this week-long trip, including visits to the Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum and St. Peter's Basilica, before journeying to the home of St. Francis of Assisi, Eremo delle Carceri.

Treasures of Italy: Venice, Florence and Rome

9 days  / from 3210 USD

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Highlights of Italy - Rome, Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre and more

16 days  / from 4905 USD

Highlights of Italy - Rome, Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre and more

This trip is nothing but short of highlights: spend the first few nights in the capital city of Rome before moving down south to Naples. From here, you will discover the Amalfi Coast before heading to Florence. Tuscany and Cinque Terre await and finally - the fashion capital Milan.

Classic Italy - Rome, Florence & Venice

13 days  / from 4142 USD

Classic Italy - Rome, Florence & Venice

A trip for everyone - learn how to cook pasta in Rome, sample the best gelato in Florence, hike Cinque Terre and explore Venice on your own. This trip is packed with highlights for the whole family.

Medieval Towns & Outdoor Fun - Switzerland and Italy Combo

14 days  / from 8666 USD

Medieval Towns & Outdoor Fun - Switzerland and Italy Combo

Paraglide over Switzerland's landscape, join a night watchman on a mythical tour through Lucerne, explore Lake Como and Lake Maggiore, as well as cosmopolitan Zurich and Milan. This trip leaves nothing to be desired!

Supercars in the heart of Northern Italy

12 days  / from 10355 USD

Supercars in the heart of Northern Italy

Discover the world’s finest sports cars in the Italian cities of Bologna and Modena, as well as see beautiful Venice and Florence. You’ll visit the Ferrari, Lamborghini and Maserati factories and museums, and take a Ferrari out as part of this luxury automotive experience.

Catania, being a fairly large city for Southern Italian standards, has plenty to do in the form of culture and leisure. Once you have explored Catania, there are also several activities just outside and around the city.

The impressive Basilica Cattedrale Sant'Agata, made up of both Norman and Baroque architecture, can be found at the Piazza Del Duomo in the centre of the old town. Here, not only is the cathedral impressive but also other historical buildings and structures such as the Fontana Dell'Elefante, Palazzo delgi Elefanto and the Fontana Dell'Amenano.

Mount Etna is impossible to miss when in Catania, the huge volcano dominates the town and if you are brave, tour operators give you the opportunity to get up close and personal. Hikes to the crater are spectacular, as with riding ATVs and Jeeps up the volcano.

The weather in Catania is always pleasant due to it's prime Mediterranean location. During the winter, temperatures reach a low of only 11 degrees, and in the summer highs sit between 26 - 30 degrees. For when temperatures are higher, the beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the sunshine. Lido Azzurro is a stretch of beach that sits 15 minutes to the south of Catania, close to the port and harbour.

Weather-wise, the best time to visit Catania is during late Spring (May - June) or early Autumn (September - October) when temperatures range between 25 - 30 degrees. In the Summer months, the temperature can become very hot - some Italians even take vacations in the North during these months to escape the heat.

Twice a year, Catania holds the biggest craft beer festival in Southern Italy. Music, tasting sessions, food stalls and workshops all take place at the festival, making a great day out for beer-lovers and non-drinkers alike. The festival takes place in late May and late November.

Featured Image, Catania © Napa / Shutterstock

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Founded by the Greeks in 729 BC, the city of Catania offers us the discovery of a rich cultural history inherited from Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, Swabians, Angevins, Aragonese and Spaniards. Although the city today only shows an eighteenth-century “facade” due to the reconstruction following the severe earthquake of 1693, Catania is a city waiting to be discovered.

Catania overlooks the crystalline coast of the Ionian Sea and all around it has an unparalleled artistic, cultural and landscape heritage. We start from Mount Etna , which offers everyone the opportunity to ski while observing the sea, to enjoy quad biking, jeep or wonderful trekking sessions. The various nature parks of the province alternate with fantastic bays, inlets and valleys. Its eno-gastronomic tradition fascinates tourists from all over the world with vineyards on the slopes of a volcano, which periodically gives paroxysms of effect.

The coast is about 70 km long, but the variety and alternation of coastal types is almost as vast as the myths and legends attributed to this area. It is said that it was the home of the god of fire Vulcan and the Cyclops. There are three natural parks: the Etna Park, the Alcantara Park and the Nebrodi Park. There are also many nature reserves: the Simeto Oasis, the Fiumefreddo River, the Simeto Lavic Gorges, La Timpa, the Immacolatelle and Micio Conti Complex, the Bosco di San Pietro, the Lachea Island and the Faraglioni dei Ciclopi.

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A tourist in India posted a video saying she was gang raped. A national debate ensued

Kamala Thiagarajan

Content Warning: The following story describes circumstances surrounding the gang rape of a tourist that took place in India last week.

catania tourist video

Police escort men accused of allegedly raping a tourist to a district court in Dumka, in India's Jharkhand state, on March 4. The attack took place on March 1; the woman posted a video describing what happened on social media. AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Police escort men accused of allegedly raping a tourist to a district court in Dumka, in India's Jharkhand state, on March 4. The attack took place on March 1; the woman posted a video describing what happened on social media.

In early March, news of a rape spread rapidly on social media.

A woman, speaking Spanish, posted a video on Instagram that was later re-posted on X , formerly Twitter. "Something has happened to us that we would not wish on anyone," she said. "Seven men have raped me. They have beaten us and robbed us, although not many things [were stolen] because what they wanted was to rape me."

"We are in the hospital with the police. It happened tonight, here in India." The date was March 1.

The woman's face was covered in bruises.

The husband and wife told the police that they were on a motorcycle trip around the world and had camped overnight in a tent in a remote area when the incident occurred.

News of the rape spread rapidly on social media, triggering debate about the prevalence of sexual violence in India. And some activists who address sexual violence in India say the media attention even hastened arrests in a country where justice for sexual assault victims has often been slow to come – or even non-existent.

On March 4, Jharkhand Director General of Police, Ajay Kumar Singh informed the media that all seven suspects had been identified and that four were in custody. The media circulated the video of their arrest and posted it on X .

Statistics about rape in India

In the past few years, other high profile rapes have called attention to the issue of sexual violence in India. And one of this year's Oscar-nominated documentaries. To Kill a Tiger, is about the gang rape of a 13-year-old girl in her village.

After the gang rape this month, an American journalist posted online about the "sexual aggression" he has witnessed on visits to India. His allegation elicited a response from Rekha Sharma, the chairperson of India's National Commission for Women, a government body that advises on issues related to women and also investigates complaints. Sharma wrote on X : "According to data, over 6 million tourists arrive in India every year, many of them are single women, and they holiday safely in India, as India takes the safety of women very seriously, as evidenced by its implementation of stringent laws over time."

What does the data show? Official government statistics do indicate an increase in the reporting of rape cases in recent years. In 2022, India's National Crime Records Bureau cited just over 31,000 cases for a country of 1.3 billion people. In 2005, that number was a little over 18,000.

But by comparison, the U.S. reported 133,294 rapes in 2022 in a population of 331 million – a higher prevalence of sexual violence.

However, activists in India question the official count. They assert that underreporting of rape is common because of the stigma for survivors. According to the 2017 edition of India's National Family Health Survey , four out of five women who have experienced sexual violence never tell anyone about it.

A lot of commenters miss the point, say activists.

"The discussion that we should be having now is not whether India is a rape capital or not, but about what we can do to create a safer environment," says Elsa Marie D'Silva, founder of Red Dot Foundation in Delhi. Her foundation crowdsources information on sexual harassment and abuse in public spaces. Its Safecity reporting platform, available both online and as an app, allows women to make anonymous reports of sexual violence, building a database that includes areas and times where these attacks have occurred in order to make others more aware.

"We implicitly trust the survivors of attacks and while we allow anonymous reporting, we record what happened in extensive detail," D'Silva says. "This helps us collect data and alerts us to a pattern of attacks."

To create a safe environment, India doesn't need new laws, she says. India already has strong laws regarding sentencing for convicted rapists.

"We need to believe survivors of attacks instead of blaming them for instigating the rape by what they were wearing or doing, or how late they were out at night," D'Silva says. "And then we need to acknowledge that while India may not be the only place where rape happens, sexual assault is still a very serious problem that we're dealing with."

How the legal system has responded

Government data shows a low conviction rates for people charged with rape: with only 28 out of every 100 receiving any jail time.

Many cases of rape drag on in courts for years — sometimes for over a decade, says Sunitha Krishnan, founder of Prajwala, a non-governmental organization that aids victims of sex trafficking. "Much of these delays are caused by counsels of perpetrators of sexual violence finding legal loopholes that their clients can take advantage of, or just filing injunctions to delay the verdict. These legal games are a problem. Eventually, the prosecution of such cases falls through, because after so many years, victims refuse to cooperate. They just want their lives back. And when cases drag on, it sends out a message to rapists that they can get away with anything and puts the survivor at risk to harm in the future as well."

Lengthy trials, which D'Silva describes as "exhausting, emotionally and physically," likely discourage women from even reporting attacks.

In this particular case, however, the Indian authorities were quick to announce that action was taken swiftly. In addition to the arrests a check for one million rupees ($12,000) was issued — money from a government fund that allows victims of crime to claim compensation or monetary relief even before the perpetrator is convicted.

However, this relief is rare and not extended to all victims, says Krishnan, the activist who works with women who have been trafficked — and certainly not with the speed it was given after the March 1 gang rape.

This rapid response was possibly because of widespread media attention and the fear that the media fallout from the incident would affect tourism, but this speedy justice is seldom extended to the average victim of sexual assault in India, say the advocates interviewed for this story.

NPR asked India's National Commission for Women to address criticism of the justice system in its treatment of those who are raped. The commission did not respond by our deadline for publication.

Family support

The advocates also note another reason the rape statistics in India may be an undercount. They say that families of women who are raped sometimes shame them into silence because they're afraid that the news of the rape could affect the woman's marriage prospects or the family's reputation.

"It was heartening that the Spanish woman who was raped had the support of her husband," says D'Silva. "Ultimately it's also about creating conditions where women feel safer about speaking out about rape and reporting it."

Kamala Thiagarajan is a freelance journalist based in Madurai, Southern India. She reports on global health, science and development and has been published in The New York Times, The British Medical Journal , the BBC, The Guardian and other outlets. You can find her on X @kamal_t

No charges filed after NYC subway rider shot as passengers took cover and screamed there were babies onboard

A 36-year-old man was shot with his own gun on a New York City subway Thursday as terrified riders took cover, screamed that there were babies onboard and begged for someone to open the train doors so they could get to safety.

While Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office spokesperson Oren Yaniv on Friday said the shooting “was shocking and deeply upsetting,” he added that “at this stage, evidence of self-defense precludes us from filing any criminal charges against the shooter.”

The incident on a northbound A train, which was captured on video, comes on the heels of a string of violent crimes on the city’s subway system that prompted New York Gov. Kathy Hochul to deploy a force of 1,000 , including 750 National Guard, to increase security on the transit network.

Videos posted on social media show the unidentified 36-year-old man approaching a 32-year-old passenger and getting into a verbal dispute. The footage appears to show the 36-year-old ranting and yelling and threatening to beat up the 32-year-old.

The situation escalates when the 32-year-old man stands and puts his hands up, according to one video posted on X.

One passenger is heard saying, "there's babies on here." Several riders get up and move out of the way, the video shows.

The two men get into a physical fight and during the altercation, a woman is seen appearing to stab the 36-year-old man repeatedly in the back.

At a Friday morning news conference, police said it looked like the woman had a "sharp object and cut the 36-year-old male with that sharp object."

Video shows the 36-year-old man bleeding and saying, "You stabbed me."

The 36-year-old then walks over to his jacket and pulls out a firearm, the footage shows.

"Get down, all the way down, baby," a female rider says before screaming repeatedly: "Let me out! Let me out! Let me out! Let me out!"

Other passengers scream for the train doors to be opened. As riders flee, gunshots are heard.

Michael Kemper, the NYPD's head of transit, said officers were aware of the videos circulating online.

At some point, the 36-year-old man lost control of the gun and was shot by the 32-year-old multiple times as the train pulled into the Schermerhorn Station, Kemper said Thursday.

Eyewitnesses recorded video showing a man on a stretcher being lifted into an ambulance outside the station.

Police officers were already at the station, Kemper added, and were on the scene in seconds. The 32-year-old man was questioned by detectives Thursday night, he said.

"The investigation into this tragic incident is ongoing," Yaniv said Friday after announcing the Brooklyn DA's Office doesn't have plans to prosecute the shooter at this time.

New York City Council member Lincoln Restler, who represents the area, said on X: "This is a horrible tragedy & deeply unnerving to the millions of New Yorkers who take the subway every day."

Metropolitan Transportation Authority chair and CEO Janno Lieber said in the Friday news conference that the police deserved praise for a swift response

"Transit crime is 2% of the crime in the city of New York, but it has a huge disproportionate impact on people’s sense of safety because they’re in an environment where they can’t move around as easily," he said. 

The shooting came more than a month after surveillance video captured a man allegedly throwing lit containers of flammable liquid at a group of people on a New York City subway platform.

Police are still searching for the man in that incident.

To combat transit crime, more than 1,000 police officers were put in the city’s subway system in February, resulting in a 15.4% drop in crime compared to the same month last year, according to police statistics released earlier this month. 

Robbery dropped 5% and grand larceny decreased 28.6% while incidents of felony assault stayed the same, according to the data.

Meanwhile, arrests in the transit system are up about 45%.

catania tourist video

Patrick Smith is a London-based editor and reporter for NBC News Digital.

Minyvonne Burke is a senior breaking news reporter for NBC News.

Promo video for Texas dental practice poses new ethics issue for Noem

catania tourist video

Sitting in front of a camera for a highly produced, well-lit vertical video with the kind of caption made to watch on mute while you’re scrolling through social media, a patient for SmileTexas near Houston tells viewers about traveling from out of state to fix her teeth.

The patient, whose teeth had needed to be addressed for years after a biking accident, says in the video that she started to cry when she saw her new smile.

“I love my new family at Smile Texas! The video says it all, and I am so grateful for their help fixing my smile for me,” reads a caption for the video post, shared on several social media platforms.

It could have been a testimonial from any one of SmileTexas’s patients, who include a celebrity chef , influencers , pageant contestants , a professional athlete and a reality star , all of whom have also appeared in promotional content for the practice.

But the patient in the latest testimonial was Kristi L. Noem, the Republican governor of South Dakota, who is considered a potential running mate for former president Donald Trump in 2024.

“This gracious leading lady @govkristinoem just received an executive, feminine, beautiful smile here at Smile Texas,” Bret Davis, the dentist who worked on Noem, wrote in an Instagram post . “I’ll be posting later how we achieved this smile on this gracious, calm, and courageous patriot!”

The video, posted on the governor’s social media accounts this past week, has led to a firestorm of criticism, a lawsuit and a potential ethics inquiry questioning whether she participated in an undisclosed advertisement or used state resources.

Two spokespeople for Noem did not respond to requests for comment.

The practice, more than 1,000 miles from the South Dakota governor’s mansion in Pierre, regularly works with influencer types, many of whom travel from out of state to fix their smile.

It focuses on cosmetic dentistry and dental implants, and boasts an in-house pianist and a dedicated filming room. It also promotes travel to the practice, listing local lodging and taxi services on its website.

Federal Election Commission data shows that two dentists pictured with Noem, including Davis, have donated in support of Republican political candidates, including Trump, over the years.

Noem’s promotion of medical tourism, without properly disclosing it in the ad’s caption or video, is the target of a recent lawsuit from the nonprofit Travelers United. It’s not clear whether Noem was compensated in any way for the services she received in Texas.

Lauren Wolfe, counsel for Travelers United, which has pursued other cases related to travel influencers, said that if the governor “was able to prove with basic receipt ... that she paid full price for these services, we would be happy to drop the case .”

Alexandra Roberts, professor at Northeastern University School of Law, noted that the Federal Trade Commission has been aggressively messaging “about the requirement to disclose any kind of material benefit” for social media influencers .

“They’ve got everything about what kind of hashtags [to use] and where the hashtags go,” she said. “And they’ve sent out a ton of warning letters, both to influencers and to the companies that are paying the influencers.”

There’s also an effort brewing in the South Dakota Capitol to launch an inquiry into the governor’s trip.

South Dakota state Sen. Reynold Nesiba (D) asked the Republican co-chairs of the legislature’s Government Operations & Audit Committee to put the issue on the next meeting agenda in July.

Nesiba said he has questions about whether public funds were used for her trip to Texas. He also questioned whether the trip was an attempt to appeal to Trump, who has publicly praised allies whose appearance is straight out of “central casting.”

“It just seems like such a well-timed political stunt to raise your national profile and to get the former president’s attention. The whole thing seems and feels like a political move to try to increase her odds of getting the nomination to be the vice president of the United States,” Nesiba said.

But there’s been mixed interest among members of the committee to pursue the issue, he said.

This isn’t the first time the committee has been asked to look into Noem’s behavior in office.

The committee was responsible for a legislative report finding that Noem’s daughter received preferential treatment when she applied for her real estate appraiser’s license in 2020.

Nesiba said that in addition to raising questions about the use of public funds, the governor’s trip to Texas for dental work stands in contrast to her efforts to bring workers to South Dakota — including starring in recurring ads where she fills in for various vacant jobs to show that they’re hiring in the state.

“One of the jobs that she’s dressed up as is a dental hygienist, telling people to come to South Dakota because we have these dental openings. And then here she is going to Texas to do some dental work. I just found it just disappointing,” Nesiba said, adding that dentists in South Dakota have expressed anger over Noem’s Texas video.

Since posting the SmileTexas video, the governor has posted two iPhone-style videos to her social media accounts promoting businesses in South Dakota.

At an orthotics store in Rapid City, with a bag in hand and employees on each side, the governor says the store built her new shoe inserts, adding: “I’m going to be perfect. I’m going to be like Bionic Woman now.”

Posing with coffee shop owners in Spearfish, Noem says: “This coffee shop is amazing. … You will enjoy it. They love America.”

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$1,780 to Spend the Night in a ‘Cocoon’? Hotels Are Betting on Sleep Tourism.

A.I.-assisted beds, on-call hypnotherapists and sequestered guest rooms, including one inside a stainless steel sculpture, are taking sleep tourism to the next level.

catania tourist video

By Carla Sosenko

To sleep, perchance to dream. Or if not dream, at least to feel vaguely rested the next day, especially on vacation. Is that too much to ask?

For many people, yes. The United States is tired , according to the National Sleep Foundation, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institutes of Health , and there is a link between poor sleep and depression, the N.S.F.’s 2023 Sleep in America poll found.

In the hospitality world, that’s a business opportunity. Hilton’s 2024 trends report revealed that the main reason people currently travel is to rest and recharge.

“Hotels locked in a death match with Airbnb have begun to explore ways in which to compete by offering services and amenities around the primary purpose of a hotel stay: a restful night’s sleep,” said Chekitan Dev, a distinguished professor at the Cornell University Nolan School of Hotel Administration.

“The earlier paradigm of a vacation was that sleeping was the most boring thing you could do while on holiday,” said Kaushik Vardharajan, an associate professor at the Boston University School of Hospitality Administration. “It is only during the last 10 years or so that we have as a society started talking about the importance of sleep from a health and wellness perspective.” Now, he said, a good night’s rest isn’t just a selling point for hotels; it’s a “whole fast-growing industry.”

From A.I.-assisted beds to on-call hypnotherapists, today’s sleep tourism is, essentially, an old dog with new tricks. “This is around the seventh or eighth time this has come up as kind of a topic” since the mid-1980s, said Bjorn Hanson, an adjunct professor at the New York University Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality. Even before that, luxury hotels introduced perks for better sleep, like pillow menus in the 1960s. Other amenities (blackout curtains, white noise machines) followed.

These days hotels are going well beyond those basics to capture the business of sleep seekers. Here’s what some are doing.

Smart beds and SmartGoggles

Like the Westin Heavenly Bed , which experts point to as an industry game changer when it was introduced in 1999, Bryte wants to be the next hotel-mattress disrupter.

The $6,299 A.I.-assisted, smartphone-pairable mattress is, according to Luke Kelly, the chief executive of Bryte, the only bed with an active pressure-relief system, which adjusts as you move to optimize deep sleep.

Mary Bemis, a journalist who lives in the Pacific Northwest, recently slept for two nights on a Bryte bed at Carillon Miami Wellness Resort . “It really surprised me,” she said, specifying the way the subtle rocking of the mattress “hit the right notes. It brought me back to a baby stage.” She also liked the Somnify feature, which syncs movement with soundscapes (she chose lightning and thunder), and said her jet lag was less of a problem than usual.

The Park Hyatt New York currently has five Bryte sleep suites (from $1,095), which were added after the hotel reopened following a 376-day Covid closure. There were a lot of staycationers coming in from the regional areas, said Patricia Galas, senior director of marketing communications. Their goal was no longer catching a few winks on a business trip or vacation, she said. Cooped up, bored, sleep-deprived locals wanted a change of scenery and guaranteed rest.

Ms. Galas said that she and her team worked with Bryte on best-sleep practices, like setting the thermostat to 68 degrees and recommending that guests have a warm pre-bed bath (with calming Le Labo bath salts) and chamomile tea.

The Park Hyatt Chicago has the similar Bryte-bed-equipped Mindfulness Suite ($645), as do a handful of rooms and suites at hotels, including the Little Nell , in Aspen, Colo., and the Rosewood Miramar Beach , in Montecito, Calif.

With the Sleep Wellness package at the Beatrice in Providence, R.I. (starting at $419 per night), you’ll have to settle for a Serta Perfect Sleeper , but will have access to Therabody SmartGoggles , an eye mask that uses heat, massage and vibration to lower your heart rate and ease facial tension. The package also includes a mocktail at the rooftop bar (alcohol is an enemy of good sleep) and herbal teas.

In a darkened room lit in deep purple, two women in sports clothing and wearing headphones rest on reclining loungers. Their eyes are closed. White light emits from around the edges of the cushion on which they lay. One wall is a simulation of a night sky with many stars.

Retreats and other programs

At the Carillon, where Ms. Bemis stayed, all of the hotel’s 150 apartments ($695 for a one-bedroom, $995 for a two-bedroom) feature Bryte beds. But perhaps even more intriguing is the spa’s five-treatment sleep circuit ($99 per treatment), which employs, among other things, infrared light, electromagnetic frequencies, salt floats and vibration. The resort’s new four-night Sleep Well Retreat ($2,598) includes all of the above, plus a sleep-promoting massage, and access to the thermal hydrotherapy circuit, which features an herbal sauna, a rain room and loungers warmed by radiant heat.

In October 2022, Canyon Ranch Tucson hosted its first Mastering Sleep Retreat, a five-night program that includes a sleep assessment followed by sessions with board-certified M.D.s, registered nurses and dietitians, and spiritual wellness providers with Ph.D.s and masters in divinity. The idea is to get to the heart of whatever is causing poor sleep. Once guests leave, they can stay in touch with a virtual health coach. (This year’s retreats will be at Canyon Ranch’s Lenox, Mass., location from April 28 to May 3, $8,800 per person, and Tucson sometime in the fall.)

‘Cocooning’

Relaxing the mind is a common theme in sleep tourism, but how each property tries to accomplish that varies. Ms. Galas said the bedrooms at the Park Hyatt “cocoon” away from the living space, meaning you can close off the sleep area and make it dark and cozy; Britain’s Zedwell hotels, a rare bargain entry, feature small, dimly lit “cocoons” (from 112 British pounds, or about $142, for one person) with nary a distraction from the window to the wall: no TVs, no phones and, actually, no windows, which for a certain kind of bad sleeper could provoke more anxiety, not less.

Tempo by Hilton is offering rooms divided into three zones, including “an enveloping sleep environment” with a Sealy Accelerate temperature-controlled mattress and sound-absorbing acoustics; lights that dim at sunset; and, in some rooms, Peloton bikes, for people who consider exercise their Ambien.

At the Conrad Bali , guests can book a private 60-minute SWAY session in the spa (starting at 1,500,000 rupiahs, or about $95), which entails lying in a swinging, aerial, swaddled hammock that looks a lot like an actual cocoon. The rocking is meant to mimic floating on a cloud or being in the womb.

At the Beaumont in London, travelers can stay in perhaps the cocooniest room of them all, called, simply, ROOM (£1,402 per night, or about $1,780), a 745-square-foot suite inside a three-story stainless steel sculpture of a crouching man at the hotel entrance. It lacks a TV, a phone, even wall art. The goal of the British sculptor Antony Gormley, who designed ROOM, is for guests “to achieve a meditative stillness, to lose a sense of one’s body in the darkness and to allow the mind to expand.”

You are getting very sleepy

This month, to coincide with the N.S.F.’s Sleep Awareness Week (March 10 to 16), the Mandarin Oriental will begin a partnership with the hypnotherapist Malminder Gill, a.k.a. the Sleep Concierge, at the Hyde Park property in London . (After Hyde Park, the service will be available at the Mandarin Oriental in Mayfair, which opens this spring, followed by pop-ups across Europe, New York and other destinations later this year.) Starting at £500, guests can see Ms. Gill in the spa for a sleep consultation and session tailored to their particular sleep issues, with Ms. Gill even recommending optimal mealtimes and food-ingestion order. There will also be an option for a private bedside session, during which, if all goes well, guests drift off for the night.

“I tiptoe out,” said Ms. Gill. “I know that sounds really bizarre.”

The Royal Sonesta Benjamin New York has a similar program, called Rest & Renew, run by Rebecca Robbins, co-author of “Sleep for Success! Everything You Must Know About Sleep but Are Too Tired to Ask.”

And Hyatt hotels in New Zealand and Australia now feature the Sleep at Hyatt program, with Nancy H. Rothstein, a.k.a. the Sleep Ambassador, as its guru. For $49.50, guests can add a Sleep Ritual Pack (bath salts, eye mask, tea, pulse-point aromatherapy roll-on); for $190, they can purchase a pair of Dreamers, blue-and-green-light glasses that filter out the melatonin-disrupting rays that emanate from screens if you’re a nighttime scroller. Of course, that might mean falling asleep in a pair of specs, which for a chronic tosser-and-turner could be counterproductive.

The experts’ view

What sticks and what doesn’t in this round of sleep tourism remains to be seen. Joseph M. Dzierzewski, vice president for research and scientific affairs at the National Sleep Foundation, wonders why, for example, special sleep amenities aren’t standard in every room.

“The hotel should be providing an environment for people to sleep,” he said. Isn’t that the whole point of a hotel? In addition, “you have to view sleep from a 24-hour time frame.” As important as it is to slumber in a dark room, he said, you also need exposure to bright morning light. “A lot of people forget about how important the day is for your nighttime.”

Dr. Jing Wang, medical director of the Mount Sinai Integrative Sleep Center , thinks the puzzle of better sleep can be solved for most people if they learn what’s at the root of their troubles, whether it’s sleep apnea or psychological issues. Getting educated at a posh resort instead of a hospital sleep lab may sound nice, but the key, she said, is follow-through and follow-up. Without them, there’s little chance for lasting change.

“If you go through the list of our sleep hygiene recommendations — quiet, dark, relax your mind, don’t think about the things that are bothering you during the day — it’s easy for me to say,” Dr. Wang said. But it can be hard for a lot of people to do these things. In that way, sleep tourism makes sense because it allows you to “leave your regular environment and go to one that does incorporate some of these healthy sort of sleep routines,” Dr. Wang said.

Similarly, Mr. Dzierzewski points to one common affliction — getting stuck in a bad-sleep rut — that a short, snooze-centric hotel stay might fix. “Perhaps you just need a hard reset if you’re stuck in a never-ending spiral. Poor sleep begets poor sleep begets poor sleep,” he said. “If you can stop that cycle, perhaps there could be some enduring positive change. But without additional information about how you got in that cycle in the first place, I question whether or not you’ll have any long-term benefit.”

What none of these hotels, mattresses or retreats can do, is permanently remove from your bed smartphones, crying children, mental to-do lists, existential dread and other common sleep thieves.

And of course, not everyone can afford $500 or more to get a good night’s sleep.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

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Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

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Mongolia : Some young people, searching for less curated travel experiences, are flocking to the open spaces of this East Asian nation .

Romania :  Timisoara  may be the most noteworthy city you’ve probably never heard of , offering just enough for visitors to fill two or three days.

India: A writer fulfilled a lifelong dream of visiting Darjeeling, in the Himalayan foothills , taking in the tea gardens and riding a train through the hills.

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

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