Let's head to Sicily and hit Catania's hypnotic lively streets. This isn't your usual travel guidebook stuff, it's an all-access pass to a city crackling with Etna's energy, loaded with flavors that'll blow your mind. Get lost in Catania's irresistible allure. Trust us, you'll return with stories that'll beat anything you've heard at the bar.
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Jump To
- 📜 A Brief History of Catania, Italy
- 🔭 Where Is Catania?
- 🌍 Catania, Italy Map
- 🌡️ Weather in Catania
- 📆 The Best Time to Visit Catania, Italy
- 🎄 Catania in December
- 🎆 Must Experience Festivals and Events in Catania, Italy
- 🇮🇹 Essential Italian Phrases
- ✈️ Transportation In and Around Catania
- Catania Italy Train Station
- 💻 Italy Travel Resources
- 🙋🏽♂️ Local Customs and Etiquette in Catania
- 👮🏽 Safety Tips for Catania
- 🗺️ The Top 9 Best Attractions in Catania Sicily
- 🚶🏽♂️15 Off the Beaten Path Stuff to Do in Catania
- ⚽ Go See a Catania Calcio (Soccer) Game!
- 🏝️ 12 Best Beaches in Catania
- 🛍️ Best Shopping in Catania
- 👫🏽 Best Guided Tours in Catania, Italy
- 💃🏽 Catania Italy Nightlife
- 🚙 8 Day Trip Ideas From Catania, Italy
- 👩🏽🏫 Tips for the Perfect 2-Day Itinerary in Catania
- 🍴 Best Restaurants in Catania
- 🏨 The 4 Best Hotels in Catania
- 📚 5 Great Books About Catania, Italy
- ❓FAQs About Catania
- 🇮🇹 Explore More of Italy!
📜 A Brief History of Catania, Italy
Catania is a city that's seen it all.
- Ancient times, 729-263 BCE: Initially, some Greeks from Naxos started Catania in 729 BCE. Later, Hieron I, a big-shot from Syracuse, put it on the map.
- Roman rule, 263 BCE-5th Century: Subsequently, the Romans grabbed Catania in 263 BCE. During their rule, Emperor Augustus made it a colony. Unfortunately, bad times hit the Christians here, like St. Agatha.
- Byzantine to Normans, 5th-12th Century: Following that period, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans – they all ran the show here at different times.
- Sicilian Vespers, 1282-15th Century: In 1282, the locals kicked out the Anjou family. Consequently, Catania got fancy under Aragonese rule and even hosted a king’s coronation.
- Spanish rule, 16th-17th Century: Later in the 1500s, Spain took over. However, Mount Etna erupted in 1669, followed by an earthquake in 1693. As a result, the city had to totally rebuild.
- Italy unifies, 19th Century: In the 19th Century, Catania pushed for Sicilian rights and then joined Italy in 1860 after Garibaldi’s invasion.
- 20th Century: During this time, Etna erupted twice, in 1923 and 1928. World War II was brutal here – marked by lots of bombing.
- Post-War: Since 1946, it's been tough, but there's been growth, especially in the 60s and 90s.
- Cultural vibe: Nowadays, the city center is UNESCO-listed for its Baroque buildings, all thanks to that 1693 rebuild.
🔭 Where Is Catania?
Catania sits on Sicily's east coast, between Messina and Syracuse. It's right by the Ionian Sea, under Mount Etna, an active volcano. It's Sicily's second-biggest city in size and population. Catania leads the Metropolitan City of Catania, covering 58 municipalities, one of Italy's biggest metro areas. The city has a hot-summer Mediterranean climate. Its coordinates are around 37°30′0″N latitude and 15°5′25″E longitude.
🌍 Catania, Italy Map
🌡️ Weather in Catania
Here's the year-round weather:
- January and February: Coldest, with January having the most snow, though it's rare. February's sea temperature averages 14.6°C.
- March to May: Warms up from March. By May, it's warm, less rain, sea around 18.5°C, and about 11.7 hours of sunshine daily.
- June to August: Hottest and driest. July is least humid. August averages 26°C, sea temperature about 26.3°C, both months have high UV.
- September to November: Starts cooling. September's still warm. October's the wettest. November gets colder and darker.
- December: Winter starts, cooler and drier than November. Shortest days, about 9 hours and 36 minutes of light.
Yearly, Catania's humidity averages 72%, wind speed around 13 kph. Daylight varies, longest in June, shortest in December.
📆 The Best Time to Visit Catania, Italy
If you're thinking about visiting Catania, here's when to go:
🌱 Late Spring (May - June): Temperatures are 25 - 30°C. Great for outdoor fun and city exploration.
🍂 Early Autumn (September - October): Like late spring, it's comfy for sightseeing and outdoor stuff.
🌞 Summer (July - August): Hottest months, sometimes very hot. It's peak tourist season, so it's crowded and pricey. Some Italians head north to cool off.
⛅ Winter: Milder than many European cities. Average low around 11°C. Not beach weather, but good for crowd-free city exploration.
- Rain and Humidity: Least rain in June, July, August. July's least humid, November's most humid.
- Cultural Events: Catania hosts Southern Italy's biggest craft beer festival twice a year, late May and late November.
Catania's Mediterranean climate makes it good year-round. But for nice weather without the crowds, aim for late spring or early autumn.
🎄 Catania in December
Visiting Catania in December is festive and unique. Here's what's up:
- Christmas Markets: The historic center lights up with markets from mid-December to Epiphany. Find gifts, crafts, and treats at Corso Sicilia, Via Minoriti, and University Square. They're open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. weekdays, later on holidays.
- Santa's Village: At Le Ciminiere Exhibition Centre, it turns into a Christmas town from December 8 to 30. Think ice rink, Christmas films, a Disco Christmas, talking reindeer, Santa's house.
- Traditional Food: Try Catania's Christmas eats - crispelle, pasta ncasciata, fried cod, falsomagro.
- Cultural Events: Catch Cirque du Soleil or the Christmas gala at Teatro Metropolitan.
- Mount Etna Snow: With luck, Etna's snowy. Ski, snowboard, trek, or have snowball fights.
- Palazzo Biscari: "Magico Natale" flea market here. Gifts, crafts, local products in a stunning setting.
- Nativity Scenes: Caltagirone, nearby, showcases artistic Nativity scenes until January 8, 2024.
- Decorations: Via Etnea becomes a Christmas shopping paradise with local crafts and sweets.
- Local Traditions: Join Midnight Mass at the Cathedral of St Agatha. Watch the Zucco bonfires on Christmas Eve.
Catania in December? It's a whole vibe.
🎆 Must Experience Festivals and Events in Catania, Italy
Catania, Italy, is packed with festivals and events all year. Here's a rundown:
Feast of Saint Agatha (Festa di Sant’Agata): Huge deal in Catania. Celebrates the patron saint from February 3-5. About a million people come. Processions, giant 'candelore' candles, big fireworks. There's also a summer feast on August 17 for Saint Agatha's return. It's a mix of faith and local culture.
Carnival in Acireale: From January 28 to February 13. Sicily's prettiest carnival. Famous for colorful paper-mâché masks and flowers on wagons, parading through Acireale's Baroque streets. Dates back to the 1500s. Ends on Mardi Gras with wagon awards and fireworks.
Other Events in Catania: Tons happening year-round.
- Global Game Jam 2024: Gaming event.
- Holistic Lifestyle Classes: For wellness enthusiasts.
- Theatrical Performances: Like 'Il Sopravvissuto e la Leggenda della Camera'.
- Cycling Tours: 'In bici tra i castelli 2024'.
- Networking Events: 'Destinazione Sicilia: Networking Edition'.
- Musical Performances: 'NDUDUZO MAKHATHINI TRIO', shows at Teatro Metropolitan Catania.
- Workshops and Conferences: On business, personal growth, etc.
🇮🇹 Essential Italian Phrases
Here's a list of essential Italian phrases for tourists visiting Catania, Italy, along with their transliterations:
- Greetings and Basic Phrases
- Hello/Goodbye (informal): Ciao – Chao
- Good morning: Buongiorno – Bwohn-jor-no
- Good evening: Buonasera – Bwoh-nah-seh-rah
- Yes: Si – See
- No: No – Noh
- Please: Per favore – Pehr fah-voh-reh
- Thank you: Grazie – Grah-tsee-eh
- You’re welcome: Prego – Preh-goh
- Excuse me (for attention): Scusi – Skooh–zee
- Excuse me (to pass by): Permesso – Pehr-mehs-soh
- I don’t understand: Non capisco – Nohn kah-pees-koh
- Do you speak English?: Parla Inglese? – Parh-la een-glay-zeh
- Numbers
- One: Uno – Oo-noh
- Two: Due – Doo-eh
- Three: Tre – Treh
- Ten: Dieci – Dee-eh-chee
- Twenty: Venti – Vehn-tee
- Time and Days
- Today: Oggi – Ohd-jee
- Tomorrow: Domani – Doh-mah-nee
- Yesterday: Ieri – Yeh-ree
- Monday: Lunedì – Loo-neh-dee
- Sunday: Domenica – Doh-meh-nee-kah
- What time is it?: Che ore sono? – Keh ohr-eh soh-no?
- Dining Out
- A table for two, please: Un tavolo per due, per favore – Oon tah-voh-loh pehr doo-eh, pehr fah-voh-reh
- The menu, please: Il menu, per favore – Eel meh-noo, pehr fah-voh-reh
- I’m allergic to…: Sono allergico/a a... – Soh-noh ah-ler-jee-koh/ah ah
- Water: Acqua – Ahk-kwah
- The bill, please: Il conto, per favore – Eel kon-toh, pehr fah-voh-reh
- Asking for Directions
- Where is…?: Dov'è...? – Doh-veh ... ?
- Left: Sinistra – See-nee-strah
- Right: Destra – Deh-strah
- Straight ahead: Dritto – Dree-toh
- Entrance: Entrata – En-trah-tah
- Exit: Uscita – Ooh-shee-tah
- Transportation
- Train station: Stazione ferroviaria – Stah-tzee-oh-neh fehr-roh-vee-ah-ree-ah
- Bus station: Stazione degli autobus – Stah-tzee-oh-neh deh-lee ow-toh-boos
- Ticket: Biglietto – Beel-yet-toh
- One-way ticket: Biglietto di solo andata – Beel-yet-toh dee soh-loh ahn-dah-tah
- Where is the bathroom?: Dov'è il bagno? – Doh-veh eel bahn-yoh?
- Emergencies
- Help!: Aiuto! – Ah-yoo-toh!
- I need a doctor: Ho bisogno di un medico – Oh bee-zoh-nyoh dee oon meh-dee-koh
- Call the police: Chiami la polizia – Kee-ah-mee lah poh-lee-tzee-ah
✈️ Transportation In and Around Catania
If you're in the region and looking for great deals on flying, then definitely check out Way Away's air fares:
In Catania, Italy, getting around looks like this:
Bus Services: Over 50 bus lines cover the city and tourist spots. A ticket costs 1 euro, good for 90 minutes. Key routes: 504M for the historic center, Line D for Plaia lidos, 534 to Aci Trezza and Aci Castello. The Alibus connects the airport to the city for 4 euros.
Metro: Six stations, from 7 am to 8:45 pm. 90-minute ticket. Runs from the central station to Catania Porto and northwest to Catania Borgo.
Taxis: 24/7 availability. Radio Taxi Catania is a top choice. Faster, but pricier.
Trams and Bicycle Rentals: Trams offer scenic city views. Bikes are great for active exploration.
Air, Train, and Ferry: The Fontanarossa International Airport, train services (slow from places like Rome), and ferries from Naples and Malta.
Local Advice: Ask locals for the best travel options. Bus and train times may vary. Plan with some wiggle room.
Car Hire Catania Airport Italy
Need a car rental? Try Rentalcars.com. They're huge - part of Bookings Holding. They handle eight million bookings yearly in 60,000 spots across 160 countries. Rentalcars.com has 24/7 customer service, and their site's in 43 languages.
At Catania Airport, Italy, here's the car hire scene:
Hertz Car Rental:
- In the Arrivals Hall.
- Wide vehicle range: EVs, SUVs, hatchbacks, 4x4s.
- GPS and Wi-Fi Hotspot available.
- Open 08:00 to 00:30 daily.
- Fleet in P4, walkable.
- Wheelchair accessible.
- 51 electric car charging stations in Catania.
- 11 minutes to city center.
Other Rentals (KAYAK, airport website):
- B-Rent, Avis, Sixt, Thrifty, SICILY BY CAR: Economy to luxury cars.
- Joyrent, Keddy by Europcar, Leasys, Maggiore, Noleggiare, Optimorent, Sicily Rent Car, Rhodium, WinRent, Wow Rent, Carwiz, Drivalia: Various services, hours, contacts.
Enterprise Rent-A-Car:
- Inside Arrivals Terminal.
- After-hours returns.
- Close parking.
- Policies on extra drivers, age, and EU cross-border travel.
- Young driver fee for 19-24 years.
Tip: Check rental conditions, insurance, return policies, and fees. Compare across companies for the best deal.
Catania Italy Train Station
In Catania, Sicily, or anywhere in Europe, we highly recommend Rail Europe. They're the top European rail product distributor. They connect you to over 50 European train companies! Rail Europe guides you, giving tools and inspiration for train travel in Europe. Find your own path with them.
If you plan on using the Catania Train Station, here's what you need to know:
- Location and History: Catania Centrale in Sicily opened in 1866. It's been modernized, including electrifying the Messina-Catania line.
- Architecture: It's a two-floor, porticoed building, blending old and new. It's protected as cultural heritage.
- Transport Links: Offers regional, InterCity, and Express trains. Key stops: Rome, Milan, Venice, Naples, and more. Near the Port of Catania for sea access.
- Facilities: Has essentials like toilets, info counter, and kiosk.
- Nearby Attractions: Close to Villa Bellini gardens, Via Crociferi, Piazza Stesicoro, Fera ‘O Luni Market. Day trips to WWII Museum and Mount Etna.
- Accessibility: About 1.4 km from Piazza del Duomo, easy for city exploration.
- Food and Shopping: Lots of nearby dining and shopping, with various cuisines.
For a full Catania experience, check out these spots and use the station's transport options. For more, see TripAdvisor.
💻 Italy Travel Resources
Below is my list of top travel resources. I've tried many myself. Some come recommended by fellow travelers. They're all solid choices.
🏩 Accommodation Booking Services:
🟢 Booking.com: Leading online platform for global accommodations. No fees, content in 40 languages.
🟢 Hostelworld: Focuses on hostels, listing 36,000 properties in 178 countries.
🟢 Tripadvisor: World's biggest travel site with access to 1.4 million stays and 795 million reviews.
🟢 CheapOair: Offers flight tickets, hotel rooms, rental cars, and vacation packages.
🚕 Transportation Services:
🟢 Airalo: First global eSim Store, cuts down roaming costs with eSims for travelers.
🟢 Rentalcars: Lets travelers find the right car in over 60,000 locations across 160 countries.
🟢 Kiwitaxi: International airport transfers in 100 countries, various vehicles, English-speaking drivers.
🟢 Omio: Compares trains, buses, and flights in Europe on one platform.
🟢 GetTransfer: Service for transfers and car rentals with personal drivers at competitive prices.
🟢 Kiwi: Books flights, trains, buses, and offers virtual interlining.
🟢 Rail Europe: Guides and tools for European train travel.
🟢 Trainline: Helps customers travel by train and bus across 45 countries.
🚌 Tourism and Leisure Services:
🟢 Go City: Offers multi-attraction passes for top destinations worldwide, up to 65% off.
🟢 Big Bus Tours: Open-top bus tours, river cruises, and walking tours in 23 cities.
🧳 Travel Convenience Services:
🟢 Priority Pass: Airport lounge access worldwide for frequent travelers.
🟢 Radical Storage: Luggage storage solutions for hassle-free holidays.
🙋🏽♂️ Local Customs and Etiquette in Catania
When visiting Catania, keep these local customs in mind:
Dress Well: Catania values good dressing, especially the older folks. Skip the skimpy stuff. Dress modestly at religious and government spots. Women, go easy on bright jewelry. Cover up shoulders and knees, ditch the hats at churches.
Local Festivals: Dive into local festivals. Check out the Tango Festival in August, Acireale Carnival, and Saint Agatha's Day on February 5. Also, Holy Week, Easter, Ferragosto, and New Year's.
Dining Rules: Italian meals are social, multi-course events. Follow the course order, take your time. Don't use bread as a utensil. Smart-casual works in most restaurants, but upscale places might need formal wear. Cover up in churches.
Talking to Locals: Be polite. Keep it down in churches, phone on silent. Ask before snapping photos. Italians like smiles and gestures. Handshakes are common, friends do cheek kisses. Keep it friendly, not too formal.
Public Transport: Give up your seat to those who need it. Keep phone talks and music low. Say "Permesso" when moving through crowds.
General Tips: Italians dress smartly. Avoid flip-flops, socks with sandals, or gym clothes in public. Need help? Try English-learning high schoolers. Cash is king for small buys. Drink coffee standing at the bar to save money.
👮🏽 Safety Tips for Catania
Keep these safety tips in mind:
- Watch for Pickpockets: Common in tourist spots like markets and stations. Keep your stuff close.
- Avoid Overpricing: Agree on prices beforehand. Research or ask locals about fair costs.
- Taxi Scams: Stick to registered taxis. Make sure they use the meter. Or book through your phone.
- Solo Travel Safety: Generally safe, even for solo women. But stay alert, especially at night.
- Safe Neighborhoods: Try Corso Italia, Via Crociferi, and Cibali. They're calmer and safer.
- Public Transport: Mostly safe, but watch your belongings in crowded spots.
- Emergency Numbers: Know them. Italy's code is +39, Catania's is 95, general emergency is 112.
- Beware of Purse Snatchers: Scooter thieves exist. Use cross-body bags and skip flashy stuff.
- Street Crossing: Be careful. Traffic's heavy and unpredictable. Watch out, even on crosswalks.
- Mount Etna: Check advisories. Visit with guidance when it's calm.
- General Tips: Don't walk alone in dark, quiet places. Stay where it's lit and busy. Secure your valuables. Be extra careful in non-touristy areas at night.
🗺️ The Top 9 Best Attractions in Catania Sicily
1) Mount Etna:
Europe's biggest active volcano. Stunning views, unique geology. Offers 4WD and trekking tours.
2) Monastero dei Benedettini:
Old monastery turned museum. Shows Catania's rich history and architecture.
3) Piazza del Duomo:
Historic heart of Catania. Surrounded by baroque buildings and the Fontana dell'Elefante.
4) Basilica Catedrale Sant'Agata V.M. Catania:
Architectural mix from centuries of rebuilding. Important religious and historical site.
5) A' Piscaria Mercato del Pesce (more info below):
Lively fish market. Dive into local life and food traditions.
6) Museo Storico dello Sbarco in Sicilia 1943:
Focuses on the 1943 Allied invasion of Sicily. Packed with WWII history.
7) Palazzo Biscari:
Baroque palace, reflecting Catania's aristocratic past.
8) Giardino Bellini:
Green, serene city gardens. Perfect for a peaceful stroll.
9) Parco Archeologico Greco Romano di Catania:
Ancient ruins, Greco-Roman history.
Catania Fish Market Sicily Italy
The Catania fish market, or "La Pescheria," is a must-see in Sicily. Here's the lowdown:
- Location and History: Right near Piazza del Duomo, behind the 1800s Baroque Amenano Fountain. It's been Catania's seafood hub since the 19th century.
- Atmosphere: La Pescheria's loud, colorful, and a bit wild. It's a real slice of Sicilian life. Expect shouting fishmongers and a lively crowd.
- Seafood Variety: Tons of fresh fish and seafood. Think clams, mussels, sardines, swordfish, tuna. Watch for the giant swordfish heads. Fishmongers are super animated, haggling and yelling prices.
- More Than Fish: Upstairs, find butchers, cheesemongers, and fruit and veg sellers.
- Hours: Open Monday to Saturday, 7:30 am to 12 pm. Best in the morning. Closes Sundays.
- Visitor Experience: It's not just shopping – it's cultural. Tourists love the energy. It's a peek into local life and traditions.
🚶🏽♂️15 Off the Beaten Path Stuff to Do in Catania
For a real Catania, Sicily experience, we recommend you try these:
- Local Markets: Hit "La Pescheria" or others early morning. It's pure Catania culture and food.
- Cooking Class: Learn to cook Sicilian dishes. It's a dive into local culture.
- Photography Walks: Morning or evening, the city's a photographer's dream. Capture Catania's essence.
- Local Festivities: Join in on local festivals or events. Religious processions, music, food festivals – they've got it all.
- Countryside Hiking: Wander around Catania's outskirts. Less-traveled paths offer nature and Mount Etna views.
- Vineyard Visits: Check out lesser-known vineyards for intimate tours and tastings.
- Quiet Beach Day: Skip crowded beaches. Find a peaceful spot along the coast.
- Explore Nearby Towns: Day trip to smaller towns and villages. They offer a chilled-out Sicilian vibe.
- Local Workshops: Join local craft or art workshops. Unique way to connect with Catania.
- Parks and Gardens: Hang out in local parks and gardens. They're local favorites.
- Sunrise Meditation: Start your day meditating at the Roman Amphitheater at dawn. Serene and historic.
- Urban Sketching Tour: Sketch the city's less-known spots. Capture Catania's character in art.
- Stargazing on Mount Etna: Night trip for stargazing. Clear skies, no city lights.
- Sicilian Cooking Challenge: Go beyond classes. Source ingredients, cook with a chef's help.
- Hidden Courtyards Tour: Discover Catania's secret courtyards and gardens. Rare glimpses into private spaces.
⚽ Go See a Catania Calcio (Soccer) Game!
Catania Football Club, or just Catania, is a key soccer team from Catania, Sicily. Here's their story:
- Foundation: Started in 1908 as Associazione Sportiva pro Educazione Fisica. Soccer in Catania dates back to 1901, linked to English ship crews. The club as we know it began on June 27, 1929.
- Stadium: They play at Stadio Angelo Massimino in Catania. It seats about 23,266.
- Colors and Nicknames: Known as I Rossazzurri (The Red and Blues), Gli Elefanti (The Elephants), and Gli Etnei (The Etneans). Home colors are red and blue.
- Performance: Catania's hit Serie A 17 times, peaking at eighth place, especially in the early 1960s and 2012-13. They're Italy's 12th most popular team.
- Recent Times: They've had ups and downs, latest reformation in 2022. Now in Serie C, Group C.
- Ownership and Management: Owned by Elefante 1946 Pty Ltd (Pelligra Group). Chairman is Ross Pelligra. Coached by Cristiano Lucarelli.
- Historical Highlights: Had highs and lows. Champions in Serie C, strong in Serie B. The 1950s and 60s were their heyday.
How to See a Catania Calcio Game:
Going to a Catania Sicily Calcio game? Here's what you need to know:
Stadium Location and Access:
- Games at Stadio Angelo Massimino, northwest of Catania's center.
- 2 km from Piazza Duomo, 1.5 km from Piazza Stesicoro.
- Walking from these points takes about 30 minutes.
Public Transportation:
- From central rail station, take bus 4-7, get off at Piazza Spedini. Also boards at Piazza Stesicoro.
- Line 431N goes every half-hour. Get off at Via Cifali and Via Beccario, close to the stadium.
Stadium Details:
- Capacity of 20,016 to 23,500.
- Opened in 1937, recently upgraded for safety.
Tickets and Matchday:
- Buy tickets on Catania Calcio's website.
- Local fans fill the northern end (curva nord). It's lively, especially during big games.
Local Area:
- Stadium's in an urban area with bars and restaurants.
- Not great for extensive pre-game stuff.
Safety and Crowds:
- Derby games, like against Palermo or Messina, can get tense.
- Prioritize safety and watch for crowd advisories.
🏝️ 12 Best Beaches in Catania
- La Playa of Catania: Over 18 km of golden sands, sometimes volcanic. Lively with free areas, campsites, cafes, and discos.
- La Riviera dei Ciclopi in Aci Trezza and Aci Castello: Deep blue waters, black stacks. Known for its colors and marine life. Wooden platforms available.
- Foce del Simeto Beach: In Simeto Oasis Nature Reserve. Great for families, offers long white beach and nature walks.
- Torre Pozzillo Beach: In Pozzillo, fine gravel and a coastal tower. Noted for its mineral spring.
- Praiola Beach in Giarre: Volcanic sand, blue waters. Ideal for chilling out.
- Mulino Beach in Acireale: Golden sand, clear sea, by the Timpa cliff. Surrounded by Mediterranean scrub.
- Fondachello Beach: Deep seabed, perfect for snorkeling. Mix of pebbles, golden sand.
- Santa Tecla Beach: Small, rocky, intensely blue sea. Quiet and relaxing.
- Santa Maria La Scala Beach: Stone-dotted beach near the mythical Palombe cave.
- San Marco Beach in Calatabiano: Near Calatabiano Castle, with acacia and eucalyptus trees. Black sand and rocks.
- Aci Castello Beach: Cliffs and rocky beaches. Quieter in winter, busy in summer with eateries and clubs.
- Isola Bella: About an hour from Catania. "Pearl of the Ionian Sea," with clear waters and mountainous backdrop.
🛍️ Best Shopping in Catania
Looking for shopping in Catania, Italy? Here's the rundown:
- Enoteca Etna Wine: Winery and agriturismo with a variety of wines and Sicilian products.
- Oh My Sicily: A virtual shop for Sicilian goodies like antipasti, pesto, patés, sweet creams, and jams.
- Catania Mall: Luxury outlet for designer clothes, shoes, accessories. Good deals.
- Etnapolis: South Italy's biggest mall. 120 shops, 10 eateries, 12-screen cinema.
- Aldo Campione Jewels: Cutting-edge, trendy jewelry.
- Corso Italia: Luxe boutiques like Dolce&Gabbana, Armani, Trussardi. Don't miss Gigi Tropea, a multi-brand store.
- Via Umberto I: More affordable shopping. Brands like Tally Weiji, Fergy. Shops include Yamamay, Tezenis, and Vittorio shoe store.
- La Rinascente: Shopping center on Via Pacini Street. Shops, home decor, souvenirs, food.
- Coin Department Store: Four floors, themed. Clothes, kids' stuff, play areas.
- Local Markets: Try Pescheria di Catania for seafood. Food market near Coin store for fresh produce. Sunday flea market.
- Boutique Hotels and Kiosks: City center's full of them. Try blood orange juice and lemon granita.
- Via Etnea: Main street for local shopping. Fashion, ceramics, food specialists.
- Suburban Malls: Centro Sicilia, Porte di Catania, Catania La Rena, Auchan Misterbianco, Etnapolis. All your shopping needs.
👫🏽 Best Guided Tours in Catania, Italy
Here's a quick guide to some of our most favorite Catania tours:
Also, be sure to check out these 6 guided tours!:
- Mount Etna Summit Trek: Ride a 4x4 to 3000 meters, then trek to the Summit Craters at 3330 meters.
- Etna Sunset Jeep Tour: Half-day Jeep tour of Mount Etna. Includes local produce tasting and sunset views.
- Etna Summit Trek with Cable Car: Hike to Etna's top with a volcanologist. Includes lava tunnel and Valle del Bove.
- The Godfather Locations Tour: Tour 'The Godfather' filming sites in Sicily.
- Inspector Montalbano Tour: 8-hour tour of 'Inspector Montalbano' locations.
- Catania Coastline Sailing: 3-hour sail along Catania with appetizers and Prosecco.
💃🏽 Catania Italy Nightlife
In Catania, Sicily, nightlife's electric. Clubs, bars, or chill spots, it's all there.
At Avantgarde Art Club, it's a mix of music and art. Jam sessions, art shows - cool for art lovers. Banacher Disco? Dance under palm trees till dawn. Stag's Head, an Irish pub, is the go-to for expats wanting music and a pint. Skyfall's different. Think organic dishes, Sicilian-Italian fusion, and killer cocktails.
Piazza del Duomo's the heart of Catania. Cathedral of Saint Agatha, shops, eats - it's culture central. The Orto Botanico's botanical gardens morph into a concert venue at night. Ursino Castle? Nighttime wine tastings in a historic setting.
KARMA Lounge Bar's laid-back, live music on Fridays. FAB's great for fast eats - pizza, salads, burgers. Pegaso's Club, a vibrant gay spot, welcomes everyone. Caffè Curtigghiu? Italian coffee, snacks, and cocktails. Maeva Beach is for beachside party fans. Gisira Pizza and Drinks wraps it up - top pizza for a great night out.
Bar Catania
In Catania, the bar scene's alive.
First Lounge Bar in San Berillo? Street art and killer cocktails. It's the aperitif king. BarnAut, by Piazza Duomo, throws a vintage vibe. Craft beers, cool drinks. Oliva.co Cocktail Society? Top-notch cocktails, cozy spot.
Macondo's different. Underground feel, organic focus, live tunes. Mamma Africa's laid-back. Good drinks, music, sometimes live. Ostello degli Elefanti? Rooftop views, magical nights.
Vermut's a local hangout. Drinks, wine, tapas in Via Gemellaro. Then there's AfroBar at Playa di Catania. African-style beach club, live music, beach parties.
🚙 8 Day Trip Ideas From Catania, Italy
From Catania, Italy, check out these day trips.
- Zafferana Etnea, less known, gives a real local feel. Big church, cool buildings, cafes, and sea views. It's an hour from Catania.
- Noto's big on Baroque architecture. It's in the UNESCO-listed Val di Noto. Limestone buildings and streets catch your eye.
- Taormina? Sicily's gem. Has an ancient Greek theater overlooking Etna. Hit it early or late to dodge crowds. Trains run from Catania.
- Syracuse & Ortigia offer history, swimming spots, a food market, and Neapolis Archaeological Park. About an hour by train from Catania.
- Ragusa's split into old (Ibla) and new (Superiore) parts. Check out the Cathedral of San Giorgio and Giardino Ibleo.
- Agrigento's famous for the Valley of the Temples and its medieval town center.
- Alcantara Gorge, near Etna, has unique rocks and the Alcantara River. Great for hikes and swims.
- Giardini Naxos, a budget-friendly beach, offers top sunset views over Etna.
👩🏽🏫 Tips for the Perfect 2-Day Itinerary in Catania
In Catania, Italy, here's how to spend two packed days.
Day 1:
Kick off at the Cathedral of Saint Agatha. Pay a bit for a guided tour. Next, the Achillean Baths - dive into Catania's ancient past. Climb up Badia di Sant’Agata for a killer city view. Then hit the Greek-Roman Theater, a real old-school spot from the 2nd century.
Lunch: Grab some classic Sicilian grub - think arancini or fresh seafood. After, check out Monastero dei Benedettini di San Nicolò l’Arena. It's part of the University now, with tours in English.
Evening: Wander Catania's lively streets. Maybe grab a vegan or vegetarian bite at Zenzero e Salvia.
Day 2:
Start at Terme della Rotonda, ancient Roman baths. Then head to Fontana dell’elefante and the area around the rebuilt Cathedral of Saint Agatha. Villa Bellini's next - perfect for a picnic or chill.
If there's time, pop into Museo Civico Castello Ursino in a historic castle.
Wrap up your day with local-style aperitivo. Drinks, snacks - try Vermut.
🍴 Best Restaurants in Catania
These are our 3 top-rated eateries in Catania. Check Trip Advisor for more options and real reviews.
Vulcanica Pizza Contemporanea nails it with possibly Sicily's best pizza. Great ingredients, classic Italian menu.
Vice.5's the go-to for Italian and seafood. Famous for killer flavors and top-notch service.
Concezione Restaurant: It's fine dining, Italian and seafood style. Creative, tasty dishes make it ideal for a special night out.
🏨 The 4 Best Hotels in Catania
We listed our top 4 picks for places to stay in Catania. However, we also recommend you browse through Booking.com to find the best deals!
1. Hotel Sofia Catania Italy
Location-wise, it's central. Close to Piazza Stesicoro, Via Etnea, and public transport - Catania Central and Porto Stations. Room are single to quadruple, plus a suite with a hot tub. All air-conditioned, with flat-screens, free WiFi, private baths, minibars.
- Service includes daily housekeeping, tour help, luggage storage, airport shuttle. No parking though. Got pets? They're welcome here.
- Breakfast is continental, but it's extra. Loads of eating spots nearby. Check-in starts 2 PM, ends 7:30 PM. Check-out's at 10 AM. Early or late check-in might cost you more.
- Reviews are mixed but mostly good. People dig the location, cleanliness, staff. As far as the cost, it changes with room type and date. Roughly €67 a night for two, minus taxes and fees, as of January 2024.
2. Hotel Centrum Catania Italy
Hotel Centrum's smack in Catania's heart. Near Massimo Bellini Theater, Piazza del Duomo, Via Etnea. Close to Catania Central Station and Fontanarossa Airport. Rooms prices start at €75 for singles, €99 for doubles/twins, €160 for suites/family rooms. All got air conditioning, satellite TV, internet.
- Amenities include free Wi-Fi, bar/lounge, room service, and disability access. Breakfast's included, beach shuttle optional. Private parking for drivers. Family and pet-friendly? Absolutely. Babysitting services and pet provisions available.
- Guests love the staff, cleanliness, comfort, and location. High ratings all around. Check-in kicks off at 2 PM, check-out by 11 AM. They offer express and contactless options. If you're hungry, check out local joints like Antica Friggitoria Stella and Sikulo Restaurant.
- Getting around? The hotel's accessible, has covered parking, and is near public transport.
3. Hotel Villa Del Bosco Catania Italy
Hotel at Via del Bosco 62 is near the beach, linked to a shopping center. Close to Via Etnea, Catania Cathedral. Fontanarossa Airport and city center aren't far. Rooms vary - Double/Twin, Junior Suites, Suites, even a Presidential Suite. Prices start around $67 a night, but fluctuate.
- Amenities: Outdoor pool, private parking, free Wi-Fi, airport shuttle. Family-friendly - family rooms, child care. Pets? Sure, might cost extra.
- Dining: Their restaurant, Il Canile, serves vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free options. Breakfast's a hit.
- Reviews are mostly positive. Staff, cleanliness, comfort get thumbs up. Some say location's iffy, Wi-Fi's hit or miss. Extras include sun deck, garden, snack bar, bar, meeting/banquet facilities, beauty salon, massage services. Pool and Spa? They've got an outdoor pool, pool bar, hot tub.
4. Grand Hotel Baia Verde Catania Italy
Hotel Baia Verde is perched on volcanic rocks, between Acicastello and Catania. Offers killer sea views. Close to Orto Botanico and Giardino Bellini. Rooms include Classic Doubles, Junior Suites, Deluxe with sea views. Fancy Italian furniture, 32-inch HD LED TVs, minibars. Many boast Ionian Sea views.
- Food: Oleandro Restaurant dishes out Sicilian, Mediterranean cuisine, local wines. Outdoor bar for Sicilian ice cream, snacks, drinks.
- Facilities: Outdoor pool, sun terrace on the rocks, gym, beauty center. Free Wi-Fi, parking. Kid-friendly with babysitting and special meals. Guests rate it high for staff, cleanliness, comfort, location. Some say it needs better soundproofing.
- Into leisure? They've got diving, snorkeling, water sports.
- Accessibility? Elevators, smoking areas.
📚 5 Great Books About Catania, Italy
If you want to do some reading about Catania, we recommend you looking into these five:
- "Who Is Lou Sciortino?" by Ottavio Cappellani is about crime, movies, and Mafia in Sicily. It's engaging.
- "Full Tank & No Damage" by Marianne G. Petrino is a Sicilian adventure story. It dives into Sicilian culture and history.
- "A Star Rose in Cerami," also by Petrino, paints a vivid picture of Sicily. It focuses on Sicilian history and traditions.
- "A Mortal Sin" by Giovanni Verga is a deep look at Sicilian life. It shows the region's social and cultural fabric.
- "The Great Mortality" by John Kelly is about the Black Death. It's not just about Catania, but it affected Sicily and Europe.
❓FAQs About Catania
The following are some of the most frequently asked questions about Catania:
Yes! Catania offers something for every traveler. It's rich in history, boasting both Greek and Roman ruins. It's a must-visit in Sicily.
Catania, Sicily's industrial and commercial hub, boasts Southern Italy's largest airport, Catania–Fontanarossa. Its UNESCO-listed "old town" showcases late-baroque architecture, rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake.
Known as "the black city," Catania's buildings are darkened by volcano soot. Despite eruptions damaging it, the city always rebuilds, growing more beautiful each time.
Palermo's markets have their charm, but Catania wins for shopping. Via Etnea in Catania offers unique boutique stores. You'll also find big hypermarkets throughout the city. Catania boasts beaches within reach. Just hop on a public bus, and you're there. For beach lovers, Palermo has Mondello, but that's just one beach.
The Catania airport is closer to town than Palermo's. If possible, fly out of Catania. In Palermo, don't rent a car right away. Only do it if you're heading out of the city immediately.
🇮🇹 Explore More of Italy!
Wrapped up the Catania guide? Italy's got more. Check out our other guides. Find Italy's secrets. Every city's unique, from Tuscany's hills to Rome's history. Keep exploring. Italy's calling.
- Quadrilatero Bologna: From Medieval Streets to Modern Eats
- Gole dell'Alcantara: Sicily's Spectacular Natural Phenomenon
- The Ultimate Guide to the Best Beaches in Catania
- Our Picks for the Best Carbonara in Rome
- Discover Filicudi: The Sicilian Island Time Forgot
- The Best Time to Visit Piedmont Italy: Festivals, Tours & Events
- Slow Travel Italy: Find Your Bliss in the Art of Enjoying Life
- The Top-Rated Palermo Beaches: Your Ultimate Guide
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