Catania sits on Sicily's east coast, at Mount Etna's base, one of Europe's two most active volcanoes. It's walkable, with main sights clustered in the city center.
Catania is safe for everyone, including solo female travelers. Italy ranks 23rd in women's travel safety. Enjoy this Sicilian city worry-free.
In Catania, few speak English. But at airports, hotels, and restaurants, enough understand it for smooth basic transactions.
Catania: not too touristy, not too pricey, and a UNESCO site. Despite top public transport in Eastern Sicily, 8-10 days is long for a stay.