Catania is a city in Italy which sits at the foot of Mount Etna. The ancient port city is the second largest in Sicily, so has a lot for you to discover. Catania is beautiful and it’s character and personality speaks for itself. The imposing mountains and idyllic beaches are just waiting for you to explore them.
Get the most out of your upcoming trip with these 17 things to do…
MUST-DO
Monastero dei Benedettini
The Benedictine Monastery complex can be found at the centre of Catania. Founded in 1558, the monastery is one of the largest of its kind in Europe. The monastery is very unique as it features an architectural integration of different styles; note-wothy structures are the Red Hall, and the Basilica of Saint Nicolo. Today, the monastery hosts the Department of Humanities of the University of Catania.
Tip: Climb to the top of the basilica dome to view amazing panoramic views of the city.
Basilica Cattedrale Sant’Agata
Basilica Cattedrale Sant’Agata is Catania’s Cathedral, and it is simply stunning. The Norman and Baroque architecture can be seen all over the building. Its impressive marble facade depicts religious figures, whilst featuring a Latin cross ground plan inside. It is definitely a sight worth seeing. The cathedral is at the heart of the city and can be found in the Piazza Del Duomo. As the most important monument in the old town of Gallipoli, expect to find many other eager tourists here!
Why not also consider visiting the Museo Diocesano (which is next door) for access to the Roman baths directly underneath the church.
Mount Etna Day Trip
Mount Etna is one of the most active volcanoes in Europe, and it looms over the city of Catania. The huge volcanic eruption of Etna in 1669 is well noted as it was very detrimental to the city. It destroyed most of the city of Catania as well as other towns and villages. You can take a guided tour to Mount Etna, where you will start off at the foot of the volcano, be provided equipment, and then a 4 Wheel-drive ride to the crater will be organized.
Alternatively, at the feet of Mount Etna lies Parco dell’Etna. The national park offers many hiking trails if you dont fancy getting too close to the Volcano.
Piazza del Duomo
The Piazza del Duomo is the main square in Catania. As the heart of the city, it is bustling with life and character, there are several great attractions, but also many chances to grab a bite . Go to the cathedral square and admire the city’s emblem: The Elephant’s Fountain. Legend even has it that this statue holds the power to appease Etna’s volcano anger.
The Piazza is a smart place to start a walking tour of Catania, as from here you are in close proximity to many of the main sights. Start your guided Segway tour of Catania it is so much fun!
Ursino Castle
Ursino castle, which was built in the 13th century as a royal castle of the Kingdom of Sicily, stands at 24 metres high. Since then, there have been many earthquakes and the huge volcanic eruption of Etna in 1669, which have completely changed the landscape of the area. Still, the castle stands in exceptional condition and all four of its original towers and walls are still here.
The castle is now the home of the Municipal Museum. Museo Civico commemorates one of Sicily’s most iconic composers, Vincenzo Bellini. It is free entry so walk around and discover something new!
OTHER TOP THINGS TO DO
Acireale
Acireale is a small baroque town found only a few kilometres away from Catania. The quaint town is just a 30 minute drive away and it is famous for its numerous churches. Despite having only 60,000 inhabitants, there are over 100 churches all over Acireale. Acireale is also home to the oldest art academy in Sicily.
Explore the narrow alleys of Centro Storico and wind up at la Timpa where you will get amazing views of the Ionian sea.
Discover the Beaches: Aci Castello and Azi Trezza
Although Catania is not your typical beach holiday destination, there are many local beaches to uncover. Aci Castello and Azi Trezza are towns just 45 minutes away from Catania which have some stunning beaches. Dive into the crystal clear seas and take in the picturesque surroundings as you go to one of these beaches.
There are a host of activities to also do, such as snorkelling and you will definitely find a good restaurant or two in your surrounding.
Agrigento Valley of the Temples
Agrigento Valley of the Temples is one of Sicily’s main attractions. UNESCO World Heritage site, listed it as the most famous archaeological site which is a must-see during a trip to Sicily! This archaeological park consists of eight temples built between about 510 BCE and 430 BCE: the Temple of Hera, the Temple of Concordia, the Temple of Heracles, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Temple of Castor and Pollux, the Temple of Hephaestus, the Temple of Demeter, and the Temple of Asclepius.
Make a day of it, book an organized tour, and get picked up from your hotel and taken to the Valley – a Sicilian street food-packed lunch is also up for grabs!
Teatro Romano
The Teatro Romano is the The Roman Theater of Catania, which was built in the second century AD. Located in Via Vittoria Emanuel, the site consists of the ruins of two open air semicircular Ancient Roman theaters. The open-air orchestra pit is surrounded by curved corridors and a seating area that could contain over 7,000 people. The theatre is easily accessible and is a great way to explore the historic centre of the city.
As one of Catania’s best kept ruins from Roman times, the theatre is also a great picture opportunity!
Taormina
A day trip to Taormina is also highly recommended. The charming little town is elegance personified. Enjoy the scenery offered from views of Mount Etna and also the Inonian sea. Isola Bella beach is also a tourist favourite, the alluring waters on the pebbled beach are sure to draw you in.
Whilst you are there, make sure to go to Teatro Greco which is an ancient Greek theatre. It is one of the most well preserved in the world.
Giardino Bellini
The Giardino Bellini is the oldest urban park of Catania. It is a public space that allows you to relax and enjoy nature. The park is beautiful, featuring a grand fountain, hedges landscaped into patterns and several gorgeous flower beds. Follow the intricate paths in the garden up the very top of the hill you’ll be able to see the sea and Mt. Etna rising out of the clouds.
If you are looking for some relief from the busier main parts of Catania, the park Giardino Bellini is certainly the location for you.
Porta Garibaldi
Porta Garibaldi is a grand stone archway in Catania. The arch built in 1768 is one of the most impressive structures that you will find on your trip to Catania. It is named after Giuseppe Garibaldi who is said to have inspired the unification of Italy. The arch is glorious and really is an astonishing sight to behold.
“Melior di cinere surgo, meaning “I can be born again from the ashes even more beautiful” is the inscription found carved underneath the arch – it symbolises Catania’s ability to rebuild even after being destroyed so many times.
Try some cheese
Catania is described by tourists as one big cheese party, and rightly so, here you will find cheese in abundance. Locals are so enthusiastic about cheese that they know dozens of traditional cheeses by heart and are even willing to recommend perfect pairings. You are able to book a private tour of Cheese Dairy on Mount Etna’s Slope. Not only will you learn some secrets about the production of cheese, but you will also be able to taste some yummy cheese.
You can also discover Catania’s fish markets and try some new cheese!
Catania Orto Botanico
Catania Orto Botanico, also known as Hortus Botanicus Catinensis, Catania’s botanical garden. It is located in the grounds of the University and very close in proximity to the Bellini Garden (so you can plan to see both on the same day).
The Botanical gardens will make for a pleasant stroll as you admire the display of trees and stunning flower arrangements. Break up your sightseeing day and explore naitve Sicilian plants at the Catania Orto Botanico.
Via dei Crociferi
Via dei Crociferi is most famous for its Sicilian Baroque architecture. The historic street is located in-between Teatro Romano and the Giardini Bellini. There are four churches on this street alone, The Church of St. Francesco Borgia, The Church of San Benedetto, The Church of St. Francis Assisi and the Church of San Giuliana. Each church has its own story to tell, San Benedetto for example is said to have been built in one night. The street is also so photogenic that a number of Italian films have shot scenes on its sidewalks.
Note: If you wanted to visit any of the churches, most of them are only open in the morning, so make sure to rise bright and early!
Syracuse et l’île d’Ortigie
Syracuse et l’île d’Ortigie is a town located south of Catania. The town is renowned for it’s Neapolis Archaeological park. As one the most important ruins of Sicily, the park is divided in three sections which include the Latomie, the Greek theatre and the Roman amphitheatre. The coastal city is well known for its historical heritage and its charming old town: Ortigia Island – there are over 2,700 years of history on the streets of Syracuse.
Note: Be prepared to walk to most places as the few parking spaces on Ortigia Island are reserved for residents only
La pescheria
La pescheria is Catania’s busy fish market. It is located just behind the piazza del Duomo, and really allows you to delve into everyday life in Catania. Your visit is truly incomplete if you don’t stop here. Revel in the smell of fish and sea water, and explore the different types of fish on offer.
Around the market, you can also try one of the many tasty seafood restaurants which have the freshest seafood that you will ever try!
