My Top Catania Travel Tips
Catania was founded in the 8th century BC by Chalcidian Greeks settlers from nearby Naxos (modern day Giardini Naxos) and was given the Greek name Katánē.
During the 14th century AD and into the Renaissance period, Catania was one of Italy's most important cultural, artistic and political centres. It was the site of Sicily's first university founded in 1434 and has been the native or adopted home of some of Italy's most famous artists and writers, including the composer Vincenzo Bellini and the writer Giovanni Verga. The city has weathered multiple geological catastrophes.
As Sicily's second largest city Catania has had its fair share of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions and although it is rich in monuments dating back to Greek and Roman times the city seen today was built mostly after a massive earthquake in 1693 which hit south eastern Sicily destroying 70 towns and cities killing up to 60,000 people. The rebuilding, then a territory part of the Crown of Aragon and ruled by Spain, was largely carried out in an elaborate Baroque style utilising black lava stone giving it the name "The City of Black and White". Prior to this, in 1669 Mount Etna erupted and engulfed the city in lava. The city that exists today is built on top of the lava flow.
As with Sicily’s capital of Palermo, Catania makes an excellent weekend getaway and it is the gateway to the eastern side of the island and Mount Etna. The international airport is the largest on the island even larger than that of Palermo and you get a spectacular view of Mount Etna as your aircraft descends over the plain of Catania which boasts abundant orange groves. The bustling Port of Catania welcomes cruise ships and ferries from the mainland and beyond.
The Province of Catania is home to the magnificent Mount Etna, Europe's largest active volcano which dominates the eastern side of the island. Mount Etna can be experienced in many ways and is the highlight to any trip to Sicily.
Catania is known as the second most sunniest city in Europe boasting an average of 347 hours of sun each month.
Most people just think of Catania for its airport but the city is well worth a visit. Whilst visiting a must see is the majestic cathedral which is built on the ruins of Roman baths and overlooks Piazza del Duomo which is the best starting point and main hub of the city with its iconic symbol of Catania, a lava stone elephant carrying an Egyptian obelisk on its back which is said to bring the city good fortune. From the piazza you can easily reach Catania's most popular places and monuments.
Catania is a university town so enjoys a very lively nightlife with many restaurants, bars and cafes. Like any other city in the world it is best to keep vigilant and keep your possessions safe whilst walking around.
It boasts colourful street markets and is a multicultural city and its fish market is beloved by many celebrity chefs.
The patron saint of Catania is Sant Agata (Saint Agatha) and between the 3rd and 5th February annually a grand festival is held in her honour which is one of the most beloved and biggest in the whole of Italy.
I love Catania and I never need an excuse to visit. Over the twenty years we have been both visiting and living in Sicily we have got to know the city quite well and so here are My Top Catania Travel Tips drawn from my own experience.
To start I recommend a birds eye view of the city which is the best way to begin your adventure in Catania starting from Piazza Duomo …
The city 🐘
Chiesa della Badia di Sant'Agata
Close to Piazza Duomo you will find Chiesa della Badia di Sant' Agata. The Abbey of Saint Agatha is a 18th century church with a Baroque style facade and is located next to the cathedral of Catania. In order to understand the lay of the land to start your tour of the city and if you have a head for heights, I would recommend taking the spiral staircase up to the cupola (dome) to put the city into perspective from a birds eye view. For a small entrance fee it is well worth the money to get such great views of the city and Mount Etna and if you time your visit right you can listen to all of the church bells around the city at midday which is an amazing experience.
The Legend of Sant'Agata of Catania
Saint Agata was a young noblewoman who was born in 230AD to a secretly Christian family in Catania whilst Sicily was under Roman rule. The Roman governor of the city at that time Quintianus fell in love with Agata and ordered her renounce her Christian faith. After being rejected by her, he entrusted a courtesan called Aphrodisias to befriend Agata in the hope that the prostitute who was addicted to orgies and other sinful activities, could corrupt Agata. However, Agata stood firm on her beliefs and so Quintianus then had her arrested. It is said that Agata argued her defense passionately. After several days of forced fasting and starvation Quintianus began to toture her. She was flogged and her breasts were cut off. However, it is said that her breasts grew back miracously at night thanks to the intervention of Saint Peter. Her last torture was a bed of hot coals. Some say that whilst Agata's body was martyred by fire her red veil, a symbol of her consecration to god, did not burn. Agata died in prison due to her injuries on 5th February 251AD. Her body was embalmed and then wrapped in the red veil. Legend says that the veil has stopped many lava flows from Mount Etna descending to threaten Catania. In the Province of Catania you will find many Sicilian women called Agata.
The Festival of Saint Agata
The Feste of Sant'Agata takes place between 3rd and 5th February. The three day festival sees hundreds of thousands of people parading through the streets of Catania following a carriage containing the relics of Saint Agata. There is also a procession of decorated candlesticks 6 metres high carried for hours at a time by locals representing different trades dressed in white robes. By the end of the festival the streets of Catania are very slippery from where the wax has dripped on the ground. On the 5th of February Saint Agata's relics are carried back to the cathedral where they stay until the following year. During the festival the balconies of Catania are adorned with banners and flags amongst food stalls and fireworks that thunder until dawn. There are also special services and concerts in Agata's honour. Lesser known to many is the Feast of Saint Agata that takes place in August. On the night of 17th August in 112AD two soldiers brought back to Catania the body of Saint Agata which had been stolen and was in Constantinople. Long ringing of bells woke the sleeping city, making thousands of people pour into the street, some in bed robes, hence why the devotion of wearing a white robes is used by devotees who accompany the saint on festival days.
Minne di Sant'Agata
Because one of the tortures Saint Agata suffered was to have her breasts cut off, she was often depicted carrying her breasts on a plate. This episode of her life is symbolised in pastries throughout Catania shaped like breasts called Minne di Sant'Agata (Saint Agata's breasts) also known as Cassatella di Sant’Agata. These are small round pastries are made with sponge cake and sweetened ricotta cheese which is then encased with marzipan and white icing with a candied cherry on top. You will see these sweet delights adorning the windows of pasticcerias in Catania.
Il Duomo di Catania
A must see is Catania's majestic cathedral which is dedicated to Saint Agata. The cathedral was built on the ruins of Roman baths named Achilliane, which are still visible, around 1078 and was the initiative of the Norman ruler Count Roger. The building you see today, built in the Sicilian Baroque style, dates back to 1711. The building was completely redesigned by the architect Giambattista Vaccarini after the earthquake of 1693 which completely raised the original building to the ground. The cathedral houses a chapel dedicated to Saint Agata, where her treasure is located, known as "camaredda", which is kept in a chest together with her relics. The well known musician and composer Vincenzo Bellini who was born in Catania is buried in the cathedral, also you can see the tomb of Constance of Aragon and remains of Aragonese kings. One thing of historical importance to look out for is a fresco depicting the eruption of Mount Etna in 1669 which is located in the sacristy. Not many people know that the bell in the tower of the cathedral is the third largest in Italy, after that of St Peter's in Rome and the Duomo of Milan.
Fontana dell'Elefante
The Elephant Fountain in Piazza Duomo was designed by the architect Giovanni Battista Vaccarini, a Sicilian architect, notable for his work in the Sicilian Baroque style, between 1735 and 1737. Its main element is a black volcanic basalt rock statue of an elephant, known as "U Liotru", which has become the emblem of the city. It is said that the elephant possesses magical powers and has the ability to predict the eruptions of nearby Mount Etna. The elephant was the symbol of the city long before the construction of the statue and this is thought to be because dwarf elephants were known to live on the island around 500-200,000 years ago. Not much is known about the origin of the Egyptian obelisk that is placed on the saddle of the elephant, but legend says that it might have been brought to Catania from Egypt at the time of the Crusades when the island was used as a stepping stone from Europe into the Holy Land.
Palazzo degli Elefanti
The Palace of the Elephants on the northern side of Piazza Duomo is the headquarters of the Municipality of Catania. The building you see today was constructed in 1696 after the original building was destroyed by the earthquake of 1693. The balcony gables are adorned with the letter "A" representing Saint Agata together with many carved elephants from which the palace derives its name. It has been the cities town hall since 1953. In the central courtyard you can see carriages dating back to the 18th century that parade every year on the morning of the 3rd February to make the procession to carry the votive candles during the celebrations for the festival of Saint Agata.
Do a Walking Tour
Dive into the main monuments of Catania on a guided walking tour. Follow a guide to uncover the history, legends and fascinating anecdotes about daily life in the city. Most walking tours start in Piazza Duomo with a visit to the cathedral and a stroll through the lively fish market. Enjoy the stunning architecture of monasteries, churches, Greek and Roman monuments and the noble palaces of Via Crociferi which have made the street so famous.
Jump on a Fun Train or Open Top Bus Tour
If you are tired of walking you can enjoy a relaxing tour of Catania on board a fun train or the open top bus which leave from Piazza Duomo and tours the city centre. Lasting approximately 35 minutes these tours take in views of the most important churches and monuments. A guide on board highlights and describes all the "must sees" during the tour.
La Pescheria (The Fish Market)
From Piazza Duomo you can find the cities famous fish market in Piazza Alonzo di Benedetto which is accessed down a lava staircase behind the Fontana dell'Amenano. On entering you can enjoy the ambiance and smells where the charismatic stall holders shout across to you enticing you to try the finest fish that has been caught that morning. Many lovingly let you sample their delicacies such a raw anchovies or sea urchins. These guys actually are in love with fish and want to share their love with you. The market is loved by the renowned English chef Rick Stein and was featured in his television series and book "Mediterranean Escapes" where he describes the market as "artistic" and "operatic" "with fish laid out like paintings". The market takes place between 7am and 2pm but I would recommend getting there early as they do start packing up around 11am, well they have been up all night fishing and need to catch up on their beauty sleep.
Book a Street Food Tour
No trip to Catania is complete without sampling some interesting and delicious street food that makes Sicily so unique. Eating on the street with your hands is an old tradition for locals on the go as they stroll along. As you wander through the city you can find some of the best street foods on the island or you can join one of the many Street Food Tours that are on offer that include some highlights of the cities monuments too. Make sure you have an appetite before you embark so that you are ready to sample a variety of street food delicacies whilst your senses are being inundated with the smells of food being cooked. You will even get a certificate to say that you ate everything. Via Plebiscito is the perfect place to eat Catania's speciality street food, a horse meat sandwich which is much loved by the locals.
Scirocco Sicilian Fish Lab
When I visit Catania this is the one place I cannot miss. Overlooking the fish market underneath a colourful umbrella art installation you can enjoy Sicilian style fried fish and seafood served in a traditional paper cone. Just join the queue, order your food from the window and tell them your name, find a high table with chairs and in a couple of minutes your order is brought to you whilst you watch work in progress in the fish market below you.
Umbrella Art Installation
Everyone loves a colourful art installation don't they? Featuring 800 umbrellas floating overhead visitors are in awe as they enter the fish market and see the Umbrella Sky Project which is so popular in other European cities. The bright colours contrast beautifully against the dark black lava stone of the cities buildings and pavements. The Sicilian sun illuminations the colourful display and the umbrellas also provide much needed shade in the second most sunniest city in Europe.
Arancini
Arancini are small balls of rice that are filled with a ragu sauce, or other filling, rolled in breadcrumbs and then deep fried. Their traditional round shapes resemble oranges (aranci) which is how they got their name. They are said to have originated in the 10th century at a time when the island was under Arabic rule. They are considered a meal in one and in Norman times the nobles of Sicily would take them out on hunting trips. In Palermo they are adamant that Arancini are female therefore singularly they are known as Arancina but in Catania they are adamant that Arancini are male and so they are known as Arancino. They are also different in shape in Catania and have a more conical shape that some say is to resemble Mount Etna.
Cooking Classes
With all the fresh produce that Etna supplies from her volcanic soil which you will see being sold in the street markets of Catania, a cooking class is a gastronomic must. Book a great cooking class from making arancini, modern fusion cooking, cooking the traditional Sicilian way or learning how to construct the islands mouth watering desserts. Visit the market first with your chef to buy your produce, create your yummy dishes and then devour them after with gusto.
Fontana dell'Amenano
This beloved fountain is a good place to begin to explore the fish market. The fountains mysterious water flows from underneath the city. Legend says that the water comes from a river which flows from Mount Etna that was covered in lava in the eruption of 1669 and resurfaces at the entrance to the fish market. The sculpture was built in 1867 in Carrara marble. The central sculpture represents the personification of the river where a young man holding a cornucopia from which water falls on the river below. On the sides, there are two sculptures that represent newts. The locals call the fountain "Acqua a Linzolu" because of the effect of the water that falls down like a waterfall.
Porta Uzeda
The Uzeda Gate on Piazza Duomo was built to connect Via Etnea to the port and was commissioned by the Duke of Camastra in 1696. The gate is named in honour of a Spanish nobleman Juan Francisco Pacheco Tèllez-Giró, the Duke of Uzeda and viceroy of Sicily from 1689 to 1696. It is considered as a great symbol of the city and is built in typical Catanese Baroque style using black lava stone and white marble for the decoration. It creates a picture perfect frame looking through Piazza Duomo up to a fabulous view of Mount Etna at the far end of Via Etnea.
Volcanic Pavements
A distinctive feature in Catania is its black lava flagstone pavements. The lava stone creates a stunning surface and has a sheen from wear and tear over hundreds of years of history. As you walk around the city you can imagine horse and carts trundling along and the historic people who have walked on them before you. Just be careful in wet weather as the pavements can get very slippery and take care in the street markets for stray fruit and vegetables that may have escaped from their stalls.
Via Etnea
Catania's main shopping street got its name because on a clear day you can see Mount Etna standing majestically at the northern end all the way from Piazza Duomo. The street is lined with shops, bars and restaurants. As you ascend Via Etnea you can visit the Giardino Bellini the oldest urban garden of the city. Even if you are pressed for time, breathe deep, relax and take a stroll up this busy street to reach the gardens on the other end and view the Roman Amphitheatre. Along the way you can enjoy a coffee and a pastry at the beloved Pasticceria Savia, where you can try the pastry Minne d'Sant Agata or as locals claim the best cannoli in the city. Walking the entire length of Via Etnea is a great way to see Catania.
Shopping
Shopaholics beware, Catania is an excellent retail therapy destination. The city has a vibrant shopping scene and is particularly renowned for its luxury offerings. On Via Etnea you will find the Italian department stores La Rinascente and Coin, the buried remains of the Roman Amphitheatre runs underneath the basement of La Rinascente. You will also find more high end shops in Via Umberto I, Corso Italia and Viale 20 Settembre. Across the city you will be able to buy traditional Sicilian ceramics handmade in the town of Caltagirone and other touristy souvenirs to take home. Further afield across the border into the Province of Enna you will find the Sicilia Outlet Village on the Autostrada A19 towards Palermo which boasts 170 shops with designer outlet prices with up to 70% off.
Via Cruciferi
Via Crociferi is both one of the oldest and one of the most picturesque roads in Catania's historic centre. A number of top monuments are located along its short length of 600 metres. Many 18th century churches line its length along with noble palazzi that were once the residence of aristocracy and also the Jesuit college. Located at the northern end of the road the Villa Cerami was once a semirural villa with a sizable garden and was the residence of the Rosso di Cerami Family of Norman descent. Today the villa is the seat of the Faculty of Law for the university of Catania. At the southern end of the road you will find the Benedictine Monastery of San Nicolò with its ornate adjoining arch which marks the beginning of Via Crociferi.
Benedictine Monastery of San Nicolò
This former Benedictine monastery is one of the largest monasteries in Europe and a unique place that tells about human and historic events of the city and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Although founded in the 16th century, after the two major natural disasters in the city in the 17th century it required major reconstruction. The present monastery was rebuilt atop the original structure with an added new cloister. Guided tours are available.
Castello Ursino, the City Civic Museum
In the heart of the city after enjoying the historic streets and alleys of the fish market you will reach Piazza Federico II of Sweden. Ursino Castle is here, built in 1239 by the Emperor Frederick Hohenstaufen. It is a real fairytale looking castle with turrets, a moat (now dry) and drawbridge. The south side used to be lapped by the waves of the Ionian sea. Today, however, the sea and coastline is more distant because of lava flows that have transformed the surrounding area. The castle has stood up well to the ravages of time and to the devastating eruption of 1669 and earthquake of 1693. Visit the castle’s civic museum which displays over 8,000 pieces, including sculptures from Greek and Roman times, a valuable coin collection, works donated by Benedictine Monks and other artefacts that belonged to Prince Biscari.
Palazzo Biscari
Palazzo Bisacari is the most important private palace in Catania and is a precious testimony of the Sicilian Baroque era. The frescoed halls, full of charm and elegance, represent an elegant setting for concerts, meetings, receptions, gala evenings and fashion shows. The highly decorative interior is open for guided tours. After the devastations of the 1693 earthquake the Prince of Biscari, Ignazio Paternò Castello, obtained the permission to build this palace, later his nephew, the fifth Prince of Biscari extended and completed the decoration. The large octagonal ballroom has a complex decoration of mirrors, stuccoes and frescoes and a small dome has a balcony designed to contain an orchestra which is accessed through a beautiful staircase decorated in stucco within the gallery. You may recognise the palazzo from the music video for the band Coldplay for their song "Violet Hill", also from the recent musical movie "Cyrano" starring Peter Dinklage of Games of Thrones fame.
Orto Botanico
The Orto Botanico dell'Università di Catania, also known as Hortus Botanicus Catinensis, is a botanical garden. In 1858 the garden was established by founder and Benedictine Monk and botanist Francis Roccaforte Tornabene with the first plantings in 1862 of specimens obtained from botanical gardens in Sweden, France, Naples and Palermo. It was englarged in 1865 with a new area dedicated to the cultivation of indigenous Sicilian species. On a hot busy day it is nice to stroll around the shady paths of these gardens and then sit and relax.
University of Catania
Located north of Piazza Duomo in Piazza Università, the university of Catania was founded in 1434 by King Alfonso I of Sicily, it is the oldest university in Sicily and the 29th oldest university in the world. With a population of over 60,000 students, it is the main university on the island.
Teatro Bellini
In 1890 the doors of the Theatre “Vincenzo Bellini” opened for the first time. The theatre had been built to the design of the Milanese architect Carlo Sara. It is the heart of Catania’s musical heritage and its stage has played host to some of the greatest musicians. The twelve hundred seats in the acoustically perfect hall fill to capacity every year, tickets are sold for performances of opera, symphonies and chamber music concerts. If you are passing at the right time of day you might just be lucky to hear rehearsals in progress radiating out of the building. The theatre was opened on 31st May 1890. The event was celebrated by a performance of Norma, the masterpiece of the great Catania born composer to whom the theatre was dedicated. It was said that it was a marvellous evening, a fervent experience with the auditorium lighted by trembling butterfly shaped orange gas flames making it a fascinating atmosphere. Guided tours are available.
Bellini Museum
This museum is housed in the rooms on the first floor of Palazzo Gravina Cruyllas and occupies the house where the composer Vincenzo Bellini was born on 3rd November 1801 and spent the first sixteen years of his life. The museum, which occupies three rooms and two small rooms, is organised chronologically; the apartment, of just five rooms features objects that trace the life of Bellini and his family including paintings, books, documents, musical instruments and the composers death mask. His most well known masterpiece is the opera "Norma".
Pasta alla Norma
Sicily's most well known dish, Pasta alla Norma originates from Catania and there are numerous versions of this homage to music and food based on variations on a theme of pasta, aubergines (eggplant) and tomatoes. According to legend on the opening night in 1890 of Teatro Bellini, which opened with a performance of Vincenzo Bellini opera "Norma", the audience were so overwhelmed that they insisted on marking the occasion by naming a dish after the event and thereafter Pasta alla Norma was born. Another story attributes the name to a compliment which was paid to a chef from Catania given by a famous actor in the 1920's who declared that his pasta dish had been "as good as Norma". Another explanation, with not very much imagination, is that "Norma" in Sicilian dialect means "rule" or "standard", in other words, pasta made with ingredients that are staples of the Catanese diet.
Giovanni Verga’s House and Museum
Giovanni Verga's house in Catania is now a literary museum dedicated the Italian novelist and short story writer. He is best known for his depictions of life in Sicily and in particular Cavalleria Rusticana which is the opera featured in the final scenes of The Godfather Part III. The museum is located on the second floor of the palazzo where Verga spent his childhood and many years with his family. The interior is still today as it was back then. The museum displays copies of his manuscripts, the originals are kept in the University Library of Catania.
Roman Theatre
The archaeological complex of the Roman theatre and Odeon of Catania sits on the southern slope of the Montevergine Hill which was inhabited since prehistoric times and was home to the Greek Calcidese colony of Katánē, founded in 729-728BC. The theatres present appearance dates back to the Roman age, but the monument is thought to have been built on a pre-existing Greek theatre of which few traces remain today. The auditorium consists of 2 rows of seats for a seating area of around 7000 spectators facing the sea. The entrance contains statues and vases that have been found during excavations.
Roman Amphitheatre
The Amphitheatre of Catania was built in the Roman Imperial period, probably in the 2nd century AD. Only a small section of the structure is now visible below ground level in Piazza Stesicoro. This area is now the historic centre of the city, but in Roman times it was then on the outskirts of the city. The amphitheatre is said to have held 15,000 spectators. The hidden remainder of the theatre lies deep under the city. Keep an eye out for the feral cat colony who are well looked after and are the true guardians and gladiators of this ancient site. It is thought that mock sea battles were held here and that the theatre may have held water for these performances.
Mystery Tour
Join the mystery tour, "Shadows in the Night!!!". With your guide after dark discover legends, ghost stories, untraveled roads that lead back in time with unsolved crimes and mysterious presences. Not a tour for the faint hearted!!!
Underground Catania
Admire the power of Mount Etna and its eruptions in a prehistoric cave, follow the mysterious River Amenano, explore an ancient Roman funeral chapel and find out what is hiding under a church bombed in World War II. Meeting your guide outside Castello Ursino your journey begins in search of the underground mysteries of the city among ruins of bombed churches and prehistoric lava caves. My tip on your own is to visit A Putia Dell' Ostello in Piazza Currò, a vibrant restaurant that has a dining room in a lava cave. The so called "Grotta dell'Ostello" is a natural lava cave formed in 1669 which is crossed by the River Amemano that flows under Catania. You can visit the cave for a small fee which is taken off your bill if you eat in the restaurant after.
Rooftop Catania
In addition to a roof top climb at Chiesa della Badia di Sant' Agata there are another couple of monuments where you can admire Catania from above. At Chiesa di San Giuliano in Via Crociferi you can get a 360° view of the city and in Piazza Dante Alighieri you can climb 141 steps of the Chiesa di San Nicolò l'Arena and through the Diocesan Museum you can access the panoramic terraces of Porta Uzeda.
Giardini Bellini
The Bellini Garden is the oldest urban park of Catania. Before the construction of a public garden, the area was occupied by the garden maze or labyrinth owned by Ignazio Paterno Castello the Prince of Biscari. In 1854 the Commune of Catania bought the area of the maze and in 1864 started to adapt the area into a public garden. A city guide from 1867 reports the gardens housed geese, deer and cows, an aviary and even an enclosure of monkeys. The park was inaugurated in 1883 and has a bust of the composer Vincenzo Bellini. It is a tranquil park away from the hub bub of the city with pretty landscaping and a gazebo and boasts beautiful plants and a friendly colony of well looked after feral cats. The park has great views of Mount Etna and keep a lookout beneath you feet as your stroll along for the ornate elephant mosaics in the paving stones.
Porto Garibaldi
The garibaldi gate is a triumphal arch, built in 1768 which is located at the end of Via Giuseppe Garibaldi. It was built to celebrate the marriage of the Bourbon king Ferdinand I of the Two Sicilies to the Austrian princess Maria Carolina d'Asburgo-Lorena. As with most monuments in Catania it was built with white stone from Siracusa and black lava rock. At the top centre of the arch is a clock and amongst other symbols there is a statue recalling the black lava elephant the symbol of Catania. On a shield a phoenix is depicted as rising with a Latin cartouche stating "Melior de cinere surgo" (Better I rise from the ashes), which aptly applies to Catania who has often been rebuilt due to volcanic activity and earthquakes.
Fero ò Luni Market
"a Fero ò Luni" probably takes its name from "La Fiera del Lunedi", the Fair of Monday because it was usually only held on a Monday. Set around Piazza Carlo Alberto this lively market takes place everyday starting from 7am in the morning to 2pm. Overlooked by the Basilica della Madonna del Carmine that dominates the square local merchants sell their products which includes food, fruit, vegetables, plants, clothing and homewares. It is a full immersion into the Catanese way of life.
Take a Bike Tour
By bike you can quickly get an overview of Catania and get to know the city. The perspective from a bike allows you to experience a relaxed tour with a fresh breeze even in hot summer months. Reaching corners where no bus goes, you can feel like a local whilst getting to know the important sights and take a break at one of the cities Chioschi for a well deserved refreshing drink.
Drink a Lemon Seltz at a Chioschi
The kiosks of Catania are a unique tradition, they can also be seen in other cities and towns across the island. They are particular constructions where you can buy drinks. They are usually various shapes but the original and oldest ones are octagonal in an Art Nouveau style that dates back to 1896 and are a distinctive feature of the city. Originally there was only one in Catania, today the kiosks have multiplied in number and todays modern ones are rectangular. The kiosks act as a meeting point for locals and one of the most popular drinks is Lemon Seltz with Salt. This fizzy lemon drink from the streets of Catania is the ultimate refresher during your tour of the city. In it fizzy water is mixed with Sicilian lemon juice and salt. This hydrating drink is a thirst quenching beverage and the salt adds electrolytes making it a great way to rehydrate after a day sightseeing in the hot Sicilian sun.
Pub Crawl
Catania enjoys a very lively nightlife and has many restaurants, bars and cafes. There are also a few “pubs” that come alive at night. An evening pub crawl is a fun way to experience the city with locals whilst learning the history of pub culture in Sicily. Cheers to that and if you wake up in the morning with a sore head then go to a chioschi for the perfect hangover cure and ask for a vodka with blood orange juice, or as we say in England “the hair of the dog”.
Archi della Marina
Passing under the Porta Uzeda, leaving Piazza Duomo behind you, you will see the old 19th century railway viaduct, better known as "Arches of the Marina". The arches were designed to link Catania Centrale Station to the Galleria dell'Acquicella Station in an era when the sea still lapped the buildings facing the port.
Central Station and Bus Terminal
Catania's central station opened in 1866. On the south side you will see an authentic steam train from the early 1900's. Outside the station you can admire the majestic charm of a fountain, known as The Rape Persephone created by Giulio Moschetti in 1904. The subject is Hades, God of the underworld intent on kidnapping Persephone, daughter of the goddess Demeter, a legend known to Sicily depicting the reason for the change in seasons. Looking around you, you will notice tall smokestacks that surround the area, they date back from when the area was a major industrial centre for the refinement of sulphur. A few metres away you will find the ticket office of Catania's main bus terminal where you can be transported by bus to many destinations around Sicily.
Museo Storico dello Sbarco in Sicilia 1943
The Allied invasion of Sicily was a major campaign of World War II in which the Allied forces invaded the island in July 1943 and took control of Sicily from the Axis powers (Fascist Italy and Nazi Germany). It began with a large amphibious (by sea) and airborne operation, followed by a six week land campaign. The 38 day battle for Sicily was one of the most dramatic of the entire Second World War and the island acted as a strategic stepping stone to Hitler's fortress Europe. The Museum of the Allied Landings in 1943 is a fascinating museum which is located just right to Catania Centrale train station in La Ciminiere, a modern museum complex housed in the converted old sulphur refinery of Catania. The museum narrates the events that took place from 10th July to the 8th September 1943. By means of reconstructed settings the museum has recreated the conditions of life before, during and after the Allied invasion using simulations, projections, photographs and original articles.
Museo del Cinema
The Museum of Cinema is also located in the La Ciminiere complex and is worth a visit after the Museum of the Allied Landings in 1943. This small museum is a nice reminder of Italian cinema with different rooms replicating movie sets with screens playing iconic movies.
Museo Antichi Strumenti di Scrittura
For all you budding calligraphers you will see the small Museum of Ancient Writing Instruments at La Ciminiere as well. A treasure trove for pen enthusiasts this museum boasts a collection of over 10,000 writing instruments lovingly preserved for over a century. My father would have loved this place.
San Berillo Street Art
San Berillo is a neighbour once known as the "red light district" of the city and was populated with brothels until they were closed by law in 1958. Found just a short walk from the Teatro Bellini the San Berillo district took its name from the first bishop of Catania. Left to its own devices, in the abandoned streets and on the buildings, which are awaiting a social rebirth, many local residents and artists have taken advantage of the blank walls of the buildings and the street art of San Berillo has come alive with many works of art inspired by the local inhabitants including various cats making the area a fascinating walk for lovers of modern street art.
Boat Trip
Sail along the “Coast of the Cyclops” and spend a few hours of fun with your Captain. Sail past seaside villages, admire cliff and rock formations, spot sea caves and swim in beautiful blue waters whilst discovering the underwater world of the Ionian Sea with a snorkel. Trips usually include snacks, fruits and drinks. Just watch out for any mythological characters like cyclops, heartbroken river gods and sea nymphs.
Beyond the city 🐘
Commonwealth World War II Cemetery
Catania’s War Cemetery is located just outside the city and contains graves from the later stages of the Allied Invasion of Sicily in 1943. Many Allied soldiers fell in heavy fighting near Catania in the battle for the Simeto River bridge. The cemetery contains 2,135 Commonwealth burials, 113 of them are unidentified.
Playa di Catania
The coast between Catania and the town of Acireale north of the city is surprisingly diverse. From the Port of Catania lies about 12km of golden sandy beaches with shallow water. Along Viale Kennedy at the Playa di Catania you will find bathing lidos where you can buy a daily ticket. There is also free beaches. The private beaches all have changing rooms, showers, restaurants and bars, tennis courts and beach volley. You can lie in the sun or rent a beach umbrella with sunbed. After sunset some of these lidos turn into nightclubs under the stars.
A Volcanic Beach
Lava rock fans will not be disappointed. Just across the harbour to the north, the golden sandy beach is suddenly replaced by the darkest black rocks of lava stone from Etna’s eruption down to the sea. All people from Catania know about San Giovanni Li Cuti, a small village on the waterfront but it remains unknown to tourists visiting Catania. A few steps from Piazza Europa in a natural bay a pretty harbour welcomes local fishermen. Ancient villas look right unto the beachfront. The sea breeze takes you away from the hectic city and here is the perfect place for a tranquil seafood lunch. Sshhhh, don’t let anyone know I told you.
Ognina
Ulysses is the name of the Marina of Ognina located more north of the city. Before a devastating lava flow in the Middle Ages covered it almost entirely, the harbour was for a long time the major port for the city. Today it houses the docks for fish vessels and private boats and some shipyards. The terraces overlooking the sea boasts prestigious private villas that frame the port. The shrine of Our Lady of Ognina is right under the overpass where you can walk by the seaside along the cobbled lava stone streets. The sea breeze and the smell of the fresh fish that arrives every morning will whet your appetite to stay for lunch.
Mount Etna
A caven of mysteries and legends that looms over the city. The first Greek settlers in Sicily named Mount Etna "Aetna". Etna is described in the book of myths as "the forge of the gods" and she is the largest and most active volcano in Europe. Visitors, locally and internationally, are charmed by our volcano and visit daily to this magical corner of Sicily. Since the Grand Tours started in 1680, Mount Etna was the "must see" attraction of visitors to the island and has been enjoyed by notaries such as Goethe, Byron and Maupassant, as it had already been to the Greek philosopher Empedocles and the Emperor Hadrian previously. This legendary area is a magnet to visitors looking for excitement and stunning landscapes and our volcano can be experienced in many ways. Tour companies offer today's travellers the same experiences once enjoyed by predecessors.
Circumetnea
The circumetnea is a narrow gauge railway with 110 kilometres from Catania to Riposto that circumnavigates Mount Etna. It passes through scenic landscapes and rural scenes specific to Sicily. The 110km long route climbs up the slopes of the volcano showing its passengers the beautiful scenery of Etna like citrus orchards in bloom, olive groves, valleys and streams, ancient lava flows, small towns and verdant countryside. The train leaves the station of the Catania-Borgo Circumetnea and proceeds towards the western side of Etna, to Misterbianco passing through the citrus groves, olive groves and crops of prickly pears. The circumetnea stops at Bronte "the city of pistachios" also known for Castello Nelson which was owned by Lord Admiral Nelson, Maletto known for it cultivation of its strawberries and the medieval town of Randazzo. The train then passes by the finest vineyards of Castiglione and stops in the volcanic town of Linguaglossa then onto Riposto where the train journey comes to an end. The whole journey lasts around 3 hours. The railway also organises train itineraries in the Summer to include visits to wineries for volcanic wine tasting.
Wine Tasting
Mount Etna’s volcanic soil produces excellent grapes so no visit to Sicily is complete without a visit to a vineyard to taste some excellent volcanic wine. There are many wineries in the Province of Catania to choose from and you might just end up staying all day. Alternatively you can enjoy a delicious Sicilian lunch with wine tasting in the city.
Etnaland
Etnaland is Southern Italy's largest theme park. Etnaland also has the largest water park in Europe with over 24 attractions, including the dinosaur park, the cableway, the crocodile rapids and an amazing laser show amongst many others, all under the watchful eye of Mount Etna. The atmosphere is cheerful and it is a lot of fun for everyone. For tiny ones they can play in the mini lagoon and mini waterslides. Open summer months only.
Aci Castello and Aci Trezza
To the north of the city both the coastal towns of Acicastello and Acitrezza show clear evidence of past volcanic activity. The first has a Norman castle built on top of a cliff overlooking the sea, the second is dominated by the majestic Faraglioni and the island of Lachea that emerge from the sea. They are rocks of lava that according to the legend were thrown into the sea by the cyclop Polyphemus against Ulysses. Canoeing, windsurfing, boating and diving in the Cyclops Marine Reserve are just some of the activities that are available in this area.
Acireale
Between Catania and Taormina you will find the town of Acireale high above the rocky coastline. The town was built on old lava stone streams from Etna. The earthquake of 1693 caused heavy damage to the town and it was rebuilt in the typical Sicilian Baroque style. Just think of it like a mini Catania. The town comes alive for carnival and the historic streets become packed with revellers ready for parades and parties. A parade of floats, with gigantic works of moving art made from paper-mache are the main attraction which brings in thousands of visitors each year. The carnival of Acireale is Sicily's and one of Italy's most largest and beautiful. Acireale is also known for its Sicilian puppet musuem and today there are still performances of the puppets which is a wonder to watch. The town also has interesting architecture and monuments with picturesque little squares to sit and enjoy an ice cream.
Capo Mulini
A stop in Capo Mulini, just one kilometre beyond Aci Trezza, is a must to enjoy the catch of the day. Enjoy urchins, oysters, mussels and clams from the the nearby sea daily. You are in the Riviera of the Cyclops also known as Riviera of the Lemons, due to the presence of the important crops of citrus trees located there. Over Capo Mulini the coastline arches suddenly reaching a dizzying height of 120 meters taking the name of Timpa which sits just above the quaint seaside villages of Santa Maria La Scala and Santa Tecla, two more secret places for a lazy lunch.
The Coast of the Cyclops
In this region, between Aci Trezza and Acireale along with the legend of Ulysses and the cyclop Polythemus, the myth of Aci and Galatea comes alive. In times gone by there lived Aci, a handsome shepherd, who fell in love with Galatea, a beautiful nymph of the sea with whom the cyclop Polifermo was also infatuated with. Jealous of the two lovers he murdered Aci throwing him against a large rock. In appeasement of the gods, Aci was transformed into a river so that Galatea, swimming in it, could be with her lover forever. Aci gives his names to the towns along the Coast of the Cyclops and the River Aci has its mouth at Capo Mulini. Off the waters of Capo Mulini, navals battles between Carthage and Syracuse were fought and also some of the Roman civil wars around 42BC. There are many ancient shipwrecks along this coastline making it perfect for diving. Since 1582, the ancient Saint Anna Tower has been a look out tower across the waters to warn of invaders from ships coming to attack including pirates looking to ransack coastal villages.
Visit a Lemon Farm
Sicilian lemons are known for their sweet and tart taste and are a key part of Sicilian culture They are less acidic and juicier than other varieties of lemon and have a unique taste due to Etna's volcanic soil and Mediterranean climate. They have an oiler skin that can vary in colour from light green to yellow. Sicilian lemons are harvested in spring, autumn, and June and July. A visit to a lemon farm is a wonderful experience, help to pick some luscious lemons whilst learning about their cultivation and then learn how to create some wonderful Sicilian dishes and desserts using your lemons and the best part is that you get to eat them after.
Caltagirone
Further away within the Province of Catania you will find the Baroque town of Caltagirone. This town is built into a steep hillside and is a pleasure to visit and walk through. Ceramic production has been the main industry in this beautiful serene town since prehistoric times. A stairway leads up from the lower town to the Church of Santa Maria del Monte and each of the 142 steps is decorated with different handmade and hand painted majolica tiles. The name Caltagirone comes from the Arabic word Qal'at Ghiran, which means Castle of Pottery Jars.
Beyond Catania 🐘
Taormina, Siracusa and Sicily’s South East Corner
On the eastern coastline of Sicily beyond the Province of Catania there are many more beautiful destinations that can easily be discovered when based in Catania. North of the city Sicily's first resort Taormina boasts elegance and style and has been welcoming visitors for centuries. The town draped with bright coloured bougainvillea and geraniums offers breath taking views, an Ancient Greek theatre and cafés and terraces overlooking the sparkling Ionian Sea with a smoking Mount Etna in the distance. The choice of restaurants, shops and manicured gardens makes it Sicily's most popular destination. The city of Siracusa (Syracuse), south of Catania, was once a mighty Ancient Greek colony and was a rival to Athens. It now exists today as a thriving modern city endowed with vestiges of its former glory set in beautiful surroundings. On an islet the oldest part of Siracusa still stands, this is Ortigia. Ortigia is joined to the mainland by three small bridges. This lovely islet boasts a vibrant contrast of colours and sound with historic squares, a beautiful Cathedral and glorious monuments with restaurants offering excellent seafood. A short distance from Ortigia you can take a step back in time to Ancient Greece in the archaeological park which has an incredible Greek theatre and many other significant sights that made up one of the most important Greek colonies in the ancient world. When visiting Sicily a visit to the south eastern corner of the island is a must do. The landscape is very much different from the rest of the island yet this small corner is rich in sights, boasts incredible beaches and offers fabulous hospitality and cuisine. This corner of the island is famous for boasting an amazing array of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In June 2002, UNESCO inscribed the towns of the Val di Noto on the World Heritage list as "representing the culmination and final flowering of Baroque Art in Europe". The listed towns include Modica, Noto, Palazzolo Acreide, Ragusa and Scicli.
Please note …..
It is best to check opening times first before planning your visits as some monuments close between 12am and 4pm and some close all day on holy days
This list has been compiled from my own personal experiences of visiting Catania
Now enjoy my Catania Photo Gallery
Love Sarah
