Catania
Catania is a beautiful town, second in size to the capital Palermo, and it offers an endless array of sights and experiences to explore.
Greek theatres, castles, palaces, cathedrals, churches, botanical gardens all against the backdrop of Mt Etna.
I wonder if the locals truly realise how fortunate they are to call such a beautiful and diverse city their home.
It’s interesting how Catania often slips beneath the radar of mainstream travel itineraries, I am biased but I absolutely love it!
My favourites:
My favourite market in Catania - the city market.
Open Monday to Saturday from around 7 or so to about midday. Head to the city centre and you'll find it right by Piazza Bellini (Piazza Stesicoro).
It's always alive with energy – vendors calling out "un Euro, un Euro" as they sell fresh fruits, vegetables, and not forgetting water with a cheerful "hai beve? L'acqua!". I walk down to the market as often as I can to connect with the atmosphere and pick up fresh fruit and vegetables.
You’ll find an incredible selection of cheeses, fresh meats, and seafood, along with budget-friendly footwear from just 10 Euros a pair. Clothes, electronics, toiletries, you name it, it's got it.
They have a huge range of Sicilian treasure and souvenirs - it's the ideal place to shop for gifts like tablecloths and pillowcases.
During the right season, the Sicilian oranges – including the famous Sicilian blood oranges – are super sweet, juicy, and incredibly cheap. You have to try them around Feb.
The city centre
Catania city centre is 100% walkable, but make sure you have got good shoes on, you will cover some miles!
I love Hop-On / Hop-off buses!
This cute little tourist train offers a great way to get your bearings around Catania’s city centre attractions. While it doesn’t cover everything, for just 5 Euros and 40 minutes, it’s a fantastic deal. I love experiences like this—once the ride is over, I know exactly where to head on foot and can dive into exploring with confidence.
An alternative to the train is a walking tour where you get more of a personalised experience. I haven't done one in Catania yet, but I know they too are really valuable.
Monastery of San Nicolò l’Arena - Benedictine Monastery of Catania
The Monastery is walking distance from the centre of Catania, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
I took a guided tour and it exceeded my expectations. The tour guide spoke in both Italian and English and I understand they do other languages as well.
The underground study halls, the marble staircase, the history behind this beautiful building, its all amazing stuff.
Tickets should be booked in advance, and adults are generally 10 Euro (other pricing is on the website).
The glorious Mt Etna
This is an interesting one for me as the White Island eruption in NZ in 2019 that resulted in 22 fatalities has scared me off volcanoes but the characteristics of Mt Etna are really different. Watching the Catanians go about their daily life during an eruption initially seemed mind-boggling but I too am now pretty relaxed. Walking in the city centre with Mt Etna booming away and finding volcanic ash in my hair is becoming pretty normal.
Mt Etna - she's beautiful.
I haven't take a tour (I'm not quite there yet) but I would recommend a tour with an authorised Mt Etna Hiking tour guide and company to ensure that your trip is as safe as possible.
Sant'Agata, and Chiesa Della Badia Di Sant'Agata - (Abbey of Sant Agatha)
Sant'Agata is a focal point for your trip to Catania. Its located in Elephant square.
The Abbey of St Agata is right next door to the St Agata Cathedral.
Pay a few euros and take the steps to the top to see the gorgeous view of central Catania.
Historical museum of the landing in Sicily
The museum presents the Allied landings on the southern coast of Sicily in July 1943. It examines the effects and consequences on the lives of local people.
The museum is beautifully presented and tells an interesting story. I recommend it.
I can't find a website about it but the details are:
Address: Centro culturale fieristico "Le Ciminiere",
Piazzale R.Chinnici (ex Asia)
Telefono: +39 095 4011929
Email: museosbarco@cittametropolitana.ct.it
Etnaland!
It felt like a wild pool party when the wave pool kicked in—music pumping, dancers moving, games, everyone swept up in the fun.
The place is spotless, and the water rides are in top-notch condition. Whether you’ve got kids or not, it’s absolutely worth a visit.
There’s both a theme park and a water park—I only explored the water park this time - 100% I'd go back.
Best to take water shoes if you can.
Etnaland Aquapark
Gallery images of downtown Catania, plus the wider region, including Mt Etna
Other things to note
Accommodation:
- I recommend finding accommodation within walking distance to the city centre or the bus station. The paved streets can be challenging for suitcases so try and stay close.
Finding your way around:
- Google Maps without doubt. The city is very well mapped and bus timetables and stops are integrated so Maps is very helpful, whether that be for driving, walking, cycling or public transport.
- Cycle paths were built in 2024, making cycling across the city and to the beach a safe thing to do. I love my bike!
Transport:
- I would recommend catching the Alibus from the airport during the day to either of the two main bus stations in Catania. The city centre is pretty close to the Catania airport.
- Public transport is frequent and definitely reliable. Make sure to turn up at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time.
- Public transport has been safe for me, I have no concerns.
- General bus tickets are bought at self service machines or at kiosks near the station. I haven't bought a ticket on the bus yet.
- Don't forget to validate your ticket on the bus or train. This will ensure you avoid any fines.
The wider Catania Region
Catania—More Than Just a City
Catania isn’t just a city—it’s a whole region, rich with history, landscapes, and local flavor.
Beyond the urban buzz, the wider area offers everything from coastal villages and volcanic trails to Baroque towns and vibrant markets.
If you have time, explore beyond the city limits.
