Italy
Things to do in Catania
Catania sits at the foot of Mount Etna and was rebuilt in dark lava stone after the 1693 earthquake, which gives its Baroque centre, a UNESCO site, its black and white look. It is the main base for Etna excursions and for the Etna DOC wineries on the volcano's slopes. Street food is part of the visit: arancini, horse-meat grills and granita with brioche.
- Mount Etna excursion to the summit craters area
- La Pescheria fish market and street food walk
- Etna winery tour with tasting
- Monastery of San Nicolò l'Arena guided tour
Experiences in Catania
Top-rated experiences in Catania
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Highlights
- Mount Etna excursion to the summit craters area
- La Pescheria fish market and street food walk
- Etna winery tour with tasting
- Monastery of San Nicolò l'Arena guided tour
- Piazza Duomo and the Elephant Fountain
- Boat trip along the Riviera dei Ciclopi
Best time to visit
April to June and September to October suit both the city and Etna hikes. July and August are very hot in town, and the upper slopes of Etna can be cold and snowy from November to April. The feast of Sant'Agata runs 3 to 5 February.
Getting around
The centre is walkable along Via Etnea, and a small metro line runs through the city. Fontanarossa airport is close by, with the Alibus shuttle to the centre and station.
Local tips
- Visit La Pescheria in the morning, as the fish market winds down by early afternoon and is closed on Sundays.
- Bring a warm layer and closed shoes for Etna even in summer, as the base stations are around 1,900 metres and tours go higher.
- Order granita with a warm brioche for breakfast, the way locals do in summer.
Day trips from Catania
- Mount Etna
- Taormina
- Siracusa and Ortigia
- Aci Trezza and Aci Castello
Frequently asked questions
What are the top things to do in Catania?
The most booked experiences in Catania are Mount Etna excursion to the summit craters area, La Pescheria fish market and street food walk, Etna winery tour with tasting and Monastery of San Nicolò l'Arena guided tour.
When is the best time to visit Catania?
April to June and September to October suit both the city and Etna hikes. July and August are very hot in town, and the upper slopes of Etna can be cold and snowy from November to April. The feast of Sant'Agata runs 3 to 5 February.
How do I get around Catania?
The centre is walkable along Via Etnea, and a small metro line runs through the city. Fontanarossa airport is close by, with the Alibus shuttle to the centre and station.
Do I need to book tours in Catania in advance?
For headline sights and small-group tours, yes: popular slots sell out in high season. Most partners offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
How many days do I need in Catania?
Two to three full days cover the main sights, plus one day for each day trip you want to add.