Things to do in Catania

All about Catania

When to visit

If you’re not a fan of extreme heat, then avoid visiting Catania in summer. Winter is a good time to comfortably explore the city’s landmarks, soak up its festive side—and even go skiing on the slopes of Mt. Etna. Alternatively, time your visit for spring to see the wildflowers bloom around the volcano—and to enjoy a dose of Sicilian sun before the thermostat really climbs.

Getting around

Catania is served by Catania–Fontanarossa Airport, which connects it with destinations across Europe and beyond. Its main train station, Catania Centrale, links it to cities in Sicily and elsewhere in Italy. To explore the city itself, you can use the Catania Metro (which has just one line) and its 50-plus bus lines; various bus services also link the city to Mt. Etna. Much of central Catania is walkable, and best explored on foot.

Traveler tips

Nowhere captures the lively—and occasionally anarchic—energy of Catania quite like its Fish Market. Open from morning until early afternoon on weekdays, and all day on Saturdays, the market is an essential stop for food lovers (and was even visited by Anthony Bourdain). But this isn’t just a destination for raw ingredients: Visit around lunchtime and try local specialties ranging from octopus salad to grilled artichokes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Catania, Sicily, known for?

Catania is known for being Sicily’s second-largest city, after the capital of Palermo. It is near Mt. Etna, Europe’s most active volcano, and is home to UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Piazza del Duomo, Fontana dell’Elefante, and Catania Cathedral. Its restaurants, bars, and fish market enshrine its culinary reputation.

How many days do you need in Catania?

Three days is a good amount of time to explore Catania’s major sights, including its UNESCO World Heritage sites, varied neighborhoods, waterfront, restaurants, and bars. If you plan to visit Mt. Etna and its surrounding wineries, an extra day of sightseeing time is recommended.

Is Catania or Palermo better?

Both Catania and Palermo are popular among travelers, and each offers varied attractions, including UNESCO World Heritage sites. Palermo is celebrated for major landmarks such as the Norman Palace and for bustling markets, while Catania offers upscale shopping and dining, plus proximity to the landscapes and wineries of Mt. Etna.

What is there to do in Catania in the evening?

Catania is a lively city after dark. In the early evening, follow locals to the neighborhood bars to enjoy an aperitivo before dining on classic dishes like pasta alla norma. Then, get the party started: Catania’s range of bars and clubs makes it easy to stay out late.

Can you see Mount Etna from Catania?

Yes, you can see Mt. Etna from Catania. The volcano is just 18 miles (29 kilometers) from the city. Catania is nicknamed “The Black City” because its buildings have been blackened by the volcano’s ash. When Mt. Etna erupts the glow is visible from the city against the night sky.

Is Catania worth visiting?

Yes, Catania is worth visiting. It is the second-largest city in Sicily, and home to many baroque monuments and UNESCO World Heritage sites, as well as museums and culinary destinations. Catania’s proximity to Mt. Etna, Taormina, Syracuse, and the baroque towns of the Val di Noto are additional advantages.

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