Experience Catania's Charm in 2 Days

Discover the beauty of Sicily in Catania, where history and culture collide.

03 May 2023

Catania is a vibrant city in southern Italy that boasts stunning baroque architecture and a beautiful coastline. As a tourist, you can explore the historic city center, visit the famous Ursino Castle, and indulge in the city's renowned culinary scene. Additionally, Catania is the perfect starting point for excursions to nearby Mount Etna, Europe's tallest active volcano.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Historic Charm of Catania

  • Hotel: Katane Palace Hotel
  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Bar Pasticceria Savia, known for its classic arancini and cannoli.
  • Visit the Piazza del Duomo and marvel at the stunning Cathedral of Saint Agatha.
  • Stroll through the vibrant fish market, La Pescheria, where vendors shout out their prices and fresh seafood is aplenty.
  • Visit the Ursino Castle, built in the 13th century, and learn about Catania's history as a major port city.
  • Take a break and sip on a refreshing granita at Caffè del Duomo, a local favorite.
  • End the day with dinner at Trattoria Giglio Rosso, serving authentic Sicilian cuisine with a modern twist.
Day 2

Unwinding in the Natural Beauty of Catania

  • Start the day with a leisurely breakfast at the hotel's rooftop terrace, enjoying the stunning views of Mount Etna.
  • Take a day trip to Mount Etna and explore the beautiful natural park, with options for hiking, skiing, and wine tasting.
  • Visit Villa Bellini, a serene park with lush greenery, scenic ponds, and beautiful fountains.
  • Enjoy a light lunch at Pasticceria Spinella, a charming pastry shop, for delicious Sicilian sweets.
  • Spend the afternoon at the picturesque beach of San Giovanni li Cuti, soaking in the Mediterranean sun and dipping in the crystal-clear waters.
  • End the day with dinner at Osteria del Buongustaio, known for its fresh seafood and homemade pasta.
  • With its rich history, stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking natural beauty, Catania offers a perfect blend of culture and relaxation.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Catania, Italy by plane is to fly into Catania-Fontanarossa Airport from major airlines such as Alitalia, Ryanair, and EasyJet. The airport is located about 6 km from the city center and you can take a taxi or a bus from the airport to reach the city center.

Car

Driving to Catania is also an option, though it may take longer than flying or taking the train. If you are driving from Palermo, take the A19 highway and then join the A18 towards Catania. From Rome or Naples, take the A1 highway towards Naples, then join the A3 and continue until the Reggio Calabria exit. From there, take the ferry to Messina and then drive to Catania.

Train

You can reach Catania by train from various Italian cities. The Catania Railway Station is located in the city center and is well connected to other cities. The fastest way to reach Catania by train is to take a high-speed train from Rome or Naples as they are the major cities closest to Catania.

Boat

Although there are no international passenger ferries directly to Catania, you can take a ferry from Naples or Salerno to Palermo. From there, you can take a bus or drive to Catania. Alternatively, you can take a boat tour from nearby ports such as Syracuse or Taormina to see the coast of Catania.

Bus

The best way to reach Catania by bus is to take a coach from major Italian cities such as Rome, Naples or Palermo. There are several bus providers such as Sais Autolinee and Flixbus that offer buses to Catania. The buses typically arrive at the central bus station in Catania which is near the train station.

Destination

Catania

Welcome to a city that's more obsessed with its food than your Instagram followers are with your latest avocado toast post. Get ready to indulge in endless plates of pasta and gelato while wandering through the lively streets of Catania.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Catania in 3: History, Nature, Beaches & Nightlife

Catania is a charming city on the eastern coast of Sicily, Italy, renowned for its striking baroque architecture and rich history. A visit to the city would offer tourists the opportunity to explore its famous landmarks, indulge in traditional Sicilian cuisine, and soak up the vibrant culture of the region. With stunning beaches, lively markets, and a bustling nightlife, Catania is a must-visit destination for any traveler looking for an authentic Italian experience.

Catania's Romantic Getaway: A Day of Love

With its charming streets and stunning architecture, Catania is the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway. Take a stroll through the lively fish market, sip on a glass of Sicilian wine while watching the sunset and indulge in delicious local cuisine. For the ultimate romantic experience, head to Mount Etna for a breathtaking view and a moment to remember forever.

Budget Bliss: 2 Days in Catania's Italian Charm

Traveling to Catania, Italy on a limited budget is an opportunity to experience the city's fascinating history, culture and natural beauty without breaking the bank. Visitors can explore the ancient Roman amphitheater, tour the city's Baroque architecture, and take in stunning views from Mount Etna for free or on a budget. Low-cost accommodations, budget-friendly eateries and markets selling authentic Italian goods ensure this vibrant Sicilian city is accessible to all.

Cheap and Cheerful: 5 Days in Catania!

A trip to Catania on a limited budget can be a rewarding experience. Start by exploring the historic center and the ancient Roman amphitheater. Take advantage of the abundant street food and affordable local restaurants to sample the flavors of Sicily.