A Local's One Day Itinerary Catania Sicily

Sep 06, 2025By Emma Rigo
Emma Rigo

What to see in Catania Italy

Having explored countless corners of Italy, I can confidently say that Catania captures the very essence of Sicily’s spirit. Nestled between the sparkling Mediterranean Sea and the towering presence of Mount Etna, this city is a place where raw energy meets timeless beauty. Its streets are alive with history, from ancient ruins and grand baroque architecture to bustling markets filled with local flavors and voices. Catania isn’t polished for tourists—it’s authentic, vibrant, and unapologetically Sicilian, offering a true taste of the island’s culture, traditions, and resilience. Every corner tells a story, making it an unforgettable stop for those seeking more than just the usual Italian itinerary. If you’re wondering what to see in Catania, prepare for a mix of history, food, and atmosphere that will keep you exploring from dawn to dusk.

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Practical Information

Location

Catania, set on the eastern coast of Sicily at the foot of Mount Etna, is a city of striking contrasts and endless discoveries. Here, ancient ruins stand alongside grand baroque facades, and daily life unfolds with a rhythm that feels both timeless and electric. 

Transportation & Exploration

✈️ By Plane: Catania is home to Fontanarossa Airport (CTA), the busiest airport in Sicily and one of the most important in southern Italy. Conveniently located just a few kilometers from the city center, it offers frequent connections to major Italian hubs like Rome and Milan, as well as direct flights to many European cities. For travelers exploring the eastern side of the island, from Mount Etna to the baroque towns of the Val di Noto, Catania’s airport is the most practical gateway.

👉 [You can book your plane ticket here🔗]

🛳 By Ferry: You can also reach Sicily by ferry from mainland Italy (Naples, Reggio Calabria, Villa San Giovanni) or other Mediterranean destinations. The main ports are in Palermo, Messina, and Catania. 

⚠️ I wouldn’t recommend it – it’s costly and takes a long time.

🚗 By Car: If you’re visiting Catania, having a car can be useful for day trips to Mount Etna, Taormina, or the baroque towns nearby—but when it comes to the city itself, it’s best to leave the car behind. Driving in Catania can feel chaotic, with narrow streets, heavy traffic, and locals who drive with plenty of flair. Instead, park in a monitored lot on the edge of the center (easily found on Google Maps) and explore on foot. The city’s historic heart is compact, walkable, and full of life—much easier to enjoy without the stress of navigating by car.

👉 [You can book your car on Booking🔗 or on Rentalcars🔗]

⚠️ Parking can be tricky, here’s what you need to know:

  • White stripes: Free parking, but check for time limits—these are always indicated on nearby signs.
  • Blue stripes: Paid parking. Display your ticket clearly on the windshield, and watch for any time restrictions.
  • Yellow stripes: Reserved for people with disabilities, police, or other special uses—avoid parking here.
  • Blue + yellow stripes: Reserved for residents. Unless you have a special permit from your hotel, you cannot park here. In many coastal towns, these spaces—and sometimes even other areas—are often reserved exclusively for residents, so be especially careful.

🚆 Metro: Catania has a small but handy metro system, operated by Ferrovia Circumetnea. It runs along a single line with about a dozen stations, connecting the city center to the suburbs and reaching places like the main train station. While limited, it’s inexpensive, efficient, and a good way to avoid city traffic. For most visitors, though, the historic center is best explored on foot.

⚠️ While trains and buses do exist, getting around with them can be challenging. They’re slow and prone to delays.

 🚶‍♂️ On Foot: Catania is best explored on foot, especially its historic center, where every corner bursts with character. From lively markets like La Pescheria, to ornate baroque churches, elegant piazzas, and narrow streets buzzing with local life, most of the city’s main attractions are within easy walking distance. Pack comfortable shoes, take your time, and let yourself wander—Catania’s charm is best discovered step by step.

Weather

Sicily enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters:

  • ☀️ Summer (June to August): Hot and sunny, with temperatures often between 28°C and 35°C (82°F to 95°F). Perfect for beaches, but be prepared for heat in inland areas.
  • 🍂 Autumn (September to November): Warm and pleasant, 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F). Fewer tourists and plenty of cultural festivals make this a fantastic time to visit.
  • ❄️ Winter (December to February): Mild, 10°C to 16°C (50°F to 61°F). Snow is rare except on Mount Etna, where you can even go skiing!
  • 🌸 Spring (March to May): Lovely weather, 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), wildflowers in bloom, and ideal for sightseeing without the summer crowds.

 Accommodation

Sicily offers everything from luxury seaside resorts and boutique hotels in historic palazzos to family-run B&Bs and agriturismi (farm stays). 

👉 [On my trip, I stayed at  Domus Coralla B&B Racconti di Viaggio🔗]

Catania travel guide 

Catania

Catania, the vibrant city at the foot of Mount Etna, is one of Sicily’s most fascinating destinations. With its Baroque architecture, bustling markets, and dramatic volcanic landscapes, it’s a place where history, culture, and adventure collide.

Catania is often skipped on a Sicily itinerary, as it feels very different from the island’s smaller, picturesque towns. However, I believe it’s absolutely worth a visit because it shows a completely different side of the region. When traveling, it’s important to experience both the iconic, touristy spots and the more raw, less glamorous corners of a destination—and Catania offers a true 360° experience. Some describe it as loud, chaotic, and even a bit gritty, but to truly understand Sicily, you need to see it all.

Here’s what to do and see in Catania Sicily:

Catania: the Dome and the Elephant Fountain
  • Roman Amphitheatre🔗 & Odeon🔗: History lovers will enjoy exploring Catania’s Roman ruins, located just off Piazza Stesicoro. The Anfiteatro Romano, partly built from volcanic lava stone, once hosted up to 15,000 spectators for grand events and gladiator fights, while the nearby Odeon, a smaller and more intimate theater, was reserved for music and performances. Entrance to the Roman Amphitheatre and Odeon costs 6€. You can find more details on the official website here🔗.

👉 You can book a guided tour of Catania: Underground and Street Food Walking Tour🔗

Remains of the Roman amphitheater of Catania in the city center of Catania
  • Catania Fish Market🔗 (La Pescheria): Just behind Piazza del Duomo, you’ll find the bustling fish market, one of the most authentic experiences in Catania.
  • Taste the Local Food: Catania’s food scene is incredible—on par with Naples! Every trattoria and street food stall serves something amazing, and the best part? It’s delicious and affordable. If you’re curious about Catania’s most authentic food traditions, head to Via Plebiscito🔗, a lively street famous for its rustic osterie serving grilled meats—especially horse meat, a local specialty. Here, you’ll find rows of open grills, the smoky aroma filling the air, and locals enjoying hearty plates late into the night. It’s not for the faint of heart, but if you want to experience Catania like a true local, this is the place. ✨Stop by Re Carlo V🔗 for an authentic Sicilian experience and enjoy a delicious grigliata mista straight from the grill.

⚠️ Catania isn’t the safest city in Sicily, so it’s best to be mindful when choosing where to stay. I recommend booking accommodation near the Borgo metro station🔗, as it’s a convenient and generally safer area. If you’re driving, always park your car in a monitored parking lot rather than leaving it on the street. It might cost a little extra, but the peace of mind is definitely worth it.

👉  I stayed at Domus Coralla B&B Racconti di Viaggio🔗



Planning a perfect day trip doesn't have to be overwhelming. By following these steps and considering your preferences, you can create an unforgettable experience. So, pack your bags, choose your destination, and get ready for an adventure!


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