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If you have done the things to do in Italy, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Catania.
Catania, a vibrant Italian city nestled at the foot of Mount Etna, is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be uncovered.
From exploring ancient ruins to indulging in authentic Sicilian cuisine, Catania offers a kaleidoscope of flavors and sights that will leave you in awe.
So, toss your guidebook aside and get ready to immerse yourself in the mesmerizing charm of this enchanting city.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Catania:
1. Mount Etna
What to see or do:
Don’t miss:
Insider travel tips:
2. Piazza del Duomo
Piazza del Duomo is the main square of Catania, located at the heart of the historic center.
What to see or do: The square houses some of the city’s most important landmarks, such as the Cathedral of Saint Agatha and the Fountain of the Elephant.
Admire the intricate Baroque architecture and take in the bustling atmosphere of the lively market stalls.
Don’t miss: Definitely don’t miss the chance to try the famous local snack, arancine, from one of the many street food vendors in the square.
Insider travel tips: For the best experience, visit the square in the early morning when it’s less crowded. It’s also recommended to take a guided tour to learn about the rich history and culture of the area.
3. Ursino Castle
A medieval castle in Catania, Sicily, built in the 13th century.
What to see or do: Explore the castle’s impressive walls and towers, as well as the archaeological remains and exhibits inside. The castle also serves as a cultural center for concerts and events in the city.
Don’t miss: The panoramic view of Mount Etna and the city of Catania from the top of the castle. Also, check out the castle’s bridgehouse and the remains of a Roman aqueduct around the castle.
Insider travel tips: Visit the castle in the evening for a stunning view of the sunset over the city.
Keep in mind that the castle can be a bit of a steep climb, so wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
4. Fish Market
The Fish Market (La Pescheria) is a vibrant outdoor market in the heart of Catania, Sicily, where you can find every type of seafood imaginable.
What to see or do: Stroll through the bustling stalls and catch a glimpse of locals in action, bargaining for the freshest catch of the day.
Marvel at the colorful array of fish, shellfish, and other sea creatures on display, and take in the lively atmosphere of vendors shouting out their daily specials.
Don’t miss: Be sure to sample some of the street food on offer, including fresh oysters, grilled octopus, and seafood pasta dishes.
And don’t forget to snap photos of the lively scene and the imposing Cathedral of Saint Agatha, located just a few steps away.
Insider travel tips: For the best selection and deals, visit the market early in the morning when the day’s catch is first brought in.
Be prepared to haggle with vendors over prices, but remember to always be respectful and polite.
And don’t miss the chance to join a local food tour to fully immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and tastes of this lively market.
5. Roman Amphitheater
The Roman Amphitheater is an ancient archaeological site in the heart of Catania, Sicily, built during the Roman Empire in the 2nd century AD.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the ruins of the amphitheater and imagine the performances that once took place there. The underground passages, cages, and tunnels are particularly interesting to see.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to stand in the center of the amphitheater and imagine the gladiator games and animal fights that once took place there.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the amphitheater in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat.
6. Bellini Gardens
Bellini Gardens is a beautiful public park located in the heart of Catania, Sicily.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the lush greenery of the park, taking in the stunning views of Mount Etna and the city below.
There are also several fountains, monuments, and sculptures to admire throughout the park.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the Bellini Civic Museum, located within the park, which houses a large collection of paintings, archaeological artifacts, and historical documents.
Insider travel tips: To avoid crowds, it’s best to visit the gardens early in the morning or during the week.
Additionally, make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes and plenty of water as the park can be quite large and hilly in some areas.
7. Catania Cathedral
Catania Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Saint Agatha, is a stunning Baroque church located in the heart of the city of Catania, Sicily.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the intricate façade and grand bell towers, as well as the beautifully ornate interior. Don’t miss the chapel dedicated to Saint Agatha, which houses her tomb and precious relics.
Insider travel tips: – The cathedral is free to enter but a small donation is appreciated.
8. San Giovanni Li Cuti Beach
San Giovanni Li Cuti Beach is a beautiful black sand beach located in the northeastern part of the city of Catania, Italy.
What to see or do: San Giovanni Li Cuti Beach is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, with clear blue waters perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day.
Visitors can also enjoy a stroll along the promenade or explore the nearby caves.
Don’t miss: A must-see at San Giovanni Li Cuti Beach is the picturesque fishing village with its colorful boats and traditional houses. Make sure to also check out the stunning views of Mount Etna in the distance.
Insider travel tips: The beach can get crowded during peak season, so it’s best to arrive early to secure your spot. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and a hat as the sun can be strong on the beach.
9. Teatro Massimo Bellini
The Teatro Massimo Bellini is a stunning opera house located in the heart of Catania, Sicily. It was completed in 1890 and named after the famous Sicilian composer Vincenzo Bellini.
What to see or do: Visitors can attend opera performances, ballets, and classical music concerts. Guided tours of the theater are also available, offering an opportunity to learn about its fascinating history and architecture.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the ornate ceiling fresco by Ernesto Bellandi and the beautiful Royal Box, which is adorned with gold leaf and frescoes by Giuseppe Sciuti.
Insider travel tips: Book your tickets in advance, as the theater can sell out quickly. For an unforgettable experience, attend a performance during the summer opera season.
Also be sure to dress appropriately, as the dress code is typically formal.
10. Fontana dell’Elefante
A famous landmark and fountain located in the heart of the city center of Catania, Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the picturesque view of the beautiful fountain adorned with a stunningly carved elephant made of lava stone.
Don’t miss: Take a moment to appreciate the intricate details of the elephant statue and its symbolic representation of the city of Catania.
Insider travel tips: Visit the Fontana dell’Elefante at night to enjoy a breathtaking view of the fountain illuminated by the streetlights. Also, the fountain is surrounded by many historic buildings and shops, so take a stroll and explore the area.
11. San Benedetto Market
San Benedetto Market in Catania is one of the largest and busiest indoor markets in Europe. It offers a wide variety of fresh local produce, meat, fish, cheese, and other specialties.
What to see or do: Take a walk around the market and discover the vibrant colors and smells of Sicilian food. You can shop for fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables, spices, and taste authentic street food specialties.
Don’t miss: Make sure to try the famous arancini, panelle, and sfincione, traditional Sicilian street food. Also, visit the fish market area, it’s the busiest and most interesting section of the market.
Insider travel tips: Come early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
If you’re looking for a non-touristy spot, head to the second floor of the market to find the best deals on local products.
Remember to bargain with the vendors, but always do it respectfully.
12. Via Etnea
A vibrant main street in the heart of Catania, Sicily.
What to see or do: Walk along the bustling Via Etnea to take in the lively atmosphere of the city. Admire the stunning architecture, from Baroque-style buildings to the impressive Villa Bellini park.
Stop at the many cafes, shops, and restaurants along the way.
Don’t miss: The iconic Cathedral of Saint Agatha, located at the end of Via Etnea. Dating back to the 11th century, it is a must-see sight with stunning architecture and rich history.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the early evening to experience the lively nightlife and street performers. Be sure to try the famous Sicilian granita, a refreshing slushy-like treat, available at many cafes along Via Etnea.
13. Botanical Garden
The Botanical Garden of Catania is a lush green oasis in the heart of the city, spreading over an area of around 160,000 square meters and established in the late 1800s.
What to see or do: Take a peaceful stroll amidst a variety of botanical species, including rare plants, tropical fruits, and exotic cacti. Check out the Garden’s butterfly house, water gardens, and fishponds.
Immerse yourself in nature among the Garden’s dense palm groves, fruit orchards, and vibrant flower gardens.
Don’t miss: The Buddha statue exhibition is a standout feature of the garden, which showcases dozens of serene Buddha figures in a peaceful, zen garden setting.
Do not forget to visit the old Palm tree of Saint Benedict, the oldest of its kind in Europe.
Insider travel tips: Visit the Garden in the morning or late afternoon for the best light and pleasant weather. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a bottle of water to keep you hydrated.
You can reach the garden using public transportation or taxi. A guide could be a valuable addition to help you navigate through the vast garden.
14. Monastero dei Benedettini
Monastero dei Benedettini is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Catania, Italy. It is a massive Benedictine monastery complex that was founded in the 16th century.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the impressive architecture and beautiful baroque art inside the monastery. You can wander through tranquil courtyards, halls and chapels.
The library contains over 50,000 books and 1,500 manuscripts that are available for viewing.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the breathtaking frescoes in the church of San Nicolò, which depict scenes from the life of St.
Benedict.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit is in the morning when it’s quiet, it is less crowded. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.
The monastery can be easily reached by bus or train from Catania’s city center.
15. Piazza Università
Piazza Università is a charming square in the heart of Catania, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning Baroque architecture of the Palazzo dell’Università and the Church of San Benedetto, which flank the square.
There are also plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops to explore.
Don’t miss: The centerpiece of the square is the iconic Fountain of the Elephant, which is a must-see attraction for tourists.
Insider travel tips: Take a stroll around the square at night when the buildings are lit up, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
Be sure to try some of the local street food, such as arancini, which can be found at nearby food stalls.