Catania city breaks

Welcome to Catania, Sicily’s second-largest city. It’s over on the island’s east coast where outstanding views of Mount Etna and winding, whimsical streets come as standard. You can stroll flower-filled gardens, uncover UNESCO-listed delights and eat like a local in a traditional trattoria. For a taste of Sicilian life, it doesn’t get much better than this.

Enchanting Architecture

Brilliant baroque façades? Tick. Elegant palaces? Check. Intricate cathedrals? Of course! The buildings that line Catania’s streets are a real treat for the eyes. Catania’s cathedral is one of the most striking, so put it to the top of your list. In the sunshine, it glows in a pale, duck egg blue, and the stone statues seem to come to life.

Haggle for a bargain

One thing this city is famous for is its markets, with the most renowned being the fish market. These old-school stalls have set up shop under their red and white awnings since ancient times, selling everything from fresh fish and meat to fruit and veg. Join the locals in a spot of shopping and soak up the unique atmosphere.

Its volcanic past

Neighbouring Mount Etna has shaped the city of Catania for thousands of years, and to some extent, still does today. The still-active volcano has covered the streets in lava and ash on many occasions, and during one of the more serious eruptions in the 17th-century, the whole city was destroyed!

Mercure Catania Excelsior

Catania City, Catania

Our rating

Based on 1284 reviews

Excellent central location
Comfortable accommodation
900m from Bellini Garden
1.8km from Piazza del Duomo
1.8km from Basilica Cattedrale Sant'Agata

NH Catania Parco Degli Aragonesi

Catania City, Catania

Our rating

Based on 1639 reviews

Bus stop outside the hotel
Great range of facilities
Tranquil pool area
3.3km from Piazza del Duomo
3.5km from the Benedictine Monastery of San Nicolo L'Arena

NH Catania Centro

Catania City, Catania

Our rating

Based on 1584 reviews

Close to the city centre
Comfortable rooms
Stylish bar
1.5km from Piazza del Duomo
1.5km from Basilica Cattedrale Sant'Agata

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Bellini Garden

Catania

This flourishing urban park is a relaxing haven away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. An impressive staircase leads you into the park where you’re welcomed by statues, bridges, fountains and...

Benedictine Monastery of San Nicolo L’Arena

Catania

One of Catania’s UNESCO-listed sights, the Benedictine Monastery of San Nicolo L’Arena is not to be missed. It’s one of the largest Benedictine monasteries in Europe and features grand staircases, impressive...

Catania Beach

Catania

Fancy a relaxing beach day in between all your sightseeing? Catania’s beach, La Playa, couldn’t be better placed. Plus, it’s around 18 kilometres in length, so you’ll never be short on space. The golden shore...

Language

Italian/Sicilian

Currency

Euro (€)

Time difference

+1hr

Local beer

£3.50

48-hour tourist card

£16

Meal for two

£44

Sightseeing

Catania’s top sights include Mount Etna and the stunning cathedral, but away from the main streets, there’s so much more to explore. There’s the well-preserved 13th-century Ursino Castle, the fascinating Benedictine Monastery and the relatively hidden away Roman Amphitheatre. Some come with the UNESCO stamp, so you know they’re the best in the business.

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Eating and drinking

One dish that can’t be missed on a city break in Catania is Sicilian arancini balls. These deep-fried, rice stuffed treats are a real staple in the city and can be picked up from most cafés and street food vendors. They can be filled with anything from cheese and sausage to spinach and peas. They even have a sweet variety that’s bursting with chocolate and cream. Yum!

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Shopping

Catania is sometimes referred to as the Milan of Sicily, so if you’re looking to enjoy a spot of retail therapy while you’re here, you’re in luck. Via Etnea is one of the busiest shopping streets and is home to all kinds of shops, boutiques and department stores. If you want a more authentic shopping experience, then make a beeline for the street markets.

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Getting around

The best way to really immerse yourself in Catania is to explore on foot, and many of the top sights are within an easy walking distance of each other. If you’re looking for an alternative, there’s a great bus network that covers most of the city and you also have the option of a taxi.