Catania (province) Voyage Tips and guide

Contents

The Metropolitan City of Catania (Italian: Città metropolitana di Catania) on the eastern coast of Sicily, includes the city of Catania, with its ancient centre and Baroque architecture, and the small towns in the Simeto and Dittaino river valleys, the beaches along the Strait of Messina and the winter sports centres on Mount Etna.

Map of Catania (province)

• 37.50266915.0872691 Catania — a busy city with a UNESCO World Heritage Listed Baroque centre. It's a university city and economic center, great for nightlife, the gate to Mount Etna
• 37.23333314.5166672 Caltagirone — a World Heritage town, famous for its ceramics
• 37.27423414.7933333 Militello Val di Catania — another World Heritage town
• 37.56154615.1574924 Aci Trezza — fisherman village on the coast of Catania
• 37.7914615.209195 Fiumefreddo di Sicilia — Marina di cottone, it reserves natural neighbor very beautiful river that flows in a splendid sea
• 37.61722215.0241676 Nicolosi — a stop for those visiting Mt Etna, with ski slopes for winter sports and a panoramic cable car
• 37.8773614.950127 Randazzo — the closest town to the summit of the Mount Etna
• 37.73183115.2057618 Riposto — a seaside town at the other end of the Circumetnea railway.

• 37.75083514.993221 Mount Etna — Europe's tallest active volcano
• 37.98910514.9132142 Alcantara river with its Gole dell'Alcantara, deep impressive gorges carved by the river flow on the edge of Etna

The Metropolitan City of Catania is an administrative division of Italy. It replaced the former Province of Catania on 1 January 2015.

• 37.50553815.0865573 Punto Informazioni, Via Etnea, 63/65 95121 Catania (Palazzo Minoriti), ☏ +39 095 4014070, [email protected]. The info point of the Metropolitan City of Catania. (updated Feb 2017)

The provincial capital is easily reached on the Messina - Catania - Syracuse motorways (toll) and from Palermo. The Orientale Sicula runs parallel to the toll motorway AS18 from Messina in the north to Catania and from there further south to Syracuse. The Catanese leads via Paterno and Leonforte to Enna, which circles Mount Etna to the west and leads via Bronte to Randazzo. A little further south, the motorway runs parallel to the Fiume Dittaino and also to Enna. The Sicula runs southwest to Caltagirone, and the Sicilian Riviera runs via Lentini - Francofonte to the south as far as Ragusa.

Railway connections are available via the electrified Messina - Catania - Syracuse line in a north-south direction, the Catania - Motta Sant'Anastasia- Enna - Caltanissetta line provides connections to Palermo, and the Caltagirone - Gela line provides connections to the south. The Ferrovia Circumetna narrow-gauge railway is of particular importance for tourism, offering scenic routes around Mount Etna.

The Catania airport is the principal airport of Sicily. Catania–Fontanarossa Airport (CTA), also known as Vincenzo Bellini Airport, serves as the primary air gateway to the province, with numerous airlines including Ryanair, easyJet, and ITA Airways offering extensive connections across Europe and beyond. From the airport, travelers can reach Catania city center via the AMT Alibus shuttle service or access other parts of the island through various scheduled bus routes.

Catania is a significant hub for intercity and regional bus services connecting it to various parts of Sicily and beyond. Major bus companies operating routes to and from Catania include:

• SAIS Autolinee - Provides schedules and booking for many routes across Sicily.
• Interbus Autolinee - Offers connections to eastern Sicily and beyond.
• FlixBus - For national and international connections.
• Flibco - Specializes in airport shuttle services, including direct connections between Catania Fontanarossa Airport and Milazzo Port.

Popular bus routes connect Catania to key Sicilian cities and towns such as Palermo, Syracuse, Taormina, Messina, Agrigento, Giardini Naxos, and Piazza Armerina. The main bus terminals in Catania are located near the city center, notably the Catania Central Bus Station (situated on Via Archimede) which is adjacent to the main train station, and Piazza Paolo Borsellino, offering convenient access to various destinations.

• Catania Bus Station Info - General information on departures, arrivals, and companies.

The province of Catania is well-served by a network of motorways and national roads, making car travel a convenient option for exploring the region. Major highways include the A18 (Messina - Catania - Syracuse) and connections to Palermo. Car rental services are widely available at Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA) with numerous international and local agencies located directly at the terminal, offering flexibility for onward travel throughout the province and island.

While Catania is an important cruise port, it generally does not have regular passenger ferry connections to other parts of mainland Italy or other islands. Travelers looking for ferry services might need to consider alternative ports in Sicily, such as Palermo or Messina, for connections to destinations like Naples, Genoa, or Malta. Source on ferry connections

A narrow-gauge commuter railway line runs clockwise around the Mount Etna.

• Ferrovia Circumetnea. M-Sa. Borgo station, the line's terminal in Catania, is located next to the eponymous station of the Metropolitana di Catania. From there you could continue to reach villages on the slopes of the mount Etna. The other end of the line terminates at the town of Riposto at the sea shore (use Giarre for connections with Trenitalia ). Trains from either direction terminate at Randazzo, so change there if you want to go the whole way. There are no services on Sundays and holidays. (updated Mar 2017)

Catania province is rich in archaeological heritage, from ancient Greek and Roman remains to prehistoric cave dwellings. Many of these sites are located within or near the urban area of Catania itself or along the Ionian coast.

• Catania Roman Amphitheatre (Catania) — One of the largest Roman amphitheatres in Sicily, partially excavated and integrated into the urban fabric of the city.
• Roman Theatre and Odeon (Catania) — Side-by-side structures showcasing Roman entertainment architecture, tucked behind Baroque facades in the historic centre.
• Akrai Ruins (Palazzolo Acreide, bordering province) — While technically in Syracuse province, it’s easily accessed from southern Catania and includes a Greek theatre and agora.
• Necropolis of Lentini (Lentini) — Prehistoric and ancient tombs carved into rock, along with Greek and Roman layers of occupation.
• Castello Ursino foundations (Catania) — Built over older remains; the site includes medieval layers atop Greek and Roman ruins.

Catania province features some of Sicily’s finest Baroque and Norman architecture, shaped by earthquakes, lava, and later reconstruction.

• Catania — The UNESCO-listed city centre showcases Sicilian Baroque architecture rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake. Highlights include the Cathedral of Sant'Agata, Palazzo Biscari, and Via dei Crociferi.
• Aci Castello — Home to a striking Norman castle built on a lava promontory overlooking the sea.
• Adrano — Notable for its Norman castle (now a museum), and medieval urban core.
• Paternò — Features a well-preserved Norman tower and historic churches.
• Acireale — Baroque churches and piazzas define the historic centre, including the Basilica of San Sebastiano.

Borghi are historic small towns and villages — often medieval, always full of character — and many are officially listed among Italy’s most picturesque places. Catania province includes several scenic inland and coastal borghi.

• Castiglione di Sicilia — Nestled on the slopes of Mount Etna, this wine-producing hill town has medieval streets, lava-stone architecture, and sweeping views. Listed among I Borghi più belli d’Italia.
• Savoca — Technically in Messina province but often visited from Catania's coast. Famous for its rustic charm and filming locations from The Godfather.
• Milo — A peaceful village on Etna's eastern slope, known for wine production and proximity to nature trails.
• Adrano — Though larger, the historic centre retains a borgo feel with narrow alleys and lava-stone buildings.

• Museo Civico Castello Ursino (Catania) — Housed in the 13th-century fortress, this museum includes archaeological finds, medieval art, and civic collections.
• Museo Diocesano (Catania) — Religious art and artefacts housed near the cathedral.
• Museo della Lava (Nicolosi) — A science and history museum focused on Mount Etna's geology and eruptions.
• Museo dell'Etna (Viagrande) — Offers interactive exhibits about Etna’s volcanic history, science, and culture.
• Museo del Cinema, Museo Belliniano, and others (Catania) — Small thematic museums scattered around the city centre focusing on film, music (Bellini), and local culture.

Amid the bustle of cities and the shadow of Mount Etna, Catania province offers several well-loved urban parks and historical gardens. These cultivated spaces range from grand city promenades to shady public retreats.

• Villa Bellini (Catania) — One of Sicily’s most elegant and historic public gardens, this 19th-century park sits in the heart of Catania. Shaded avenues, fountains, floral displays, and panoramic terraces make it a favourite for both locals and visitors.
• Giardino Pacini (Catania) — A smaller green oasis near the port, known for its palm trees, views of the medieval Ursino Castle, and proximity to the historic fish market. A pleasant spot for a quiet pause in the city.
• Parco Giovanni Paolo II (Parco degli Ulivi) (Misterbianco) — A large, modern urban park with walking paths, olive trees, open lawns, and sports facilities. Often used for community events and weekend strolls.
• Villa Comunale (Acireale) — A refined seafront garden laid out in the 19th century, with wrought-iron balconies overlooking the Ionian Sea, classical sculptures, and ornamental planting. A peaceful retreat within the town’s Baroque centre.

In addition to bathing, holidaymakers have access to a whole range of activities, from hiking to skiing in winter (a pastime particularly enjoyed by Sicilians and southern Italians who head here at that time).

Catania province is one of Sicily’s most dynamic hiking regions, offering everything from alpine-like forests to lava deserts — most famously on Mount Etna.

• Etna Park – The main attraction for hikers in the province, with dozens of marked trails across lava fields, birch forests, craters, and mountain ridges. Trail options range from easy strolls near Rifugio Sapienza to more demanding hikes on the northern slopes (e.g., Piano Provenzana). Guided treks to the summit craters (weather and safety permitting) are also available, departing from both the south and north sides of the volcano.
• Valle del Bove – A vast, dramatic depression on Etna’s eastern flank with steep trail access from the Schiena dell’Asino or Serra delle Concazze. This area offers moonlike landscapes, sweeping views, and geologic formations. Best for experienced hikers due to elevation gain and exposure.
• Monte Ilice and Monte Zoccolaro – Smaller extinct cones on Etna’s southern slope with well-marked trails and panoramic viewpoints over the Ionian coast. These are great mid-level hikes with less tourist traffic.
• Bosco della Cubania and Monti Rossi – Near Nicolosi, these wooded areas offer relaxing walks through pine and oak forests formed after historic eruptions. Good for short, shaded hikes.
• Timpa di Acireale – A coastal cliffside path with views of the sea and access to small fishing villages. The Timpa nature reserve has walking trails through Mediterranean vegetation and lava terraces — ideal for gentler hikes.

Trails on Etna can be affected by volcanic activity and weather conditions. Always check local safety bulletins and consider hiring a licensed alpine or volcanological guide for high-altitude routes.

Catania province offers skiing on the southern slopes of Mount Etna — one of the only places in the world where you can ski on an active volcano with sea views.

• Etna Sud (Rifugio Sapienza) – Located above Nicolosi at about 1,900 m, this is the main ski area on the volcano’s southern side. Facilities include chairlifts, ski and snowboard rentals, a beginner zone, and several cafes and refuges. The area typically operates from late December to March, depending on snowfall and volcanic conditions. In clear weather, views stretch across Catania and the Ionian coast.

In addition to downhill skiing, Etna Sud also offers snowshoeing routes and guided winter hikes to the lava fields and lower craters. Note that due to Etna’s volatility, lifts and trails may close with little notice — always check conditions before travelling.

Rifugio Sapienza is reachable by car or bus from Nicolosi or Catania. Parking can be limited on weekends and holidays.

Catania province combines active fishing ports with small coastal villages, where visitors can experience traditional fishing culture and recreational sea angling along the Ionian coast.

• Aci Trezza – This small fishing village north of Catania is a great place to join a boat tour with local fishermen. Trips often include hand-line or bottom fishing in the waters around the Cyclops Islands (Isola Lachea), with views of lava rock formations and Mount Etna. Operators may also combine fishing with snorkeling or island visits.
• Acireale coast – Rocky outcrops and sea platforms south of Acireale are popular with local shore fishers, especially at dawn and dusk. Spearfishing and casting from the lava cliffs are also common, though some areas are within marine protected zones — check locally for restrictions.
• Catania city – While Catania itself is more urban, the working port still supports a small-scale fishing fleet. Some private charters offer half-day sea fishing experiences departing from the port or nearby marinas. For visitors interested in the cultural side of fishing, the open-air fish market (La Pescheria) is one of the most vibrant in Sicily — tours sometimes pair an early market visit with a boat trip.
• Riposto & Santa Tecla – Smaller coastal towns with marinas and access to recreational fishing boat tours, often arranged through local B&Bs or guides. These areas offer views of Etna and a quieter pace than Catania.

As elsewhere in Sicily, casual rod or hand-line fishing does not require a licence, but spearfishing and trap use are regulated. The Cyclops Marine Protected Area (AMP Isole Ciclopi) includes some restricted zones near Aci Trezza.

Catania province offers cycling for all levels, from leisurely seaside rides to demanding climbs on the slopes of Mount Etna. The landscape is varied — coastal plains, lava flows, vineyards, and mountain switchbacks — making it a favourite for road cyclists and gravel riders alike.

• Mount Etna routes – The slopes of Etna offer multiple paved and unpaved routes with challenging climbs and thrilling descents. Popular ascents include Nicolosi to Rifugio Sapienza on the south side, or Linguaglossa to Piano Provenzana on the north. These routes are used in Giro d’Italia stages and offer panoramic views across the island. Summer heat and altitude make spring and autumn ideal.
• Etna wine country – Roads between towns like Zafferana Etnea, Milo, and Santa Venerina offer scenic loops through terraced vineyards and hazelnut groves. These routes are less extreme than summit climbs and often include views of both the sea and the volcano.
• Aci Castello to Aci Trezza – A short, flat coastal ride passing lava cliffs and fishing villages, perfect for casual cyclists. The route continues toward Acireale for those wanting a longer ride with some elevation.
• Catania seafront & city rides – While urban traffic can be heavy, the city has a seaside promenade (La Playa area) with wide paths suitable for short, flat rides. Some hotels offer bike rental or e-bikes for exploring the city’s surroundings.
• Paternò and Simeto River Valley – Inland from Catania, this area features rural backroads ideal for longer loops with fewer cars and scenic views. Some gravel tracks are suitable for mountain bikes.

Bike rentals are available in Catania city and some Etna towns like Nicolosi or Linguaglossa. Be prepared for steep gradients and changing weather on Etna routes.

Catania province offers a variety of beach experiences — from long sandy shores near the city to rocky lava coastlines with deep, clear water. While some areas can be busy in summer, others remain surprisingly peaceful and picturesque.

• La Playa (Catania) – A long, sandy beach stretching south from the city. This is the province’s main urban beach, with beach clubs, restaurants, and rental umbrellas. The water is shallow and ideal for families, though it can be crowded in July and August.
• Aci Trezza & Aci Castello – A stretch of volcanic coastline north of Catania known for its black lava rocks and deep, clear water. There are no sandy beaches, but locals swim and sunbathe from smooth rock platforms and concrete solariums. Great for snorkeling and diving, especially near the Cyclops Islands.
• Santa Tecla & Stazzo – Small coastal hamlets with rock and pebble beaches, favoured by locals for their peaceful setting and clean water. Facilities are minimal but the atmosphere is relaxed and authentic.
• Fondachello & Riposto – South of Taormina, these beaches offer grey pebbles, clear water, and views of Mount Etna. Fondachello is more developed, with lidos and services, while nearby stretches are quieter and better for free beachgoers.
• San Marco (near Calatabiano) – A long pebbly beach with eucalyptus trees and views of Taormina’s coastline. Less crowded than its neighbours, it’s a good choice for those seeking a quieter day by the sea.

Most beaches in the province are accessible by car or train from Catania. Rocky areas require water shoes, and sandy beaches can get busy on weekends.

Catania’s Ionian coast is shaped by ancient lava flows, offering dramatic underwater landscapes perfect for snorkelling, diving, and boat tours. While sandy beaches are limited, the clear, deep waters and unique volcanic scenery make this a rewarding area for aquatic exploration.

• Aci Trezza & Cyclops Marine Reserve – This protected area is known for its volcanic seabed, sea stacks, and marine biodiversity. Snorkeling and scuba diving are popular around the Faraglioni rocks, with dive schools based in Aci Trezza and Aci Castello. Boat and kayak rentals are available in town.
• La Playa (Catania city) – This long sandy beach south of the city is suitable for beginner-level windsurfing, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. Several beach clubs offer rentals during summer.
• Lido di Vaccarizzo & Agnone Bagni – Further south, these quieter beaches have calmer waters, ideal for SUP, kayaking, and casual swimming. Conditions are best in the morning before winds pick up.
• Port of Catania & boat excursions – From Catania’s harbour, visitors can join coastal boat tours that explore the Cyclops coast, with stops for snorkelling and swimming in hidden coves.
• Scuba diving around Capo Mulini & Santa Tecla – North of Aci Trezza, these lesser-known spots offer great underwater visibility and interesting lava formations, popular with more experienced divers.

Diving centres and watersport rentals are based in Catania, Aci Trezza, and along the southern coast. Sea conditions are usually calm in summer, but caution is advised around rocky entry points.

Catania province is a hotspot for volcanic adventures — from off‑road jeep missions to Etna’s lava caves, to lava‑tube exploration and scenic aerial views. Ideal for thrill-seekers interested in geology and rugged terrain.

• Jeep & Lava Cave Tour (Mount Etna) – Join a half‑ or full‑day off‑road 4×4 excursion that drives through pine forests, recent lava flows, and crater landscapes. Guided tours often include a 45‑minute hike and exploration of volcanic caves using helmets and headlamps. Operators such as Etna 4×4 Excursions serve Catania & Taormina.
• Lava‑Tube Cave Exploration – Trek into lava tubes and caves formed by past eruptions, at elevations around 2,000 m. Popular discoveries include the Grotta del Gelo ice cave and other accessible tube systems near Nicolosi.
• Mount Etna Sunset Jeep Experience – Late‑day tours combine off‑road climbing with sunset views, crater visits, and sometimes wine‑tasting or local lunch stops. A popular choice for groups and families.

These activities typically run from spring through autumn. Lava‑tube visits often require sturdy footwear, while jeep and cave tours depend on volcanic and weather conditions — booking and checking updates in advance is essential.

Catania offers a rich blend of active and restorative wellness options, from seaside jogging to mountain spa retreats. With Mount Etna to the north and long beaches to the south, visitors can balance exertion and relaxation with ease.

• Mount Etna retreats & spas – Wellness-focused agriturismi and boutique hotels on Etna’s lower slopes (around Nicolosi, Zafferana Etnea, and Linguaglossa) often include hot tubs, saunas, and massage services. Some offer forest bathing, yoga, or Etna-view soaking tubs.
• Beach fitness at La Playa – South of the city, La Playa beach has long sandy stretches ideal for jogging, beach volleyball, paddleball, or even yoga at sunrise. Some lidos rent equipment or run group fitness classes in high season.
• City wellness centres – Catania has a wide range of gyms, hammams, thermal spa facilities, and massage studios. Options vary from modern hotel spas to traditional steam baths.
• Cyclops Coast walking trails – Between Aci Castello and Aci Trezza, paved and natural trails run alongside the lava coastline. Perfect for gentle hiking, meditation walks, or stretching with sea views.
• Tennis & swimming – Public and private tennis clubs operate across the city and suburbs. Catania also has several indoor swimming facilities and seasonal open-air pools for visitors interested in lap swimming or aquatic therapy.

Wellness offerings in the province are available year-round, though beach activities and outdoor pools are mostly active from late spring through early autumn.

Sicilian cuisine is dominated by fish and seafood only near the sea; inland and mountainous regions, local cheeses, speck, and cured meats are more common. Not to be forgotten are the wide variety of desserts available throughout Sicily, from marzipan to cannoli, almond pastries of Arabic origin, gelato, and granita.

Catania's culinary scene offers a rich array of traditional dishes, deeply rooted in its history and local produce.

Street Food

Catania is famous for its vibrant street food culture, particularly around the city's markets.

• Arancini: While found throughout Sicily, Catania's arancini (or arancine) are typically conical in shape, often filled with ragù (meat sauce), mozzarella, and peas, or with ham and cheese. A sweet version with pistachio is also popular.
• Cipollina: A savory pastry filled with onions, tomato sauce, ham, and mozzarella, often found in local bakeries and "tavola calda" (snack bars).
• Cartocciate: Another popular baked snack, similar to a small calzone, typically filled with tomato, mozzarella, and ham or sausage.
• Crispelle: Fried dough balls, either sweet (with ricotta cheese and honey) or savory (with anchovies).
• Horse Meat: A unique culinary tradition in Catania, various dishes made from horse meat can be found, especially grilled in specific eateries (arrusti e mancia). It's a deeply ingrained part of the local diet.

• Pasta alla Norma: This iconic pasta dish is considered a true symbol of Catania. It features pasta (traditionally macaroni or rigatoni) tossed with a rich tomato sauce, fried eggplant, grated salted ricotta cheese (ricotta salata), and fresh basil. It's named after Vincenzo Bellini's opera "Norma" due to its "perfect" composition. Source: La Cucina Italiana - Pasta alla Norma

Seafood

Given Catania's coastal location on the Ionian Sea, fresh fish and seafood are staples. Look for daily catches like swordfish (spada), tuna (tonno), anchovies (acciughe), sardines (sarde), and various shellfish, often simply grilled or used in pasta dishes. The fish market (La Pescheria) is a must-visit.

Desserts and Sweets

Catania shares many Sicilian desserts but has its own specialities.

• Granita: A semi-frozen dessert, often enjoyed for breakfast with a brioche. Popular flavors include almond, coffee, pistachio, and lemon.
• Minne di Sant'Agata: Small, round, ricotta-filled cakes covered in white icing and topped with a candied cherry, symbolizing the breasts of Saint Agatha, the patron saint of Catania. They are traditionally eaten during her feast day in February but can be found year-round.
• Olivette di Sant'Agata: Small, olive-shaped sweets made from marzipan, also linked to Saint Agatha.
• Cannoli: A quintessential Sicilian pastry, consisting of fried pastry dough shells filled with sweet, creamy ricotta cheese, often candied fruit or chocolate chips.
• Frutta Martorana: Realistic marzipan fruits, especially popular during All Saints' Day.

Drinks

• Seltz: A refreshing local drink, often found at kiosks (chioschi), made with sparkling water, fresh lemon juice, and salt, sometimes with other syrups.

Watch out whenever walking on the streets in the centre because drivers can drive over your feet if you're not careful. Also, make sure you follow the main roads to and from your place of stay so that you don't wind up in some ghetto, because they don't seem so safe especially if you're a female or a solo guy. Otherwise, the main streets seem pretty safe, full of friendly Italians of whom a lot know basic English. If you arrive hy car, be sure to park in a guarded parking lot.