Catania is Sicily’s second-largest city on the east coast, nestled beneath Mount Etna. Rebuilt in the baroque style after the catastrophic 1693 earthquake, the city is often called the “Black City” due to its lava-stone architecture. It’s a lively cultural hub, home to the historic University of Catania and birthplace of composer Vincenzo Bellini

 

 Top Things to Do

• Piazza del Duomo & Elephant Fountain: The historic heart, anchored by the Cathedral of Saint Agatha and the iconic lava-stone elephant obelisk. The square comes alive in the evenings with street performers and gelato stands

• La Pescheria (Fish Market): An immersive Sicilian experience full of food, color, noise, and seafood. Visit early to see fishermen and vendors in action—and enjoy fried calamari nearby

• Castello Ursino & Museo Civico: A 13th-century royal fortress that survived Etna’s eruptions, now a museum housing artifacts and art. The courtyard offers great views of the city 

• Roman Theatre & Odeon: Subterranean remains from the 2nd century AD located near Piazza Stesicoro, offering a glimpse into ancient entertainment spaces

• Teatro Massimo Bellini: Elegant opera house built in 1890, known for outstanding acoustics and ornate interiors. Guided tours or evenings at the opera are highly recommended

• Giardini Bellini: Catania’s oldest public garden—ideal for relaxation and seeing locals unwind beneath lush greenery

• Mount Etna & Alcantara Gorge: A must-do day trip — hike or explore volcanic terrain and enjoy Alcantara’s dramatic gorge and swimming spots 

 Eat & Drink

• Catanese Street Food: Try iconic specialties like arancini (cone‑shaped rice balls), pasta alla Norma (eggplant & ricotta), pasta with cuttlefish ink, cipollina (onion pastry), and fried sweets or granita depending on season.

• Seafood & Market Cuisine: Enjoy grilled swordfish, octopus, calamari or seafood salads just off the fish market. Local trattorias transform fresh catches into authentic dishes .

• Pastries & Sweets: Seasonal specialties like cassatelle, olive-shaped almond paste, and granita make dessert a highlight. Coffee and soft drinks flavored with citrus or anisette are widely available 

• Local Drinks & Wine: Catania’s nightlife includes wine bars, vermouth cafés, and aperitivo spots serving Sicilian wines, often sourced from local producers like Fratelli Aprile and small winemakers 

Travel Tips

• Best time to visit: Late spring or early autumn offers warm weather (22–30 °C) and fewer crowds. Summer is busy and hot; winter is mild and quieter 

• Getting there & around: Fly to Catania‑Fontanarossa Airport (largest in southern Italy) or take trains from Taormina, Siracusa (about 1 hour), or Palermo. The city center is walkable, and public buses & taxis are widely available 

• Cultural note: Expect passionate devotion to St. Agata—her festival (Feb 3–5 and August) draws huge crowds and processions. The city is vibrant, expressive, and warm-hearted 

• Style & etiquette: Sicilians dress well—smart casual is appreciated. Locals are expressive, friendly, and love to chat about food or culture. Learn phrases in Italian to boost engagement.

Where to Stay & Recommendations

• B&B Blandolina: Cozy, bookish rooms near Via Vittorio Emanuele II. Doubles from ~€90 with breakfast; homey, central, and personable

• Habitat Boutique Hotel: Stylish, minimalist rooms in a former merchant’s house. Excellent breakfast and quiet courtyard setting (~€110/night) 

• Palazzo Marletta: Elegant, slightly modern palace with baroque detail overlooking Piazza del Duomo (~€160+), for travelers seeking refinement and comfort