Planning a trip to Catania, Sicily? This vibrant city, one of the three that form the Trinacria alongside Messina and Palermo, is full of life, rich history, and unforgettable flavors. With its bustling streets, ancient Roman ruins, stunning Baroque architecture, and incredible Sicilian cuisine, Catania offers an authentic Italian experience. Plus, it’s the perfect base for exploring Mount Etna, the largest volcano in Europe.
First, I’ll share where I stayed in Catania, then I’ll dive into the ultimate two-day itinerary to help you make the most of your visit!
Where to stay in Catania?
I stayed at Ostello Degli Elefanti, and honestly, it’s one of the best hostels I’ve ever stayed at—no joke. The hospitality was incredible, and the staff was beyond friendly. When I arrived, the lady was serving free pasta, and even heated it up for me in a pan with olive oil—talk about Sicilian hospitality.
The hostel has a fully equipped kitchen, where you can cook your own meals or enjoy more free pasta. But the real highlight? The view. From the terrace, you get a stunning panorama of Piazza del Duomo and Via Etnea, putting you right in the heart of Catania.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay in the perfect location, I highly recommend it. You can book here: Ostello Degli Elefanti.
Piazza del Duomo – Catania’s Beautiful Square
Start your day in the heart of Catania, Piazza del Duomo. Marvel at the magnificent Catania Cathedral (Duomo di Catania), a stunning example of Sicilian Baroque architecture.
Don’t miss the iconic Elephant Fountain (Fontana dell’Elefante), Catania’s symbol.
Explore the Palazzo degli Elefanti (City Hall) and the Badia di Sant’Agata.
From Piazza del Duomo, you can walk up Via Etnea!
Walk up Via Etnea
Stroll along Catania’s main street, Via Etnea, which is filled with shops, stores, and cafes.
Along the way, you can find the Roman Amphitheater of Catania, which are ruins of the theater which was built around 300 BCE.
Along the way you will also fins the University of Catania, which is very beautiful. I happen to know a few people who have studied at this school, such as my Italian language professor!
View the stunning architecture of Catania! Make your way up Via Etnea. Relax and enjoy the greenery at the Bellini Gardens (Villa Bellini), a beautiful public park offering stunning views of Mount Etna.
The Fish Market of Catania, and the Castle
If you walk back down Via Etnea to Piazza del duomo, you should head to “la pescheria”. The fish market of Catania A must see local experience, you will hear the beautiful sounds of Catania, locals selling fish.
From there, you can head down to Castello Ursino – A medieval castle offering insight into Catania’s past.
What to Eat?
Gelato: Don Peppinu – Try Gelato from this ice cream shop “gelateria”. Perhaps you can go for the Pistacchio flavor, which is a famous Sicilian flavor. You could also try a quick Granita, which is a sicilian dessert, but mainly comes from the city of Messina.
Arancino: These are rice balls, also usually filled with meat, are famous from Sicily. In Catania it is called “Arancino” for 1, and Arancini for multiple. However in Palermo, it changes to feminine form and is Arancina, Arancine.
Pasta alla Norma: This pasta dish is a specialty from Catania made of eggplant and tomatoes. You can also try pasta al pesto pistacchio.
Cavallo: Cavallo means Horse. That’s right, in Catania horse meat is popular.
Trattoria del Cavaliere: This is a famous restaurant with great prices where you can have typical Catania food, as well as pasta’s and horse meat.
Day Trips
Take a Day Trip to Etna, Siracusa, or Taormina
Ever been to Lucca? Check out my new post on an amazing day trip from Florence