Italy · City Guide
Catania
Catania is a fascinating and underrated Sicilian city at the foot of Mount Etna, combining extraordinary baroque architecture rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake, a vibrant fish market culture, outstanding Sicilian street food and easy access to the extraordinary volcanic landscapes of Etna and the beautiful beaches of the Ionian coast. From the Piazza del Duomo and the Pescheria fish market to the Castello Ursino and the vineyards of Etna, Catania rewards those who venture beyond Palermo.
Elect's take
"Catania has a raw energy and a quality of street food and market culture that I find genuinely compelling. The combination of extraordinary baroque architecture, the dramatic backdrop of Etna and the vibrant Sicilian character of the city creates something very different from the more polished tourist destinations of Sicily."
La Pescheria, Catania's extraordinary fish market held every morning in the square below the Via Garibaldi, is one of the most spectacular and atmospheric markets in Italy. The baroque architecture of the Piazza del Duomo, with the famous Fontana dell'Elefante and the Cathedral of Sant'Agata, is outstanding. Street food here is extraordinary — arancini, granita con brioche, cipollina and the famous catanese breakfast of granita are all exceptional. Mount Etna is approximately 45 minutes by road and provides extraordinary walking on the volcanic slopes. The Etna wine zone produces increasingly celebrated wines.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
La Pescheria
One of the most spectacular and atmospheric fish markets in Italy held every morning.
Baroque Catania
Extraordinary UNESCO listed baroque architecture rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake.
Sicilian Street Food
Outstanding arancini, granita and the full range of Catanese street food culture.
Mount Etna
Europe's largest and most active volcano approximately 45 minutes from the city.
Etna Wine Zone
Increasingly celebrated volcanic wines from the slopes of Etna.
Ionian Coast
Beautiful Ionian Sea beaches accessible along the coast north and south of the city.
