Catania: City of Black Lava Step into Catania, a city once destroyed by fire and risen from the ashes. Here, vibrant markets purse with life alongside the ancient power of Mount Etna! 🌋 From colorful streets to lavastone buildings, Catania is a captivating blend of resilience and charm. AuthorsTristanTravels
DestinationsCataniaItinerary

Centro Storico

Teatro Massimo Bellini
Teatro Massimo Bellini is a prime example of Catania’s breathtaking architecture. Its grand exterior grabs your attention immediately, but it’s the interior that really takes your breath away… richly decorated with gold details, paintings and the classic red velvet chairs. Walking inside, you can almost hear the echoes of timeless Italian opera filling the air.
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Basilica Cattedrale di Sant'Agata
If you are into Cathedrals this one should be on your list! With its impressive Baroque exterior and ornate interior, Sant’Agata Cathedral is a beautiful blend of history, faith and art. Inside you’ll find intricate chapels, elegant frescoes, and the sacred relics of Sant’Agata, the city’s patron saint.
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Benedictine Monastery of San Nicolò l'Arena
The Monastero dei Benedettini is one of Europe’s largest Benedectine monasteries and another architectural masterpiece in Catania. Its grand baroque buildings and peaceful cloisters tell stories of centuries-old history and faith. Today it it’s also home to the University of Catania, blending historic charm with vibrant student life.
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Greek - Roman theatre
Thousands of years ago Catania was a flourishing city in Geeek and Roman eras. The ancient Greek settlers originally built a theatre here, which the Romans later expanded into a grand amphitheater, which hosted dramatic plays, gladitorial contests and public gathering, serving as a social hub for the city. Until the city had to deal with a major eruption in 121 BC, causing significant damage, but the most dramatic one was in 1693 when lava buried large parts of the city, including the theatre. The eruption reshaped Catania’s landscape, the citizens started building up the city with the only thing they had left, lavastone. The city of the black lava was born! Parts of the amphiteatre could be saved and today it stands as a symbol of resilience and rich ancient heritage.
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Porta Garibaldi
One of Catania’s historic city gates, named after the famous Italian revolutionary Giuseppe Garibaldi. This impressive archway marks the entrance to the old town. By walking through the gate you step into Catania’s lively heart, where past and present meet.
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Porta Uzeda
The grand Baroque gateway connecting Piazza Duomo to the city’s bustling port. Built in the late 1600s after the catastrophic earthquake of 1693, it stands as a part of Catania’s resilience.
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Catania Fish Market
La Pescheria is probably my favorite place in Catania, walking along the many colorful and vibrant market stalls, while local fisherman are trying to sell their fish is an incredible atmosphere. The air is filled with the scent of the sea, the sizzle of grilled fish and the chartter of locals. From fresh oysters to barbecued seafood, it’s the perfect place to soak up authentic Catanian life.
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Fontana dell'Elefante (uʻ Liotru)
The elephant is the symbol of Catania, the legend goes that he protects the city against Etna. Catania is one of the only cities in the world that acts like nothing is happening while a vulcano is erupting, unmatched scenes!
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Ursino Castle
Built in the 13th century, Ursino Castle was once a seaside fortress guarding Catania from invaders. Over the centuries, Mount Etna’s eruptions and earthquakes have reshaped the location more inland. The exterior is imposing and inside you’ll find the civic museum, home to a collection of art, artifacts, and archaeological treasures that tell Catania’s story.
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Piazza Università
One of the most elegant squares of the city, framed by grand baroque buildings, the University building being the eye-catcher. It’s a perfect place to pause and take in the city’s refined architecture.
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Via Crociferi
Via Crociferi is one of Catania's most iconic streets, every stone breaths the unique history of this city... In only a few hundred metres you'll pass 4 stunning churches. It's like walking through an open-air museum, where history and architectue
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Le strade degli ombrelli
This street is so much fun and very photogenic, but I recommend to come early, as it can be a bit busy in the late morning and afternoon. The street is very charming with umbrellas colouring the sky. Enjoy walking through this alley and try some local fruits.
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Fontana dell’Amenano
Catania is a city of many fountains, but this one stands out, it depicts the Amenamo River as a young man puring water from a cornucopia, creating a waterfall effect locals call aqua a linzolu.
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From Catania: Private/Guided Godfather with Appetizer and Pasta
There is no Sicily without the shadows and stories of maffia. While the island has become much safer the stories and gossip remain, and when it comes to maffia stories, there is no bigger one than the Godfather... Prepare for a journey through the movies most iconic villages and discover a dark era in the history of this vibrant .
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The Original Catania Street Food and Market Tour by Streaty
If there is anything that can compete with the maffia stories? It's Sicilian street food!! I spend 3 weeks on the island and ate more street food than in the rest of my life combined. This tour will give the opportunity to try the best daily selection of Sicilian street food.
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Aci's of Catania

Castello Normanno - Svevo di Aci Castello
I didn't plan to visit the Aci's, but during my first time in Catania, I was staying with a local host, who took me along. And wow, this was the best thing that could happen because these villages are incredible... Aci Castello with its stunning norman castle perched right on the volcanic rocks, felt like stepping into a fairytale. The amazing views of the Ionian coast made it unforgettable.
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Islands of the Cyclops
Aci Trezza is the second village my host took my too. I was absolutely amazed by this place and ended up watching a sunset here, and it was absolutely magical. The view on the little island, the sea rocks and fisherman doing their job will stick with me for a long time. Don't forget to visit the port which has a very cosy atmosphere at night.
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Porticciolo di Ognina
The next day my host took me to Ognina, to attend the Gaza gathering of Greta Thunberg, before she left to Palestine by boat. It was during this event I noticed the beauty of this little fishertown port. Colorful boats everywhere, turquoise blue water and local fisherman open for a chat.
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Lungomare Ognina
The coastline of Ognina is pure magic, imagine no big crowds, deep blue waters and a warm sunshine on your face.
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Etna

Mount Etna
The highlight of every Catania trip? Climbing the ancient volcano that dominates the city's skyline for ages. I climbed Etna on my last day in Catania and was joined by my local host, we hiked the lesss touristy side, close to Nicolosi. To my surprise there was a whole forest on the volcano, something I never expected! The second part of the hike revealed breathtaking views of Etna's volcanic landscapes, with red, geen and black colors blending together... Rare plants lined the path and my host that happened to be a gardener explained that this rare vegetation only thrives on active volcanos, Etna being a very special one. We sadly couldn't reach the summit, because the road was disturbed by an eruption, and I could actually hear the volcano rumbling. Just 10 hours later, I woke up to the news that Etna had erupted again, spoken about a close call. Trust me, a visit to Etna comes with so many stories to tell and won't disappoint.
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Etna Quad Excursion
While I did the less touristy side with my host, I was planning a quad excursion on my second visit but because of the explotion I skipped that. Still I would really recommend this experience, as you'll discover the volcano on a unqiue, adventurous way like few others do.
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Rather hiking than riding a quad? This tour has you covered. Enjoy the breathtaking volcanic landscapes with a delicious lunch at noon.
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Stays

President Park Hotel
If you are looking for a comfortable stay in Catania, President Park Hotel is a great option! Located just a short walk from the city center, it offers clean rooms, friendly service and a peaceful atmosphere.
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Palazzo Marletta
Nestled in the historic centre of the city, this stylish boutique hotel combines modern comforts with old-world charm. Staying here means you're just one step away from iconic spots like Piazza del Duomo and vibrant local markets.
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Asmundo Gisira Art of Living Boutique Market
This is more than just a place to stay, it's a holistic experience dedicated to wellness, creativity and mindful living. This retreat gives you a chance to recharge the mind, mind and spirit in a tranquil setting.
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Hotel NH Catania Parco Degli Aragonesi
Located at the seaside, a bit away of Catania's city center. Hotel NH Catania Parco degli Aragonesi offers a comfortable stay with direct access to greenspace in the park and sea-air at the coast. This stay is perfect for those who seek an escape from the vibrant city.
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Culinary

Pellegrino Pizzeria in Acitrezza
My host took met to this restaurant and I ordered a Pizza Napolitana, and it was one of the best I had so far. The restaurant has a cosy atmosphere and offers view at the port and sea of Aci Trezza.
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Pasticceria Savia
Looking for an authentic Italian breakfast or pastery? Pasticceria Savia has you covered. Whether you want to try a delicious cannoli, breakfast cakes or a refreshing cup of granita, this spot is not to be missed when you're in Catania.
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Me Cumpari Turiddu
For a true taste of Catanian cuisine Me Cumpari Turiddu is a must-visit. This traditional restaurant offers a warm, local atmosphere paired with classic Sicilian dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. From savory pasta to hearty seafood every bite captures the rich culinary heritage of Sicily.
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A Putia Do Calabrisi
This lively eatery in Catania celebrates the bold and spicy flavors of Calabria with a playful twist! It's the perfect spot to try Southern Italian flavours in an authentic, local place.
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Osteria Antica Marina
Nestled near the vibrant fish market of Catania, Osteria Antica Marina is a beloved spot for fresh, authentic Sicilian seafood. Known for its lively atmosphere and traditional dishes like pasta alla norma, you really can't miss this dish when you're in Catania.
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MARIALUISA PASTICCERIA
Your go-to spot for a delicious granita brioce after a tiring Mount Etna Hike. My favorite flavour is Limone, but the traditional one in Nicolosi is pistacche.
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