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10 Best Things to do in Catania, Sicily

10 Best Things to do in Catania, Sicily

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Planning a trip to Catania, Sicily? You’ve come to the right place!

We’ve explored this vibrant coastal city, from its lively fish markets to the slopes of Mount Etna, and there’s no shortage of incredible things to do. Whether you’re here for history, food, or adventure, Catania delivers with its mix of ancient ruins, volcanic landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine. 

You can eat your way through the bustling street food scene, sip wine from Etna’s vineyards, or stand in the same spots where The Godfather was filmed. With its rich culture, stunning scenery, and warm Sicilian hospitality, Catania is full of unforgettable experiences. So, let’s dive into the best things to do in this incredible city!

Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!

Bailey-on-Mt-Etna-on-a-tour-to-Mt-Etna-from-Catania Sicily-Italy

The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!

Our personal FAVORITE experience in Catania was this full-day tour of Mount Etna! We hiked up Europe’s highest active volcano to see its inner craters and even strapped on helmets and headlamps to explore a lava cave. It was epic!

Check the 1,000+ reviews and book this tour here!

Things to do in Catania, Sicily

1. Discover Catania’s street food and markets on a food tour

Bailey-holds-food-on-a-food-tour-in-Catania Sicily-Italy
We tried all sorts of delicious street food!
The Catania fish market seen on a food tour in Catania Sicily Italy (1)
Exploring the Catania fish market was wild!
  • Duration: 3 hours
  • Time: Multiple departure times from 10:30 am – 12 pm and 6 pm (dates vary)
  • Highlights: Catania street food tour around the city, explore the main piazza and Via dei Crociferi, visit the historic fish market and learn about Sicilian seafood (fish market closed at night), sample treats at market stalls and bakeries, night tour ends in Piazza Cutelli
  • Inclusions: Licensed local guide, traditional street foods, beer, soda/pop, small group tour
  • Rating: 4.9 stars (check 275+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: No
  • Price: Check price here!

Nothing captures the essence of Catania like its cuisine, and this street food tour dives right into the heart of it. Led by a passionate local guide, this experience winds through a lively fish market, historic piazzas, and hidden backstreets where locals grab a bite. 

Our guide, Gisella, set the tone with her energy and endless knowledge of Sicilian cuisine. We started at Piazza del Duomo before heading straight into the chaos of A’ Piscaria. If you’ve never been surrounded by fishmongers shouting in Sicilian dialect while frying up the catch of the day—you’re in for a ride!

Throughout the tour, we sampled crispy arancini and fresh anchovies between sips of cold beer while a bakery stop introduced us to cipollina. The flaky pastry crumbled with each bite, giving way to a warm, savory filling of tomato, mozzarella, and onion. With each bite, the flavors just kept getting better!

Between tastings, we admired Castello Ursino and learned the stories behind Via dei Crociferi’s baroque churches before finishing far from the crowds in Piazza dei Quattro Canti. Just a heads-up—the evening tour finishes in Piazza Cutelli since the fish market is closed at night.

The best part? It didn’t feel like a touristy food crawl! Every stop was chosen for authenticity, giving us a real taste of what locals eat.

We thought we knew Sicilian food, but nothing compares to trying it fresh from the source. Just be sure to secure your spot early so you don’t miss out!

2. Hike Europe’s tallest active volcano – Mt Etna

Bailey-stands-by-a-crater-on-Mt-Etna-on-a-tour-to-Mt-Etna-from-Catania Sicily-Italy
So cool
Mt-Etna-seen-on-a-tour-from-Catania Sicily-Italy
Look at how big it is!
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Time: 9 am
  • Highlights: Full-day guided tour of Mount Etna from Catania, hike up to the inner craters and visit a lava cave, learn about local geology and history, admire views of eastern Sicily
  • Inclusions: Professional guided tour in English, French, or Italian (depending on option selected), driver, use of headlamp and helmet for exploring a lava cave, hotel pickup and drop-off (in Catania except ZTL areas), transport by A/C minivan/jeep/minibus
  • Rating: 4.7 stars (check 1,000+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check price here!

We’ve hiked in many places, but nowhere else has made us feel like we were walking on the moon—except Mount Etna. This full-day volcano tour from Catania was easily one of the best ways to experience Europe’s highest active volcano, taking us across hardened lava fields, up to craters, and even inside a lava cave.

Our day started early with a hotel pickup in Catania, and before we knew it, we were winding up the slopes of Etna. Our guide, Leonardo, was a legend! He was super knowledgeable and always happy to answer questions. 

Along the way, we stopped to check out lava flows from past eruptions and were amazed to learn how life slowly returns to volcanic rock over time.

Then came the real challenge—hiking up to the inner craters at 2,000 meters/6,500 feet! The black, rocky terrain stretched for miles, and with the crisp mountain air and panoramic views over eastern Sicily, it was worth every step. 

Just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, we strapped on helmets and headlamps to explore a lava cave. Stepping into the tunnel that was shaped by molten lava was nothing like we expected. It was cool, dark, and eerily silent. Crawling through narrow passages and seeing firsthand how lava had carved its way through the earth was unlike anything we’d experienced before.

Without a doubt, this was one of the most incredible adventures we’ve had. You don’t want to miss this unforgettable Mount Etna experience!

3. See Greek and Roman ruins on a day trip to Syracuse

ear-of-dionysius-in-Syracuse-seen-on-a-tour-from-Catania Sicily-Italy
The Ear of Dionysius limestone cave
An-ancient-Roman-theatre-in-Syracuse-seen-on-a-tour-from-Catania Sicily-Italy
This ancient Roman theatre was so cool!
  • Duration: 8 hours
  • Time: 8:45 am (only available Monday, Wednesday, and Friday)
  • Highlights: Small group tour to Syracuse, Ortygia, and Noto, from Catania, explore the historic city of Syracuse, visit its Roman and Greek ruins, wander the streets of Ortygia Island, marvel at Noto’s baroque architecture
  • Inclusions: Professional multilingual guide, entrance ticket to the Archeological Park of Syracuse, authorized tourist guide in Syracuse (Italian and English guaranteed), return shuttle bus, pick up and drop off at your hotel in Catania
  • Rating: 4.7 stars (check 200+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check price here!

This full-day tour felt like flipping through the pages of Sicilian history—only instead of reading about ancient civilizations, we were walking through them. With just eight people in our group, it was easy to soak in every moment of our trip to the historic cities of Syracuse, Ortygia, and Noto.

We kicked things off at Neapolis Archaeological Park in Syracuse, home to some of the best-preserved ruins in Sicily. The Greek amphitheater was massive! And knowing that it still hosts performances made it feel even more alive. 

Then there was the Roman amphitheater—standing where gladiators once fought to the death gave us chills. But the real highlight was the “Ear of Dionysius,” a cave with unbelievable acoustics. Our guide, Nando, demonstrated by speaking at one end, and we heard him perfectly from the other.

As soon as we arrived in Ortygia, we were hooked! This tiny island is the historic heart of Syracuse, packed with charming streets, stunning piazzas, and sea views that made us want to stay forever. The Cathedral of Syracuse was breathtaking, but we loved the quiet beauty of the Fountain of Arethusa and learning how it tied to Greek mythology. 

Finally, we reached Noto, and just… wow! The baroque architecture, golden buildings, and sweeping views from the top of Noto Cathedral were the perfect way to wrap up the day.

By the end, we were exhausted in the best way possible! For an unforgettable dive into Sicily’s history and architecture, this tour is a must.

4. Explore Mt. Etna in a 4×4 vehicle

Mt Etna crater seen on a tour from Catania Sicily Italy
We got to see Mt Etna from the coolest spots!
Inside of a lava cave tube near Mt Etna on a tour from Catania Sicily
Exploring the lava tubes was so much fun
  • Duration: 5 hours
  • Time: 9 am
  • Highlights: Small group Jeep tour to UNESCO-listed Mt. Etna, learn the volcano’s history and geology, admire bird’s-eye views over the countryside and sea from 6,500 feet, visit lava fields and craters, plus enter an underground lava tube
  • Inclusions: Italian/English speaking driver, tour leader in the language requested, tasting of typical Etna farm products, transfer with 4×4 vehicles to Etna from meeting point, air-conditioned vehicle
  • Rating: 4.8 stars (check 500+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check price here!

Bouncing up the rugged slopes of Mount Etna in a 4×4 felt like the start of an epic expedition—minus the leg-burning hike. This small-group Jeep tour took us to the heart of the volcano’s dramatic landscapes, stopping at ancient lava flows, extinct craters, and viewpoints that stretched to the sea.

The Valle del Bove was especially impressive. Standing at the edge of this massive collapsed caldera, we felt like we had landed on another planet. The jagged black lava fields stretched endlessly below, like the surface of some distant moon. If someone told us a spaceship had crash-landed here, we wouldn’t have questioned it!

Our guide, Francesco, made the trip even better. He didn’t just rattle off facts—he brought the volcano to life, weaving in stories of past eruptions, the science behind lava flows, and even some local myths. He handled our constant stream of questions like a pro, and we walked away knowing more than we ever expected.

Then came our favorite part—exploring a lava tube! Wearing helmets and headlamps, we stepped into the cooled remains of a lava river, surrounded by layers of hardened rock etched with time.

We ended the day tasting Etna’s best local flavors, from pistachio pesto and honey to rich, aromatic liqueurs. After all, every great adventure deserves a delicious ending!

If you want to explore Mount Etna without breaking a sweat, this is the way to do it. Just sit back, relax, and let the Jeep (and Francesco) do the work!

5. Learn about the city’s history and sights with a private guide

Catania Cathedral seen on a tour in Catania Sicily Italy
The Catania Cathedral
Roman Amphitheater of Catania seen on a tour of Catania Sicily Italy
The ancient Roman Amphitheater in the middle of town!
  • Duration: 2 – 8 hours
  • Time: Multiple departure times from 8 am – 4:30 pm
  • Highlights: Private walking tour customized to your interests and personality, see Catania through the eyes of a local, discover its hidden gems, choose from 2, 3, 4, 6, and 8-hour tour options
  • Inclusions: Private, customized tour (or leave it to the local), pick up at your accommodation (If located in the city) or cruise terminal, help booking tickets for the desired visits
  • Rating: 4.6 stars (check great reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check price here!

Exploring a city with a local is like getting VIP access to its best-kept secrets—hidden alleys, legendary food spots, and stories you won’t find in a guidebook. That’s exactly what we got with this private walking tour.

Instead of following a rigid itinerary, we were free to customize our experience, choosing between a quick two-hour introduction or an immersive full-day adventure. Since it was our first day in Catania, we let our guide, Davide, take the lead. And wow, did he deliver!

We met near our accommodation, where Davide immediately made us feel at home, pointing out great little cafés and shops. From there, we wandered through Piazza del Duomo, stopping to admire the grand Catania Cathedral before heading into the chaos of La Pescheria fish market. 

The smell of fresh seafood combined with the energy of the shouting vendors created a feast for the senses! At one point, Davide nudged us toward a tiny shop, where we took a bite of the crispiest, most flavorful arancini of our trip. However, one of the highlights was definitely the Roman Amphitheater of Catania. It was so cool seeing this ancient theatre in the middle of the city.

Beyond the main sights, he gave us insider tips—where to find the best seafood pasta, which alleyways held the most impressive architecture and even a few lesser-known spots to catch the sunset over Mount Etna. 

By the time the tour ended, we felt like we had a head start on Catania, not just as visitors but as if we belonged there. If you want a real feel for Catania, this tour is the way to go!

Why We Book Tours with Viator

Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:

  • Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
  • Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
  • Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
  • Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
  • Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.

Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.

6. Go wine tasting in the Etna Wine Region

Bailey-tastes-wine-in-the-Etna-Wine-Region-on-a-tour-from-Catania Sicily-Italy
Yay wine!
Grape-vine-in-the-Etna-wine-Region-from-Catania Sicily-Italy
Wandering through the vineyard
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Time: 9 am – 4 pm or 10 am – 4:30 pm
  • Highlights: Guided wine and food tasting tour at three top Etna wineries, scenic drive through authentic mountain villages with views of citrus groves, olive trees, and historic lava stone buildings, learn about the wine production process from expert sommeliers, views of Mount Etna 
  • Inclusions: Driver/guide, a progressive tasting of Etna DOC and regional wines, each paired with traditional Sicilian bites, bottled water, hotel/port pickup and drop-off in Taormina, Catania, or Messina, transportation between sights by air-conditioned private car or mini-van
  • Rating: 4.9 stars (check 300+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check price here!

We’ve done our fair share of wine tastings, but drinking wine from volcanic soil? That was a first! This private tour through Etna’s wineries wasn’t just about the drinks—it was about the landscape, people, and stories behind every glass.

From the moment our guide, Alessandro, picked us up, he made us feel like we were being let in on a Sicilian secret. We cruised through tiny mountain villages, past lemon orchards bursting with fruit and lava-stone churches that looked like they belonged in another century.

The first winery was a family-run gem, where a sommelier walked us through the winemaking process before pouring three Etna DOC wines. Each sip came with crunchy bruschetta topped with rich local pâtés, and honestly, we could have stayed there all day!

The second stop featured homemade pasta, a spread of Sicilian meats and cheeses, and four more wines to sample—no complaints from us! But the pasta stole the show, perfectly cooked and paired with a bold red.

By the time we reached the last winery, a rustic spot with views of Etna, we had fully embraced the slow, indulgent pace of Sicilian wine country. Sipping crisp whites and smooth reds with fresh bread, olives, and olive oil, we finally got it—this is what Etna wine is all about!

This tour made it effortless to drink our way through one of Italy’s most unique wine regions. But don’t just take our word for it—check out hundreds of glowing reviews here!

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    7. Visit The Godfather film locations

    View-of-Savoca-village-Italy-on-Godfather-tour from Catania Sicily
    You visit so many iconic spots!
    Bar Vitelli seen on a godfather tour from Catania Sicily Italy
    It’s a movie lover’s dream tour! Photo credit: Bar Vitelli
    • Duration: 7 hours
    • Time: 9 am (not available Tuesday or Thursday)
    • Highlights: Travel to key spots from The Godfather movies, visit Savoca, Forza d’Agrò, and the Castello degli Schiavi (admission fee not included), explore scenic medieval villages
    • Inclusions: Guided small group tour, hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip shared transfer, transport by air-conditioned minivan
    • Rating: 4.9 stars (check 200+ reviews here)
    • Free cancellation: Yes
    • Price: Check price here!

    This small-group tour felt like stepping right into The Godfather movies. From iconic filming locations to medieval villages that haven’t changed since Michael Corleone walked their streets, every stop was packed with cinematic history.

    Savoca was our first stop, and it was easy to see why Coppola chose it. The quiet streets, historic buildings, and Bar Vitelli—it all looked like a movie set frozen in time! Naturally, we grabbed a granita and sat under the archway where Michael asked for Apollonia’s hand in marriage.

    Our guide, Alessio, was a walking encyclopedia of Godfather knowledge, pointing out details you would never notice in the movies. A short uphill walk led us to the church where the famous wedding scene was filmed. Standing in front of it made us feel like we were right there on set!

    Then came Forza d’Agrò, a hilltop village so timeless that Coppola used it in all three films. The narrow streets, sweeping views, and near silence made it feel like we had slipped back in time. I could almost hear Nino Rota’s score playing!

    For hardcore fans, Castello degli Schiavi is the cherry on top. The entrance fee isn’t included, but it’s worth it to stand in the courtyard where Michael’s son was baptized or where Apollonia’s ill-fated car ride took place.

    As Godfather fans, we couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Seeing these places in person made the movie feel more real than ever!

    Related Read: Check out our 3-day Catania itinerary that outlines all the best things to do, places to see, and spots to eat with detailed tips and times!

    8. Learn how to cook authentic Sicilian food

    Bailey-and-Daniel-at-a-cooking-class-in-Catania Sicily -Italy
    Aprons on and ready to cook!
    Cannolis made during a cooking class in Catania Sicily Italy
    Authentic Italian cannoli? Yes, please!
    • Duration: 3 hours
    • Time: 9:30 am and 3:30 pm (not available Sunday)
    • Highlights: Hands-on Sicilian cooking class in Catania with a professional chef, learn to prepare traditional dishes like caponata, spaghetti alla norma rolls, and cannoli, savor the meal you’ve prepared paired with Sicilian wine
    • Inclusions: Local chef, typical Sicilian foods and products for preparing dishes, use of professional kitchen equipment, lunch or dinner, bottle of Sicilian wine
    • Rating: 4.9 stars (check 100+ reviews here)
    • Free cancellation: Yes
    • Price: Check price here!

    Rolling up our sleeves in a Catanese kitchen was the best way to learn about Sicilian food culture. This small-group cooking class allowed us to prepare classic island dishes from scratch using fresh, local ingredients. The best part? We enjoyed everything we made with a glass of Sicilian wine at the end!

    Our host, Chef Agatha, was full of energy and made the whole experience feel like we were cooking in a friend’s kitchen. She kept us on track, making sure no one slacked on chopping or rolled their spaghetti alla norma too loose.

    As we cooked, she shared stories about Sicilian food traditions and how the island’s mix of Greek, Arab, and Spanish influences shaped its flavors. She had a passion for eggplant, calling it “the true heart of Sicilian cooking” as she showed us how to fry it just right.

    We started with a simple but delicious bruschetta topped with basil pesto and cherry tomatoes, followed by the main course—either sweet-and-sour caponata or cheesy eggplant parmigiana. But the best part was making cannoli. Filling those crisp shells with creamy ricotta felt like a rite of passage for anyone who loves Sicilian cuisine!

    After all the cooking, we sat down with classmates, clinking glasses of Sicilian wine as we tasted our hard work. The meal was even better knowing we had made every dish from scratch!

    For anyone who loves food, this class isn’t just about recipes—it’s about experiencing Sicily through its flavors and traditions.

    9. Visit the Valley of the Temples

    Temple-of-Concordia-Agrigento-Valley-of-the-Temples-near-Catania Sicily-Italy
    The Temple of Concordia
    villa-romana-del-casale-seen-on-a-tour-from-Catania Sicily-Italy
    Villa Romana del Casale had some interesting murals!
    • Duration: 10 hours
    • Time: 8:30 am
    • Highlights: Explore the history and architecture of Sicily with this full-day tour, see several popular landmarks in one day, including the Greek ruins of Agrigento and the Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina
    • Inclusions: Driver guide (not a touristic guide and cannot enter inside the historical places), hotel pickup and drop-off or meeting point close to your accommodation in Catania, transport by air-conditioned minivan, snack with typical Sicilian street food, bottled water, Etna wine, small group tour
    • Rating: 4.8 stars (check 80+ reviews here)
    • Free cancellation: Yes
    • Price: Check price here!

    Sicily’s history is written in its ruins, and this full-day tour to Agrigento and Piazza Armerina brings it to life. With a small group and a comfortable ride, there’s no need to stress about logistics—just sit back and soak in the views as you explore the famous Valle dei Templi and Villa Romana del Casale.

    Arriving in Agrigento, it’s impossible not to be impressed by the sheer scale of the Valley of the Temples. Walking through this UNESCO-listed site, we were struck by how well-preserved the ruins are, especially the Temple of Concordia. It’s still standing tall after more than 2,000 years! No wonder ancient Greek poets described it as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. 

    While the driver stays outside the archaeological areas, you’ll get a paper guide to help you navigate the sites, giving you plenty of time to explore at your own pace. Just keep in mind that the Valley of the Temples entrance ticket isn’t included, so you’ll need to purchase that separately.

    Next, we made our way to Piazza Armerina to visit Villa Romana del Casale—home to some of the most impressive Roman mosaics we’ve ever seen. Covering nearly every inch of the villa’s floors, these intricate scenes depict everything from hunting expeditions to everyday Roman life.

    Skipping the hassle of renting a car made this tour an easy way to explore Sicily’s ancient past! It combines remarkable ruins, fascinating history, and the freedom to explore at our own pace.

    10. See the sunset from Mt Etna

    The-peak-of-Mt-Etna on a sunset tour from Catania Sicily Italy
    At the viewpoint close to the top of Mt Etna
    Sunset from Mt Etna on a tour from Catania Sicily Italy
    Such an amazing place to watch the sunset
    • Duration: 5 hours
    • Time: 3:30 pm
    • Highlights: Take a 5-hour afternoon tour of Mount Etna and its surroundings, explore lava flows, craters, and caves, watch the sunset, learn about the volcano’s history, flora, and fauna 
    • Inclusions: Professional guide, hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels in Catania), use of helmet, small-group tour
    • Rating: 4.9 stars (check 140+ reviews here)
    • Free cancellation: Yes
    • Price: Check price here!

    Hiking Mount Etna on this late afternoon tour felt like exploring an alien world—jagged lava fields, craters straight out of a sci-fi movie, and an untamed landscape stretching as far as the eye could see. But the real magic happened as the sun set, painting the volcano in oranges and purples while we stood at 2,000 meters/6,500 feet, taking it all in.

    The adventure started with a pickup from our hotel in Catania. Our guide, Maurizio, was fantastic—passionate, knowledgeable, and full of fascinating stories about Etna’s eruptions and the wildlife that somehow thrives here.

    One of our favorite stops was Valle del Bove, a massive valley formed by ancient eruptions, where we had terrific views of the landscape. We felt incredibly small standing there, looking at the sea of hardened lava.

    Then came the cave exploration! Slipping on a helmet and stepping into the darkness, torch in hand, felt like a real-life expedition. The walls were rough with solidified lava, the air was cool, and for a few moments, everything was silent. Just us and the volcano’s past.

    At the final viewpoint, we watched the sun sink behind the craters, casting long shadows over the valleys. It was one of those rare moments where time seemed to slow down.

    This tour was our favorite way to experience Mount Etna. Read the 5-star reviews here to learn why this tour is a favorite among travelers!

    Where to Stay in Catania, Sicily

    A room with a spa bath at the B&B Palazzo Bruca in Catania Sicily
    Photo credit: B&B Palazzo Bruca Catania

    Now that you’ve got your Catania itinerary planned, it’s time to find the perfect place to stay! Picking the right hotel in the heart of the action will make your trip even better, so to help you out, I’ve rounded up my top recommendations in the best areas of the city for every budget below!

    Luxury – $$$

    Asmundo di Gisira is a stylish boutique hotel in the heart of Catania, blending modern comforts with artistic flair. Each room is uniquely designed and equipped with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and balconies with city views. It offers a delicious daily breakfast, and its central location puts you within walking distance of Catania’s top sights and restaurants!

    Prices vary depending on the season but usually range from €250 – €350 per night. You can check availability and book this stay on Booking.com.

    Mid-range – $$

    B&B Palazzo Bruca Catania is a great mid-range stay in the heart of Catania’s historic center. Rooms are spacious and come with air conditioning, private bathrooms, flat-screen TV, a small balcony, and some even feature a spa bath for extra relaxation. Plus, with the cathedral and Via Etnea’s shopping just a two-minute walk away, you’ll be perfectly positioned to explore the city!

    Prices are usually around €100 – €120 per night. Check availability for your travel dates on Booking.com.

    Budget – $

    San Demetrio is a budget-friendly stay in Catania’s historic center, set in a charming 18th-century building just steps from Piazza Duomo and Via Etnea. The spacious rooms come with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and even kitchen facilities for added convenience. Plus, breakfast is included, making it an excellent choice for an affordable and central stay!

    Rooms start as low as €60 per night, and you can book your stay here on Booking.com.

    For more options, see all of Catania’s hotels listed here!

    Related Read: If you’re traveling around Sicily, you’ll want to check out our guide on the best places to stay in Sicily before you book!

    Renting a Car in Italy

    Driving our rental car along the Amalfi Coast in Italy

    Renting a car in Italy is one of the best ways to explore the country beyond the cities—think charming Tuscan villages, dramatic Amalfi Coast drives, and hidden gems in the countryside. While Italy’s roads can be a little chaotic (especially in cities), with the right preparation, renting a car here can be an unforgettable and rewarding experience!

    We always use Discover Cars when booking our rentals, and highly recommend them. They compare dozens of providers to find you the best rates, include important filters like “automatic transmission,” and offer affordable full insurance coverage. For more info, you can read our in-depth Discover Cars review here.

    Tips for Renting a Car in Italy

    • Drive on the right: Italians drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left. Right turns on red are illegal, and you must often yield to vehicles coming from the right at intersections.
    • Stay alert and confident: Italian driving can feel aggressive in cities—expect assertive drivers, scooters weaving through traffic, and liberal horn use (often just a form of communication). Stay calm and practice defensive driving.
    • Insurance is a must: We highly recommend adding full coverage insurance when booking. Minor damage like scratches and dents is common, especially in cities, and Discover Cars’ full protection gives you peace of mind at a low cost!
    • Mind the ZTL zones: Many city centers have restricted traffic zones called ZTLs. Entering without a permit can result in a fine. Check with your hotel and use GPS with ZTL alerts.
    • Choose the right vehicle: Roads in Italy can be narrow and parking tight, so a compact car is usually best. Most rentals are manual, but if you need an automatic, you can easily filter for one when booking with Discover Cars. 

    What You Need to Rent a Car in Italy

    • A valid driver’s license from your home country.
    • If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
    • A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
    • You must be at least 18 years old, but renters under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.

    Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Italy on your own terms!

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    Bailey-and-Daniel-take-a-selfie-on-the-coast-of-Italy Catania Sicily
    Thanks for reading!

    That’s all for our guide on the best things to do in Catania! We loved our time in Sicily and definitely consider spending a few days in this city a must. Hopefully, you have lots of ideas to add to your own trip itinerary!

    For more inspiration, check out all our travel blogs here. We’ve been across Europe and the world and have lots of tips and tricks to share. The blogs below might be especially helpful!

    8 Best Things to do in Palermo, Sicily

    Our 10 Favorite Things We Did in Cefalu

    7 Best Things to do in Cagliari, Italy