If you’re looking for the best things to do in Catania, look no further – this post covers all bases!
Catania is set along the sunny eastern coast of Sicily. It sits right at the foot of Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano, so no surprise that it’s been shaped by eruptions and earthquakes for centuries, which means it’s not the polished, picture-perfect type – but that’s exactly what makes this city special. Here, you can expect a mix of grit, beauty, and history all in one.
• READ ALSO: 10 Best Restaurants in Catania, Italy
Catania is vibrant, a bit chaotic, super flavorful, and full of character. The kind of city that slowly grows on you… then suddenly, you don’t want to leave! From the moment you arrive, you can already feel the vibe.
Don’t believe it yet? Check out the best activities in Catania and see for yourself!
12 Best Things To Do in Catania, Sicily
Let’s dive into the top things to do in Catania, Sicily. Enjoy!
1. Soak up the vibe at Piazza del Duomo
Piazza del Duomo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the Catania’s main hangout spot. It was rebuilt in full Baroque style after the massive 1693 earthquake by architect Giovanni Battista Vaccarini.
Right in the square, you’ll find the Cathedral of Sant’Agata. It was originally built in the 11th century, then later given its elegant Baroque makeover.
The real standout here is the Elephant Fountain (“u Liotru”). Built in 1736, this a quirky black lava stone elephant statue carries an Egyptian obelisk and serves as a symbol of the city’s resilience.
You’ll likely start your Catania trip at Piazza del Duomo, so it’s pretty much unmissable!
2. Take in the views from Chiesa della Badia di Sant’Agata’s Dome
Climb the dome of the Chiesa della Badia di Sant’Agata for one of the best views in Catania. It’s a full 360° panorama.
From the top, you’ll see Piazza del Duomo from above, the Cathedral’s rooftops, Mount Etna in the distance, plus the coastline, port, and a sea of terracotta rooftops across the city.
To get there, you can take the stairs or elevator, then a short spiral climb to the top. It costs around €5 and totally worth it, especially at sunset.
3. Stroll down Via Etnea
Via Etnea is Catania’s main shopping street and a great place to just wander and take it all in. You’ll catch beautiful views of Mount Etna at the northern end, pass through lively crowds, and be steps away from highlights like Piazza del Duomo, Villa Bellini, and Piazza Stesicoro with its Roman amphitheater ruins.
It’s perfect for a relaxed evening stroll, so take your time. Stop by Pasticceria Savia for a delicious arancino or fresh cannolo, and grab a Seltz, Limone e Sale from a kiosk for a quick, refreshing local treat.
4. Relax in Villa Bellini
Villa Bellini, also called Giardino Bellini, is Catania’s main public park and a nice green break right in the city center. It is the oldest urban park here, with shaded paths, a floral clock, and a terrace where you can catch a clear view of Mt. Etna.
Villa Bellini is a good spot for a slow walk or just sitting and people-watching, with a quiet, laid-back feel away from the busy streets. You can enter from a few sides, but the main gate is along the famous Via Etnea. Go early if you want it extra calm.
5. See Roman ruins at the Teatro Romano di Catania
Check out the Teatro Romano di Catania, hidden right in the middle of the city near Piazza San Francesco. It’s a cool sight, with ancient ruins surrounded by everyday streets and buildings, giving you a unique mix of old and new.
Originally Greek and later expanded by the Romans, the theater dates back to around the 2nd century BC. Built with lava stone, it once held up to 15,000 people and had a massive 98-meter stage area. Damaged in the 1693 earthquake and partly built over, it’s now partially restored and open to explore, along with a small exhibit of marble finds.
Entry is around €10 and well worth it for a quick step back in time.
6. See more Roman ruins at the Anfiteatro Romano
The Anfiteatro Romano di Catania, located in Piazza Stesicoro, is one of the largest ancient arenas in Italy. Built in the 2nd century AD using dark lava stone from Mount Etna and red brick, it once held up to 16,000 spectators for gladiator fights and even staged naval battles.
Often called the “Black Colosseum,” much of the structure now lies buried beneath the modern city. Today, you can see part of the excavated northern section just below street level, giving you a glimpse into Catania’s layered past and impressive Roman engineering that survived eruptions and earthquakes.
Tickets cost €6 (or €3 reduced), while entry is free for those under 18 and on the first Sunday of the month. You can also view it for free from above at Piazza Stesicoro.
7. Visit Palazzo Biscari
Palazzo Biscari is easily Catania’s most stunning private palace, famous for its over-the-top stucco work and lavish Sicilian Baroque style. Inside, there are Rococo-style rooms, painted frescoes, and a central ballroom that’s the highlight.
Just a short walk from the Duomo, this 18th-century palace is still family-owned, and tours are often led by descendants, which makes the stories feel extra personal. Here, you’ll also see unique details like the seashell-shaped staircase.
Visits cost €10 (free for kids under 12) and last about 30 minutes. The palace has over 700 rooms, but only a small portion is open (as it’s still a private residence); however, that is more than enough to impress.
8. Binge on authentic Sicilian street food
A street food tour in Catania is a must when visiting the city. It takes a few hours of walking through markets and squares like Piazza del Duomo and Piazza Stesicoro, with 4 to 5 food stops that easily add up to a full meal.
We encourage you to join this group tour to enjoy the best street food experience in Catania. Snack on things like a cone of fried seafood, local pastries such as cipollina and cartocciata, and Catania-style arancini.
A food tour usually ends on a sweet note with a fresh cannolo or granita with brioche, plus drinks like local wine, beer, or lemon seltz. Along the way, guides share stories about the city and sometimes take you to lesser-known spots like lava tunnels.
Morning tours feel more local thanks to the busy fish market, while evening ones swap it for stops at small eateries.
Just keep in mind it’s a rich, carb-heavy experience, so options can be limited for vegans or gluten-free diets.
9. Shop Arab-style at Fera ’o Luni
Fera ’o Luni in Piazza Carlo Alberto is one of Catania’s liveliest daily markets, running Monday to Saturday from early morning to around 2 pm.
Packed with colorful stalls, it has a buzzing, almost souk-like feel where you can browse everything from fresh produce and cheese to clothes and household goods.
The name means “Monday Fair,” reflecting how it first began, but it’s been a daily fixture here since the 1830s. Expect a loud, busy, and full-on atmosphere that gives you a real slice of local life in Catania.
10. Set out on a ghost hunt
Step into Catania after dark and join a ghost hunt through its shadowy streets, a fun self-guided experience with a touch of mystery. Follow a chilling storyline as you solve clues together, explore hidden corners, and uncover eerie tales tied to the city’s past.
A ghost hunt is a different way to see Catania, with just the right mix of mystery and adventure. Join this game and tour to make the most of it!
11. Enrol in a cooking class
Taking a cooking class in Catania feels more like being welcomed into someone’s home than attending a formal lesson.
Roll up your sleeves, work with fresh local ingredients, and learn how to make Sicilian favorites like pasta, arancini, or simple seafood dishes – all with easy, step-by-step guidance that keeps it fun and relaxed!
The best part is sitting down after to enjoy everything you’ve made, usually with a glass of local wine. This activity is relaxed, social, and a really fun way to experience the culture through food, not just taste it.
12. Take a day trip to Mount Etna
Spend the day on Mount Etna exploring black lava flows, craters, and dramatic views over the coast. It’s an easy and memorable way to experience Sicily’s wild side just outside the city.
Getting there is pretty straightforward. You can join a guided tour for an easy, all-in trip, or go on your own by bus or car. Most people start at Rifugio Sapienza, then take the cable car and a 4×4 bus higher up before exploring on foot.
Bring sturdy shoes and a light jacket, it’s cooler up there, and check conditions ahead since access can change.
Pick a place to stay in Catania that feels like part of the trip, whether it’s steps from Piazza del Duomo or somewhere with Mount Etna quietly in the background. Check out rates here.