Catania in 2 Days: everything you need to know

Catania, located on the east coast of Sicily, is a city full of activities and things to see and do, with lots of history, culture and natural beauty. The perfect combination and something for everyone!

Here is the itinerary of sights to see and things to do in Catania for 2 days.

On your first day in the stunning city of Catania, I invite you to sample the local flavours and fresh produce at the city's most renowned market, see Catania' s most important Cathedral and Theatre and stroll along its stunning beaches.

Explore La Pescheria Market

Catania's Fish Market, also known as La Pescheria, is a place of great cultural and gastronomic importance where you can live a sensory experience that combines local life and Sicilian gastronomy. Here you can find all kinds of fresh fish, seafood, fruits, vegetables and typical products of the region.

In this market you will have the hustle and bustle of local life and you can experience the energy and animation of the traders and customers mingling in the market. You can explore the market on your own or take a food tour of Catania. In addition, there are fresh fish and seafood, shops selling typical products such as olive oil, spices, cheeses and more.

It's a great culinary experience where you can sample some of the region's typical dishes at the market's food stalls and local restaurants, and get to know its ancient architecture dating back to medieval times, with its baroque and neoclassical style.

All this makes the Catania Fish Market a must for food and culture lovers.

Visit the Cathedral of Saint Agatha

Just a few metres from the market, you will come across this historical and religious monument that honours the patron saint of Catania. The cathedral is known for its baroque architecture and for housing some of the most precious objects of the Sicilian Catholic church. A good way to see the cathedral is to take a tour of Catania, many of which include it on their itinerary.

The Cathedral of Saint Agatha offers many interesting things to see such as its baroque architecture, with its impressive arches and columns, high ceilings and ornate detailing. You can also discover the underground church that houses the ruins of an ancient Roman temple and find relics such as the tunic and veil of Catania's patron saint.

Its art collection includes frescoes, sculptures and other objects of artistic and cultural value, and you can learn more about the life and history of Saint Agatha, a Christian saint who lived in the region in the 3rd century.

If you are travelling to Catania at Christmas time, don't forget to check out the special Christmas programme offered by this church so that you can visit it at that time of the year.

Visit the Bellini Theatre

About 6 streets away from the cathedral, you will find the historic theatre which hosts some of the best plays and operas in Italy. The Teatro Bellini is one of the oldest and most famous theatres in Italy, with a rich history and many interesting things to see. The first thing that will strike you is its architecture, with its decorative details and imposing façade.

The theatre's history dates back to medieval times and it has been restored and renovated several times over the centuries. You can also attend one of the theatrical performances or a concert to experience the unique atmosphere of this place.

Also, its art collection is worth appreciating, including sculptures, frescoes and other objects of artistic and cultural value. The Bellini Theatre is an impressive place that combines history, art and culture in one place.

Enjoy the Sand Beach Promenade

The Sand Beach Promenade in Catania is a popular place to spend a day outdoors and enjoy the beautiful views of the sea. On this walk you can enjoy a wide variety of activities:

• The sandy beaches: relax on the sandy beach and enjoy the sun and sea.
• Promenade: walk along the promenade and enjoy the panoramic views of the sea and the coast.
• Parks and gardens: visit the nearby parks and gardens, such as Bellini Park, for some greenery and a view of the city.
• Local culture: experience the local culture and gastronomy at the food stalls and restaurants near the promenade.
• Water activities: practice water sports such as surfing, windsurfing or kitesurfing on the Arena beach.

The Sand Beach Promenade is an ideal place to enjoy a day outdoors and nature in Catania and the perfect place to end your first day in the city.

The tour of the second and final day in Catania has everything you need to help you get the most out of the city and will leave you wanting more so you can start planning your next visit.

A trip to Mount Etna

To start your second day in Catania, here's a classic: a hike up Mount Etna. These hikes come in various lengths and many are day hikes, but if you choose a hike of less than 5 hours, you'll have plenty of time to do other activities on the way back.

Mount Etna is one of the main tourist attractions in the city of Catania. At 3329 metres high, it is the highest and most active volcano in Europe. You can take guided tours to the crater, on foot or by jeep, to admire the panoramic views of the coast and the city.

Etna is known for its frequent eruptions, which are an impressive spectacle of nature. In addition, the trails surrounding the volcano are full of vegetation, flowers and animals, making it a perfect place to walk and enjoy nature. There are several hiking trails available, from short walks to full day hikes, depending on the ability and interest of the visitors.

If you are one of those who are interested in history and geology, Etna offers the opportunity to learn about volcanic activity and its impact on the region. There are several information centres and museums at the base of the volcano, where you can learn about the history and geology of Etna, as well as see exhibits and videos about past eruptions. Without a doubt, visiting Etna is a unique and unforgettable experience that no one should miss, even if you visit the city for a day.

Visit the Villa Bellini Urban Park

Once back from your excursion, you can continue the day with some fresh air in a huge park full of greenery with gardens, fountains, rest areas and walking trails. An ideal plan if you plan to visit Catania with children.

Villa Bellini Urban Park is one of the city's most popular places to spend a day outdoors and enjoy nature. Here you will enjoy gardens, green areas, fountains and sculptures that add a touch of beauty and art to nature.

You can also opt for a bike ride or go hiking to enjoy nature and fresh air. Other outdoor activities such as picnics, tennis or football in the park are also recommended. Here you will also find facilities for children such as swings and slides.

Discover the Monastero dei Benedettini

A few metres from Villa Bellini Park, you will find the Monastero dei Benedettini, an impressive place that offers a wide variety of activities for its visitors. The first floor of the monastery houses a library and an exhibition hall that showcases the history and culture of the city of Catania. Here, you can see ancient manuscripts and books, as well as objects and works of art related to the city.

On the first floor, you will find a panoramic view of the city from the terrace of the monastery. In addition, there is a roof garden where you can walk and relax surrounded by beautiful scenery. This place is ideal for a picnic or simply to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The monastery also houses a church, the church of San Nicolò l'Arena, which is an impressive example of baroque architecture. The church is known for its beautiful frescoes and marble altar, and is a popular spot for visitors looking for a quiet, spiritual place.

Admire the beauty of the Fontana dell'Elefante fountain

About 5 streets walking from the Monastero dei Benedettini, you will find a fountain in the shape of an elephant which is one of the most emblematic and characteristic monuments of Catania.

The Fontana dell'Elefante is one of the must-see places in Catania. That's why, before visiting it, I want to tell you some things you should know about the Fontana dell'Elefante and why you should visit it:

• Location: the Fontana dell'Elefante is located in Piazza del Duomo, in the heart of the old town of Catania.
• History: the Fontana dell'Elefante is a monument dating back to the 18th century and was created in honour of Saint Agatha, the patron saint of Catania.
• Sculpture of the elephant: the sculpture of the elephant is the central element of the fountain and is a symbol of the city.
• Baroque style: the Fontana dell'Elefante is a perfect example of the Sicilian baroque style and is an architectural and artistic jewel.

The Fontana dell'Elefante is a must-see for anyone visiting Catania. As well as being a historical and artistic monument, it is a charming and lively place in the heart of the city.

Taste the local food in a typical restaurant

To end the second and last day, I think it is an excellent opportunity to try some of the most popular dishes of the region, such as pasta alla Norma or arancini.

So, here are my five favourite restaurants in Catania where you can taste the typical food of the region:

• Trattoria degli Amici: a traditional restaurant offering a wide selection of Sicilian cuisine, including fresh pasta and grilled meats.
• Osteria del Conte: an elegant restaurant offering fresh fish and seafood.
• Antica Trattoria dei Pescatori: a restaurant specialising in fish dishes, including rice dishes and stews.
• Il Ristorante Al Vapore: an elegant and modern restaurant offering a wide selection of Sicilian cuisine, including fresh pasta and grilled meats.
• Trattoria Pizzeria Da Nino: a casual restaurant offering homemade pizza and Sicilian dishes, including rice dishes and stews.

These are just a few of the many restaurants in Catania that offer typical food of the region. Any of these restaurants is an excellent choice to sample delicious Sicilian food and experience the gastronomic culture of the region.

If you haven't decided when to visit Catania, the best time to visit is between May and September, when the weather is warm and sunny. During these months, you can enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities, including beaches, excursions and visits to museums and historical monuments. The city also comes alive during the summer months, with numerous events and festivals taking place in the area.

Another important factor to consider is that summer is also the busiest time for tourists in Catania, so prices may increase and there may be more people in the main tourist spots. However, for those looking for a vibrant and lively atmosphere, this is definitely the perfect time to visit Catania.

The winter months in Catania can be quite cold and rainy, so it is not the best time to visit the city. However, for those looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy a quieter experience, winter can be a good option. Also, during the winter months, prices may be lower and the city may be less crowded, which can be an advantage for those looking for a more authentic and less crowded experience.

As you may have noticed, Catania is a vibrant and diverse city that offers a wealth of things to see and do. So while two days may seem like a short time, if you organise yourself well and take into account all the tips in this article, you'll be able to make the most of your time in this beautiful Sicilian city without missing out on anything.

Enjoy your 2-day stay in Catania!