Catania holidays

City breaks to Catania deliver everything from volcano views to ancient architecture, all doused in Sicilian sunshine.

Sicily’s second city

As Sicily’s second biggest city, Catania’s got plenty to offer sightseers and sunseekers alike. It cosies up to the Ionian Sea, not far from the foot of Mount Etna, on the island’s east coast. People often compare this place to Naples, thanks to its gritty appearance and mish-mash of architectural styles. And from colourful umbrella-shaded lanes to an imposing castle and a historic main square, there’s plenty to get your camera out for.

Baroque-style buildings

A lot of the buildings in Catania’s city centre were rebuilt in bold Baroque style following an earthquake in 1693. Lava was the material of choice, giving a lot of the city its unique grey hue. And the narrow streets open out into grand squares, like Piazza Duomo. The imposing Catania Cathedral, the city hall and the Diocesan Museum all jostle for your attention here, in contrasting shades of grey and white.

Ancient origins

Catania’s scattered with relics from the past. Take the Roman Theatre, for example – this ancient structure was made from lava in the first century. Then, there’s Castello Ursino. This 13th-century castle once had a strategic seafront spot, but a series of volcanic eruptions pushed it further from the water’s edge. These days, it’s a museum stacked with local paintings and artefacts.

Volcano views

Mount Etna is one of the world’s most active volcanoes, and it was dubbed a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2013. Catania sits right in its shadow, so you won’t have far to go if you want to check it out. You can eye up smoking craters and red lava on guided hikes and 4x4 tours. Or, for a less adventurous experience, taste some local tipples at one of the wineries on the volcano’s fertile slopes.