A charming city in the eastern coast of Sicily, Catania is a beautiful place with exuberant Baroque architecture and majestic natural beauty. Whether you admire the sea or the mountains, enjoy a romantic stroll by the beach or a walk down a historic cathedral, Catania has it all and more. Delicious Sicilian food, cheap and reliable Catania airport taxi services, friendly locals always willing to swap stories with you, the city is teeming with hospitality and warmth. Here are our top picks of best sights in Catania that you must not miss.
Mount Etna
Catania is located at the base of Mount Etna, the largest stratovolcano in Europe. Affordable and guided tours to Mount Etna are available easily from Catania and offer a great opportunity to experience the unique beauty of nature. Every year, a large number of people descend on Catania en route to Mount Etna.
San Benedetto
Built in the early eighteenth century, San Benedetto is an imposing cathedral built in honour of Saint Benedict of Nursia. With its high ceilings, brilliant frescos and gilded chandeliers, San Benedetto continues to amaze tourists even today. It can be easily accessed via local transport from any part of Catania.
Castello Ursino
Built in the thirteenth century, this historic castle has been the crown jewel for Catania for a very long time. The name of the castle literally means Bear Castle. It is located smack in the middle of the city and in close proximity to the Catania rail and bus stations. Its sheer scale and size impresses the tourists who tread its grounds in wonder.
Catania Cathedral
Also known as Duomo di Catania, the Catania Cathedral was constructed in the latter half of the nineteenth century to commemorate St. Agatha. The beautiful cathedral displays wonderful specimens of the Sicilian Baroque architecture and contains the tomb of Vincenzo Bellini. The Cathedral is located right in the Plaza del Duomo, thus being easily accessible from any part of the city.
Basilica della Collegiata
Constructed in late Eighteenth Century, the Basilica della Collegiata is another mesmerising example of Sicilian Baroque. The beautiful cathedral is important both from a religious and historic point of view.
A visit to Catania is a quintessentially Italian experience with a dash of culture cuisine and hospitality. It will not even cost you a bomb. So head over to the exotic island for a truly memorable holiday. Happy travelling.
