Catania

Catania on Sicily

Catania is the island’s second biggest town und is situated at the foot of the Etna, directly at Sicily’s East coast; a town which is pulsating with life. We like to say in advance that Catania, despite there are a lot of sights, is certainly not a typical place for tourists. There is simply too much traffic, and because of the ash rain from the Etna, many buildings are rather dirty.

But somebody who is planning a shopping tour or searching for a vivid nightlife will be satisfied for sure. In the evening, the smaller streets in the centre are blocked by restaurant’s tables so that it is impossible for cars to pass. In the centre you can go from one bar to the next and enjoy night life.

During day time, in the shops situated at the Via Etnea and the Corso Sicilia there are plenty of opportunities to buy beautiful Italian shoes as well as a completely new wardrobe. In between, the thirsty visitor can refresh himself with a so-called Granita, some kind of drinkable sorbet (especially recommendable is almond with coffee) and (next to that) a Brioche. Something you may find difficult to get used to a little is the long lunch break from one till four o’clock, but if one plans this in advance already it is no problem. Time is flying away while visiting the dome or one of the other sights.

Traffic connection and general info

Catania has an airport named Fontanarossa which is approximately 5 km south of the town; from here there are direct flights to Rome, Milan, Stuttgart, Munich etc. The train connections lead to all bigger towns of the island and also further away: Palermo, Syrakus, Messina as well as Rome and Milan. At the station, there is also the starting point of the Etna Round train, with which you can make a trip round the Etna. Motorways lead to Messina (A18) and in the direction of Palermo (A19). Catania is the capital of the province and has about 400.000 inhabitants.

Beaches

About 4 km south of the city there is the bathing beach, Lido Playa. In summer, also a lot of residents go there during lunch break for enjoying refreshment.

Sights

Centre of the town is the Piazza del Duomo with the Elephant well. The cathedral San Ágata is worth a visit in any case. The Castello Ursino, a dark castle built out of lava stones in the year 1239, is dated from the time of the Stauffer. There is also the Museo Civico with local findings, for example Roman sculptures, porcelain ware and a collection of weapons.