Is Catania worth visiting?

While it doesn't attract the same kind of attention as Palermo, Catania's unheralded delights are worth exploration: fine architecture, bustling markets, lively cultural events and centuries of history dating to the city's beginnings as a modest Greek colony.

Is it worth staying in Catania?

Catania is surely worth the visit. Italian cities can be similiar, but never the same, each town has his own character and personality. Catania isn't Palermo but has its share of things to see and do, baroque old center, greek theatre and roman ruins, good food and a lively nightlife...

Is Catania or Palermo better?

Palermo "may" have the edge on markets, but overall, Catania is better for shopping - You would find boutique shopping on via Etnea, as well as hypermarkets all around Catania. There are beaches in Catania and beaches easily reached by public bus from Catania towards the airport – Mondello is Palermo's beach.

Is Catania a touristy?

Catania isn't touristy or overly expensive, and it's actually a UNESCO site. Although Catania enjoys the best public transport connections in Eastern Sicily, 8-10 days is a long time to spend in Catania.

What is special about Catania?

Catania virtually sits in the shade of the immense Mount Etna, and this active stratovolcano is one of the main tourist attractions of Sicily. Mount Etna stands at a height 3329m and is considered the tallest active volcano in Europe. The most recent eruption was in 2015 and the volcano actually discharged some lava.

Catania CITY TOUR! One of Sicily's Most Confusing Cities? Part 1

How long do you need in Catania?

Catania is a city that can be explored in two days, but you'll need to be ambitious! If you want to really experience the city and give yourself some downtime, it's three to four days should suffice before moving onto the other cities in Catania.

Does Catania have a beach?

With its 18 km, La Playa is the locals' favourite beach: a long stretch of fine golden sand. Locals and tourists alike appreciate both the beach services offered by the lidos, and its lively and entertaining night life. Another strong point of La Playa is the breath-taking view of majestic Etna.

Which is better Catania or Taormina?

Taormina is unquestionably more scenic than Catania, although I much preferred Siracusa as an east coast base. Taormina is also a major tourist trap, and is not on the beach but up a cliff.

Do I need a car in Catania?

If you are visiting Sicily for 2 or 3 days and staying in Palermo or Catania, more than likely you will not need to rent a car. Public transport is readily available and there is so much to do in the larger cities you will spend most of your time without a need to travel further.

What part of Sicily is best to stay?

What is the most beautiful part of Sicily?

Which is the best city to visit in Sicily?

Is Sicily or Sardinia better?

If you're looking for classic historical sites and lots of Greek history then Sicily is the best option, whereas Sardina has much older examples of ancient monuments and has more Roman history than the other island.

Is Catania dirty?

Catania is a large, gritty city - It can be dirty and it certainly isn't for everyone. The food however is exactly as you should expect, specializing in seafood, and very delicious.

Is taxi expensive in Sicily?

Taxis are not common in Sicily, and pricey. It's much less expensive to prearrange a transfer, and you can do it online.

Is driving in Sicily difficult?

Most travelers will find that driving in Sicily is not overly difficult, especially in larger cities like Palermo and Catania. When navigating around some of the island's more complex historic centers, drivers will need to be on top of their game.

Is renting a car in Italy worth it?

They offer competitive rates as it searches all the big car rental companies and finds the best price. Even though renting a car in Italy is cheaper than in some other European countries, there are extra costs that you simply cannot avoid spending money on.

Which part of Sicily has the best beaches?

Is Taormina worth visiting?

Taormina—The Gem of Sicily

My opinion of Taormina is that it is certainly worth more than a day to fully enjoy all that the area has to offer. It is also possibly the most beautiful place that you will visit in Sicily.

How do I get from Catania to Mt Etna?

the only public transport that allow you to reach Etna's peak is the AST company bus. It leaves from Catania, at "piazza Papa Giovanni XXIII" (Catania central station square) and reach the "Rifugio Sapienza", at Nicolosi, starting point of cableway and jeeps that bring you to the central craters.

Is Sicily a good holiday destination?

That said, in spite of the difficulties, Sicily is an incredibly rewarding destination. It's filled with so much natural beauty and so many cultural destinations. The people are warm and friendly. The food is delicious.

Does Catania have sandy beaches?

The longest sandy beach of Catania is Plaja di Catania. It extends south of the city for about 18 km along Viale Kennedy. There are sections of the public beach (spiaggia libera) where everyone can come with their own towel and umbrella and set wherever they like.

Is Sicily cheap to visit?

Whether you're planning a month long road trip like us, or a quick one week sojourn to enjoy Sicily's highlights, there's one question that's likely crossed your mind - 'is Sicily expensive? '. The simple answer is that by European holiday standards, it's really quite affordable.

Where is the best place to base yourself in Sicily?

Catania would be your most convenient base in Eastern Sicily via public transport. Taormina is optimal for Etna, and Etna wineries, but it's also possible to visit Etna from Siracusa, and wineries as well, but then also the UNESCO Val di Noto towns.

Is 2 weeks in Sicily too long?

2 Weeks in Sicily: The Perfect 14-15 Days Itinerary. You're planning to go 2 weeks in Sicily and are looking for a complete itinerary for your stay? You're in the right place! A good news: 14, 15 or 16 days in Sicily is the ideal time to visit the island's must-see attractions.