Which is better Catania or Palermo?

Catania has more of a city feeling and in this respect, I like it slightly less than Palermo. But it's the perfect destination for a visit to the Etna and the lovely and charming Taormina, besides the unique Noto. Mondello Beach in Palermo is, however, so beautiful and unmissable if visiting in summer.

Is it better to go to Catania or Palermo?

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 cheaper than Palermo?

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Palermo and Catania, we can see that Catania is more expensive. And not only is Palermo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Palermo would let you spend less money overall.

What is the nicest part of Sicily?

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.

COMPLETE SICILY GUIDE 2: Palermo, Taormina, Catania

Is Palermo worth visiting?

Palermo is famous for its historic outdoor street markets. These markets encompass the traditions of Sicilian people. Despite their age, these markets are busy every day as locals stop by for their groceries and goods. There are four historic markets, each devoted to a different product.

Is Catania good for 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.

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.

Does Palermo have a beach?

Palermo is a port city with no beaches. Mondello is Palermo's beach.

What is Catania Sicily known for?

The city of Catania is nowadays an important cultural, artistic, economical and political centre in Sicily – and it has been such since the Renaissance: its university was built back in 1431 (one of the first universities of history, the first one in Sicily).

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.

Which is better Palermo or Taormina?

It depends on your preference, Taormina is a small, chic and pricey tourist resort, Palermo is a big and chaotic city, two completely different environments/experiences. With only 4 days, you have to decide between the two.

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.

Which is warmer Palermo or Catania?

If you plan on visiting Palermo, the capital of Sicily, you can expect slightly warmer averages (52-66°F/11-19°C), and around Syracuse and Catania, warmer still with even less rain.

Which part of Sicily has the best beaches?

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.

Which coast is better in Sicily?

There are beautiful beaches all over Sicily but eastor west is personal preference. Alot of people choose the east coast - Taormina/Etna and Siracusa for historyand the Baroque towns and access to the south east beaches. If youre not planning to hire a car then the east coast is perhaps easier to negotiate.

Is Palermo pretty?

In fact, I'd argue Palermo can be quite a beautiful city to explore, especially around its historical centre. The old town of Palermo is rife with grand palaces and elegant corners that are quite impressive even if they show signs of wear and tear.

Where should I stay in Sicily for the first time?

Palermo is the best place to stay in Sicily if you are visiting for the first time as you will have easy access to the main attractions of Sicily and be able to reach nice beaches easily.

Is Palermo safe?

Research conducted by the ISTAT (Italian National Institute of Statistics), Palermo, among the twelve largest cities in Italy, was the city with the lowest overall crime rate. You may be surprised to learn that the city with the highest rate of crime today is Milan, followed by Bologna and Turin.

What is the best beach in Italy?

Which is better east or west Sicily?

Western Sicily has the best beaches. Eastern Sicily has the prettier towns (particularly in the south east corners, such as Noto). The Valley of the Temples is best visited on a western Sicily itinerary, but can be visited on a two-week eastern Sicily itinerary.

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.

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.