MOUNT ETNA & CATANIA
Mount Etna and Catania form a region where the primal power of a volcano meets the refined beauty of Baroque architecture. This is Eastern Sicily at its most dramatic and vibrant.
This area is a captivating blend of extremes. From the smoking craters of Europe’s highest active volcano to the bustling, elegant streets of a UNESCO World Heritage city, it offers an unforgettable Sicilian experience.
Most Popular Attractions
Mount Etna & Volcanic Region
The Summit & Craters:
Crateri Sommitali (Summit Craters): The highest and most active part of the volcano, accessible only with licensed guides.
Crateri Silvestri: Two large, easily accessible craters formed in 1892, located near the Etna Sud cable car station.
Valle del Bove: A massive, stark, horseshoe-shaped depression on the eastern flank, often filled with recent lava flows.
Grotta del Gelo (Ice Cave): A lava tube cave where an eternal glacier once existed, one of Etna’s most unique features.
Pian del Lago: A vast, high-altitude plateau often used as a staging point for summit excursions.
Monti Sartorius: A chain of seven small craters, known as a ‘bottoniera’, that formed during the 1865 eruption.
Etna Excursion & Infrastructure:
Funivia dell’Etna (Etna Cable Car): A system of cable cars and specialized off-road buses that carry visitors from Etna Sud (Rifugio Sapienza) to the upper parts of the volcano.
Circumetnea Railway: A historic narrow-gauge railway that circles the base of the volcano, offering picturesque views of the smaller towns and lava fields.
Rifugio Sapienza: The main tourist base on the southern slope, with restaurants, hotels, and the starting point for the cable car.
Piano Provenzana: The main tourist base on the northern slope, a ski resort in winter and a starting point for excursions in summer.
Parco dell’Etna: The regional natural park protecting the volcano’s ecosystem, excellent for hiking and nature trails.
Lava Tubes & Natural Features:
Grotta dei Lamponi: One of the longest lava tube caves on Etna, popular for guided caving tours.
Grotta delle Neve (Snow Cave): A well-known lava tube that traditionally served as a natural freezer for storing ice.
Rifugio Citelli: A mountain hut on the eastern slope offering beautiful views and access to unique nature trails.
Monte Zoccolaro: A viewpoint that offers one of the best perspectives over the Valle del Bove.
Towns on the Slopes:
Zafferana Etnea: Known as the “Pearl of Etna,” a town famous for its honey production and its resistance to the 1992 lava flow.
Linguaglossa: A wine-producing town on the northern slope, known for its old town center and access to the Piano Provenzana ski area.
Bronte: Famous worldwide for its high-quality green pistachio production.
Randazzo: A medieval town built almost entirely of black lava stone, spared by several lava flows.
Acireale: A beautiful Baroque coastal town known for its carnival and the nearby Timpa, a protected coastal reserve.
Catania City Core & Coast
Baroque Heart & UNESCO Sites:
Piazza Duomo: The main square, a UNESCO site, featuring the Fontana dell’Elefante (Elephant Fountain), the city’s symbol.
Cattedrale di Sant’Agata: The city’s magnificent main cathedral, dedicated to the patron saint, rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake.
Via Crociferi: The most beautiful Baroque street in Catania, lined with stunning churches and monasteries.
Teatro Massimo Bellini: A grand opera house dedicated to the city’s famous composer, Vincenzo Bellini.
Palazzo Biscari: The most important private palace in the city, an exemplary masterpiece of Sicilian Baroque architecture.
Pescheria (Fish Market): A boisterous, historic open-air market, a vibrant and essential part of Catanian life.
Via Etnea: The city’s main street, running straight towards Mount Etna, lined with shops and palaces.
Ancient & Historical Sites:
Teatro Romano: The well-preserved remains of a Roman theater, partially hidden among later residential buildings.
Odeon Romano: A smaller, semi-circular Roman theater located next to the main Roman Theatre.
Castello Ursino: A massive, medieval Swabian castle, one of the few buildings to survive the 1693 earthquake, now housing the Civic Museum.
Terme della Rotonda: The remains of ancient Roman baths converted into a Christian church.
Coastal & Modern Attractions:
Spiaggia La Playa: A long, sandy beach south of the city, popular with locals and tourists in summer.
San Giovanni Li Cuti: A charming small harbor area with black lava rocks and a picturesque, small beach.
Lungomare di Catania: The scenic seaside promenade, perfect for a stroll with views of the Ionian Sea and the Cyclops Islands.
Isole dei Ciclopi (Cyclops Islands): A group of sea stacks and a small island (Lachea) off the coast of Aci Trezza, linked to Homer’s Odyssey.
Activities & Experiences
Summit Excursion on Mount Etna: Take a guided tour to the authorized summit craters, often requiring a cable car, then a jeep ride, and a final trek, for an unforgettable view into the caldera.
Explore a Lava Tube (Grotta dei Lamponi): Put on a helmet and headlamp to walk through a fascinating underground lava cave, a tangible reminder of the volcano’s power.
Wine Tasting on the Slopes: Visit a local vineyard on Etna’s fertile, mineral-rich slopes for a tasting of the unique Etna DOC wines, often paired with traditional Sicilian food.
Hike the Silvestri Craters: Easily accessible from the south side (Rifugio Sapienza), explore the picturesque, dormant craters that erupted in 1892. This is a great, less strenuous option.
Go Scuba Diving or Snorkeling in the Cyclops Riviera: Explore the dramatic sea stacks (Faraglioni) and volcanic seabed of Aci Trezza and Aci Castello, an area steeped in Greek mythology.
Take a Sicilian Cooking Class: Learn to prepare classic dishes like Pasta alla Norma, arancini, or cannoli using fresh local ingredients in a traditional cucina.
Wander the Catania Fish Market (Pescheria): Immerse yourself in the vibrant, chaotic, and authentic atmosphere of one of Sicily’s oldest and best-loved fish markets.
Visit the Roman and Greek Ruins: Explore the Roman Theatre right in the heart of Catania, and the Odeon, or take a short trip to the extensive Greek-Roman ruins in nearby Taormina or Syracuse.
Enjoy a Granita at a Historic Cafe: Experience the iconic Sicilian icy treat (granita)—often for breakfast—at a classic cafe in Catania, such as those near the Duomo, with brioche bread for dipping.
Day Trip to Taormina and Isola Bella: Drive or take a train to the stunning clifftop town of Taormina to see the ancient Teatro Antico di Taormina and take the cable car down to the picturesque Isola Bella nature reserve.
Explore Catania’s Baroque Architecture: Wander through the UNESCO-listed historic center, paying close attention to the black lava stone buildings and the white limestone details, especially on Via Crociferi.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Essential for Etna Exploration: To properly explore Mount Etna and the surrounding small towns, a rental car is highly recommended. This allows you to visit different sides of the volcano, including the north (Linguaglossa) and south (Rifugio Sapienza), and move freely between coastal and mountain areas. Be prepared for winding, mountainous roads.
Public Transport in Catania City: The city center is compact and very walkable. For longer distances, Catania has a decent bus network (AMT) and a short metro line that connects the main train station (Stazione Centrale) to the city’s outskirts.
From the Airport: The Alibus (AMT) is a direct, affordable, and frequent shuttle bus connecting Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA) to the city center and the central train/bus station. Taxis are also readily available.
Circumetnea Railway: This unique, narrow-gauge railway encircles the base of Mount Etna. It’s not a fast way to travel, but it is a scenic and charming way to visit the small towns on the volcano’s slopes, such as Bronte and Randazzo.
The Volcanic Vibe: Catania is nicknamed the “Black City” (La Nera) because many of its stunning Baroque buildings are constructed from dark gray/black lava rock (pietra lavica). This gives the city a unique, dramatic aesthetic.
Embrace the Chaos of the Pescheria: Visiting the famous Catania Fish Market is a cultural experience as much as a shopping trip. Go in the morning for the most lively atmosphere. It’s loud, messy, and exhilarating—don’t be afraid to sample the street food, such as raw sea urchin or local cheeses, on offer.
Siesta and Dinner Times: Like many southern Italian regions, Sicily adheres to a late schedule. Many small shops close from roughly 1 PM to 4:30 PM for lunch and rest (pausa). Lunch is eaten late (around 2 PM), and dinner rarely starts before 8:30 PM, often closer to 9:30 PM. Dining before this time will mean you are likely dining alone.
Dress for Etna: If you are hiking on Mount Etna, even in the summer, the temperature at altitude can be surprisingly cold. Dress in layers and bring a windproof/waterproof jacket. Sturdy walking shoes are an absolute must, even for the easiest crater walks.
Language: While English is spoken in tourist-heavy areas, the local language is a distinct form of Sicilian dialect. Learning a few Italian phrases, like Per favore (Please) and Grazie (Thank you), will be highly appreciated.
Hidden Gems
San Berillo: While parts of the area have been renovated, this historic, maze-like quarter near the train station is one of the city’s oldest districts and offers a glimpse into a more raw, authentic Catania.
A Putia dell’Ostello (The Lava Stone Well): Tucked away inside a hostel, this incredible subterranean tunnel leads down to an ancient lava stone well and offers a fascinating look at the city’s underground history.
Acireale’s Timpa Reserve: A lesser-known nature reserve just north of Catania, the Timpa is a scenic cliff face with walking paths that offer incredible views over the Cyclops Riviera and the sea, connecting to charming seaside villages.
Pasticceria Savia (Catania): Avoid the crowds at the main piazza and head to this historic bakery for some of the best traditional Sicilian pastries, including the famous cannoli and cassata.
Top Restaurants
Trattoria del Cavaliere [$15-$25] – An authentic, no-frills Catanese classic near Castello Ursino, known for its massive portions and cheap prices. A great place to try local favorites like pasta alla Norma and their notable grilled meats.
Osteria Antica Marina [$20-$30] – Located inside the bustling Pescheria (fish market), this acclaimed spot offers ultra-fresh seafood with a mix of traditional and modern preparations. Book a table inside for a calmer experience, or enjoy the market’s lively atmosphere outdoors.
Trattoria La Canonica [$20-$30] – A historic, colorfully-decorated restaurant in the heart of Catania near Piazza Duomo, popular with locals and known for the authenticity and breadth of its traditional Sicilian dishes.
Me Cumpari Turiddu [$25-$35] – An elegant yet warm restaurant in the city center that celebrates traditional Sicilian “slow food” cuisine with a refined touch, focusing on local, seasonal, and Slow Food Presidia ingredients.
In Cucina Dai Pennisi [$25-$40] – Located in Linguaglossa on the slopes of Etna, this unique meat-focused restaurant is in the back of a butcher shop. You choose your cut from the cases, and they grill it over a live fire.
Trattoria U Fucularu [$20-$30] – A rustic and authentic trattoria near the fish market, beloved by locals for its traditional Catanese flavors, especially its antipasti and simple, hearty pasta dishes.
Scirocco Sicilian Fish Lab [$15-$25] – A hole-in-the-wall spot on the edge of the Pescheria that serves perfectly fried seafood in traditional paper cones (cartocci)—a quintessential Catania street food experience.
Nonna Lilla Trattoria Marinara [$20-$30] – A small, unassuming spot known for its incredibly fresh, off-the-boat seafood and gracious, old-fashioned service.
Osteria dei Marinai da Graziano [$20-$35] – Offers a classic seafood experience near the port with an outside terrace, known for its large portions of seafood and lively atmosphere.
A Putia Do Calabrisi [$15-$25] – A purely Catanese osteria with wine barrels and a very local, spirited atmosphere. Expect a queue and simple, hearty food, a true local’s experience away from the main tourist hubs.
Ristorante Eusebio [$30-$50] – Tucked away in the old town, this restaurant is a local landmark for its top-quality, perfectly cooked meat. Located in a traditional villa, it has a welcoming indoor courtyard.
Quattro Archi di Grasso Rosario [$30-$45] – A rustic osteria in Zafferana Etnea (Etna region) with a maximalist decor and a Slow Food-focused menu, often involving the owner, Grasso Rosario, explaining the dishes.
Trattoria Da Patrizia [$15-$25] – A very affordable trattoria favored by locals for its traditional, homemade Sicilian food, including a great pistachio pasta.
La Tana Del Lupo [$25-$40] – Located in Nicolosi on the slopes of Etna, this is a quintessential Sicilian steakhouse with stone walls and exposed wooden rafters, known for its ample portions of meat.
San Giorgio e il Drago [$30-$50] – A classy, family-run trattoria in the medieval town of Randazzo (Etna North), famous among Etna winemakers for its seasonal, typically Sicilian dishes like pasta with wild asparagus.
Il Ciliegio dell’Etna Farmhouse [$25-$40] – A restaurant in Giarre focusing on traditional Sicilian recipes with an emphasis on “short chain” products, many of which are grown organically on their own farm.
Osteria Terra & Sorsi [$30-$50] – Located in the garden of the Cantine Nicosia winery on the slopes of Etna, offering a hearty mountain cuisine experience, only open by reservation.
FUD Bottega Sicula [$20-$35] – An iconic and innovative casual dining spot that focuses on high-quality, locally sourced Sicilian ingredients to create “gourmet” street food like Sicilian-style burgers and salads.
Il Sale [$25-$45] – Located on the trendy Via Santa Filomena, this popular spot offers creative European cuisine with a strong focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Concezione Restaurant [$30-$50] – A creative Mediterranean restaurant in Catania known for its innovative approach to traditional flavors and sophisticated presentation.
Putì [$25-$40] – A modern Mediterranean restaurant in Catania known for its imaginative cuisine, offering a refined twist on local dishes.
Razmataz Wine Bar [$25-$45] – A hip and cozy wine bar con cucina near Via Etnea, where a cool, local crowd hangs out. The tight, often-changing menu offers creative global and Sicilian dishes.
Vermut [$20-$35] – A specialty Vermouth bar and salumeria serving freshly sliced regional meats and cheeses, along with Sicilian-style tapas, perfect for an affordable and unique aperitivo or dinner.
La Cucina dei Colori [$20-$35] – A “healthier” spot in Catania known for its creative vegetarian food, which can be a great break from the heavy Sicilian classics.
Zash Ristorante [$80-$130] – A Michelin-starred restaurant located in a boutique hotel in Riposto (near Etna), offering a minimalist and elegant setting and a cuisine that roots creative verve in local traditions and ingredients.
Shalai Resort Restaurant [$70-$110] – The restaurant of the Shalai Resort in Linguaglossa (Etna North) offers a safe address for high-standard, sophisticated local cuisine and hospitality.
Etnea Roof Bar & Restaurant by ‘UNA cucina’ [$40-$80] – Located on the 7th floor of the Palace Catania | UNA Esperienze hotel, offering stunning panoramic views of Mount Etna and the city. It serves typical Sicilian specialties like pasta alla Norma and fresh seafood.
Il Covo Marino [$50-$90] – An elegant beachfront restaurant in Aci Trezza (near Catania) specializing in upscale, creative seafood dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
Locanda Nerello [$60-$100] – The restaurant at the Monaci delle Terre Nere estate (near Zafferana Etnea). It emphasizes organic, farm-to-table cuisine, with most produce coming from the estate’s own farm.
Gran Caffè Urna dal 1885 [$15-$25] – Located near the slopes of Etna, this historic spot in Paternò is said to be the inventor of the fried calzone-like pizza siciliana stuffed with Tuma cheese.
Forno Biancuccia [$10-$20] – A welcoming corner bakery in Catania dedicated to reviving heirloom grains, creating exceptional sourdough loaves, schiacciata (a filled pizza-like bread), and buttery biscotti.
Borgo di Federico [$15-$25] – A popular spot facing Castello Ursino, where many locals go for mixed grilled meats. It’s in the area famous for Catanese horse meat dishes.
Gran Caffè Urna dal 1885 [$15-$25] – Located near the slopes of Etna, this historic spot in Paternò is said to be the inventor of the fried calzone-like pizza siciliana stuffed with Tuma cheese.
Pasticceria Santo Musumeci [$5-$15] – Located in Randazzo (Etna North), this historic pasticceria is renowned for its exceptional, all-natural gelato and granita, especially their pistachio and hazelnut varieties.
Granita at Comis Ice Cafè [$5-$15] – Considered one of the best spots for superlative granita in Catania, especially when paired with the soft, warm brioche col tuppo.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Boheme Mixology Bar: A high-end cocktail bar in the heart of Catania, known for its vintage decor and passionate mixologists who craft bespoke, quality drinks.
Etnea Roof Bar & Restaurant: Located on the 7th floor of a central Catania hotel, this stylish rooftop venue offers exclusive cocktails and stunning panoramic views of Mount Etna and the city’s skyline.
A Putìa dell’Ostello: A vibrant bar in Catania’s center, uniquely set within a stunning lava stone cave, part of the Agora Hostel. It offers an eclectic menu and a great atmosphere for drinks and socializing.
Circus Cocktail Bar: Found in one of Catania’s oldest areas, this bar brings a sense of fun and avant-garde mixology, with themed drinks and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Oliva.co Cocktail Society: Tucked away in an alley off Via Umberto in Catania, this spot is perfect for serious cocktail aficionados, offering an impressive selection of spirits and perfectly made classics using house-made ingredients.
Vermut: Located in the city center on Via Gemmellaro, this bar is always packed, spilling out onto the street. It’s a favorite for its aperitivo—a drink served with delicious small plates—and its excellent selection of vermouths and local wines.
Razmataz Wine Bar: A popular evening venue in a beautiful outdoor square in Catania’s center, ideal for an aperitivo with wine, beer, or cocktails, often with food options available.
First Lounge Bar: A hidden gem in a small, central square in Catania’s trendy San Berillo neighborhood, offering a bohemian feel and known as a fantastic spot for wine lovers.
Collage Boutique Bar: Situated on the bustling Via Etnea in Catania, this creative bar features innovative cocktails and tasty small bites, drawing inspiration from Sicilian essences and international influences.
Vinicolo Cocktail Lab: An artful cocktail bar in Catania where creativity meets flavor, known for mixology that focuses on high-quality ingredients and a refined drinking experience.
Drunk Bros: A well-known cocktail bar located on Via Umberto in Catania, offering a vibrant atmosphere and a fantastic selection of expertly crafted drinks.
Mezzaparola Cocktail Art Pub: A tiny but popular watering hole in Catania, often packed with patrons spilling out by the entrance, known for its cocktails and vibrant atmosphere.
BarnAut: Located between the Duomo and Castello Ursino in Catania’s old town, this unique pub offers a vibrant atmosphere for both coffee and evening drinks.
Etna Wine Bar (Cavanera Etnea Resort): Located on the slopes of Mount Etna, within a resort and vineyard, this is an intimate and refined location to taste the region’s volcanic wines amidst centuries-old trees and vineyards.
Antico Caffè San Giorgio: A historic bar in the village of Castelmola, near Taormina and Mount Etna, famous for its centuries-old recipe for vino alle mandorle (almond wine) and stunning terrace views.
Afrobar: A lively beachfront nightclub in the Catania Playa area, with a dance floor directly on the sand. By night, it transforms from a daytime lido into a party venue, often featuring bonfires and fire dancers in summer.
Mercati Generali: Considered one of the finest nightlife establishments in Sicily, this club is located about 10 kilometers outside Catania center, attracting a chic crowd with a relaxed party vibe. It features multiple rooms and hosts popular international and local DJs.
Banacher: Located near Catania, in the beautiful coastal town of Aci Castello, this exclusive venue is famous for its three dance floors, DJ sets, pool views, and exotic music, often attracting a glamorous crowd.
Le Capannine: A popular beach club in the Catania Playa area by day, which transforms into a pumping party venue at night, with multiple dance floors and a Caribbean theme.
MA Catania: A cultural and nightlife hub in the city center, housed in a cool industrial space, known for a mix of live bands, art exhibitions, and diverse DJ sets, including electronic and indie music.
Zò Centro Culture Contemporanee: More than just a club, this is a cultural space in Catania that frequently hosts varied events, including live music, from jazz to electronic, and various performances.
Industrie Catania: A popular pub and club in Catania that offers a vibrant, non-conformist atmosphere, often featuring DJ sets that cater to diverse tastes.
First Floor: An intimate lounge in Catania with a more relaxed vibe than the larger clubs, occasionally featuring live music and a good cocktail menu.
La Chiave: Located in Catania’s city center, this popular spot offers a good range of cocktails and beers, but is also known for its live music and regular DJ sets.
LÜA beach: A beachfront venue that joins the summer nightlife scene along the coast of Catania, offering parties and a vibrant atmosphere by the sea.
Mediterranee beach luxury club: Located on the coast near Catania, this club offers a luxury beach experience by day that transitions into a sophisticated party spot with music and events by night.