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Unmissable in the city

From the Duomo to the shoreline, from historic markets to gardens: our picks to help you find your way on your first walk through the centre.

Piazza Duomo — The beating heart01

Piazza Duomo — The beating heart

The city's symbol: the Cathedral of Saint Agatha, the Amenano Fountain, and u Liotru, the lava stone elephant. Unmissable at sunset, when the lava stone glows warm.

Tip breakfast at Bar Prestipino or dinner at Sikule.

Via Garibaldi — Elegance meets flavor02

Via Garibaldi — Elegance meets flavor

Historic street linking the Duomo to Piazza Palestro, now buzzing with trendy spots: Razmataz Wine Bar, Bonù, Cortile Siciliano, Qubbì.

Piazza Teatro Massimo03

Piazza Teatro Massimo

Home to Teatro Bellini, one of Italy's most captivating opera houses, and the heart of classy nightlife. Try Plaza Lounge Bar or Il Mezzaparola for signature cocktails.

San Berillo District04

San Berillo District

From red-light district to an artistic hub full of murals, galleries and independent venues. Ideal for a local dinner or a creative cocktail.

The Abbey of Saint Agatha05

The Abbey of Saint Agatha

Climb the dome for a breathtaking panorama of both Etna and the sea — one of the finest views in the old town.

The Fish Market06

The Fish Market

A lively, theatrical daytime market, a buzzing meeting place at night among historic taverns. Try Scirocco for authentic seafood street food.

Castello Ursino07

Castello Ursino

A medieval fortress built by Frederick II, now a civic museum with a collection ranging from archaeology to modern art. Nearby: Il Borgo di Federico and Grammazita.

Via Etnea08

Via Etnea

Shopping, cafés, and views of Mount Etna along the city's main avenue. Don't miss Savia for arancini and Sicilian pastries.

Piazza Stesicoro09

Piazza Stesicoro

Home to the Roman amphitheater, one of the largest in Sicily. Great for a street food break between stops.

The Historic Market10

The Historic Market

Historic market in Piazza Carlo Alberto. Colorful, chaotic, authentic: the best way to feel the real Catania.

Via Gemellaro & Via Santa Filomena11

Via Gemellaro & Via Santa Filomena

Pedestrian streets lined with bistros and cocktail bars, among the most loved for evening drinks.

Tip Vermouth and Akkademia Drinks.

Villa Bellini12

Villa Bellini

Historic garden with fountains, scenic flowerbeds and even a small kids' go-kart track: perfect for a sunset stroll or a family break.

Ognina Waterfront13

Ognina Waterfront

A walk along the rocks and seaside cafés, in the old fishermen's quarter north of the city.

Catania's Playa Beach14

Catania's Playa Beach

Catania's longest beach, with golden sand and waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing. On weekends and in summer it buzzes with beach clubs, kiosks and bars for a sea-view aperitif.

Benedictine Monastery15

Benedictine Monastery

A UNESCO World Heritage site, one of the largest Benedictine monasteries in Europe, now a university campus. Guided tours through cloisters, hanging gardens and lava-stone underground tunnels.

Roman Theatre and Odeon16

Roman Theatre and Odeon

In the heart of the city on Via Vittorio Emanuele, a Roman theatre and small odeon carved into lava rock — a surprise just steps from the city traffic.