Are you thinking of spending a three-day vacation in Catania with friends and want to prepare a detailed itinerary to understand what to do in Catania? Don’t worry, because today, in this article, we will talk about exactly that.
The beautiful city of Catania has the charm of a coastal town with weathered walls, showing the grandeur of the past. Catania has that decadent touch that I adore. Sure, the city isn’t swimming in wealth, the streets aren’t clean, and some alleys require caution, but it still has a lot to offer. Don’t be anxious about these three days of vacation because you can explore the city center quite well in just a couple of days. Keep reading to find out more.
Before diving into Catanian life, we must come to terms with the constant presence of Mount Etna. The volcano, called “a muntagna” by the Sicilians, has marked the city’s history, as evidenced by the remnants of lava flows, the color of the buildings, and the ash that occasionally covers everything. Two crucial dates to note are the eruption of 1669, which caused enormous damage, and the 1963 earthquake that leveled everything.
Two main events define the Baroque soul of Catania, redesigned and rebuilt from scratch in the 1700s. It is one of the late Baroque cities of the Val di Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage site. So, what to see in Catania in just three days?
Three days in Catania: what to do?
Day 1: Exploring Piazza Duomo
Start with Piazza Duomo, where the main Baroque treasures are concentrated. The Cathedral stands majestically in front of the Elephant Fountain. Other gems include the Palazzo dei Chierici, darkened by the use of volcanic sands, and the Palazzo degli Elefanti, now the Town Hall. Next to the Cathedral is the Badia di Sant’Agata, the city’s patron saint, offering a breathtaking view.
Adjacent to Piazza Duomo is the Pescheria, the picturesque and famous fish market. It’s held in Piazza Alonzo di Benedetto, continuing to Piazza Pardo and through the tunnel under Palazzo dei Chierici. The first stalls appear at 6 AM and remain until lunchtime. Here, you’ll also find fruit, vegetable, and meat vendors, along with stalls selling fried artichokes and grilled vegetables.
Day 2: Castello Ursino and Surroundings
Head to Castello Ursino near Via Plebiscito. Once overlooking the sea, the 1600 lava flow surrounded it, distancing it from the shore. The square is now beautiful, with various bars and restaurants. Via Plebiscito is a long street curving all the way to the Roman Amphitheater, located next to the famous Via Etnea.
Day 3: A Mix of Culture and Relaxation
Spend your last day exploring more cultural sites, such as the Benedictine Monastery and the Giovanni Verga Museum, which was the home of the famous writer. You can also relax in the Bellini Gardens or take a short trip to the coastal towns like Aci Trezza to enjoy the scenic views and local cuisine.
With this itinerary, you’ll be able to enjoy the best of Catania in three days, balancing cultural exploration with local experiences.
