Catania

Piazza del Duomo is also home to the elaborate Baroque Cattedrale di Sant’Agata (or simply the Catania Cathedral). Behind the marble walls is the final resting place of the city’s patron saint, Agata. Every February processions are held in her honour.

Sicily’s most famous composer is Vincenzo Bellini, who was born in Catania (1801-1835). His operas 'Norma', 'La Straniera' and 'Sonnambula' are famous all over the world. Museo Civico Belliniano is claimed to be one of the nicest in Catania, exhibiting pianos and memorabilia.

At Via Vittoria Emanuele you will find Catania’s best kept ruins from Roman times. The Roman Theatre, including gladiator tunnels and the circular auditorium Odeon lie next to each other, surrounded by residential buildings dating to later centuries.

Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano, stands about 3,330 metres high between Catania and Taormina. It erupts regularly and since 2002 visitors are not allowed to climb to the top of any of its four craters (hiking up is allowed). Regular buses depart for Etna from Catania.

Located in the Red Mount pine woods close to Etna, this park is made up of bridges, wires and cables hooked in the treetops to create paths up in the air. There are different levels of difficulty. Visitors can stay on the ground and join the workshops or explore nature trails and relaxation areas.

After a lot of walking in the bustling city, a break in a lush green park can be necessary. The Giardino Bellini park is located just off the Via Etnea in the city centre, and here you can enjoy a quiet moment among plants, trees, statues and fountains.

At Casa delle Farfalle, the Butterfly House, you can see some of the most beautiful butterflies and flowers in the world. If you want to learn more about these spectacular creatures, join a complimentary lecture. The greenhouse is situated in the Monte Serra Park, just outside the city of Catania. Note that the Butterfly House closes during the winter season.

Monastero San Benedetto, situated in Crociferi street, is a symbol of Catania. It is identifiable by the arch which unites the Monastery’s main abbey and the Church of Saint Benedict – one of the most beautiful baroque churches in Sicily – to the little abbey, wherein the MacS museum is housed.

9 kilometres north of Catania, the small and picturesque town of Aci Castello is located right by the coastline. The castle, which you should not miss out during your visit, was built by the Normans in 1076. Today, it hosts a museum for those interested in its history. The town also offers breathtaking nearby beaches – perfect for a day trip. Per bus, it takes around 35 minutes from Catania to get to Aci Castello.

The curious beach not too far from downtown is made up of volcanic eruption remains. This results in a beach consisting of black stones – in contrast to the regular golden sands. The padding might not be ideal for sunbathing, but the water is certainly crystal-clear. San Giovanni Li Cuti is located in Catania's north.

Half-way between Catania and Messina lies the picturesque, waterside Town of Taormina. It's situated at an elevation, which makes for some splendid views over the water, and has a few pleasant beaches down below. A not-to-be-missed attraction is the ancient Greco-Roman theatre.

The small town of Caltagirone, located 42 miles from Catania, is at the heart of Sicily’s ceramic handicraft tradition. The town also offers beautiful architecture, so do not miss the richly decorated walls of the Scala dei Santa Maria steps. The stairs are lined with old historic buildings.