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Catania

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Overview

Shopping The guide was updated: 2024-02-23

Catania is sometimes referred to as the Milan of Sicily — not so much for the fashion, but for the enterprising spirit. There are countless craftsmen, artists and small business owners who sell their wares all over the city, one example being the typical 53-inch Sicilian Pupi puppets that can be bought on Via Etnea. The elaborately carved wooden candelabras on sale in the historic quarters are another speciality of the region, and so are the colourful local ceramics.

One must-visit local attraction is the open-air fish market La Pescheria — a bustling, loud, smelly locale where some of the finest seafood restaurants go to stock up on dish ingredients. Brand name shopping can be had along expensive Corso Italia and around Via Pacini, Via Umberto I, and Via Etnea.

La Pescheria

La Pescheria

The bustling, smelly market La Pescheria (next to the cathedral), is worth a visit even if you are not buying any fish. It's a cultural experience in its own right – seeing the busy vendors display all sorts of curious marine creatures is quite the uncommon sight.

Via Etnea

Via Etnea

One of the city's main arteries and its busiest shopping street, Via Etnea stretches all the way from the Duomo square towards Etna (hence the telling name). The street is lined with all manner of shops and department stores, as well as a variety of eateries to suit any taste.

Corso Italia

Corso Italia

The Corso Italia street, running from the seaside up towards Mount Etna, is one of the most elegant streets in the city. It is the place to go for upscale brand name shopping — the street is lined with world-famous brand name stores and boutiques and breathes a sophisticated air.

Mercato di Piazza Carlo Alberto

Mercato di Piazza Carlo Alberto

The busy morning market in Carlo Alberto square is a vibrant shopping venue where anything and everything from fresh produce to clothes and spices can be found. Come with time, as there are a lot of stalls to browse through. It can get a bit loud in peak hours, but the bustle decreases after 1 pm.

Enoteca Regionale di Sicilia

Enoteca Regionale di Sicilia

This old town Sicilian wine shop packs a punch with its variety of local wines from small wineries in the region and all over Sicily. Apart from wines, the store stocks a variety of other local products, including many made from olives and pistachio. Wine tasting is possible.

Wine & Charme

Wine & Charme

The cavernous shop holds a host of treasures, it seems – the store's curious insides hold a selection of local products and wines from Etna and all over Sicily (prices range from several euros per bottle to a couple of hundred euros), as well as charming souvenirs (such as the famous local ceramics).

I Dolci Di Nonna Vincenza

I Dolci Di Nonna Vincenza

The sweet shop I Dolci Di Nonna Vincenza is a great place to go for traditional Italian sweets and pastry (that can be packed up and turned into perfect gifts). Do get a box of cannoli – the "classic" variety or ones with chocolate, pistachio, or orange flavoured cream filling.

Menza

Menza

A celebrated store is known throughout Catania, Menza specialises in Italian deli products. One side of the store is given over to savoury foods such as meats, cheeses, and even entire meals (there is a seating area for those looking to dine on-site), while the other is packed with sweets and pastries.

Mizzica

Mizzica

For traditional Sicilian souvenirs, try the centrally located Mizzica boutique. It sells hand-made crafts and decor items, bags, jewellery and accessories. The store offers good value for money and is a good find for those looking to bring local souvenirs to loved ones.

Porte di Catania

Porte di Catania

The Porte di Catania shopping mall is located outside the city centre, close to the airport. The large Auchan supermarket occupies the ground floor (great for groceries and deli foods); the second floor is packed with shops and stores of major local and international brands.

Etnapolis

Etnapolis

Etnapolis, a major shopping destination in Sicily, offers a unique shopping experience complete with a multiplex cinema, kids entertainment area and dining venues. There is a large affordable supermarket inside, as well as a great selection of local and international brand stores and boutiques.

I Portali

I Portali

One of the largest shopping centres in the south of Italy, I Portali is right for those looking to do some major shopping. It is located about an hour's drive outside of Catania but is certainly worth the trip if upscale international clothing, accessories and beauty brand stores are what you're after.

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