Top 4 Itineraries in Catania

No matter how long you plan to stay, there’s a perfect trip to Catania.

If you only have a few days, Catania weekend getaways are the perfect option. A 3 to 5-day stay in Catania offers just enough time to soak in the highlights

For a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation, city breaks in Catania are ideal. With a few extra days, you can dive deeper into Catania’s most iconic landmarks, stroll through charming neighborhoods, and savor local cuisine at a leisurely pace.

For those who crave freedom and discovery, road trips through Catania offer the perfect opportunity to explore beyond the city. With the open road ahead, you’ll uncover Italy's most scenic landscapes, visit charming towns, and discover hidden gems along the way.

For sun seekers, beach vacations in Catania offer the perfect escape. Whether 5, 7 or 10 days, spend them unwinding on sandy shores, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and soaking up the coastal beauty. With plenty of time to relax and explore, a beach trip to Catania is the ideal way to recharge.

Explore all the best trips for every travel style below and make your next trip to Catania truly unforgettable!

If you’re as convinced as we are that Catania belongs on your bucket list, you're in luck. The best trips to Catania are just a quick search away.

Enter your dates below to discover the best travel packages in Catania and start planning your next trip!

Discover the perfect Catania itinerary with our handpicked list. Each of these 4 itineraries is crafted to match different travel styles. So whether you're in Catania just for a weekend, or you plan to see more on a longer city break or road trip, there's an itinerary for you!

With detailed routes, top attractions, and insider tips, these itineraries will help you experience the best of Catania without missing a thing. Dive into our list and learn how to plan the ultimate trip to Catania!

A scenic 4-day road trip through Catania, Taormina, Siracusa, Mazzarò, and Torre Archirafi is one of the best ways to experience Italy. With the freedom to travel at your own pace, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to make spontaneous stops between the planned activities on your itinerary.

A 4-day itinerary means that Catania can easily be combined with other top destinations in Italy without stress. While it’s possible to travel between Catania, Taormina, Siracusa, Mazzarò, and Torre Archirafi by public transport, renting a car in Italy opens up a whole new level of freedom!

So, with 4 days to spend, all you need is a rental car, some hotel reservations, and this iconic road trip itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Catania

• Arrival city: Catania
• Accommodation: hotel in Catania, e.g., B&B Sciara Larmisi
• Sightseeing: Porta Garibaldi

Begin your road trip adventure by picking up your rental car at the airport upon arrival in Catania. Drive to your centrally located hotel, which offers convenient access to local attractions. Spend the day exploring nearby sights, and in the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional flavors and soaking up the atmosphere.

Day 2: Explore Catania

• Destinations: Catania
• Driving distance: 67.33 km, approx. 1 hour and 9 minutes
• Accommodation: hotel in Syracuse, e.g., Autentica Ortigia
• Sightseeing: Greek - Roman theatre, Piazza Università, Castello Ursino, Basilica Cattedrale di Sant'Agata, and Fountain of the Elephant
• Recommended tour: Syracuse Private Walking Tour with Traditional Lunch and Wine

Set out on a day of discovery and visit Greek - Roman theatre, Piazza Università, Castello Ursino, Basilica Cattedrale di Sant'Agata, and Fountain of the Elephant. Take time to enjoy the scenery and local highlights of Catania, with the freedom to stop at whatever sight catches your interest. By the end of the day, check-in at a new hotel, located in central Syracuse.

Day 3: Discover Taormina, Siracusa, and Mazzarò

• Destinations: Taormina, Siracusa, and Mazzarò
• Driving distance: 177.48 km, approx. 2 hours and 51 minutes
• Accommodation: hotel in Catania, e.g., B&B Sciara Larmisi
• Sightseeing: Villa Comunale di Taormina, Temple of Apollo, Syracuse Cathedral, Neapolis Archaeological Park, and Teatro Antico di Taormina
• Recommended tour: Agrigento and Piazza Armerina: Valley of the Temples and Villa Romana del Casale

Spend the day exploring Villa Comunale di Taormina, Temple of Apollo, Syracuse Cathedral, Neapolis Archaeological Park, and Teatro Antico di Taormina. Take scenic drives or walking tours to experience the area’s charm at your own pace. End the day by checking into a new hotel, conveniently located in central Catania.

Day 4: Experience Catania

• Destinations: Catania
• Driving distance: 2.11 km, approx. 26 minutes
• Accommodation: hotel in Catania, e.g., B&B Sciara Larmisi
• Sightseeing: Villa Bellini/Chiosco Bellini
• Recommended tour: Etna 2000m & Taormina

Continue your journey through Catania, where you can explore Villa Bellini/Chiosco Bellini. Make time for a break at a cozy café or scenic picnic spot. Wrap up the day by checking in at a hotel in the heart of Catania.

Day 4: Bid Farewell to Catania

• Departure city: Catania
• Driving distance: 2.11 km, approx. 26 minutes
• Sightseeing: Villa Bellini/Chiosco Bellini

Savor an hour or two for souvenir shopping or revisiting a favorite spot before it’s time to say goodbye to Catania. Drop off your rental car at the airport a couple of hours before departure for a seamless end to your trip.

The estimated cost for a rental car and accommodations for each night along the route is around 279 EUR for two people, providing a value-for-money way to experience what's beyond Catania. So, if you’re ready to explore iconic landmarks, scenic routes, and charming towns at your own pace, this 4-day road trip itinerary through Catania, Taormina, Siracusa, Mazzarò, and Torre Archirafi is an excellent choice.

Looking for something different? Explore more road trips with a stop in Catania for alternative itineraries, routes, and durations.

Enjoy a 5-day city break in Catania with the perfect itinerary, designed to showcase the city’s top sights, local flavors, and hidden corners.

No need to stress over the details – we’ve curated the perfect 5-day itinerary to give you a seamless outline for your trip. Use this itinerary to capture the best of Catania without the hassle of planning.

Day 1: Begin Your Journey in Catania

Arrive in Catania and start your trip with a relaxing walk through town, discovering highlights like Palazzo Beneventano.

Take in the local charm as you wander the streets, and as evening approaches, indulge in a delicious dinner at Ristorante da Antonio, a top local restaurant—the ideal way to kick off your getaway!

Day 2: Discover Nearby Attractions and Iconic Landmarks

Enjoy your first full day in Catania by heading out for some must-see sightseeing. Explore around town and visit popular attractions like the iconic Piazza Università, Teatro Massimo Bellini, Basilica Cattedrale di Sant'Agata, Fountain of the Elephant, and Palazzo Biscari.

One of the best ways to quickly learn how to navigate the city is to join one of the many great city sightseeing tours in Catania. Choose a walking tour to embrace a relaxed exploration. Alternatively, go for a tour by bus or bike to cover a larger part of Catania in the same amount of time.

In the evening, head out for another lovely dinner and raise a glass to a fantastic day of exploring!

Day 3: Learn More About the Local Sites

Use this day to discover more of Catania’s top sights. We recommend visiting Greek - Roman theatre, Benedictine Monastery of San Nicolò l'Arena, Castello Ursino, Orto Botanico dell'Università di Catania, and Villa Bellini/Chiosco Bellini.

To make the most of your time, don’t forget to book your attraction tickets and passes in Catania in advance. Beyond possible savings, booking tickets early ensures availability even for Catania's most popular attractions.

After a nice dinner, take a walk through the city center and experience Catania’s attractions in another light.

Day 4: Explore the Local Flavors

Start the day with breakfast at a local cafe before you head out to explore. Museo Storico dello Sbarco in Sicilia 1943, Museo Del Cinema, and Zo are attractions you could discover today.

Afterward, enjoy lunch or visit a local market. Spend the afternoon shopping for unique souvenirs to memorialize your city break in Catania.

For a fun and interesting evening, check out the food and drink tours in Catania. Take the opportunity to sample local specialties and learn more about the food culture of Italy!

A 7-day beach vacation in Catania offers the perfect mix of sun, sand, and relaxation.

Highlights of the best beach vacation itinerary in Catania:

• Beaches: Spend your days at Catania beach, Catania beach II, and Primosole beach II.
• Accommodation: Enjoy a relaxing stay close to the beach at places like B&B Sciara Larmisi for easy access to nearby dining and activities.
• Beach activities: Dive into beachside fun with options like snorkeling and sup-surfing, and more.
• Dining experiences: Savor the flavors of the coast at A Putia, Ristorante Oliviero 1962, and Contraste, and other nearby dining spots.
• Nightlife: Enjoy live music and late-night entertainment at bars like Bar Serena | Pasticceria, Gelateria, Tavola Calda, Antica Pasticceria di Grasso Salvatore, and Pasticceria Franco La Bella, and more.
• Cultural experiences: Explore Villa Bellini/Chiosco Bellini, Castello Ursino, Fountain of the Elephant, Piazza Università, Basilica Cattedrale di Sant'Agata, Greek - Roman theatre, Orto Botanico dell'Università di Catania, and Porta Garibaldi, local markets, and souvenir shops.

With a well-planned 7-day beach vacation itinerary in Catania, you can fully unwind, knowing your time is optimized for some of the best local beaches and daily activities.

Day 1: Begin Your Beach Escape in Catania

Arrive in Catania, settle into your hotel, and take in the sea breeze as you prepare for 7 days of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy a refreshing swim at Catania beach or explore the attractions near your accommodation as you settle in Catania.

Day 2: Relax at a Top Local Beach

Enjoy a day under the sun at Catania beach II, a top beach in Catania. In the afternoon, make sure to visit Greek - Roman theatre, Benedictine Monastery of San Nicolò l'Arena, and Castello Ursino for an exploration of local attractions. As evening approaches, head to one of the best restaurants in the area to taste the freshest local dishes.

Day 3: Embark on a Sailing Adventure

Start your day with a refreshing sailing adventure, where you'll explore hidden coves and untouched bays around Catania. After a day on the water, take a peaceful sunset stroll along the beach, or enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant.

Day 4: Dive into Water Sports

Enjoy a fun-filled day of water sports at Ognina-Picanello beach. Alternatively, try out popular activities in Catania to add some adventure to your day. End the evening with a meal at a local restaurant and soak up the unique atmosphere.

Day 5: Relax at a Local Beach

Start your day by lounging by the crystal-clear waters of Catania beach, one of the best beaches in Catania. Add a cultural twist to your beach trip in the afternoon with a local cultural tour.

Day 6: Explore the Local Scene

Spend a sun-filled day at Catania beach II. In the afternoon, explore the local scene by visiting ORO d'Etna - Farm Costa - Beekeeping and RADICEPURA - Horticultural Park. As the day winds down, enjoy a meal and a refreshing drink while admiring the beautiful views.

Day 7: Unwind by the Beach

Relax and rejuvenate with a beach day at Primosole beach II. Bring a book, lounge under an umbrella, and enjoy the day at Porta Garibaldi, with a refreshing drink in hand. As evening falls, enjoy a beachside dinner.

Day 7: Say Farewell to Catania

Wrap up your trip with a leisurely morning exploring any missed highlights in Catania. Pick up last-minute souvenirs, grab a coffee at a beachfront café, and savor one last view of the sea before you say goodbye. Then, take a convenient transferto make your departure easier.

For more beach vacation ideas, explore all beach vacations in Catania. Whether you're seeking a brief escape or an extended stay by the sea, these trips offer pre-planned, customizable itineraries, making it simple to enjoy the best of Catania's coastline.

A 5-day weekend getaway in Catania offers the perfect break from the hustle of daily life.

However, with a well-planned Catania itinerary, you can effortlessly experience the best of the city in just a few days. Picture yourself exploring iconic landmarks, savoring local cuisine, and wandering charming neighborhoods—it's all within reach as long as you know how to plan your trip properly.

With 5 days to spend, this is the perfect Catania weekend itinerary for your trip:

Day 1 - Arrive in Catania

Arrive in Catania around noon and head to your hotel for an early check-in.

• Morning: Take some time to relax and refresh after your journey, or get a head start by visiting a nearby landmark.
• Afternoon: Ease into your trip with some sightseeing, for example, visiting Palazzo Beneventano, and soak in the surroundings.
• Evening: Dine at a popular restaurant and celebrate the start of the vacation with some drinks.

Day 2 - Discover Catania’s Famous Sights

Maximize your first full day in Catania with sightseeing, food, and drinks.

• Morning: Visit Piazza Università early to avoid crowds and enjoy the views.
• Afternoon: Continue to Basilica Cattedrale di Sant'Agata, stopping by Teatro Massimo Bellini for a break and some photos.
• Evening: Dine at a popular restaurant and cap off the day at a local bar.
• Tip: Use part of the morning to join one of the many city sightseeing tours in Catania and get a guided journey through the top attractions in the city.

Day 3 - Immerse in the Local Culture of Catania

No itinerary in Catania is complete without trying the city's top local delicacies and experiencing the culture.

• Morning: Start with a traditional breakfast to fuel up for the day and then head to Greek - Roman theatre.
• Afternoon: Explore Benedictine Monastery of San Nicolò l'Arena and Castello Ursino, stopping at markets, boutiques, museums, or exhibitions along the way.
• Evening: Enjoy a dinner featuring regional specialties and finish with a night tour of the city’s illuminated landmarks.
• Tip: Explore food and drink experiences in Catania and join an afternoon tour to sample the authentic flavors of Italy.

Day 5 - Depart from Catania

Make the most of your last few hours in Catania before your departure.

• Morning: Grab a light breakfast at a local bakery or café and take a final stroll nearby.
• Afternoon: If you have time, do some last-minute sightseeing.

For more ideas, explore our complete selection of weekend trips to Catania. Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway or want to extend the weekend, these trips all come with pre-planned but customizable Catania itineraries, ensuring an effortless travel experience.

As you explore Catania, you’ll find countless layers of history, art, and local charm waiting to be uncovered.

Finding the right place to stay is essential for a comfortable trip. This is why we've also gathered our top recommendations for the best places to stay in Catania for you.

Wherever your journey takes you, we’re here to make every step memorable. From expert tips to local insights, count on us to help you experience Catania in a way that feels truly unforgettable!