Best Things to do in Catania | Must-see attractions 2025

Museo Diocesano Catania

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Via Etnea 8 (Piazza Duomo)

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Museo Diocesano Catania displays religious art, artifacts, and furniture in a historic 17th-century seminary building near Catania's Duomo.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

€4 for adults, €2 for students, free for children under 12.

Palazzo Biscari

Reservation needed

Museum

Via Museo Biscari 10 - 16

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Palazzo Biscari in Catania, Italy, is a monumental private palace known for its highly decorative interiors and role in cultural events. Guided tours available.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Guided tours by reservation only. Prices vary by event.

San Benedetto Arch

8:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Via Teatro Greco

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San Benedetto Arch is a historic Catholic church in Catania, Italy, featuring a baroque interior with marble accents and frescoed ceilings.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. No tickets required for general entry.

Civic Museum of Catania

Mo-Su 09:00-19:00

Museum

Piazza Federico di Svevia 3

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Civic Museum of Catania, housed in Castello Ursino, showcases artifacts from the Kingdom of Sicily, including items from the Sicilian Vespers. Open to the public in Catania, Italy.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Archi della Marina

Open all day

Bridge

Via Cardinale Dusmet

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Archi della Marina is a railway bridge in Catania, Italy, known for its impressive architecture and historical significance, connecting the urban landscape to the coastline.

Duration: Around 1 hour.

Free. No paid admissions required.

Museum of Contemporary Art in Sicily

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Via San Francesco d'Assisi

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Museum of Contemporary Art in Sicily features over 70 works of art in an 18th-century abbey in Catania, bridging classical and contemporary aesthetics.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

€5 for adults, €3 for students and seniors. Free for children under 12.

Chiesa Sant'Agata al Borgo

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Piazza Cavour

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Chiesa Sant'Agata al Borgo, in Catania, Italy, is a Baroque church known for its impressive design and dedication to Saint Agatha, the city's patron saint.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Special events may have additional charges.

Palazzo Platamone

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Event hall

Via Vittorio Emanuele II 121 Via Landolina 5

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Palazzo Platamone is a medieval palace in Catania, Italy, now serving as a cultural venue for art exhibitions and concerts.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Cappella Bonajuto

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Via Bonajuto 9/13

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Cappella Bonajuto, a Byzantine chapel in Catania, Italy, dates back to the 6th century and showcases rare medieval artworks. Explore this historical site today.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free.

Emilio Greco Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Piazza San Francesco d'Assisi 3 Ingresso gratuito

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Emilio Greco Museum in Catania features extensive works by Emilio Greco and Eugenio Russo, including sketches and unique historical pianos. A must-visit for art lovers.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Chiesa San Michele Arcangelo ai Minoriti

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Via Etnea 87

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Chiesa San Michele Arcangelo ai Minoriti in Catania, Italy, is a historic church known for its Baroque architecture and significant cultural value.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free

Le Ciminiere Fairs and Convention Center

9:00 AM–7:00 PM

Event hall

Viale Africa (Piazzale Asia)

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Le Ciminiere Fairs and Convention Center in Catania hosts diverse exhibitions and conventions, showcasing local culture and innovative events across its spacious venue.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free entry. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Castello Ursino

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Monument

Piazza Federico II di Svevia

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Castello Ursino is a 13th-century castle in Catania, Italy, housing a royal archaeological collection, including classical sculptures and mosaics.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free. Some temporary exhibitions may have an entry fee.

Parrocchia Santa Maria della Guardia

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Piazza Santa Maria della Guardia 25

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Parrocchia Santa Maria della Guardia is a notable church in Catania, Italy, known for its architectural elegance and historical significance.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free entry for all visitors.

Mogam - Modern Gallery of Arts and Motors

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

Via Galermo 171

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Mogam - Modern Gallery of Arts and Motors in Catania, Italy, showcases contemporary art and vintage automobiles, bridging culture and innovation in a unique space.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free entry for the gallery; some exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Church of St. Agatha the Vetere

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Piazza Sant'Agata la Vetere 5

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Church of St. Agatha the Vetere is a historic site in Catania, Italy, featuring guided tours that reveal the significance of St. Agatha and the church's origins.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Guided tours may be available at a minimal fee.

Castello Leucatia

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Castle

Via Leucatia 68

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Castello Leucatia in Catania is a medieval castle offering rich history, impressive architecture, and panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No admission fee is required.

Chiesa San Giuseppe La Rena

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Via San Giuseppe La Rena 166/B (Via Brucoli)

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Chiesa San Giuseppe La Rena is a historic church in Catania, Italy, known for its unique architecture and religious significance dating back to the 17th century.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations for maintenance are appreciated.

Fontana dell'Elefante

Open all day

Monument

Piazza Duomo Via Vittorio Emanuele II

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Fontana dell'Elefante in Catania, Italy, features a basalt elephant statue topped with an Egyptian obelisk. It's the city's symbol and a historical landmark from 1736.

Duration: Approximately 30 minutes.

Free to visit.

Church of Sant'Agata al Carcere

9:00 AM–1:00 PM

Church

Piazza Santo Carcere

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The Church of Sant'Agata al Carcere in Catania, Italy, features the dungeons where St. Agata was tortured and is a site of a major annual festival in her honor.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations are welcome during special events.

Terme Achilliane

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

Piazza del Duomo

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Terme Achilliane in Catania, Italy showcases excavated ruins of an ancient Roman thermal bath complex, offering insights into Roman architecture and daily life.

Duration: 1.5 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may have a fee.

Museo Casa Vaccarini

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

Via Sorrentino 38

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Museo Casa Vaccarini in Catania showcases the city's rich history and culture through its architecture and artistic displays in an elegant 18th-century residence.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Monument to Vincenzo Bellini

Open 24 hours

Monument

Piazza Stesicoro 38

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The Monument to Vincenzo Bellini, located in Catania, Italy, honors the famed composer with an intricate bronze statue and serves as a cultural landmark.

Duration: 30 minutes.

Free.

Palazzo del Toscano

10:00 AM–4:30 PM

Event hall

Piazza Stesicoro 38-39

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Palazzo del Toscano, located in Catania, Italy, is a historical palace showcasing Baroque architecture and rich cultural heritage, dating back to the 18th century.

Duration: About 2 hours.

€5 for adults, €3 for children and seniors. Free admission on the first Sunday of each month.

San Giuliano Palace

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Architectural Building

Piazza Dell' Universita' 16

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San Giuliano Palace, designed by architect Giovanni Battista Vaccarini, is an elegant 18th-century palazzo located on the eastern edge of Piazza dell'Università in Catania, Italy.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Free entry. Special exhibitions or events may have a fee.

Basilica Collegiata

9:00 AM–1:00 PM

Monument

Via Collegiata 3 (Via Etnea)

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The Basilica Collegiata in Catania, Italy, is a baroque church established in 1768, renowned for its ornate facade and vaulted painted ceiling.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

Cittadella Universitaria

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

University

Viale Andrea Doria

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Cittadella Universitaria in Catania, Italy, is a vibrant educational hub featuring modern architecture and scenic surroundings, serving multiple universities and cultural activities.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free access to the university grounds; some events may require a paid ticket.

Stadio Angelo Massimino

Varies by match schedule

Stadium

Piazza Vincenzo Spedini

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Stadio Angelo Massimino in Catania, Italy, is a multi-use stadium primarily used for football matches, offering rich history and significant cultural value.

Duration: 2-3 hours for events.

Ticket prices vary; check local listings for details on matches and events.

Piscaria

6:00 AM–1:00 PM

Airport

95131 Catania

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Piscaria in Catania, Italy, is a historical fish market exhibiting local seafood, produce, and vibrant Sicilian culture. Experience daily life in a bustling market atmosphere.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No admission fee required to enter the market.

Archaeological Complex Terme della Rotonda

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Sights

Via della Mecca

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The Archaeological Complex Terme della Rotonda in Catania features remnants of ancient Roman baths and significant historical architecture, showcasing Italy's rich cultural heritage.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some exhibitions may involve paid tickets.

Officine Culturali

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

32 Piazza Dante Alighieri

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Officine Culturali in Catania is a cultural association and former monastery, promoting diverse events and community engagement in a historic setting.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free entry; certain events may have a ticket fee.

Church of Saint Francis of Assisi Immaculate

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Piazza San Francesco d'Assisi

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The Church of Saint Francis of Assisi Immaculate in Catania, Italy, features stunning Baroque architecture and rich historical significance dating back to the 18th century.

Duration: About 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed for maintenance and community events.

Fontana dell'Amenano

Open all day

Fountain

Piazza del Duomo

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Fontana dell'Amenano in Catania, Italy, is a Carrara-marble fountain by Tito Angelini (1867), honoring the River Amenano and separating Piazza del Duomo from La Pescheria market.

Duration: 30 minutes.

Free.

Orto Botanico dell'Universita di Catania

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Garden

Via A. Longo 19 (Via Etnea 397)

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Orto Botanico dell'Universita di Catania features diverse exotic and native plant species, especially succulents and palms, offering a unique experience in Catania, Italy.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Free. Special events may require a ticket.

Saint Julian Church

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Via Crociferi 36

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Saint Julian Church in Catania, Italy, features baroque architecture by Vaccarini, completed in 1751, and holds rich historical and cultural significance.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Tours may involve certain additional costs.

Bellini Theater

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Theater

Via Perrotta 12 (Piazza Vincenzo Bellini)

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Bellini Theater in Catania, Italy, is a 19th-century opera house renowned for its ornate architecture and rich cultural offerings.

Duration: Approximately 2–3 hours.

Tickets range from €20 to over €100 depending on the seating category.

Nettuno Park

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Theme Park

Piazza Nettuno

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Nettuno Park in Catania, Italy is an amusement park offering a variety of rides, attractions, and scenic areas for family fun and entertainment.

Duration: Around 4 hours.

Entry fee: €20 for adults, €15 for children (under 12 years). Discounts available for groups.

Nature Reserve Oasis Simeto

Open all day

Park

Via Capone

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Nature Reserve Oasis Simeto, located in Catania, Italy, is a vital natural habitat that features diverse flora and fauna along the Simeto River and nearby beaches.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free. Donations encouraged for conservation efforts.

Chiesa di San Nicolo All'Arena

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Piazza Dante Alighieri

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Chiesa di San Nicolo All'Arena is a historical landmark in Catania, Italy, featuring unique architecture and monastic history dating back centuries.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free.

Teatro Stabile Catania

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Theater

Via Giuseppe Fava 35

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Teatro Stabile Catania, established in 1947, is the primary Italian theater in Catania, renowned for its architectural beauty and rich cultural events.

Duration: About 2-3 hours.

Tickets typically range from €10 to €30 depending on the performance; discounts available for children and seniors.

Borghetto Europa

10:00 AM–11:00 PM

Business Center

Piazza Europa (Viale Ruggero di Lauria)

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Borghetto Europa in Catania, Italy features over 130 shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, catering to varied shopping and dining needs.

Duration: Approximately 2–3 hours.

Free entry. Some special events may require tickets.

Centro Balatelle

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Mall

Via Balatelle 7/A

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Centro Balatelle in Catania, Italy, is a modern shopping mall featuring over 100 stores, dining options, and entertainment venues, making it a key retail destination.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free entry. Some special events may require a ticket.

Ex Mercato Ortofrutticolo

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Event hall

Via Amerigo Vespucci 5

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Ex Mercato Ortofrutticolo in Catania, Italy, is a revamped historical market space offering local produce, cultural events, and an authentic Sicilian atmosphere.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events and exhibitions may have entry fees.

Teatro Ambasciatori

5:00 PM–10:00 PM

Theater

Via Eleonora d'Angiò 21

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Teatro Ambasciatori in Catania, Italy, is a historic theater established in 1870, known for its neoclassical architecture and vibrant cultural events.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Tickets generally range from €10 to €30, depending on the performance.

Teatro Erwin Piscator

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Theater

Via Giovanni Amendola 7 (Via Sassari)

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Teatro Erwin Piscator in Catania, Italy, is a cultural hub known for its modern architecture and innovative performances, integrating art with community engagement.

Duration: 2–3 hours for a full performance.

Tickets range from €10 to €25 depending on the performance. Discounts are available for students and seniors.

Teatro Sangiorgi

4:00 PM–10:00 PM

Theater

Via Antonino di Sangiuliano 233

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Teatro Sangiorgi in Catania, Italy, is a historic theatre known for its unique architecture and cultural significance, offering various performances in an intimate setting.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Tickets typically range from €10 to €30, depending on the event and seating selection.

San Giovanni Apostolo ed Evangelista

9:00 AM–1:00 PM

Church

Largo san Gaspare Bertoni

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San Giovanni Apostolo ed Evangelista in Catania, Italy, is a stunning example of Baroque architecture, completed in the 18th century, featuring intricate designs and a rich history.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Special events may require tickets.

Parrocchia San Massimiliano Kolbe

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Via Delle Viole

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Parrocchia San Massimiliano Kolbe in Catania, Italy provides a religious and cultural space, featuring modern architecture and community programs for all ages.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free entry. Donations are appreciated for special events.