Catania

Catania

Italy

Wander through baroque plazas and climb Mount Etna, Europe's most active volcano towering majestically over Sicily's charming coastal city.

Currency Euro (EUR)
Language Italian
Time Zone CET (UTC+1)
Best Time to Visit May–Oct
Typical Duration 7-14 nights
Price Range $341–$22,419 per person
Port Type Port of Call
Tender Port No

Gateway to Sicily's rich history and culture, offering access to ancient Greek ruins, baroque architecture, and Mount Etna's dramatic volcanic landscape.

Cruises that visit Catania

Build Your Day in Catania

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 5:00 PM
Usually about 9 hours ashore
Getting around:
Centro Sicilia Shopping mall Large shopping center with a hypermarket Shopping mall · ★ 4.4 · 31k Closes soon · 9 PM
Sicilia Outlet Village Large outlet mall for luxury brands Shopping mall · ★ 4.4 · 25k Closed · Opens 10 AM Thu
Porte di Catania In-store shopping Shopping mall · ★ 4.3 · 23k Closes soon · 9 PM
Giardino Bellini - Villa Bellini Quiet garden with benches & shaded paths Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 20k
Pasticceria Savia You cannot leave Catania without having an Arancini and cannoli here. Pastries · ★ 4.4 · 14k Closes soon · 9:20 PM
Ursino Castle Archeology & local artefacts in castle Tourist attraction · ★ 4.3 · 13k Temporarily closed
Trattoria del Cavaliere Laid-back venue for Sicilian cuisine Italian · ★ 4.2 · 12k
Basilica Cattedrale di Sant'Agata Massive cathedral with a baroque facade Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 11k Closes soon · 9 PM
Fontana dell'Elefante (uʻ Liotru) Elephant fountain & symbol of the city Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 11k
Al Vicolo Pizza&Vino Pizza & cocktails on a buzzing terrace Pizza · ★ 4.3 · 9k
Piazza Università Picturesque square with bronze lampposts Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 8k Open now
Centro Commerciale Katane Bi-level mall with a supermarket & cafes Shopping mall · ★ 4.1 · 8k Open · Closes 12 AM
Piazza Stesicoro Onsite services Historical landmark · ★ 4.5 · 8k
Castello Normanno Medieval castle on a coastal clifftop Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 7k Closed · Opens 9:30 AM Thu
Epoca Arancini, Cannoli and Granita were FANTASTIC! Espresso bar · ★ 4.3 · 7k
L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele Catania Dine-in·Curbside pickup·Delivery Pizza · ★ 4.7 · 7k
Caffè Europa Best arancini in Italy and the best pastries I’ve ever had. Espresso bar · ★ 4.3 · 7k
Scirocco Sicilian Fish Lab Rustic venue for traditional fish dishes Seafood · ★ 4.6 · 6k
Fud Bottega sicula Dine-in·Takeout·Delivery Hamburger · ★ 4.5 · 6k
A Putia dell'Ostello Convivial eatery with a lava cave Sicilian restaurant · ★ 4.3 · 6k
Spaghetti & Co. Dine-in·Curbside pickup·No-contact delivery Italian · ★ 4.7 · 5k
Riserva Naturale Oasi del Simeto Wetland reserve known for birdwatching Nature preserve · ★ 4.1 · 5k Closed · Opens 9 AM Thu
Roman Amphitheater of Catania Ruins of an ancient theater in a piazza Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 4k Closed · Opens 9 AM Thu
Ciauru i mari Dine-in·No delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 4k
Porta Garibaldi Onsite services Tourist attraction · ★ 4.3 · 4k
Vuciata Humble eatery serving pasta & seafood Italian · ★ 4.4 · 3k
Lido Azzurro Loungers, a pool & seafront dining Beach club · ★ 4.1 · 3k Closed · Opens 9 AM Thu
Trattoria U Fucularu Dine-in·No delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 3k
Palazzo Biscari Ornately decorated Baroque palace Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 3k Closed · Opens 10 AM Thu
Catania Shopping Centre Onsite services Shopping mall · ★ 4.4 · 3k Closes soon · 9 PM
Canusciuti Sicilian Cafe wonderful breakfasts, craft beers, and Sicilian delicacies. Cafe · ★ 4.5 · 3k
Rinascente Catania In-store shopping·In-store pickup Department store · ★ 4.2 · 3k Closes soon · 9 PM
BarnAut Dine-in·No takeout·No delivery Pub · ★ 4.7 · 3k
Monastero dei Benedettini di San Nicolò l'Arena Onsite services Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 2k Closed · Opens 9:30 AM Thu
Ciurma Catania Dine-in·Takeout·Delivery Seafood · ★ 4.8 · 2k
Il Gambero Pazzo Casual restaurant serving seafood plates Seafood · ★ 4.6 · 2k
Spiaggia di Catania Public beach · ★ 3.6 · 2k Open now
Chiosco Sicilia Seltz Delicious espresso and perfect service. Bar · ★ 4.9 · 2k
Me Cumpari Turiddu Retro-chic setting for Sicilian dining Restaurant · ★ 4.3 · 2k
Spiaggia libera n. 3 alla Playa di Catania Public beach · ★ 3.9 · 2k
First Dine-in·Takeout·No delivery Sicilian restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 2k
Deliziosa Ristorante | Cucina Tipica Siciliana & Pizzoleria Dine-in·Takeout·No delivery Seafood · ★ 4.6 · 2k
Putì Dine-in·Takeout·No delivery Sicilian restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 2k
L’Oste Pazzo Dine-in·Curbside pickup·Delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 2k
Bistro Uzeta Dine-in·Takeout·No delivery Sicilian restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 2k
A Putia Do Calabrisi Dine-in·Takeout·No delivery Sicilian restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 2k Closed · Opens 12 PM Thu
Pasta Bistrot Catania Dine-in·Takeout·No delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 1k
Spiaggia Vulcano Public beach with loungers & a snack bar Public beach · ★ 3.8 · 1k
Bohéme Mixology Bar Cozy option for cocktails & bites Cocktail bar · ★ 4.6 · 1k
Mezzaparola Cocktail Art Pub Dine-in·Curbside pickup·No delivery Cocktail bar · ★ 4.6 · 1k
TANTìKKIA - cucina e vino Dine-in·No delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 1k
Trattoria Sorano Dine-in·Curbside pickup·No delivery Italian · ★ 4.7 · 1k
Caffè Opera One of the best cappuccinos we had in Italy and amazing pastries. Cafe · ★ 4.6 · 1k Closes soon · 9:30 PM
PLANTE Lab Dine-in·Takeout·Delivery Vegetarian · ★ 4.9 · 1k
Spiaggia Libera 1 Sandy stretch with views of Mt. Etna Public beach · ★ 3.3 · 1k Closed · Opens 9 AM Thu
Centro Commerciale Grandecina Catania Source for family apparel & housewares Shopping mall · ★ 3.8 · 1k Closes soon · 9 PM
Le Capannine Thatched umbrellas, DJs & a restaurant Lido · ★ 3.9 · 1k Closed · Opens 9 AM Thu
Sottovoce Dine-in·Takeout·No delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 1k
mm street food Dine-in·Takeout·No delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 1k
Fontana dell’Amenano Decorative marble fountain dated 1867 Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 1k
The Rabbit Hole Dine-in Cocktail bar · ★ 4.9 · 0k
Lido Bikini Beach Catania Lido · ★ 4.2 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM Thu
Concezione Restaurant Dine-in·No takeout·No delivery Fine Dining · ★ 4.7 · 0k
Sapio Dine-in·No takeout·No delivery Fine Dining · ★ 4.7 · 0k
Ristorante Coria Dine-in·No takeout·No delivery Fine Dining · ★ 4.7 · 0k
Lido Cocoa Beach Catania Lido · ★ 4 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM Thu
901 Café Delicious iced coffee & friendly staff, beautiful ambience sitting outside. Cafe · ★ 4.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 5:30 AM Thu
Angiò Macelleria di mare Dine-in·No delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 0k
Chef Dedé Dine-in·Delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 0k
Casa Cape Dine-in·No takeout·No delivery Cocktail bar · ★ 5 · 0k Closed · Opens 4 PM Thu
Spiaggia della Plaia Beach · ★ 3.7 · 0k
Retrò - Cocktail Bar Dine-in·No delivery Cocktail bar · ★ 4.9 · 0k
Drinkeria Cocktail bar Dine-in·Curbside pickup·No delivery Pub · ★ 4.8 · 0k
Materia | Spazio Cucina Dine-in·No takeout·No delivery Italian · ★ 4.6 · 0k
Thirsty Corner Dine-in·No-contact delivery Cocktail bar · ★ 4.9 · 0k
Villa Bellini - Parco Maestranze Ecological park · ★ 4.7 · 0k Open now
Freak In-store shopping·In-store pickup·Delivery Vintage clothing store · ★ 4 · 0k Closes soon · 9:30 PM
Drink Coffee Great coffee, great service and great prices. Coffee shop · ★ 4.6 · 0k
centro Catania Shopping mall · ★ 4.6 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM Thu
Boston Cocktail Bar Dine-in·No takeout·No delivery Cocktail bar · ★ 4.9 · 0k
Murale Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 0k
4 Canti Tourist attraction · ★ 4.3 · 0k
Villa Bellini - Viale degli Uomini Illustri Tourist attraction · ★ 4.3 · 0k
Mall Clothing store · ★ 5 · 0k
Catania seaport Tourist attraction · ★ 5 · 0k

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Next Departures from Catania

About Catania

Catania stands as one of Sicily's most vibrant cruise destinations, offering visitors an intoxicating blend of baroque architecture, volcanic landscapes, and authentic Italian culture. Perched on the eastern coast of Sicily, this bustling port city serves as a primary point of call for eight major cruise lines, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and MSC Cruises, among others. With 119 upcoming cruises calling here and peak seasons spanning from May through October, Catania has established itself as a must-visit stop on Mediterranean itineraries.

As a port of call, Catania typically welcomes cruisers for a day or partial day, making it an ideal launching point for exploring Sicily's most iconic attractions. Most cruises visiting here are seven-night voyages that weave together ports like Civitavecchia, Salerno, Barcelona, Livorno, and Marseille, creating rich Mediterranean experiences. From the ship, you're just steps away from the city's UNESCO-listed historic center, where ornate piazzas and elegant palaces showcase centuries of Sicilian heritage.

What makes Catania particularly special is its proximity to natural wonders and cultural treasures. Mount Etna, Europe's most active volcano, looms majestically nearby, while the city itself enchants visitors with its lively fish markets, exceptional cuisine, and welcoming locals. Whether you're seeking adventure, history, or simply authentic Mediterranean charm, Catania delivers an unforgettable cruise experience that captures the very essence of Sicily.
Explore

Reasons to Visit

1

Explore Ancient Roman Theaters

Wander through Catania's remarkably preserved Teatro Romano, where gladiators once performed for thousands of spectators. This stunning ancient amphitheater sits in the heart of the city, offering a tangible connection to Sicily's Greek and Roman heritage. The adjacent Odeon theater showcases equally impressive architectural details from antiquity.

2

Savor Arancini at Vucciria Market

Dive into Catania's vibrant Vucciria Market, where vendors hawk golden arancini—crispy rice balls filled with ragù and peas—alongside fresh seafood and local produce. This centuries-old market pulses with authentic Sicilian energy and offers the perfect opportunity to taste street food exactly as locals enjoy it.

3

Hike Mount Etna's Volcanic Slopes

Experience Europe's most active volcano on Mount Etna's lower slopes, just 30 minutes from the port. Trek through otherworldly lunar landscapes, past ancient lava flows, and through fragrant pine forests while enjoying panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and surrounding countryside below.

4

Shop Piazza Duomo's Historic Squares

Browse elegant boutiques and artisan shops surrounding Catania's stunning Piazza Duomo, dominated by the magnificent Cathedral and the iconic Elephant Fountain. This UNESCO-listed baroque square blends shopping with architectural splendor, offering local crafts, ceramics, and Sicilian specialties in an enchanting setting.

5

Discover Catania's Baroque Masterpiece

Stroll through Catania's meticulously planned baroque district, rebuilt after the devastating 1693 earthquake with elegant symmetrical streets and grand palaces. The harmonious architecture, designed by renowned architects, creates an open-air museum of 18th-century Italian design that feels frozen in time.

Cruise Lines at Catania

Cruises Departing From Catania

Cruises Visiting Catania

Ship Schedule at Catania

Catania Location

Other Cruise Ports in Italy

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Catania?

Spring and autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds.

What are must-see sights in Catania?

Piazza del Duomo, Catania Cathedral, La Pescheria market, and Mt. Etna viewpoints.

Where is La Pescheria market located?

In the southwest corner of Piazza del Duomo, near the fish market stalls.

Is Mt. Etna accessible for hikes from Catania?

Yes, day trips offer guided hikes and scenic gondola routes.