Is Catania Sicily worth visiting?
While it doesn’t attract the same kind of attention as Palermo, Catania’s unheralded delights are worth exploration: fine architecture, bustling markets, lively cultural events and centuries of history dating to the city’s beginnings as a modest Greek colony.
What is Catania Sicily known for?
The city of Catania is nowadays an important cultural, artistic, economical and political centre in Sicily – and it has been such since the Renaissance: its university was built back in 1431 (one of the first universities of history, the first one in Sicily).
Which is better Catania or Palermo?
Palermo “may” have the edge on markets, but overall, Catania is better for shopping – You would find boutique shopping on via Etnea, as well as hypermarkets all around Catania. There are beaches in Catania and beaches easily reached by public bus from Catania towards the airport – Mondello is Palermo’s beach.
What is the Centre of Catania?
The Piazza del Duomo
The Piazza del Duomo is the vibrant heart of the city. In the centre of this lively square stands a fountain with a small black elephant. Legend says it was petrified by the lava stream from Mount Etna. The square is also known for Catania’s most famous monument: the cathedral, or Duomo di Sant’Agata.
Is Catania dirty?
Catania is a large, gritty city – It can be dirty and it certainly isn’t for everyone. The food however is exactly as you should expect, specializing in seafood, and very delicious.
Does Catania have a beach?
With its 18 km, La Playa is the locals’ favourite beach: a long stretch of fine golden sand. Locals and tourists alike appreciate both the beach services offered by the lidos, and its lively and entertaining night life. Another strong point of La Playa is the breath-taking view of majestic Etna.
What is a typical Sicilian breakfast?
As Sicily is a part of Italy (can’t stand those who say the opposite only because it’s an island!), Sicilian breakfast at home is like the Italian one: strong black coffee, with or without milk, with few biscuits or some sliced bread with butter and jam, possibly homemade.
What language is spoken in Catania?
Sicilian used to be the common language here for centuries, as the Sicilian culture is isolated on an island. Even in Catania, you will notice Italian and Sicilian (like Palermo, Catania has its own dialect) in some neighborhoods, especially in inner areas, while most people speak mainly Italian in the city center.
What is the most beautiful part of Sicily?
The 10 most beautiful places in Sicily: simply unmissable sights
- Taormina. Also called “the pearl of the Mediterranean Sea”.
- Etna. The highest active volcano in Europe.
- Ortigia. It is located on a small island connected to the mainland by three bridges.
- Ragusa Ibla.
- Valle dei Templi.
- Favignana.
- Erice.
- Segesta.
Which is better Catania or Taormina?
If you prefer large, gritty, working cities, then stay in Catania. If you prefer a beautiful mediaeval resort hill town, then stay in Taormina. If you prefer a mix of the two, then stay in Siracusa, since Siracusa amicably blends everyday life and tourism. And also consider your intended day trip destinations.
Is Catania safe for tourists?
Catania is quite a tourist city. However, it should be borne in mind that the crime index is high and growing every year. The main problems are related to car theft, picketing, robbery, and corruption. Mainly you need to keep track of your bags and wallets.
Do they speak English in Sicily?
Wherever tourists can be found around the globe, people speak English. Sicily is no exception. Many tourists, of course, pass through Sicily’s three airports. At each airport you will find it easy to make your way using English, especially since the auto rental offices at each airport also use English.