Cheap flights to Catania
Nestled in the foothills of Mount Etna, Catania, the second largest city on the Island of Sicily, is a beautiful place to relax and rejuvenate, as well as soaking up some Sicilian history. Facing the Ionian Sea, Catania has a distinctive grey colour to its buildings as the rock used to build them has been taken from the volcanic earth of the island.
Explore Ursino Castle which, built in the 1200s, has survived despite Mounts Etna’s devastating eruptions in the 1600s and now stands as a stunning example of ancient architecture. An unmissable sight in Catania is the awesome splendour of Mount Etna itself; visiting the currently dormant volcano is a breath-taking adventure and one which is a rarity on most vacations. In the winter months one side of the volcano is turned into a ski slope for a truly extreme winter sports experience.
In town Duomo square is also a must-see for its stunning baroque architecture. For those looking to do some relaxing there are plenty of beautiful hotels to stay in and pristine beaches too.
Shopping
April 2013
(7 Piazza San Placido, tel: 095 715 1844) I Dolci di Nonna Vincenza is an amazing pastry shop that keeps conserving and reproducing the traditional Sicilian delicacies. Here you can buy every kind of sweet, cakes, dry biscuits and homemade liqueurs. www.dolcinonnavincenza.it
Sightseeing
April 2013
(Piazza Federico II di Svevia, tel: 095 345 830) Ursino Castle was built in the 13th century and has survived many historical events, such as the revolution of the Sicilian Vespers and the earthquake of 1693. Today it hosts the municipal museum and is an amazing sight to see.
Key Areas
April 2013
Take the train from Catania a few kilometres south to Lentini, a pretty little historical town. On 13 June there is an important public festival dedicated to St Anthony of Padua, and it also offers ancient churches, interesting buildings and a museum showing the history of the area from pre-history until the present day.