Good question. Here’s a little tip:

Many people come to Sicily for a round trip, and I think that’s a great idea. However, the problem is that many don’t realize how large Sicily is and how much there is to see. This makes planning a bit tricky. So, how long should you stay in Catania?

My tip: 3 to 4 days in Catania!

I recommend staying in Catania for 3 to 4 days. You can easily see the city center in one day. Here, you’ll also find our top 10 favorite attractions. So why stay for 3 to 4 days?

It’s simple: From Catania, you can easily explore the east coast. Use Catania as a base for your excursions. Catania’s position on the east coast is perfect—take advantage of it. It’s located right between Taormina and Syracuse, and Mount Etna is only an hour away.

Day 1: Catania

As already mentioned, you can explore Catania in just one day. In the menu on our website, you’ll find tips on attractions, accommodations, transportation, and much more. The historic center is relatively small and compact, and everything is within walking distance.

Day 2: Syracuse

Day 2: Syracuse

I recommend spending a day visiting Syracuse. The city is about 1 hour and 10 minutes from Catania, around 70 km away. Syracuse is easily accessible by public transport from here. This trip can fill an entire day, as there’s much to see in Syracuse: the large amphitheater, the Neapolis Archaeological Park, and of course “Ortigia,” the ancient part of the city.

Day 3: Taormina

You can use one of your days to visit Taormina. It’s about 1 hour from Catania, 55 km away. Taormina is relatively small, so you can enjoy a nice stroll through the old town, soaking in the atmosphere and views. Although, in summer, the atmosphere might not be ideal due to the crowds of tourists, it’s still worth visiting. In the summer, you can also take a small cable car from the old town down to the sea to admire “Isola Bella.” If you find a spot, you can even relax and soak up some sun.

Day 4: Mount Etna

This is, of course, a must-see if you’re exploring the east coast. Mount Etna is still active and truly breathtaking. I once took a night excursion during an eruption—an unforgettable experience. You can visit on your own or join an organized tour.

Four days are perfect; three days are also okay.

Four days in Catania are ideal if you want to take your time and tackle one excursion per day. You can also fit everything into three days if you book an excursion that visits Mount Etna in the morning and Taormina in the afternoon—there are many options available. I recommend going to Etna with a guide. Syracuse and Taormina can also be done independently and are accessible by public transport.