Tour Details
- Duration
- 3.5 hours
- Product Type
- Tour
- Venues
-
- St. Agatha Cathedral
- Roman Baths
- Local Market
- Lava Cave
Photos & Highlights
- Explore Catania’s history, landmarks, and street food that can’t be found in a guidebook.
- Catania street food tour led by an expert in history and architecture.
Tour Description
As the second-largest city in Sicily, Catania has much to offer—from its UNESCO-listed historic center to its culinary traditions. This 3.5-hours tour will take you to the magnificent St. Agatha Cathedral, all the most iconic landmarks, and to some of the city's most popular markets and local eateries—where fresh seafood and local produce fill the air with irresistible scents.
You will begin at the spectacular Piazza del Duomo, with its famous lava elephant (Liotru), and the ancient Roman amphitheater from the 2nd-century. Your expert guide will bring Catania’s history to life, offering insights into its Baroque architecture, volcanic past, and cultural heritage.
As you stroll through Catania’s charming streets and lively piazzas, your guide will take you to their personal favorite bakeries, local markets and kiosks. You will visit a unique wine bar situated above a lava cave, where you will be able to sip fine Sicilian wines while fascinating volcanic history lies beneath your feet.
Your local guide will show you Catania’s unique spirit and charm, leaving with a deeper understanding of the city’s fascinating past, and a taste of its unforgettable flavors.
- You've just arrived in the city or you are returning to Sicily and want a deep connection with the culture.
- You are looking to combine history, architecture, and food tasting.
- You want the guidance of a local history or architecture expert to explore the rich cultural traditions of Catania.
Some tastings can include:
- Arancini – stuffed rice balls
- Cipolline – pastry filled with cheese, sauce, and onions
- Cipollate – bacon rolled around a green onion
- Zuzzu – pork gelatin
- Granita – semi-frozen Italian dessert
- Minni ri virgini – a ricotta cheese dessert
- Scricciu – a soft drink made from soda water and lemon, tangerine, or grape-flavored syrup
- Wine and local cheeses
- and more!
(Please note: Tastings are subject to availability and may vary depending on the lively market’s offerings.)
- Dietary restrictions should be shared in advance in order to possibly adapt the tour.Â
- These tastings should certainly replace a meal, although you may find a light lunch or aperitivo satisfies any lingering hunger. Be sure to come with an empty belly!
- We are taking you to local establishments that are often family-run, hours and availability may vary. Please note, the fish market is not available for the afternoon tours.
Additional Trip-Planning Resources
- If you are looking to learn more about th cuisine in Catania prior to your visit, check out our online lecture: Food in Sicily: Top 10 Dishes with a Chef
Can I participate in food tours if I have food allergies or other dietary restrictions?
Yes. If you have any specific allergies/intolerances please indicate these in the Notes section when you're booking and your guide will do his or her best to accommodate.
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Is this tour appropriate for children?Â
Absolutely! We can adjust the tour by substituting the wine tastings and making it more engaging and suitable for younger learners. Let us know in advance, and we’ll tailor the experience.
I have more than 8 people in my party, can we still book?
Yes! The maximum participant size for this tour is 10, however, we will not be able to accommodate a car service transfer add-on as those have a maximum party size of 8.
We are staying in Catania. Can the guide meet us at our hotel?Â
No, it would be easier if guests meet the guide at the designated starting point, as hotel locations in Catania vary, and walking from your hotel could take significant time. This ensures we can make the most of the short tour and cover all the highlights.
We are staying in Syracuse. Can we add a car service from and to Catania?Â
Yes, we can arrange a car service from your hotel in Syracuse to the meeting point in Catania and back. Leave a note in the client section at checkout to let us know. Please note that the guide will meet you in Catania at the tour's start time and will not accompany you in the car.
We understand that some of our valued guests may have mobility concerns, and we want to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout your tour. If there are any accessibility concerns that your tour guide will need to be aware of, please let our team know at the time of booking.
Is this tour wheelchair-friendly?
In general, Catania is pretty accessible. However, please note the itinerary may include a few stairs. Our team will be happy to make adjustments as needed.
Where You'll Start
