Where to stay in Catania [Best Places to Stay for 2024]

A trip to Sicily should always include a stay in Catania Sicily, the second-largest city on the island. Between history, scenery and amazing Sicilian food, you’re going to need at least a few days in Catania.

That’s why we’ve put together this guide to Catania accommodation; to help you find the best places to stay in Catania and the best Catania hotels for every budget.

With nearly 60 Catania neighborhoods to choose from, we’ve narrowed down the best ones so you can decide where to stay in the Catania area.

We will cover off all types of Catania accommodation options from Hostels to luxury Catania hotels as well as how to decide where to stay in Catania Sicily 2024.

This guide shows the best Catania hotels, best places in Catania to visit, the best places to stay in Catania, hotels near Catania attractions, Catania neighborhood guide and many more.

Catania Centro – Where to stay in Catania for first timers

Catania’s city center, or Centro, is the best area for tourists who only have a short time to spend in Catania. 

Only 20 minutes from Catania airport, the historic centre has the most attractions, including Piazza Stesicoro and Piazza Duomo. Each of these popular squares has magnificent fountains and is surrounded by beautiful architecture.

It’s also a great place to relax at a sidewalk cafe and soak in the Sicilian atmosphere of locals and tourists going about their day. 

Being in walking distance of the major sights makes this a good family-friendly neighborhood and the largest concentration of hotels in Catania Sicily Italy are in and around the Centro area, including budget-friendly hostels and B&Bs. 

Why Stay in Catania Centro

Catania Centro offers a lot of flexibility to first-time travellers. It has virtually everything, so you won’t be stressed by combing the streets for budget-friendly accommodations, delightful restaurants, and historical landmarks. 

The city center also has an extensive network of bus routes so it’s really easy to visit nearby places if you’re unfamiliar with the area. Plus, attractions are just a stone’s throw away from your hotel. It will save you a lot of time and energy.

Things to do in Catania Centro

• Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Agatha (Catania Cathedral)

The Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Agatha, otherwise known as Catania Cathedral, is the headquarters of the bishops of Catania. It is considered the main cathedral for the Roman Catholics in the area.

It was rebuilt numerous times due to a lot of tragic occurrences. The worst one left it with only the apse region intact. Currently, its appearance has been rebuilt and is adored by granite, marble, wood, and sculpted plaques.

The cathedral is very accessible as it is located in the heart of the city. It is open daily and doesn’t require an admission fee.

• Indulge in a Cup of Coffee at Caffè del Duomo

Catania’s cafe culture is outstanding. One of the places that take Catania’s coffee tradition seriously to the next level is Caffe del Duomo. 

The cafe is conveniently located where walking tours occur. If you ever get exhausted touring around, then this is the best spot to chill out and grab a cup of cappuccino.

Being both a cafe and a restaurant, Caffe del Duomo also serves superb Sicilian cuisines from pizza, sandwiches, and calamari to various desserts. You will never run out of food options here.

Where to Stay in Catania Centro

Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in Catania Centro

• The Yard Hostel
• Deodato Guest House

Budget Hotels in Catania Centro

• L’Antico Palazzo rooms
• San Max Hotel
• Catania Etnea Bed and breakfast
• Residence I Dioscuri

Mid range Hotels in Catania Centro

• Palace Catania | UNA Esperienze
• NH Catania Centro
• Hotel Romano House
• Hotel Valentino

Family Friendly Hotels in Catania Centro

• Giro nel mondo
• B&B Palazzo Cerami
• Grand Tour Design Guest House Catania
• Plebis – B&B in Sicilia nel centro storico di Catania

Via Etnea – Where to stay in Catania for tourists

Stretching out from the city center is the shopping street of Via Etnea. Catania is known for fresh seafood, and Via Etnea is home to some of the best restaurants of Catania. 

The nearby streets are lined with historic homes and buildings and plenty of shopping for those interested in taking home a souvenir or two.

This neighborhood is close to the best attractions of Catania and has a wide selection of Catania hotels to choose from.

Luxury travelers and foodies wondering where to stay in Catania will be very pleased with the Via Etnea neighborhood. 

Why Stay in Via Etnea

Staying in Via Etnea allows you to experience the bustling side of Catania. Lots of entertainment happens day and night, so it is easier for travellers to reach out to the locals.

This street also has the perfect length for a Segway tour, so staying here will give you easy access to guided tours.

Just make sure to wear comfortable shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, and your adventurous spirit.

Things to do in Via Etnea

• Check out Villa Bellini (Giardino Bellini)

Villa Bellini, also referred to as Giardino Bellini, is the city’s oldest public park. It was named after Vincenzo Bellini, an Italian opera composer.

The prince of Biscari used to own the garden solely, but it was gradually opened later to the public in 1883.

The sublime beauty of this green oasis makes it a perfect escape for travellers who get overwhelmed by the city’s commotion. It is perched atop Via Etnea, making it the best entry point to the city’s stunning views.

• Have an authentic Arancini at Pasticceria Savia

Arancini is one of Italy’s traditional dishes, and Pasticceria Savia has been publicly praised for serving the most authentic version of this rice ball. It is considered world-class and just the best in town!

Another winning factor of this restaurant is its grab-and-go street food. If you have a fully-booked schedule and don’t have much time to grab a seat to savor your meal, a quick trip here will never disappoint. 

Where to Stay in Via Etnea

Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in Via Etnea

• Ostello degli Elefanti

Budget Hotels in Via Etnea

• Hotel Biscari
• Hotel Centrale Europa
• Hotel Gorizia
• Hotel Trieste

Mid range Hotels in Via Etnea

• Habitat
• Hotel Manganelli Palace
• Hotel Centrum
• Hotel Villa Romeo

Family Friendly Hotels in Via Etnea

• B&B Palazzo Perrotta
• Two Rooms Bellini
• Meo Design Suites & Spa
• B&B Sciara Larmisi

Affordable Luxury Hotels in Via Etnea

• Duomo Suites & Spa
• Palazzo Marletta Luxury House Hotel
• BASTIÒ PRIVATE SUITES

Via Crociferi – Where to stay in Catania with family

Architecture fans will love strolling along Via Crociferi, which has four baroque churches of beautiful design and detail. 

This is a quiet area just off the city center, making it a perfect choice of Catania accommodation for those seeking a family-friendly neighborhood in close proximity to the historic centre of Catania.

The beautiful San Benedetto Arch is also in this Catania neighborhood. Even if you decide to stay elsewhere in Catania, make sure you visit this neighborhood to take in the architecture. 

Why Stay in Via Crociferi

The calmness of Via Crociferi makes it suitable for family trips. Staying here can get your family out of the rut by doing something different that builds lifelong memories. 

Wandering along the road with your family can strengthen the bond by opening your mind to unique cultures.

You can also snap Instagram-worthy photos with elaborate architecture as your backdrop. Such experience can give families perpetual time together.

Things to do in Via Crociferi

• Stop by Arco de San Benedetto

Arco de San Benedetto stretches the length of Via Crociferi. It is an arch that was built in the 1700s and can be readily seen as it marks the beginning of the street, so it’s a great kickoff for travellers.

Considered to be an integral part of San Benedetto monastery, the arch serves as a cultural emblem of Catania.

It’s wise to take a stroll in this area and check out the neighboring churches before or after noon because most of the churches close momentarily at lunchtime. 

• Take a leisurely walk along the four courtyards of the Jesuit College (Collegio dei gesuiti)

The Jesuit College in Catania, also known as Collegio dei gesuiti, is a beautiful monumental building that boasts stylish courtyard floors, designed by the Italian architect, Francesco Borromini.

Visiting this place will give you a better perspective on how people of the 8th century enjoyed the courtyard as a recreational space.

Walking along the enclosed spaces will help you observe how it has changed and improved over time.

It’s definitely a must-see as it has been recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Where to Stay in Via Crociferi

Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in Via Crociferi

• Le Coccole

Budget Hotels in Via Crociferi

• Alla Corte del XIX Secolo
• Liccu Bed and Breakfast
• Chebedda B&B
• La Cot B&B

Mid range Hotels in Via Crociferi

• Dimora De Mauro
• Ursino’s Luxury
• Palazzo degli Affreschi
• Casa do Re

Family Friendly Hotels in Via Crociferi

• Zagara e Lumia
• Gramignani House Catania
• Pietranera Apartments
• Palazzo degli Affreschi

Affordable Luxury Hotels in Via Crociferi

• Il Principe Hotel Catania

Aci Castello – Where to stay near Catania for relaxation

The seaside village of Aci Castello is one of the best places to stay near Catania Sicily. Only ten minutes north of Catania, the village is marked by an 11th-century Norman castle that looms over the coastline.

Staying in Aci Castello offers a quiet alternative to staying in the busy city of Catania, and frequent bus service to the city means you don’t have to miss out on any of the Catania attractions you want to see. 

Do note that many Catanians head to Aci Castello for their own holiday and with limited accommodations, you’ll need to plan ahead and make your reservations soon!

Why Stay in Aci Castello

Aci Castello gives you a straightforward relaxing vacation by the sea. It is ideal to stay here if you’d like to indulge yourself with the sound of the waves–a great stress therapy.

Its warm climate and blissful atmosphere paired with the chirping of the birds feels very homey. It seems as though you’re not even travelling!

For those who want to have a wonderful view while opening their windows, staying in this charming village is definitely worthwhile.

Things to do in Aci Castello

• Admire the Timeless Beauty of the Norman Castle

A visit to Aci Castello will never be complete without venturing into the Norman castle, the most notable aspect of the town. It sits on top of a rocky cliff that stretches into the beautiful coastline.

Knowing more about the castle can give you an exciting glimpse of the town’s history. You can best explore this place on your own or with your friends. Plus, its entrance fee is fairly cheap.

• Get outside for lunch at Ristorante Giancarlo Barone

If castles aren’t really your thing, you can always grab some lunch by the sea. Restaurant Giancarlo Barone is the only spot in Aci Castello to have the best of both worlds: genuine seafood meals and a breath of fresh air.

The restaurant’s location is unrivalled, as it directly confronts the sea with no barriers. You can count on having a full stomach while the waves roll in, or you can just stare into the open sea forgetting all your worries away. Either way, you will surely leave the place calm and content.

Where to Stay in Aci Castello

Budget Hotels in Aci Castello

• Borgo Marinaro
• La Terrazza
• Blue sea
• Casa vacanze Eden

Mid range Hotels in Aci Castello

• Mori Siciliani House
• Hotel Malavoglia
• Suite Ciclopi Acitrezza
• La Terrazza sul Mare

Family Friendly Hotels in Aci Castello

• donna serena Aci Castello
• Casa Vacanze Caramagna
• Ambrazzurra Apartament
• Villa Rama

Affordable Luxury Hotels in Aci Castello

• President Park Hotel
• Grand Hotel Faraglioni

Acireale – Where to stay near Catania for foodies

Just a few kilometers up the coast from Aci Costello is the baroque seaside town of Acireale. Seated at the foot of Mount Etna, the town offers amazing views in every direction.

Whether you prefer the mountains or the sea, this is one of the best places to stay near Catania Sicily. At most times of the year, this is a sleepy town where you can soak in the Sicilian atmosphere and enjoy a quiet getaway amongst quaint piazzas and cobblestone streets.

Come late winter, however, Acireale is home to the largest Carnival celebration in Sicily. This family-friendly event in February/March has multiple celebrations featuring the best food and wine, plus parades and parties. It’s an exciting time to visit, but you do need to plan ahead if you want to visit Acireale during Carnival. 

Why Stay in Acireale

People who enjoy exploring new places while in search of food will find Acireale as an ideal location to stay. It has an abundance of restaurants dotted throughout.

It means a never-ending adventure for the gastronomes! It also means being able to try genuine regional cuisines while taking in the coastal city’s gorgeous sights.

Things to Do in Acireale

• Watch the Puppets at Museo Opera dei Pupi

Puppet shows once had widespread acclaim in Sicily. They were often displayed in special theatres by puppeteers. One of these which began in the 19th century was Opera dei Pupi. It was founded in 1887 by Don Mariano Pennisi. 

The theatre shows once attracted massive audiences. But over time, the tradition seemed to have died out. Don’t worry, you still have a chance to check out the collection of intricate puppets in their dramatic expressions. They can always be viewed at the museum from Monday to Sunday.

•  Visit the Zelantea Library to read a book

Reading and travelling can take you on a journey. Doing both will open up an even greater adventure! 

A unique way to geek out over different books is to visit the Zelantea Library of Acireale. It houses thousands of books, which were originally intended to spread culture.

You should definitely grab a book here and let the words revolve around you. It’s a wonderful way to feel a part of the local past. 

Where to Stay in Acireale

Budget Hotels in Acireale

• Fermata Cappuccini
• Casa del Sol
• Suites in Sicily
• Jonio B&B

Mid range Hotels in Acireale

• A due passi dal Duomo
• The Artists
• Raciti Palace
• Villa Dedalisa by holidayngo

Family Friendly Hotels in Acireale

• Riflessi Acireale Palace Suites
• La Via del Mare – Acireale Centro storico
• R Family
• Best Western Hotel Santa Caterina

Affordable Luxury Hotels in Acireale

• Grande Albergo Maugeri
• Santa Tecla Palace

Nicolosi – Where to stay near Catania for outdoor lovers

Heading inland from Catania, Nicolosi is the gateway to Mount Etna and the hub for outdoor adventure travel in the Catania region.

This 14th-century city was founded around a Benedictine monastery and has been subjected to numerous earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

There’s an excellent museum in town, Museo dell’ Etna, which tells the history of the nearby volcano and how it’s impacted the surrounding region.

There’s also an observatory here where you can get a glimpse of the stars, thanks to the dark skies of the Catania province. 

Why stay in Nicolosi

Numerous opportunities for adventure await you at Nicolosi. If you love being outside, you will adore this place. Staying here will give you easy access to a number of nearby parks, which means you won’t have time for boredom.

Nicolosi’s scenic paths can be enjoyed by any outdoor enthusiast. It is highly recommended that you go for hikes so you will have a better feel for the surrounding environment. But make sure to follow the best trails to prevent getting lost.

Things to do in Nicolosi

• Have an excursion up Mount Etna

There are a lot of amazing tours to the summit of Mt. Etna. All of which provide a stunning picture of the crater. Being the highest active volcano in Europe, Mt. Etna stretches to an altitude of at least 3,000 meters.

You can take a cable car to the top and then walk the rest of the way. It’s a great way to admire the lava flows, or simply view the everlasting smoke from a distance.

If you ever plan to join in, don’t forget to wear long pants and put on some sunscreen. You will be trekking for an extended period so it’s best to protect your skin.

• Experience the beauty of Mt. Etna’s sunset

The excitement in Nicolosi never stops even when the sun goes down. You can see a different side of this town once you glimpse the fascinating slanting rays of the sun. This is best experienced if you join half-day tours. 

You may join a scenic night hike, or have a leisurely walk with your pals. It’s best to have a guide who can shed light on the mystery surrounding the volcano. There are numerous picture-perfect spots where you can stop.

Take note that tours are subject to alterations in the event of bad weather.

Where to Stay in Nicolosi

Budget Hotels in Nicolosi

• Dove nasce il Sole B&B
• B&B Betulla dell’Etna
• B&B Notti E Dintorni
• B&B Terra Niura

Mid range Hotels in Nicolosi

• Criu Boutique Hotel
• Hotel Alle Pendici
• B&B Etna House
• Terra Lavica Luxury Home Holidays

Family Friendly Hotels in Nicolosi

• PrimeBnb
• Etna Casa del Sole
• Villa Michelangelo
• B&B Blanc Maison Etna Relais & Charme

Top 5 favorites accommodation options for Catania

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