I think one could find plenty to keep occupied in this huge and chaotic city, however if you are looking for a few ideas, these might help. Here are 5 free things to do in Catania that are all relatively close together. If you only have a day or two, this list would be perfect.
Villa Bellini
Opened in 1883, the Giardino Bellini is a large and beautiful public garden space, right in the heart of the city. Catania can be very noisy and busy, so if you find yourself needing a break this is the perfect place.
The main entrance is located right off of Via Etnea the main tourist street. Walk up the pretty landscaped terrace to the large gazebo at the top. Behind here are peaceful lawns, fountains and statuary to stroll amongst.
Via Etnea
Most tourists will walk this street at some point. It is the centre of the tourist district in the oldest part of town.
Very wide, and closed to most traffic, it is lined with restaurants, and café’s that spill out onto the volcanic lava stone sidewalks. Take an easy stroll down one side and up the other and you will see many of the historical highlights of Catania.
Siculorum Gymnasium
Located in the Palazzo dell’Universita this large building is to this day the house of the rector’s office of the University of Catania. The university was first established in 1434 and moved to this location in the 1690’s.
Most visitors will admire the exterior of the building and take photos, however you can actually enter the courtyard and have your eyes feast on a spectacular lava and granite mosaic floor!
But that’s not all! Wander around the inner walls of the courtyard, and there is a small museum that is free of charge! Find many rooms with historical artifacts from the university such as medical equipment, taxidermy and the like.
Roman Amphitheatre
Close to Via Etnea, in fact only one block away, is the spectacular Roman Amphitheatre of Catania. Built in the 1st and 2nd centuries AD, this large theatre could seat up to 15,000 spectators.
Admire the huge black lava stones that the seating area is constructed with. I was able to walk around all four sides and admire the space from the street level for free. You can pay a small fee and enter the facility if you wish, but really, you are getting the best views for free from the street.
Street Market
Located in a large square in front of the Basilica Satuario del Carmine and just two blocks off of Via Etnea is a huge open air street market! Looking for a completely local experience not geared to tourists? You will enjoy this lively and busy market.
Find produce in season, fish, meats (be prepared if you are not used to anything other than western meat preparation), clothing, shoes, knock off everything, antiques, vintage linens, household goods, live birds & turtles, jewellery, well the list is endless really.
This market is so much fun and meanders down several streets, I kept doubling back on myself and managed to see the whole space.
Any visit to Catania is going to be loud and fun, filled with interesting sights and tasty food. I found so much to keep myself occupied and didn’t pay a penny for any entrance fees or the like. I will have another post with 5 more free things to do in Catania.
