Catania Cruise Port Guide: Best Things to Do in Sicily on a Cruise
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Located on Sicily’s eastern coast, Catania is one of the island’s oldest and most vibrant cities—set at the foot of Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano.
I spent a week here on a solo trip, and Catania truly surprised me with its dark Baroque buildings, lively streets, and buzzing markets.
Catania is also a popular stop on Mediterranean cruises, often paired with ports like Messina, Taormina, and Palermo. In this guide, you’ll find:
- Catania cruise port info (terminal, transportation, and tips)
- The best things to do in Catania and the top excursions in the area
Catania Cruise Port: Location and How to Get to the City
The cruise terminal in Catania is located in an industrial port area, about a 15-20 minute walk from the city center. While the surroundings aren’t the most scenic, the historic heart of Catania is relatively easy to reach on foot.
Cruise ships dock at Sporgente Centrale Pier, which has a dedicated berth but no actual cruise terminal building for passengers. Despite the basic setup, the port is functional and well-connected.
Taxis, buses, and even trains are available just outside the port area. You’ll also find several restaurants and bars nearby.
To reach the city center, turn left as you exit the port and walk straight until you reach a roundabout with Giardini Pacini Park behind it. Here you’ll also find a bus station and public parking space. Across the street is Piazza del Duomo, the city’s main square and a great starting point for exploring.
The port also serves daily ferries to mainland Italy and Valletta, Malta.
Getting Around Catania, Sicily
I spent a week exploring Catania solo and stayed at Luxury BB Iolanda—stylish, comfortable, and within a 15-minute walk from the city’s main shopping street.
If you’re planning your own trip, check out the best hotels in Catania for every budget.
🚶♀️ Cruise Port Accessibility & Transportation
The Catania cruise port is flat and suitable for wheelchair users. The city center is also mostly flat and easy to explore on foot.
Just be cautious when crossing streets, especially near the port, since traffic can be heavy and traffic lights are limited.
Right outside the terminal, you’ll find taxis, public buses, and even trains.
The nearest bus station is Piazza Paolo Borsellino, about a 10-minute walk from the pier. From here, local and intercity buses depart, including the ALIBUS to Catania Fontanarossa Airport.
🚌 Hop-On Hop-Off & Tourist Tram
Catania offers a Hop-On Hop-Off sightseeing bus departing from Via Vittorio Emanuele II, next to Piazza Duomo.
- Stops include: Piazza Stesicoro, Roman Amphitheater, Port of Catania, Central Station, Corso Italia, and more.
- Some tours also go to Aci Castello and Acitrezza, two scenic coastal villages
- Tours last ~80 minutes, with tickets from €15, and audio guides in 6 languages
- Buses run hourly from 10:00 am
👉 Book your Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour on Viator and Get Your Guide
You can also ride the Catania Tourist Tram, which follows a route through the historic center with stops at major landmarks like Cattedrale S. Agata, Palazzo Biscari, Teatro Massimo Bellini, Monastero dei Benedettini, Castello Ursino, and others.
🚆 Central Train Station & Getting Beyond Catania
The Catania Centrale station (train and bus) is about 1.3 km or a 15-20 minute walk from the port. To get there, exit the terminal and walk right along the main road.
- Intercity buses: run by Interbus Autolinee from the central station. View Interbus schedules
- Trains (by Trenitalia) connect Catania with Palermo, Messina, Taormina, and Syracuse. A 3-day unlimited regional train pass is available for just €29. Check Trenitalia schedules and prices
- Public buses: operated by AMTS (€1 per ticket, valid for 90 minutes). Check AMTS timetables here
✈️ Airports & Transfers
Catania’s main airport, Fontanarossa Airport, is just 6 km (a 15-minute drive) from the port.
- ALIBUS connects the airport, city center, and cruise terminal
- Runs every 15–30 minutes, ticket costs €4
👉 Book your private airport transfer here
Sicily’s second airport is in Palermo, about 3 hours from Catania.
🚗 Parking, Car Rentals & Traffic Tips
Catania’s port has outdoor parking on Molo Sporgente Centrale and near Piazza Paolo Borsellino. While you can rent a car, traffic is intense and parking in the center is limited, so it’s often better to walk or use public transport.
👉 Compare rental car prices in Catania
A Guest Info Center kiosk is located on the pier, offering maps, local tips, souvenirs, and help with tour bookings or rentals.
🚍 Shore Excursions from Catania
If you’d like to explore beyond the city, there are some great tours you can take straight from the port. The most popular ones include:
- Mount Etna – a must-see if you’ve never visited a volcano before
- Taormina and Castelmola – beautiful towns with stunning views
- Syracuse and Ortigia – perfect if you enjoy history and ancient ruins
- Aci Castello and Acitrezza – small coastal villages just outside Catania
👉 Browse shore excursions from Catania (many include pickup from the port)
💡 Practical Info
- Currency: Euro (€); ATMs are available near the port and in town
- Credit cards: Widely accepted, but cash is handy for small purchases
- Tipping: Not expected, but a service charge (15–20%) is often added
- Restaurant hours: Many close between 2–7 pm and reopen for dinner
- Shopping: The main shopping street in Catania is Via Etnea, which runs from Piazza Duomo to Villa Bellini. You’ll find a mix of local boutiques, souvenir shops, and well-known brands. Via Umberto I and Corso Italia are also great for shopping, especially if you’re looking for Italian fashion or local products.
🏖️ Beach Nearby
Looking for a beach escape? Head to Playa di Catania, a long public beach just 10 minutes by car from the port. You can take Bus Line D along the coast.
Plan Your Day in Catania
🎥 Watch My Catania Cruise Stop Video
I filmed my visit to Catania during my solo trip—walking around the city, visiting the main sights, and sharing tips you might find helpful for your cruise stop.
📘 Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide
If you’re visiting other ports too, my Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide might be helpful. I’ve included practical info, walking tips, and things to do in 45 ports, including Catania.
👉 Check out the ebook here
Top Things to Do in Catania Near the Cruise Port
Catania’s historic center is compact and easy to explore on foot from the cruise port. Many of the city’s highlights are just a short walk away, including Baroque churches, lively markets, and ancient ruins.
Shaped by centuries of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, most notably in 1669, Catania was rebuilt using dark lava stone, giving its old town a striking grey look that earned it a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
🐘 Piazza del Duomo
Catania’s main square is just a 15-20 minute walk from the cruise terminal and a perfect starting point for exploring the city.
At the center, you’ll find the famous Elephant Fountain, carved from black lava and topped with an Egyptian obelisk—locals believe it helps calm Mount Etna.
The square is also home to the Catania Cathedral, Badia di Sant’Agata Church, and the 17th-century Town Hall (Palazzo degli Elefanti).
This is where Via Etnea begins, and where Via Vittorio Emanuele II crosses—the departure point for Hop-On Hop-Off buses, tourist trams, and local tours.
👉 Check out Catania walking tours and activities
⛪ Duomo di Catania
Catania’s cathedral, also called Duomo di Catania, is dedicated to Sant’Agata, the city’s patron saint. Her relics are kept inside.
The original church was built in the 11th century but was destroyed several times by earthquakes and eruptions. After the big quake in 1693, it was rebuilt in Baroque style, with a white marble façade, domed roof, and beautiful frescoes.
Inside, you’ll also find the tomb of Vincenzo Bellini, a famous composer born in Catania.
🏛️ Badia di Sant’Agata Church
Right next to the cathedral on Via Vittorio Emanuele II, this Baroque church from the 1700s is known for its dome, which you can climb for a small fee.
The views over Catania and Mount Etna are incredible, especially on a clear day!
🐟 La Pescheria (Catania Fish Market)
Just behind Piazza del Duomo, this lively fish market is one of the oldest in Sicily and a true local experience. You’ll see everything from swordfish and octopus to live lobsters and sardines being cleaned right in front of you.
It’s noisy, smelly, and full of life—exactly what makes it special! Markets run every weekday morning, and there are a few bars and seafood spots nearby if you’re feeling adventurous (though eating here can be tricky when the fish smell hits full force!).
🛍️ Via Etnea
Via Etnea is Catania’s main street, running from Piazza del Duomo to Parco Gioeni, lined with shops, cafes, churches, and a few historic landmarks. It’s about 3 km long, but only part of it is pedestrian—so watch out for traffic.
You’ll pass spots like Piazza Università, Piazza Stesicoro, the Roman Amphitheater, Villa Bellini, and more. While the street is great for shopping, there aren’t as many restaurants as you’d expect.
For food and nightlife, head to Via Gemmellaro or Via Santa Filomena, just around the corner.
🕑 Keep in mind: many restaurants close between 2–7 pm.
👉 Explore Via Etnea food and walking tours
⛪ Via Crociferi
Just a 5-minute walk from Piazza Università, Via Crociferi is one of Catania’s oldest streets, known for its Baroque churches and historic villas.
In just 200 meters, you’ll find four churches, including San Francesco, San Giuliano, San Nicolò all’Arena, and my personal favorite—Chiesa di San Benedetto. The interior is stunning, with a fully frescoed 18th-century ceiling by Giovanni Tuccari.
There’s a small entrance fee, and the visit takes about 15–30 minutes.
👉 Explore Via Crociferi guided tours and activities
🏰 Castello Ursino
About 700 meters from the Duomo, Castello Ursino is a 13th-century Norman fortress built for the kings of Sicily. It once stood on a cliff by the sea but now sits inland—moved by centuries of volcanic eruptions and earthquakes.
Today, the castle houses the Municipal Museum, with archaeological finds, sculptures, and paintings. The visit takes around an hour.
👉 Check out Ursino Castle tours and tickets
🌳 Villa Bellini
Villa Bellini (Giardino Bellini) is a peaceful city park along Via Etnea, about a 10-minute walk from Piazza Duomo.
It’s Catania’s oldest and largest green space, with shaded paths, tropical trees, fountains, benches, and statues of local artists and writers.
🎭 Teatro Massimo Bellini
Just a 5-minute walk from Piazza Duomo, Piazza Vincenzo Bellini is home to Catania’s elegant 19th-century opera house, named after composer Vincenzo Bellini.
The interior is stunning, with a gilded auditorium that still hosts major operas and concerts.
🍝 Taste the Local Cuisine
Sicilian food is honestly some of the best I’ve ever had—fresh pasta, seafood, pizza, gelato, and pastries that are hard to beat.
While in Catania, try the local favorite Pasta alla Norma, made with fried eggplant, tomato sauce, and Ricotta cheese.
For dessert, grab a Cannoli from Savia or a slice of tiramisu at Ficarra Luigi, both near Villa Bellini.
👉 Explore Catania food-tasting tours and activities
Top Excursions and Day Trips from Catania Cruise Port
🌋 Mount Etna
A trip to Mount Etna is the most popular excursion from Catania cruise port—and for good reason. At 3,329 meters, it’s one of the most active volcanoes in Europe, constantly releasing fumes even in winter.
Located about 35 km (1 hour) from the port, the easiest way to visit is by shore excursion or rental car.
Most visitors head to Rifugio Sapienza (2,000 m), where you’ll find free parking, cafes, and tour vendors offering hikes, 4×4 rides, and cable car trips to the summit.
Just note that the cable car often gets canceled due to wind, and refunds may be offered as off-road alternatives.
You can hike on your own up to 2,500 m, but for anything higher, a licensed guide is required. Etna also has hundreds of craters and over 200 lava caves, which you can explore on guided tours.
The area is mountainous and can get chilly—bring a jacket and comfy shoes. Whether you choose a hike, cave tour, or wine tasting, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
👉 Explore Etna tours and activities from Catania
🏖️ Acitrezza & Aci Castello
If you’re up for exploring outside the city, Acitrezza and Aci Castello are two lovely coastal towns about 13 km (30 minutes) northeast of Catania. You can get there by car, or hop-on hop-off buses from Piazza Duomo also stop in both towns.
Acitrezza is known for the Faraglioni of the Cyclops, massive sea rocks tied to the legend of Odysseus and the Cyclops. Locals call them the Cyclopean Isles.
Aci Castello is home to an 11th-century Norman castle perched above the sea, with great coastal views.
Both towns are popular with locals and tourists for their rocky beaches, clear waters, and relaxed, resort-like vibe. I haven’t personally visited yet, but it’s a favorite for beach lovers and coastal views.
👉 Check out tours to Acitrezza and Aci Castello
🌅 Taormina
Taormina is one of Sicily’s most beautiful towns, perched on a cliff 200 meters above the sea, about 1 hour from Catania (56 km/35 miles).
This ancient town dates back to 734 BC and is home to the well-preserved Teatro Antico, with incredible views of the coast and Mount Etna.
Corso Umberto, the main street, is lined with boutiques, souvenir shops, restaurants, and cafes, and leads to Piazza IX Aprile, one of the most scenic spots in town.
Don’t miss the medieval Duomo di Taormina and the peaceful Villa Comunale gardens, both offering amazing views.
You can get there by train (30–45 min from Catania Centrale), car, or intercity bus.
👉 Explore Taormina tours and activities from Catania
👉 Read more: Top 10 things to do in Taormina
🏺 Syracuse
Located about 65 km (1 hour) southeast of Catania, Syracuse is one of Sicily’s oldest cities, packed with Greek and Roman history, ancient ruins, and coastal charm. It’s also the birthplace of Archimedes, the famous mathematician.
The historic center, Ortigia, sits on a small peninsula and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t miss the Temple of Apollo and the stunning Syracuse Cathedral, built on the remains of a 5th-century BC Greek temple.
Also worth a visit are Piazza Archimede, Fontana di Diana, and the seaside Castello Maniace. For archaeology lovers, the Neapolis Archaeological Park features a Greek theater, caves, and Roman ruins.
The easiest way to get there is by train from Catania Centrale—the ride takes about 1 hour 20 minutes, with multiple daily departures.
👉 Explore Syracuse tours and activities from Catania
🎬 The Godfather Movie Tour
If you’re a fan of The Godfather, this tour is a must! The film was shot in Sicily, and from Catania, you can visit key locations used in the movie.
First stop is Savoca, about 74 km (1h 10 min) from the port, where you’ll see Bar Vitelli and the church from Michael Corleone’s wedding. Then you’ll head to Forza d’Agrò, a hilltop village that stood in for Corleone in the movie.
This tour is often combined with Taormina, since they’re close by.
Catania Cruise Port – Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Can you walk from Catania cruise port to the city center?
Yes, you can! It’s about a 15-20 minute walk from the port to Piazza Duomo and the historic center. Most main attractions are within walking distance.
❓ Is Catania cruise port wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the port and city center are mostly flat and accessible. It’s easy to get around, but be careful when crossing streets—traffic can be busy.
❓ Is there parking at Catania cruise port?
Yes, there’s outdoor parking available at Molo Sporgente Centrale, near the ship. You’ll also find public parking at Piazza Paolo Borsellino.
❓ Is there luggage storage at the port?
No, there’s no luggage storage at the cruise port. Check with your cruise line or hotel for options.
❓ How do I get from the port to the train or bus station?
The Catania Centrale train and bus station is about a 15-minute walk from the port. Just head right after exiting the terminal and walk along the main road.
❓ Can I visit Taormina or Syracuse on my own?
Yes! You can take a train or bus from Catania Centrale. Trains to Taormina take about 30–45 minutes; Syracuse is about 1h 20min by train.
❓ Is there a tourist information center at the port?
Yes, there’s a Guest Info Center kiosk on the pier. They offer free maps, local tips, and tour info—super handy if you’re planning your day last-minute.
Helpful Resources for Your Cruise Stop
🌐 Useful Websites for Planning Your Day in Catania
- Find Catania cruise port on Google Maps
- Catania Cruise Ship Schedule
- Port Authority official website
- Catania Tourism Office
- Local Weather Forecast
- Trenitalia – Train schedules in Italy
- AMTS – Public bus info in Catania
- Interbus – Intercity bus routes
🛳️ Other Mediterranean Ports Often Included with Catania
The port of Catania is commonly included on Eastern Mediterranean and Adriatic cruise itineraries. You might also visit:
- Civitavecchia – Gateway to Rome
- Naples – Access to Pompeii, Capri, and the Amalfi Coast
- Kotor – Stunning fjord-like bay in Montenegro
- Dubrovnik – Walled city and Adriatic gem
- Split and Ravenna – Roman ruins and coastal charm
- Rhodes, Santorini, Mykonos – Classic Greek island stops
- Kusadasi – Gateway to ancient Ephesus
- Istanbul – Where East meets West
- Limassol – For ancient Cyprus ruins
- Valletta (Malta) – Impressive forts and medieval streets
- Cannes – Occasionally included on repositioning cruises
You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Northern Europe, USA & Canada, Middle East, Australia & New Zealand
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