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5 Days in Catania: Unveiling Ancient Marvels and Sicilian Delights

Vanina Ivanova

Vanina Ivanova

4 Jan 2024

Embark on a captivating journey through Catania, where ancient wonders meet vibrant culture. Discover hidden gems like Fontana dell’Amenano and the Fountain of the Elephant. Immerse yourself in the artistic atmosphere of Piazza Università and Teatro Massimo Bellini. Unwind amidst the lush greenery of Orto Botanico dell'Università di Catania and Villa Bellini. Explore the historic Castello Ursino and the picturesque Parco Gioeni. Indulge in the rich history of Castle of Aci, Museo Storico dello Sbarco in Sicilia 1943, and Palazzo Biscari. Conclude your adventure with the grandeur of Basilica Cattedrale di Sant'Agata, the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sicily, and the awe-inspiring Greek-Roman theatre.

Trip to Catania

Day 1Unveiling Ancient Treasures
+

$25

Fontana dell’Amenano
Baroque fountain of mythical figures by Tito Angelini & inscribed with the city's coat of arms.
8:00 AM - 8:15 AM
•
Free
1 - 2 min

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Directions

Fountain of the Elephant
Fountain with a Roman statue of an elephant carved from basalt, now the symbol of the city.
8:45 AM - 9:00 AM
•
Free
3 - 4 min

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Directions

Piazza Università
Plaza flanked by ornate 18th-century buildings & 4 bronze lampposts depicting Catanian legends.
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM
•
Free
6 - 9 min

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Directions

Teatro Massimo Bellini
Ornate 19th-century theatre with lavish gilt-edged auditorium staging major operas & concerts.
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
•
$25
7 - 10 min

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Directions

Palazzo Platamone
Medieval palace & former monastery, now a cultural venue hosting various art exhibitions & concerts.
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
•
Free
Day 2Nature's Oasis and Cultural Delights
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$13

Orto Botanico dell'Università di Catania
Botanical garden with exotic & native species known for its collection of succulents & palm trees.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
•
$13
7 - 10 min

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Directions

Villa Bellini/Chiosco Bellini
Small, serene garden area in a city park with shaded paths, benches, fountains & flowerbeds.
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
•
Free
Day 3Exploring Historic Fortresses
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$20

·

$ 3

Parco Gioeni
Hilly urban green area with views of the city & sea, children's play areas & a skatepark.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
•
Free
19 - 23 min

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Directions

Castello Ursino
13th-century castle with royal archaeological collection, objects from monastery & painted carts.
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
•
$20
Day 4Journey through Sicilian History
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$58

·

$ 5

Castle of Aci
Ruined Norman stronghold built onto a dramatic seaside rock, with exhibits on past battles & sieges.
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
•
$20
23 - 28 min

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Directions

Museo Storico dello Sbarco in Sicilia 1943
History museum exploring local WWII history through immersive multimedia exhibits.
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
•
$25
6 - 8 min

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Directions

Palazzo Biscari
Baroque palace, opulently decorated with frescos, mirrors and stucco work, now used for concerts.
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
•
$13
Day 5Majestic Cathedrals and Artistic Marvels
+

$25

Basilica Cattedrale di Sant'Agata
Prominent baroque cathedral known for its columned facade, domed roof, frescoes & paintings.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
•
Free
5 - 8 min

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Directions

Museum of Contemporary Art in Sicily
Classic gallery featuring avant-garde paintings, sculpture & photos produced by regional artists.
9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
•
$13
4 - 5 min

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Directions

Greek - Roman theatre
Open-air amphitheater ruins from the 2nd century AD with a stepped seating area & an orchestra pit.
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
•
$13

Budget breakdown: $147 In total

Activities & Food:$140
Transport:$7