Sicily, with a landscape of mountains and rich soil, is Mediterranean’s largest island and a popular and well-visited gem south of Italy. The island is an independent region of Italy. In this region, we find the bigger cities Messina, Catania, Taormina, and Syracuse. In the east, you can find the beautiful Ionian Sea as a part of the Mediterranean ocean, with a long coast of lava and a nature reserve called La Timpa.
Sicily has a long and varied history and rich culture, inspired by Greek-Roman, Arabic, Spanish, and French influence. The province Catania is located on the east side where Roman influence dominates. The charming Roman city by the same name, Catania, constitutes the centre of the province and is Sicily’s second largest city. The city’s historic town centre, the old town, is listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List since 2002 for its fascinating baroque architecture.
Tips: Start from Piazza Duomo, in the heart of Catania City, and walk the historic streets. The lively town square is a perfect meeting and starting point to explore the city. Satisfy your inner shopaholic with world-famous designers and fashion on the 20 kilometres long and famous shopping avenue Via Etnea!
Catania City is in the shade of Etna, Europe’s largest and most active volcano that is a big tourist attraction because of its astonishing natural phenomena: it constantly changes form! Every year, thousands of Swedish travellers chose to spend their valuable vacation time in beautiful Sicily. Here, they enjoy the tasty Sicilian courses, well-kept history and architecture, the flavoursome Marsala and Nero d’Avola wine, and the pleasantly warm Mediterranean climate that encourage to lazy days on a sunbed on the beautiful beaches along the coast.
Three “Things you didn’t know about Sicily”:
CATANIA–FONTANAROSSA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
The airport is located 4 km south west of Catania. Buses go every 30 minutes to the town centre. There’s also a taxi at the airport if you prefer that. If your destination is not Catania, you will have to get to the town centre to catch the train to your preferred destination. Additionally, the city has an excellent subway system that makes it easy to get around, offering efficient transport.
Sicily and Catania are waiting for you!
Good to know before your trip
Tourist tax: a local tourist tax has to be paid when you arrive. It varies from 2-5 EUR/person/night depending on what local classification your residence has. The tax will be paid directly to the hotel on your arrival or departure. All cities are not affected.