A seasonal guide to Catania

Catania may be Sicily’s second city, but it’s balmy year round temperatures combined with Baroque architecture and laid-back vibe make it a first-class destination. Whether you visit in the winter, spring, summer, or fall, there’s no shortage of things to do in Catania.

Winter

The mild winters of Sicily are a great draw for visitors. Catania, the island’s second city, boasts toasty temperatures throughout the year, meaning a winter break doesn’t necessarily mean winter clothes. Still, if you do feel like wrapping up you could head to the slopes of Etna for some skiing, and the city’s renowned Baroque architecture will always look spellbinding no matter the temperature. It’s also worth visiting in February for the Festa di Sant’Agata, three days of celebration for Catania’s patron saint involving processions, local food and some seriously impressive firework displays.

Spring

At the start of spring, the hillsides of Sicily erupt with wildflowers in a burst of colour and rejuvenation. Later in the season, fields of wheat turn the countryside a vivid green as the temperatures start to soar. There’s no better place to drink in all of these sights and sensations than Catania, the island’s second city. Head to the daily markets near the Piazza del Duomo for a true taste of Sicilian daily life or just kick back in a café and admire the slopes of Etna. With such stunning surroundings, you’ll be feeling that laid-back Mediterranean vibe in no time.

Summer

With Sicily’s gorgeous temperatures at their height and beach season in full swing, you might be forgiven for spending all your time in Catania lounging on the sand and soaking up some sun. We certainly wouldn’t blame you, but don’t neglect this bustling city’s other charms. There’s some fine Baroque architecture that earned Catania its designation as an UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the slopes of Etna if you feel like a more volcanic adventure. But if there’s one thing you have to do while enjoying the sun, it’s to dive into Sicilian cuisine. Quite different from Italian, it’s a whole new world of sensational and surprising dishes!

Fall

If you’re visiting Catania in autumn, be sure to bring your appetite. At the heart of any Sicilian autumn are the olive and grape harvests, but almonds, tomatoes, aubergines and a whole feast of delicious produce also come into season. Considering the weather will be warm enough to eat on the terrace of that charmingly authentic restaurant, what could be better than enjoying some of Sicily’s unique cuisine while gazing out over the beach or up at the volcanic slopes of Etna?