Angelina Zivkovic 
If you’re visiting Sicily and want to know where to stay in Catania, you’ve come to the right place.
The ancient port city of Catania is located on the east coast of Sicily and is the 2nd largest city on the island. The best area to stay is between Via Etnea and Via Crociferi (in the center) where the major attractions are located. However, the other areas, like Aci Castello, Nicolosi, Acireale, and on the coast, have a charm of their own and are nothing short of spectacular.
Although Catania doesn’t have stunning beaches, it still is a popular destination for tourists who like to explore Mount Etna, Taormina, and other natural and historical sights that make Catania the gem it is.
This means you’ll need to book your accommodation ahead, so you don’t have to settle for anything less than perfect on your trip.
Andiamo!
Contents
- If you are in a hurry
- 1. Between Via Etnea & Via Crociferi – best for first-timers
- 2. Aci Castello – where to stay in Catania for sea lovers
- 3. Nicolosi – where to stay in Catania for outdoor activities
- 4. Acireale – where to stay in Catania for food lovers
- 5. On the coast – where to stay in Catania for nightlife
- FAQs about where to stay in Catania
If you are in a hurry
If you don’t have the time to read the whole post, worry not. The best area to stay in Catania is between Via Etnea and Via Crociferi (in the center of Catania), and here are the best accommodation options:
Catania covers a large area, so I prepared a map for you to see where each area is located and how close they are to each other:
- Between Via Etnea & Via Crociferi: for first-timers
- Aci Castello: for sea lovers
- Nicolosi: for outdoor activities
- Acireale: for food lovers
- On the coast: for nightlife
1. Between Via Etnea & Via Crociferi – best for first-timers
Located in the historic centre of Catania, the streets Via Etnea and Via Crociferi (“via” means “street” in Italian) have more historical significance than perhaps any other larger area to stay in Sicily.
Via Etnea runs south-north from Piazza del Duomo to Tondo Gioeni and is the main shopping street persistently crowded with both locals and tourists. It is a pedestrian street paved with lava rock from Etna and lined by stunning buildings with baroque architecture.
Via Crociferi is the second most famous street in the city center, marked by baroque churches and the notable Arco di San Benedetto, built in 1704.
As expected, you’ll find the best Catania hotels on these streets (but not very cheap hotels) and the majority of the tourist attractions, such as Sant’Agata Cathedral and the Elephant Fountain.
Palazzo Marletta Luxury House Hotel, Via Etnea
This is definitely one of the best Catania hotels if you are looking for the ultimate commodity and luxury. Located in Catania centro, it has spacious rooms with a private bathroom and flat-screen TV, and it is within walking distance of the main sights.
Other accommodation options on Via Etnea & Via Crociferi
You’ll love this hotel with rooms with a private balcony, amazing views, and daily breakfast
A small hotel with comfy rooms with free Wi-Fi and in close proximity to Piazza Duomo
A very artistic and cozy accommodation in the city centre perfect for 6 people
Liberty Hotel – Although not in Via Etnea nor in Via Crociferi, Liberty Hotel is still worth considering. It is among the most popular hotels, with luxurious rooms, mosaic marble bathrooms, and decorated ceilings. It’s located within an 8 min walk from Via Crociferi.
Things to do on Via Etnea & Via Crociferi
- Snap a pic at Piazza Duomo & the Cathedral of Saint Agatha
- Explore Villa Bellini & Villa Bellini Park
- See the Roman Theatre
- Take a stroll to Catania University
- Visit Ursino Castle
2. Aci Castello – where to stay in Catania for sea lovers
Aci Castello is a small old town on the east coast of Sicily, just 9 km (6 mi) north of Catania. It’s characterized by the Castle of Aci, a coastal castle built in 1076 by the Normans.
Today, it is an area known mostly for agriculture and industry. There aren’t many hotel options where you can stay, but it is a cheaper area than the main center and in close proximity to Aci Trezza, a coastal village that’s part of Aci Castello. It is known for its maritime activity and for the Cyclopean Isles, a must-see site in this area.
Grand Hotel Faraglioni, Aci Castello
Located within a 20 min walk from Aci Castello, this is the only luxury hotel option in this area, but a superb one. It has spacious rooms with sea views, private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and the most delicious breakfast you could ask for!
Other accommodation options in Aci Castello
With simple decor, this cozy accommodation has sea views and is within a 15-min walk from Aci Castello beach
This one is among the best cheap hotels in Catania, tastefully furnished for a comfortable stay
You’ll love this designer apartment with a roof terrace and the most romantic sunset sea views
Things to do in Aci Castello
- Admire the Castle of Aci
- Take a boat & swim at the Cyclopean Riviera
- Explore the Aci Castello Beach
- Spend a day at Aci Trezza Beach
- Take The Godfather Movie day tour to Savoca
3. Nicolosi – where to stay in Catania for outdoor activities
Nicolosi is located north of Catania center, easily accessible by car or public transport. The journey takes about 30 minutes, but it’s well worth it for those who love the mountains and hiking.
Nicolosi is a good starting point and the best area to stay for hiking. You can explore Mount Rossi and Mount Etna or travel a bit further to take the cable car to Taormina. In terms of historical landmarks, you have the Museo dell’ Etna, and for the best restaurants in the area, I recommend L’Osteria del Siciliano and Chez Lo Zio.
This modern hotel has spacious rooms equipped with all amenities such as TV, Wi-Fi, minibar, etc. It also boasts a restaurant and lounge, a bar, and free parking. It is the perfect hotel for young people who like to explore when on vacation.
Other accommodation options in Nicolosi
Have a pleasant stay at this hotel with a garden and selected rooms with balcony and mountain views
Outdoor enthusiasts will love this wooden home with a garden and terrace, 17 km from Mount Etna
A modern black & white apartment on 2 floors with a private bathroom, perfect for 6 people
Things to do in Nicolosi
- Go wild at Monti Rossi Adventure Park
- Go hiking to Monti Rossi
- Try the Taormina Cable Car
- Join a guided combo tour of Mount Etna
- Go on a guided trek of Etna Southern Slope
4. Acireale – where to stay in Catania for food lovers
Acireale is a seaside village in eastern Sicily with a family-friendly neighborhood and lots of dining options. It’s a real heaven for food lovers.
Its historical centre is marked by the same baroque architecture you’ll find in the city center, and the main attractions are the Cathedral of Acireale, Basilica Collegiata di San Sebastiano, Museo Opera dei Pupi, and Riserva Naturale Orientata: La Timpa.
If you happen to visit from February to March, you may be lucky to catch the Carnival and try the best food and wine in Sicily. This is a popular family-friendly event in Sicily, so bring your whole family, and don’t forget the masks!
Have an unforgettable stay at this apartment complex with private entrances and bathrooms and all amenities like TVs, Wi-Fi, A/C, coffee machines, and whatnot. There is also a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and a hot tub that guests can enjoy.
Other accommodation options in Acireale
Set in the historical center of Acireale, the rooms of this hotel have wooden floors and matching furniture
Stay at this 19-century building with a lovely garden and comfy rooms at affordable prices
A charming house with local themes, a large living room, and 3 bedrooms, perfect for 5 people
Things to do in Acireale
- Explore La Timpa di Acireale
- Catch a performance at Opera dei Pupi
- Have fun at the Carnival di Acireale
- Try some delicious food at the local restaurants
5. On the coast – where to stay in Catania for nightlife
Although the coast of Catania covers a larger area with many coastal communes such as Aci Castello and Acireale, the coastal area that I suggest for staying stretches from Catania Airport train station (or Fontanarossa Airport) to Piazza Europa.
It’s not a spectacular beach area like the beaches in Brazil, but it is a lively coastal destination characterized by cliffs and private beach clubs on the major public beach San Giovanni Li Cuti. This is also the best area to stay for young people who want to go out at night.
The major sights like the Roman Amphitheatre and Piazza Stesicoro are 10 minutes away by car from Piazza Europa.
Bastio Private Suites, on the coast
Feel the sea breeze at this chic hotel in central Catania, only 600 m from the Roman Amphitheater. When you’re not exploring the area, you can relax at the on-site hammam or take advantage of the room service.
Other accommodation options on the coast
Have a cozy stay at this cozy hotel with simple yet spacious rooms, and a great location
This cute B&B has comfy beds, private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and even bike rentals
A lovely loft on 2 levels, within 200 m from the sea, perfect for 3 guests
Things to do on the coast
- Party on San Giovanni Li Cuti beach
- Take a walk to the city center
- Join a private wine tour to the best Etna wineries
- Go on a day trip to Taormina and Mt. Etna
| 👑 Luxury price: | €400 |
| 💵 Mid-Range: | €250 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | €100 |
| 📍 Best area: | Via Etnea & Via Crociferi (Center) |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Palazzo Marletta Luxury House Hotel |
| 💵 Best mid-range hotel: | 81 Suite and Breakfast |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | La Castellese |
FAQs about where to stay in Catania
🏅 What is the best area to stay in Catania?
The best area to stay in Catania is on Via Etnea and Via Crociferi, both in the very center of Catania and close to the major tourist attractions such as Catania Cathedral of Sant’Agata, Bellini Park, etc.
🏰 Is it worth staying in Catania?
Yes! Catania is a very beautiful destination in Sicily, with a warm climate and plenty of historical landmarks, so it is a particularly nice area to stay for history buffs.
☠️ Where not to stay in Catania?
There aren’t any particularly bad areas in Catania that you should avoid by all means, but you should be more careful when passing around these areas: Librino, Nesima, Monte Po, and Fortino. Remember, regardless of where you go, you should practice general caution.
🤔 Is it better to stay in Taormina or Catania?
It depends. Catania is the better option for history lovers, with many historical landmarks with baroque architecture. Taormina is a paradise for nature lovers who like to explore the trails leading to Mount Etna and the sea cliffs.
Conclusion
That’s all, folks! I hope I helped you decide where to stay in Catania. Remember, around Via Etnea and Via Crociferi is the best area to stay, but others are also great, depending on what you’re looking for.
There is also a wide variety of accommodation options for every taste and budget, so I’m sure everyone can find their pick.
If you’re still undecided, here are my personal top 2 picks for the best hotels to stay in Catania:
- Palazzo Marletta Luxury House Hotel – A charming hotel on the main square with comfy rooms and all the luxury you could think of.
- 81 Suite and Breakfast – I love the views from the tastefully furnished rooms of this hotel that’s within walking distance of Piazza Duomo.
Wherever you decide to stay, don’t forget to book your room in advance. Catania is a very tourist destination, and all the good accommodation sells out fast. And if there is anything I missed answering in the article, don’t hesitate to ask in the comment section below.
Buon Viaggio,
Beti
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