Weekend in Catania

The main square of Catania, a UNESCO World Heritage site. See the Fontana dell'Elefante, the Cathedral of Sant'Agata, and the Palazzo degli Elefanti. The lava stone buildings give

Tip: Visit early morning to avoid crowds and get photos without tourists. The sun hits the cathedral facade best around 9am.

Catania's main shopping street, running from Piazza del Duomo north for about 3 km. Lined with Baroque buildings, lava-stone pavements, and views of Mount Etna at the northern end.

Tip: Walk to the Giardino Bellini at the north end for a free rest on benches among palm trees – locals call it 'the villa'.

Partial remains of a 2nd-century AD Roman amphitheatre, exposed in a small urban plaza. Much of it is still buried under buildings, but you can see the central arena and part of the seating for free f

Tip: You don't need to pay to enter – stand at the railing on Via Vittorio Emanuele II for a clear view of the excavated section. The paid site below adds little.

A 13th-century castle housing Catania's civic museum. Exhibits include ancient artefacts, paintings, and medieval sculpture. The castle itself is the main draw – a rare surviving Swabian fortification

Tip: Entry is €6, but free on the first Sunday of each month. Check the sunset view from the ramparts. The museum's cafe has cheap granita for €2.

Norman castle built in the 13th century by Frederick II of Swabia, now housing the Civic Museum of Catania. One of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in Sicily, surrounded by lava from the 1669 er

Tip: Visit early morning to avoid groups; the rooftop terrace has the best views over Catania and Etna on clear days

A small botanical garden run by the university, with a pleasant collection of Mediterranean and tropical plants, cacti, and a greenhouse. Quiet and well-kept, good for a half-hour break from the city.

Tip: Entrance costs €2. Most visitors miss this – you'll have the place almost to yourself on weekday afternoons. Combine with a walk up Via Etnea.