Hotels in Old Town Catania

Echoes of History: Discover the Enchantment of Old Town Catania

Old Town Catania, a vibrant gem in Sicily, enchants visitors with its Baroque architecture, bustling markets, and rich history. Stroll through Piazza del Duomo, where the stunning Catania Cathedral and the iconic Elephant Fountain await. Discover the ancient Roman amphitheater, nestled amidst charming streets, and explore the ornate churches that reflect the city’s cultural heritage. With its lively atmosphere, delicious Sicilian cuisine, and captivating landmarks like Castello Ursino, Old Town Catania is a perfect blend of history and modernity, making it an unforgettable destination for travelers seeking culture and charm in east Sicily. For the best hotel rates in Old Town Catania and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Old Town Catania

Old Town Catania is a captivating destination, with highlights like Piazza del Duomo and Via Etnea. Piazza del Duomo, featuring stunning architecture and vibrant squares, is ideal for first-time visitors. Via Etnea, a lively shopping street, offers a taste of local life. Accommodations in both areas range from luxury hotels to charming boutique stays, many providing room service and sea views. Policies typically cater to various traveler preferences, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay in the heart of Catania. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Old Town Catania:

1. Near Piazza del DuomoOpens in a new window: This area is perfect for travelers looking to immerse themselves in Catania’s rich culture and history. It's centrally located, making it easy to explore iconic sights like the Cathedral of Sant'Agata. Here, you can find various hotel options catering to pet lovers. Le suites del duomo houseOpens in a new window offers an Affittacamere experience with pet-friendly policies, making it suitable for those traveling with furry friends. Tre Stelle al DuomoOpens in a new window is a charming Bed & Breakfast that also welcomes pets and provides a cozy atmosphere. For business travelers, Hotel Centrale EuropaOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star hotel that combines comfort with business amenities, ensuring a pleasant stay while accommodating pets as well.
2. Near Via EtneaOpens in a new window: This vibrant area is ideal for those wanting to enjoy Catania's lively atmosphere and explore local shops and eateries. The hotels here are more focused on outdoor activities and beach experiences. Movida Sea Forza D'Agrò - TaorminaOpens in a new window features a guesthouse setting with direct beach access, perfect for sun-seekers. Meanwhile, La Casa di FaustoOpens in a new window offers adventure-themed lodging with a wide range of outdoor activities, such as rock climbing and horseback riding. For a more upscale stay, Agostiniana HotelOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star hotel boasting fine dining and entertainment options, ensuring a luxurious yet convenient experience for travelers.

Things to do in Old Town Catania for first time

Old Town Catania offers a captivating blend of history and natural beauty, ideal for a three-day adventure. Wander through vibrant daily markets, enjoy scenic uphill walks, and explore nearby beaches and mountains. Engage in activities like hiking, and theater performances, and take day excursions to fully immerse yourself in this enchanting city. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Old Town Catania:

• Day 1: Start your adventure at Catania Beach, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the Mediterranean waves at Spiaggia della Plaia. After a refreshing morning by the sea, make your way to the historic Ursino Castle. Explore its fascinating architecture and the surrounding park, which provides a beautiful backdrop for photos and a peaceful spot to relax.
• Day 2: Begin your exploration at the stunning Piazza del Duomo, the heart of Catania, where you can admire the iconic Elephant Fountain and the Cathedral. Next, visit the remarkable Roman Amphitheater, a testament to Catania’s rich history. Finish your day at Piazza Dante, a vibrant square surrounded by lively cafes and shops, perfect for grabbing a bite or enjoying a gelato while soaking in the local atmosphere.
• Day 3: Kick off the day by strolling along Via Etnea, Catania’s bustling shopping street filled with boutiques and local artisans. Then, head to the magnificent Catania Cathedral, where you can marvel at its Baroque architecture. Wrap up your itinerary at Piazza Stesicoro, where you can unwind and enjoy the lively ambiance, perhaps catching a performance or sampling local street food.

5 tips to find a great Old Town Catania hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Old Town Catania is during January, February, and December, when hotel prices are significantly lower. For international travelers, it's best to book your flight at least five months in advance to secure more affordable rates. A stay of at least 3-4 days is recommended to fully appreciate the area’s main attractions, such as its stunning cathedral, historic churches, and impressive monuments. This destination offers great value for money, making it an ideal choice for those looking to explore on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Old Town Catania, now is the perfect time to book your stay! You could find affordable rates on Hotels.com by checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where discounted hotel prices might be available just before your trip. Don’t forget to enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about any flash sales or special last-minute offers, helping you secure the cheapest price for your Catania hotel getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Old Town Catania.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, take your location into account. Staying near major attractions or downtown areas can be convenient, but it often comes with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in neighborhoods that are usually less central, finding a balance between cost and easy access to the sites you want to explore.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Old Town Catania and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Old Town Catania

Here are some famous dishes in Old Town Catania, Catania, Sicily, Italy:

• Arancini: These delicious rice balls are a must-try in Catania. Typically stuffed with a variety of fillings like ragù, mozzarella, or peas, they are coated in breadcrumbs and fried to golden perfection. Enjoy them as a quick snack from local street vendors or sit down at a café for a leisurely bite.
• Pasta alla Norma: This iconic Sicilian dish features pasta tossed with a rich tomato sauce, eggplant, and a generous sprinkle of ricotta salata. Traditionally served in many restaurants around Old Town Catania, it reflects the region's agricultural bounty and is best enjoyed with a glass of local wine.
• Granita: A refreshing treat, granita is a semi-frozen dessert made from flavored ice, often served at breakfast or as a light snack. Popular flavors include almond and lemon, and you can savor it at charming cafés like Bar Turrisi, where locals gather to enjoy this sweet delight.

Best time to go to Old Town Catania

Old Town Catania experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 50.9°F (10.5°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 82.9°F (28.3°C). November is usually the wettest month. July to September are the peak travel months in Old Town Catania, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, with dry to light rainfall. On the other hand, January, February, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.