How to Plan Your Sailing Tour in Catania: Discovering the Cyclops Riviera

If you’re searching for an idyllic vacation spot that’s replete with awe-inspiring sights and sounds, Catania should undoubtedly be on top of your bucket list. Situated on the eastern side of Sicily, this dynamic city features some of the most fascinating landmarks, ancient architecture and pristine landscapes. And to get an even better experience of this slice of paradise, a sailing tour around the Cyclops Riviera should be at the forefront of your itinerary. Here’s how to plan your sailing tour in Catania and make unforgettable memories.

Experience

Catania Catania invites you to venture onto the Cyclops Riviera, which is one of Sicily’s most famous treasures. Known for its volcanic shores and striking landscapes, the Cyclops Riviera draws its name from the mythological creatures that are said to have been blinded by Polyphemus of Homer’s Odyssey. Here are the highlights of this tour:

You will visit the beautiful Cyclops Riviera by sailboat

The Cyclops Riviera is a natural treasure that’s best observed up close. Board the tour’s sailboat that will take you on a three-hour voyage along the coast to admire the spectacular landforms from the sea.

You will be accompanied by a professional skipper

As you enjoy your sailing experience in Catania, your skipper will be present to guide you through the waters, give instruction on sailing techniques and ensure your safety throughout the journey.

You will enjoy a delicious aperitif on board

Get your taste buds firing with a freshly prepared and mouth-watering aperitif served onboard.

Full description

The sailing tour starts at the Catania port, where you will be welcomed aboard and introduced to your skipper. After thirty minutes of preparation, your adventure will begin.

Discover the enchanting seascapes and stunning volcanic landscapes of the Cyclops Riviera

As you sail off from the port, you will be immediately captivated by the unique, breathtaking sceneries of the Cyclops Riviera. The beauty of this region is intricately crafted with a combination of volcanic terrain and the Mediterranean Sea’s turquoise waters. During your adventure, you will uncover the history of the mythical creatures known as the Cyclops, whose legacy is spread around this region. You will also discover the exciting legend of Ulysses’ Quarries, a fascinating tale of ancient civilizations that have vanished without a trace.

Explore the historic structures and castles along the coast

The tour includes a visit to the medieval castle of Aci Castello, an imposing structure overlooking the sea. You will have a chance to learn about the history of the castle and the town of Aci Castello from your skipper.

Swim or snorkel in the pristine waters of the Mediterranean Sea

There’s no better way to experience the beauty of the Mediterranean than to dive into its crystal clear waters. Along the way, your skipper will anchor in one of the lovely coves of the Cyclops Riviera for a refreshing swim.

Savor a delicious lunch on board the sailboat

After a thrilling adventure exploring the Cyclops Riviera, indulge in a scrumptious lunch feast served directly on the sailboat. Bon appetit!

Booking the Tour

Ready to embark on this exciting discovery of the Cyclops Riviera? Book the catamaran tour offered by GetYourGuide for the adventure of a lifetime. Book the tour here and get your camera ready for the most exceptional moments of your vacation in Catania.

Catania: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re planning to visit Sicily, you cannot skip the city of Catania. It is a perfect combination of history, architecture, culture, and delicious Sicilian cuisine. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about Catania, from the best time to visit, the top attractions, to the local food scene.

1. When is the best time to visit Catania?

Catania enjoys a Mediterranean climate with dry summers and mild winters. The peak touristic season is during the summer months (June to September) when the temperatures can reach up to 40°C. We recommend visiting Catania during the shoulder season, in the months of May, June, September, or October, when the crowds are fewer, and the prices are lower.

2. How to get to Catania?

Catania is easily accessible by plane, train, or bus. The city has an international airport, Catania-Fontanarossa Airport, which is just 7 km from the city center. There are several direct flights to Catania from major European cities, such as Rome, Milan, Frankfurt, and London. If you prefer to travel by train, Catania has a central railway station that connects the city to the rest of Sicily and Italy. The train journey from Palermo to Catania takes around 3 hours.

3. What are the top attractions in Catania?

Catania has plenty of attractions to offer to its visitors. Here are some of the top attractions that you should not miss:

a. Piazza del Duomo

Piazza del Duomo is the main square in Catania, dominated by the Cathedral of Saint Agatha, the patron saint of Catania. The square is surrounded by beautiful Baroque buildings, including the Palazzo dei Chierici and the Palazzo degli Elefanti.

b. Ursino Castle

The Ursino Castle is a medieval castle that was built in the 13th century. It has an interesting history as it served as a royal castle, a prison, and a museum. Today, it houses the Civic Museum of Catania.

c. Roman Amphitheater

The Roman Amphitheater is located in the heart of Catania and is the second-largest amphitheater in Sicily. It is believed to have been built in the 2nd century AD and was used for gladiatorial contests and other public events.

d. Fish Market

The Fish Market (La Pescheria) is a lively and colorful market located in the center of Catania. It is one of the oldest markets in the city and offers a wide range of seafood and fresh produce.

4. What are the best day trips from Catania?

Catania is a great base for exploring other parts of Sicily. Here are some of the best day trips that you can take from Catania:

a. Mount Etna

Mount Etna is one of the most iconic landmarks in Sicily and the highest active volcano in Europe. You can take a day trip from Catania to visit Mount Etna and explore its stunning natural surroundings.

b. Taormina

The town of Taormina is located on the east coast of Sicily, about an hour’s drive from Catania. Taormina is famous for its beautiful beaches, stunning views, and ancient Greek Theater.

c. Syracuse

Syracuse is a historic city located on the southeastern coast of Sicily, around an hour’s drive from Catania. Syracuse boasts a rich history, including ancient Greek ruins and the charming island of Ortigia, famous for its Baroque architecture.

5. What is the local food scene like in Catania?

The Sicilian cuisine is famous all around the world, and Catania has its own unique culinary traditions. Here are some of the must-try local dishes:

a. Arancini

Arancini is a popular snack in Sicily, consisting of deep-fried rice balls stuffed with meat, cheese, or vegetables.

b. Pasta alla Norma

Pasta alla Norma is a traditional Sicilian pasta dish that originated in Catania. It consists of thick pasta, tomato sauce, fried eggplants, and ricotta salata cheese.

c. Cannoli

Cannoli is a classic Sicilian dessert that consists of crunchy pastry tubes, filled with sweet ricotta cheese and candied fruit.

Book Your Tour Now

Catania is a fascinating and beautiful city with a rich history and culture. Whether you’re interested in ancient ruins, Baroque architecture, or delicious food, Catania has something to offer for everyone. We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your trip to Catania.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Catania

Catania is a vibrant city in Sicily and is known for its stunning Baroque architecture, bustling markets, and delicious food. If you’re planning a visit to Catania, here’s a guide on how to make the most of your time in the city.

1. Visit the Piazza del Duomo

The Piazza del Duomo is the heart of Catania and is home to many of the city’s most iconic buildings. You can start your tour of the square at the Cathedral of Saint Agatha, which is a stunning example of Baroque architecture. Saint Agatha is the patron saint of Catania, and her feast day is celebrated each year on February 5th. The Cathedral is open to visitors every day, and it’s free to enter.

2. Explore the Famous Fish Market

The Fish Market in Catania is one of the largest and most famous in Italy. You can wander around the stalls, marvel at the variety of seafood, and maybe even buy something for your lunch. It’s a great place to see the locals going about their daily business, and the hustle and bustle of the market is an experience in itself.

3. Take a Stroll Down Via Etnea

Via Etnea is the main street in Catania, and it’s a great place to take a stroll and do some shopping. The street is lined with shops selling designer clothes, souvenirs, and traditional Sicilian products. If you’re feeling hungry, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can stop and grab a bite to eat.

4. Visit the Ursino Castle

The Ursino Castle is an impressive 13th-century fortress that was built to protect the city from invaders. The castle has been beautifully preserved and is now home to the Civic Museum of Catania. The museum contains a fascinating collection of artifacts from the city’s history, including paintings, sculptures, and ceramics.

5. Wander Through the Villa Bellini Gardens

The Villa Bellini Gardens are a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city. The gardens are filled with exotic plants and trees, and there are plenty of benches where you can sit and relax. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a while.

6. Try Some Sicilian Street Food

Sicilian street food is famous throughout Italy, and Catania is no exception. You can find all sorts of delicious treats at the city’s stalls and markets, from arancini (deep-fried rice balls) to cannoli (sweet pastry tubes filled with cream). If you’re feeling brave, you can even try the local delicacy, horse meat.

7. Take a Trip to Mount Etna

Mount Etna is one of the most famous and active volcanoes in the world. It’s located just outside Catania, and there are plenty of tours that will take you to the summit. It’s an experience that you’ll never forget, and the views from the top are absolutely breathtaking.

8. Visit the Roman Amphitheatre

The Roman Amphitheatre in Catania was built in the 2nd century AD and is one of the best-preserved examples of its kind in the world. The amphitheatre could hold up to 15,000 spectators and was used for gladiatorial contests and other public spectacles. You can still see the remains of the seating and the underground chambers where the gladiators would have prepared for their battles.

Book Your Tour Now

Catania is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. There’s so much to see and do, from exploring the ancient Roman ruins to sampling the delicious Sicilian street food. If you’re planning a trip to Sicily, make sure you add Catania to your itinerary. You won’t be disappointed.