About Catania, Italy

Located on the east coast of Sicily on the Ionian Sea, Catania was founded in the eighth century BCE and is the second-largest city on the Italian island.

Residents and visitors alike appreciate its history, culture, great food and architecture. In fact, Catania’s old town has one of the largest examples of baroque architecture in the country.

Rent A Car And See The City

Must-see sights include Piazza del Duomo (Cathedral Square) and its Fountain dell’Elefante monument, which is the symbol of the city. The sculpture depicts a smiling lava stone topped with an Egyptian obelisk. Dwarf elephants from the early Paleolithic period are thought to be how the legend of the Cyclops originated. The prehistoric creature’s skull had a large, central nasal cavity that appeared to be a single eye. Check out a skeleton of an Elephas falconeri at the Catanian Museum of Mineralogy, Paleontology and Volcanology.

From the square, you’ll be within walking distance of many restaurants and attractions, such as the opulent Cathedral of Sant’Agata, a baroque masterpiece where Italian opera composer Vincenzo Bellini is entombed.

You can also explore the nearby Monastero dei Benedettini (Benedictine Monastery), which is one of the largest monasteries in Europe.

A few minutes’ stroll south is Ursino Castle, a graceful remnant of the thirteenth century, built with lava stone. Inside the castle’s still-intact walls is the Civic Museum of Catania, which houses numerous historical artifacts.

For a breathtaking view of Sicily’s coastline, visit the seaside town of Acicastello overlooking the Mediterranean.

Explore The Region

About a 1-hour drive north of the airport is Mount Etna. At nearly 11,000 feet, Etna is the highest active volcano in continental Europe. For a closer look, you can drive up to about the 6,500-foot point, and then ride a cable car another 500-600 feet and take in the landscape of volcanic rock.

Pick Up Your Rental Car

Catania Airport, also called Catania-Fontanarossa, sits about 2.3 miles southwest of the city. Advantage Rent A Car offers international rentals through its partner company, Europcar. Upon arrival, follow signs inside the terminal to car rentals, where you’ll find the Europcar counter.

Local Policies

Click below to view rental policy.