Port guide · Italy
The big city of eastern Sicily, at the foot of Etna. Its Baroque centre, built of black volcanic stone, is a World Heritage Site; a flat 15–20 minute walk from the port brings you to Piazza del Duomo and the elephant fountain, and in the morning you can see the bustling fish market. To go up the volcano or to Taormina, an organised tour is the easiest way.
Ships berth in Catania port, about 1.5 km from the historic centre. From the exit, a flat 15–20 minute walk brings you to Piazza del Duomo; traffic is heavy, so take care when crossing.
Time: 15–20 minApprox. price: Free
Flat, straight to Piazza del Duomo and the market
Time: About 10 minApprox. price: Metered; ask the price first
Taxis wait at the port exit
Inside the port, follow the pedestrian route signs; allow at least 45 minutes to get back to the ship.
Route 1
Piazza del Duomo and the elephant fountain
The volcanic-stone elephant is the city's symbol
Catania Cathedral
Dedicated to Saint Agatha, the city's patron saint
La Pescheria
Next to the square; best in the morning; closed on Sundays
Via Etnea
The main street; on clear days you can see Etna at the end
Bellini Garden
A historic garden for a rest
Route 2
Europe's highest active volcano, an hour away by car: you can walk beside old craters. It's cold and windy at the top, so bring a jacket. An organised tour is the easiest way.
Want it easy? Join an official MSC shore excursion, timed around the port call. If you booked your cruise with VIAJES FH, ask your advisor to add it for you.
Route 3
A town perched above the sea, with a Greek theatre facing Etna. Buses to Taormina leave from the Catania station area (approx. one hour); there are organised tours too.
Search MSC cruises calling at Catania with VIAJES FH, with live prices.
Search cruisesYour advisor can add shore excursions, drinks packages and onboard internet.
Contact an advisor
Transport and ticket prices are approximate, checked in November 2026, and may change. The latest all-aboard time is the one announced on board.
Cover photo: Berthold Werner / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0