Private car transfer
from Taormina to Catania

While Taormina is celebrated for its medieval and Renaissance architecture, Catania proudly displays its Baroque heritage. Embark on your journey from Taormina to Catania and discover the east coast of Sicily!

Both cities, though not far from each other, are popular destinations in Sicily, but there's more to discover on your car trip from Taormina to Catania. The ride with Daytrip takes just 50 minutes but as you approach Catania you can stop for a bit to admire the world’s oldest chestnut tree, Mount Etna which is the world's most active volcano, or stroll around the peaceful town of Aci Castello.

Catania’s resilience could be perfectly compared to a roller-coaster ride. Today, Catania is famous for its stunning Baroque architecture. But it is worth noting that this style adorned the city after a major earthquake struck Catania in 1693. Almost the entire city was in ruins, so extensive reconstruction works followed afterward, giving the city a unique character. To this day, Mount Etna, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, keeps reminding everyone of its presence by sprinkling the whole city with its soot.

Once you get to Piazza Duomo, the heart of Catania, you will notice Fontana dell'Elefante (or U Liotru, as locals call it), which is a statue of an elephant carrying an Egyptian obelisk. Elephants hold deep cultural significance in Catanese culture, both symbolically and folklorically. These strong animals represent the city's strength and resilience, especially towards natural disasters.

Catania has risen from the ashes like a phoenix several times. Each time the city faced destruction, Catania became stronger than before. Today, the city’s resilience is not only evident in its architecture but also in the spirit of its locals.

Have some euros in your pocket

Just as you might have noticed in Taormina, Catania is similar when it comes to payment methods. While cards are mostly accepted at tourist-oriented restaurants and shops, cash is generally preferred. Be sure to exchange some dollars before your trip to Sicily to avoid any inconvenience.

Plan your meals

Be aware that some restaurants in Catania (or anywhere in Sicily) are closed between lunch and dinner, usually from 3 PM to 7 PM. It's important to plan your meals accordingly. Depending on the season you visit, the opening hours may vary. During the off-season, there are usually shorter hours. If you are planning to go to a specific restaurant, check their working hours online before your trip.

From Taormina to Catania by bus

The most affordable way to travel from Taormina to Catania is by bus. There are two main bus companies that offer routes between these two cities: Interbus and Etna Trasporti. Both of them offer a drive of approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. The tickets cost around $5.50 (€5), making it the most budget-friendly option. The buses depart multiple times a day.

From Taormina to Catania by train

However, trains are just slightly more expensive than buses which is why this mode of transportation is usually preferred for this route. You can get from Taormina to Catania with trains operated by Trenitalia, and the tickets cost around $6 (€5.50). Some of these regional trains are quite fast and will take you to Catania in just 40 to 50 minutes. Just like buses, trains also depart several times a day.

From Taormina to Catania by taxi

If you're seeking a more direct way to travel from Taormina to Catania, taking a taxi is an option. However, keep in mind that taxi drivers may charge higher rates for tourists, so it might not be the most cost-effective mode of transportation.

From Taormina to Catania by private car service

The most convenient way of getting from Taormina to Catania is by private car service. Daytrip offers door-to-door services which means that your local driver will pick you up from your hotel and drop you off wherever your accommodation is located in Catania. Our experienced drivers speak English which means you can easily communicate with them and ask for recommendations, without worrying about the language barrier.

One of the best advantages Daytrip offers is that you can explore any of the sightseeing stops we offer, not limiting yourself to just a predefined route or schedule. The flexibility allows you to tailor your journey to your interests and pace, ensuring a more personalized and enjoyable travel experience.

Although the drive from Taormina to Catania is just 50 minutes long, you can explore some truly unique stops, such as not only the largest but also the oldest chestnut tree in the world with at least 2000 years of history, the famed Mount Etna that has played an important role into how Catania is shaped today, and Aci Castello, known for its rocky coastline.

Admire the Catania Cathedral

The Cathedral of Saint Agatha is the main star of Catania. Just like the rest of the city, this cathedral was also affected by the earthquake of 1693, completely destroying it. Not long after, it was not only rebuilt but also complemented by new elements over the years. Entry to this Baroque-style masterpiece is free, and inside, you will find the tomb of the famous Catanese composer Vincenzo Bellini.

Explore the ruins of the amphitheater

Dive into the history by visiting the ancient Roman Amphitheater that was built in 2 A.D. from the volcanic rocks of Mount Etna. Back in the day, it had seats for 16,000 spectators, making it the largest amphitheater in Sicily.

Soak in the sun at the beach

If you’re visiting Catania during the warmer months, don’t miss out on exploring the nearby beaches! The most famous beach in this eastern Sicilian city is Playa di Catania. You can choose between the free public sections or the private areas that offer comfortable beach loungers and parasols. Stretching approximately 11 miles (18 km) along the city’s coast, Playa di Catania is famous for its unique volcanic sand.

Try the most mouth-watering local dishes

Sicilian gastronomy is among the most diverse in Italy, influenced by centuries of cultural interactions with Greeks, Arabs, Normans, and Spaniards, as well as its proximity to the sea. Here are some of the dishes from Catania that you should experience at least once during your stay:

• Different pasta dishes: it is not Italy if there is no pasta. In Catania, you will find a variety of pasta that you should try, such as pasta alla norma, linguine ai frutti di mare, and paccheri with fresh tuna.
• Granita con brioche: a dessert locals usually enjoy for breakfast. Granita is a half-frozen dessert with a granular-like texture, whereas brioche is a pastry with a buttery flavor.
• Minne di Sant'Agata: if you’re visiting in February during the Festival of Saint Agatha (from February 3rd to 5th), be sure to try Minne di Sant'Agata, a delicious pastry that translates to ‘the breasts of Saint Agatha.’ These pastries honor the memory of Saint Agatha and are a key part of the celebrations.