Mount Etna & Catania

OVERVIEW

View the magnificent architecture throughout Catania, a sprawling city in the shadow of Mt. Etna, and then head to the Silvestri craters for a closer look at the towering peak. Following a panorama drive past many of the landmarks in Catania, you will begin a walking tour in the Piazza del Duomo area. The lavish Baroque cathedral overlooking the square is dedicated to Saint Agatha and contains the tomb of opera composer Vincenzo Bellini, a native son of Catania. Regardless of where you are in the city, you can’t help but feel the presence of Mt. Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe. You will be treated to a superb view of Etna—whose name comes from the Greek word for “I burn”—from a lookout among the craters in its foothills. The guide will point out streams of hardened lava from past eruptions. One of those streams came dangerously close Zafferana, where you will have lunch.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy a panoramic drive through Catania, followed by an enlightening walking tour.
• Behold the architectural treasures around the Piazza del Duomo, including Catania’s cathedral.
• View Mt. Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano, from a lookout in the craters in the foothills.
• Dine in the town of Zafferana, which lava from Mt. Etna’s 1992 eruption nearly overran.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.