About the Port
Catania rises at the foot of Mount Etna, Europe's most active volcano, whose eruptions have repeatedly reshaped the city and left their mark in the dark volcanic stone used throughout its architecture. The historic center, rebuilt in a flourish of baroque style after a devastating 17th-century earthquake, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and remains a lively downtown of piazzas, fish markets, and stately churches. The pier sits within walking distance of this old quarter, making the city easy to explore on foot.
Beyond the streets, Etna's slopes offer a striking contrast, with lava fields, chestnut forests, and panoramic views over the Ionian coast. Many travelers use Catania as a gateway to the volcano, venturing upward for a closer look at its craters and rugged terrain. Back in the city, cafés and markets capture the unhurried rhythm of Sicilian life beneath the ever-present backdrop of the mountain.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Catania .
Excursion to Mount Etna
Ride up the volcano's slopes to see lava fields, craters, and sweeping views over the Ionian coast; guided half-day trips run by cable car and off-road transport from the mid-station.
Browse La Pescheria Fish Market
Wander this raucous, centuries-old market steps from the cathedral, where vendors hawk the morning's catch amid shouted banter and baroque backdrops—arrive early for the liveliest atmosphere.
Explore Piazza del Duomo
Anchor a walking tour at this baroque square, home to the lava-stone Elephant Fountain and Catania's cathedral, both rebuilt from the volcanic stone that defines the city's look.
Cruise Lines That Call Here
Click a cruise line to see its Catania sailings and Pavlus pricing.
Cruises That Visit Catania
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 4, 2026 | Atlas Ocean Voyages | World Traveller | 5 | $3,589 | |
| Sep 13, 2026 | Azamara | Azamara Quest | 11 | $3,599 | |
| Sep 13, 2026 | Norwegian Cruise Line | Norwegian Epic | 7 | $1,129 | |
| Sep 20, 2026 | Oceania | Oceania Sirena | 10 | $3,749 | |
| Oct 1, 2026 | Ponant Cruises | Le Champlain | 10 | $12,350 | |
| Oct 4, 2026 | Virgin Voyages | Scarlet Lady | 7 | $2,443 | |
| Oct 20, 2026 | Regent | Seven Seas Grandeur | 12 | $14,099 | |
| Oct 23, 2026 | Oceania | Oceania Insignia | 32 | $15,749 | |
| Nov 4, 2026 | Viking Ocean Cruises | Viking Sky | 7 | $3,499 | |
| Dec 5, 2026 | Azamara | Azamara Onward | 17 | $4,009 | |
| Dec 12, 2026 | Azamara | Azamara Onward | 10 | $2,129 | |
| Dec 12, 2026 | Azamara | Azamara Onward | 17 | $5,369 | |
| Feb 20, 2027 | Azamara | Azamara Onward | 11 | $3,179 | |
| Apr 17, 2027 | Oceania | Oceania Marina | 11 | $3,230 | |
| Apr 17, 2027 | Oceania | Oceania Marina | 66 | $37,099 | |
| Apr 30, 2027 | Norwegian Cruise Line | Norwegian Sun | 9 | $2,398 | |
| May 2, 2027 | Norwegian Cruise Line | Norwegian Sun | 7 | $1,309 | |
| May 5, 2027 | Azamara | Azamara Journey | 10 | $3,979 | |
| May 7, 2027 | Oceania | Oceania Allura | 7 | $3,315 | |
| May 7, 2027 | Norwegian Cruise Line | Norwegian Epic | 9 | $2,198 |
Showing the next 20 of 178 upcoming departures. Browse them all in cruise search → or call 800-528-9300 for today's best pricing.