Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit
Navigate the historic center, prepare for damp conditions, and organize your route between the ancient sites.
Underground Catania
Piazza Stesicoro and Piazza del Duomo, 95124 Catania
GPS 37.5069, 15.0858
Open directionsGetting there
Most sites sit in the pedestrian zone.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walk: Walking is the best way to travel between the underground sites, as most are located within a 10-15 minute walk of each other in the historic center. | 10-15 min between sites | Free | Piazza Stesicoro (Amphitheatre) and Piazza del Duomo (Achillian Baths) are directly connected by the pedestrian-friendly Via Etnea. |
| Tour: Book a guided 'Catania Sotterranea' tour. Guides meet visitors at a designated point (often Piazza Stesicoro) and walk them through 3 to 4 locked or hidden sites. | 2.5 hours | €28 - €40 | Highly recommended to get access to areas that have erratic opening times and to understand the deep history of the ruins. |
| Bus: Numerous local AMT city buses and the Alibus airport shuttle stop near Piazza Stesicoro and Piazza Borsellino (near the Duomo). | Varies by location | €1.00 | Tickets must be purchased at kiosks or on the AMT app before boarding. |
| Train: Arrive at Catania Centrale railway station, which is about 1.2 km from the main underground entrances. | 15 min walk | You can walk straight up Via delle Finanze or take a quick bus/taxi from the station. | |
| Car: Park in a designated lot outside the ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone) and walk into the historic center. | N/A | €1 - €2 per hour | Driving in central Catania is notoriously chaotic and restricted; use parking areas like Piazza Borsellino. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The underground sites are accessible year-round. Temperatures drop noticeably below ground, making it a refreshing option during hot Sicilian summers. Spring and Autumn provide the most pleasant walking conditions above ground.
What to bring
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Wear flat, non-slip shoes.
The ancient stone steps are often steep and damp.
How the day runs
Follow this simple route to see the highlights.
Cover the main ruins and underground river in one morning.
- Piazza Stesicoro
View the Roman Amphitheatre ruins from the square, then descend inside.
- Via Etnea Walk
Walk 10 minutes south down the pedestrian street toward the Duomo.
- Terme Achilliane
Enter the 3rd-century Roman baths beneath the cathedral square.
- A Putia dell'Ostello
See the Amenano River flowing through a natural lava cave.
A fast route for those short on time.
- Piazza del Duomo
Buy tickets at the Diocesan Museum and enter Terme Achilliane.
- Terme della Rotonda
Walk to the upper historic center to see the Roman baths turned Byzantine church.
Practical rules and packing
Leave large bags and sharp objects at your hotel. They are not allowed underground. You must wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip. The ancient steps are steep, irregular, and often wet. Bring a light jacket, as the subterranean temperatures are much cooler.
These sites are generally not suitable for wheelchair users due to the ancient terrain. People with severe claustrophobia should note that some caves are tight and dark. Do not touch the rock formations or frescoes.
Easiest way to do it
Underground Catania
2 h to 3 h 4.9 (321)
- Soda/Pop
- Entrance fees
From$92per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
What should I wear for an underground tour in Sicily?
Wear flat shoes with non-slip soles. Bring a light jacket or sweater, as the caves and ruins are cool and damp year-round.
Are the underground sites in Catania wheelchair accessible?
No. The subterranean sites are generally not suitable for wheelchair users. Visitors must navigate steep ancient stairs and uneven terrain.
Where does the Underground Catania tour start?
Guided tours typically meet at a designated point in the historic center. Piazza Stesicoro is the most common starting location.