In short
- Wear flat, non-slip shoes to handle steep, irregular steps.
- Bring a light sweater or jacket for the cool, damp underground air.
- Leave large backpacks behind and carry a small crossbody bag instead.
In this article
Exploring Underground Catania involves moving between hot city streets and cool, excavated Roman ruins. Because the sites sit below ground level, conditions differ from the surface. You will walk across uneven volcanic rock and navigate narrow passages. Packing the correct items ensures you stay safe and comfortable during the two to three hours you spend touring the sites.
What shoes should I wear?
You must wear comfortable, flat shoes with non-slip soles.
The underground steps are ancient, irregular, and steep. Moisture in the subterranean spaces makes the stone and brick surfaces damp and slippery. Heels, flip-flops, and slick-soled shoes are unsafe for this environment. Choose sturdy walking shoes with good grip to prevent falls.
Do I need a jacket underground?
Yes, you should bring a light jacket or sweater.
Temperatures inside the subterranean ruins and lava caves drop significantly compared to the surface. The air feels cool and damp. This provides a refreshing escape from the Sicilian summer heat, but it can feel chilly while you explore. Wear layers so you can adjust as you move between the cool tunnels and the hot streets above.
Can I bring a backpack?
Large backpacks and luggage are not permitted in the underground areas.
Space is limited inside the excavated passages. Some tunnels and natural lava caves are tight and dark. Bring a small crossbody bag or daypack instead. Do not bring sharp objects, as they are strictly prohibited.
Do I need sun protection?
Yes, you need a hat and sunscreen for the walks between underground locations.
The subterranean entrances are spread across Catania's historic center. Walking between Piazza Stesicoro and Piazza del Duomo takes 10 to 15 minutes. The pedestrian route follows Via Etnea, which is exposed to the sun. Prepare for these above-ground walks, especially during the hot summer months.
What else should I pack for the tour?
Pack water, a camera, hand sanitizer, and small Euro coins.
Bring a smartphone or camera with good low-light capabilities to photograph the dark lava-stone arches. Carry digital or printed ticket vouchers and small Euro cash. Independent entry fees range from €2 to €5 per site. Hand sanitizer or wet wipes are useful after touching handrails or ancient stone.
Questions travellers ask
Is the Catania underground tour suitable for wheelchairs?
No. The subterranean sites are generally not suitable for wheelchair users or visitors with severe mobility impairments. You must navigate ancient stairs and uneven terrain.
How cold is it in the underground ruins?
The exact temperature varies, but it is noticeably cooler and damper than street level. A light sweater or jacket is sufficient to stay comfortable.
Are there tight spaces in the underground?
Yes. Some tunnels and lava caves are tight and dark. Visitors with severe claustrophobia should be aware of these conditions before entering the sites.
