Discover Catania Airport with the freedom of a rental car from Catania Airport
Catania Airport, also known as Aeroporto di Catania-Fontanarossa, is one of Sicily's busiest airports, handling more than 10 million passengers annually. The airport has two terminals and offers a wide range of facilities. Whether you want to explore the historic city of Catania or explore the island further, a rental car gives you the freedom to explore Sicily at your own pace.
How to drive from Catania Airport to Catania
Catania Airport is just 7 kilometres south of Catania city centre. The quickest route to the city is via the SP701 and Via Fontanarossa. Within about 15 minutes, you will drive along the beautiful coastline and see the imposing Etna in the background. This drive offers a perfect start to your exploration of Sicily.
Continue to Syracuse and Taormina
From Catania Airport, you can easily drive to two other popular cities in Sicily: Syracuse and Taormina. Syracuse is about an hour's drive via the A18, a toll road that takes you along the scenic coast. Taormina, known for its Greek theatre and stunning views, is also accessible via the A18 and is about a 50-minute drive away. Both routes offer picturesque views of the Mediterranean and Mount Etna.
5 Highlights within driving distance from Catania Airport
- Etna: Europe's largest active volcano, perfect for an adventurous day trip
- Taormina: Visit the ancient Greek theatre and enjoy the viewpoints over the sea.
- Syracuse: Explore the ancient city full of historical sights, including the famous island of Orygia.
- Acireale: Known for its baroque architecture and colourful carnival celebrations.
- Catania: Explore the bustling centre of Catanai with its rich history and atmospheric markets.
Road network in Italy
Sicily's roads range from modern motorways to narrow, winding mountain roads. Motorways are generally well maintained and there are toll roads, such as the A18. In smaller villages and rural areas, however, roads can be narrow and bumpy. Be prepared for local driving conditions and take into account traffic rules that may differ from what you are used to in the Netherlands.
Recommended car rental category from Catania Airport
For a road trip through Sicily, an SUV or a car with a slightly more powerful engine is definitely recommended, especially if you plan to explore mountainous areas such as Mount Etna. A convertible is also a good choice to fully enjoy the sunny weather and beautiful coastlines. With an SUV, you'll be comfortable on the island's sometimes rough roads and well prepared for all adventures.
Best time to visit Sicily
The best time to visit Sicily is in spring and autumn, when temperatures are pleasant and tourist crowds are less.
Eating and drinking in Sicily
Sicily is known for its delicious dishes, such as arancini (stuffed rice balls), caponata (a sweet and sour vegetable dish), and fresh seafood. Don't forget to try a glass of Nero d'Avola, a local wine. Note: if you plan to drive, do not drink alcohol.
Useful words and phrases about car rental in Italian
- Traffic light: Semaforo
- Breakdown: Guasto
- Curve: Curva
- Car key: Chiave dell'auto
- Car park: Parcheggio
- Which car is for me? Quale auto è per me?
- Here you have my driving license. Ecco la mia patente.
- Does gasoline or diesel go into my car? La mia auto va a benzina o diesel?
- Where is the nearest petrol station? Dov'è la stazione di servizio più vicina?
- Where do I leave my car when my holiday is over? Dove devo lasciare la mia auto quando la mia vacanza è finita?