Catania is a city that packs a punch for travelers eager to explore Sicily’s volcanic heart and rich urban life. Its proximity to Mount Etna, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, makes it a natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts and geology lovers alike. We especially love the Catania: Mount Etna Sunset Jeep/Van Tour (see here), which combines breathtaking sunset views with a scenic ride through lava fields and old volcanic caves. The ability to taste authentic Sicilian products after a guided tour makes this experience stand out. For those interested in a more intense exploration, the Etna Tour in 4×4 (here) allows you to venture further into the volcano’s craters and underground lava tubes, with a knowledgeable guide sharing fascinating insights. Catania’s tours don’t just show you sights—they help you experience the island’s fiery soul and vibrant local culture.
Quick Overview
The list below features a wide range of tours in Catania: from the dramatic Mount Etna adventures like Sunset Jeep Tours and 4×4 excursions to cultural walks, food explorations, and even The Godfather filming locations. Whether you want to hike to the volcano’s summit, sample Sicilian wines, explore ancient ruins, or wander through the city’s historic streets, there’s something here for every traveler. Keep reading for detailed insights on each tour.
1. Catania: Mount Etna Sunset Jeep/Van Tour
For around $68, this half-day guided tour takes you on a memorable adventure to Mount Etna with a sunset backdrop that’s hard to beat. The tour includes a scenic Jeep ride through lava flows, volcanic caves, and forests, plus visits to Hornitos—a site famous for ancient eruptions. The itinerary features wine and food tastings in Zafferana Etnea, plus panoramic stops like Valle del Bove and Rifugio Casa del Vescovo. The highlight is witnessing the sunset over the volcano’s rugged landscape, something that photos just can’t do justice. Reviews emphasize how well-guided and fun the trip is, with Gaetano earning high praise. The tour is suitable for most fitness levels and offers a comfortable way to experience Etna’s grandeur without the strenuous climb.
Bottom line: This tour offers a perfect blend of scenery, local flavor, and expert guiding, making it ideal if you want a comprehensive yet relaxed volcanic adventure.
2. Etna Tour in 4×4
At number 2, the Etna Tour in 4×4 is a full immersion into Etna’s raw, volcanic landscape for around $87. This small-group trip reaches up to 2,000 meters and explores lava fields, extinct craters, and the Valle del Bove, a natural amphitheater created by eruptions. The real treat is entering a lava tube—helmet and headlamp included—to see where lava has cooled into tunnels. The guide’s extensive knowledge about the volcano’s geology and eruptive history makes the experience both informative and engaging. Guests mention how the guide “draws maps on the ground” and shares stories about Etna’s past, making complex geology accessible. This tour is best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a bit of walking and want to see the volcano’s hidden depths.
Bottom line: For those seeking a more adventurous and detailed look at Etna’s volcanic features, this tour offers unmatched depth and fun exploration.
3. Catania: Etna Morning Excursion with Tasting and Pickup
For a manageable 6-hour experience at $68, this morning tour combines sightseeing with local flavor. Starting with pickup at your accommodation, you’ll visit the Silvestri Craters and a volcanic cave, with ample time for photos, walking, and tasting local honey, olive oil, and wine. The highlight is strolling over lunar landscapes and ancient lava streams, with a guided explanation of Etna’s formation. Guests appreciate the small group size and the convenience of pickup and drop-off. The tour’s balance of scenic stops and tasting makes it a good fit for travelers who want a quick yet immersive volcanic experience.
Bottom line: Ideal if you prefer a relaxed morning tour that combines geology, scenery, and sampling Sicilian products with minimal hassle.
4. Etna, Wine and Alcantara Tour – From Taormina
This full-day trip at $120 offers a fantastic mix of Etna hiking, wine tasting, and the Alcantara Gorge, perfect for culture and nature lovers. It covers hiking through woodlands and lava caves, topped off with a Sicilian lunch and regional wines at a winery. The highlight is exploring the Alcantara Gorge, a stunning basalt canyon carved by volcanic activity. Guests love the value—hotel pickup, entrance fees, and lunch are all included. The tour is flexible enough for those who enjoy walking, tasting, and scenic landscapes without the need for strenuous hiking.
Bottom line: A comprehensive day trip that balances active volcano exploration with culinary delights and a scenic gorge visit.
5. Catania: Etna Sunset Tour with Pickup and Drop-off
For around $68, this sunset tour is perfect if you love golden hour views. Starting with a scenic drive, you’ll visit the Silvestri Craters, a volcanic cave, and the Valle del Bove, culminating in witnessing Etna’s sunset glow. Guides focus on storytelling and local facts, and reviews highlight the guide Zelia’s humor and knowledge. The tour’s timing makes it ideal for photographers or anyone wanting to see Etna’s landscape bathed in the last light of day. It’s a shorter experience, but one packed with impressive views and photo opportunities.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers wanting to catch Etna’s beauty at sunset, with easy logistics and engaging guides.
6. Catania Street Food Walking Tour and Market Adventure
At just $74, this 3-hour food tour offers a taste of Catania’s culinary scene. Walking through Piazza del Duomo, the fish market, and Via Crociferi, you’ll sample local delicacies and learn about Sicilian food traditions. The guide introduces you to the city’s best street snacks, including seasonal desserts. Reviewers praise the friendly guide Davide and the variety of treats, making it perfect for foodies or travelers wanting to understand local cuisine firsthand.
Bottom line: Great for those who want to combine walking, culture, and authentic Sicilian bites into a short, flavorful experience.
7. Etna Volcano: South Side Guided Summit Hike
Number 7 offers a 6-hour guided hike up Mount Etna’s southern flank for $70. Led by a volcanologist, the trek covers lava channels, side craters, and steam vents at 3,000 meters. The guide’s expertise ensures safety and rich explanations of Etna’s eruptive activity. Reviews mention Antonio’s “great energy” and how the hike is suitable for fit travelers looking for a serious outdoor challenge. The climb provides spectacular views and a deep connection to the volcano’s power.
Bottom line: Best for active travelers who want to stand atop Sicily’s highest active volcano with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.
8. Catania: Mount Etna Morning Jeep/Van Tour
This 6-hour morning tour at $61 offers a comfortable, scenic exploration of Mt. Etna. Highlights include a visit to Hornitos, Valle del Bove, and wine tastings in Zafferana Etnea. The tour includes a Jeep ride, visits to 4 key sites, and a relaxed pace praised by reviews. The guides are attentive, and the small group size fosters a personalized experience. Perfect for travelers who want a solid overview with a focus on local products and volcano scenery.
Bottom line: A reliable, easy-paced way to see Etna’s highlights, especially suited for those preferring a less strenuous day.
9. Catania: City Highlights Walking Tour
For only $25, this short city tour covers Catania’s most iconic sights in 2 hours. Walking with a knowledgeable guide, you’ll see Ursino Castle, Piazza Bellini, and Via Crociferi’s baroque churches. Reviewers love the friendly guide and the insider tips on local restaurants and nightlife. It’s perfect for travelers who want a quick taste of Catania’s atmosphere and history without straying far from the city center.
Bottom line: An affordable introduction to Catania’s top sights, recommended if time is limited.
10. From Catania: Mount Etna Volcano, Lava Caves & Flavors Tour
This 7-hour trip at $69 focuses on volcano exploration combined with local food experiences. You’ll walk lava fields, visit craters, and explore lava caves with helmet gear included. The tour also visits a farm for honey, olive oil, and wine tasting. The reviews highlight a well-organized day with engaging guides, perfect for travelers who appreciate a mix of outdoor activity and food.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a full day of volcanic adventure paired with Sicilian flavors.
11. Mt Etna and Wine Tasting Tour from Catania
Ranking highest, this 8-hour tour at $123 offers a full experience that combines Etna’s craters, caves, and hiking with a visit to a local winery. Led by passionate guides like Enzo, guests rave about the wine tasting and the scenic drives. Visitors can opt for hiking or cable car options, tailoring the experience. It’s best suited for active travelers who want a deep dive into Etna’s geology and its famous wines.
Bottom line: For wine lovers and geology enthusiasts, this is a rich, comprehensive tour that covers all the bases.
12. Syracuse, Ortigia and Noto walking tour from Catania
Number 12 takes you 8 hours into Sicily’s cultural treasures for $124. Visiting Syracuse’s archaeological park, Ortygia Island, and Noto’s baroque architecture, this tour offers a full immersion in history and art. Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guide, especially highlighting the timing at each site and the ability to see key highlights comfortably. It’s ideal for history and architecture buffs who prefer a mix of walking and sightseeing.
Bottom line: A full-day cultural journey, perfect for history lovers eager to explore Sicily’s ancient sites.
13. The Godfather Movie Tour
If you love cinema, this 7-hour trip at $116 is a must. Visiting Savoca, Forza d’Agro, and the Castello degli Schiavi, you’ll walk where iconic scenes were filmed. The guide shares behind-the-scenes stories, making it a fun and informative experience. Reviewers appreciate the enthusiastic guide and the chance to combine movie history with charming villages.
Bottom line: Ideal for film fans wanting to see The Godfather’s Sicilian filming locations firsthand.
14. Tour Etna & Wine Tasting
This 8-hour tour at $168 combines Etna’s volcanic terrain with wine tasting at a local winery. Led by a passionate guide, you’ll explore lava tunnels, craters, and sample wines that benefit from the volcanic soil. The review praises the personalized attention and the excellent lunch. It’s perfect for travelers who want a deeper, more leisurely experience of Etna combined with Sicily’s wine culture.
Bottom line: A top choice for wine and volcano enthusiasts craving a relaxed, in-depth day.
15. Catania: Heart of the City Guided Walking Tour
Finally, the 2-hour city tour at just $23 offers a quick yet comprehensive introduction to Catania’s piazzas, castles, and churches. Well-suited for first-timers or those with limited time, reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide and lively atmosphere.
Bottom line: An economical way to get oriented in Catania and discover the city’s main highlights.
How to Choose Your Tour
Picking the right tour in Catania depends on your interests and travel style. If volcanoes excite you, the Sunset Jeep (here) and 4×4 excursions (here) deliver unforgettable views. For food lovers, the Street Food Tour (here) offers a tasty introduction, while history enthusiasts may prefer the Syracuse and Noto tour (here). Budget travelers might opt for the City Highlights Walking Tour (here), whereas adventurers craving a summit hike should consider the South Side Guided Summit Hike (here).
Consider your fitness level, time constraints, and whether you prefer active exploration or relaxed scenic drives. Booking early is recommended during peak seasons, especially for popular Mount Etna tours.
In summary, Catania offers a wealth of tour options that cater to diverse interests—from climbing Etna’s summit and exploring underground lava tubes to tasting local wines and wandering historic streets. For a quick taste, the City Highlights walking tour provides a solid introduction, while the Sunset Jeep tour offers a memorable way to experience the volcano at its most dramatic. More adventurous travelers will appreciate the Summit Hike or the full-day wine and volcano excursions for a deeper dive. Whatever your preference, planning ahead ensures you don’t miss out on these authentic Sicilian experiences.