4 Best Hangout Spots in Catania - Summer 2023
4 Best Hangout Spots in Catania
These spots are my favorite places in Catania to kick off my nights out. It's where I've met new people and made lasting friendships. Now, I'm excited to share them with you!
1. Via Santa Filomena - Via Gemellaro
Whenever I'm in Catania, Via Santa Filomena is my go-to spot. It's the epicenter of the city's nightlife and food scene. This street never disappoints, always buzzing with energy and local flavor.
You've got Via Gemellaro on one side, packed with lively bars, and Via Santa Filomena on the other, lined with top-notch restaurants. If you're looking for a genuine Catania experience, this is where you'll find it. Don't miss out!
Starting the Night with a Bang: Cocktail Bars and More
Via Gemellaro is the spot for anyone looking to dive into Catania's vibrant cocktail scene. It's buzzing with bars, but Vermut steals the show. This place embodies Catania's energetic vibe.
Locals flock here for top-notch cocktails, drinks, and tasty tapas. And it's not just about the drinks; Vermut is a social hub. It's the perfect place to mingle, meet new people, and get the lowdown on the night's best events. Affordable and always lively, it's my top pick to kick off any night out in Catania.
Indulge in Culinary Delights: Food Haven of Via Santa Filomena
As you venture further along Via Santa Filomena, you'll enter the second part of the street, where a world of gastronomic delights awaits. This stretch is renowned for its exceptional dining options, ranging from elegant fine dining establishments to charming local trattorias that serve up authentic Sicilian flavours.
3 of our personal favourite food options for you:
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Burger Boss: Known for its high-quality burgers, Burger Boss is a must-visit for burger enthusiasts. The restaurant's signature dish, the Boss Burger, is a crowd favorite, with customers praising its juicy, flavorful patties and fresh ingredients. The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere add to the overall dining experience, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists.
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FUD Bottega Sicula:
it's a gem for those seeking authentic Sicilian cuisine. The restaurant's standout feature is its fresh, locally sourced ingredients, which are used to create a variety of delicious dishes. Customers particularly love the Sicilian street food options and the wide selection of local wines. The modern, stylish decor and the warm, welcoming service make dining at FUD Bottega Sicula a memorable experience.
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L'Horloge:
it's a charming restaurant that offers a mix of Italian, French, and Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant is highly praised for its dishes that feature pistachio, with the pistachio-infused dishes being a unique and delightful culinary experience. The restaurant's location in a picturesque street and its tasteful decor contribute to a pleasant and relaxing ambiance. The attentive and professional staff further enhance the dining experience at L'Horloge.
picture by www.notiziecatania.it
2. Castello Ursino
Piazza Federico di Svevia has become one of my go-to spots. It's where everyone - locals and fellow travelers - seem to converge.
And trust me, the vibe around Castello Ursino is something else, especially when there's a cultural event going on. It's an artsy place, with often live music, art showcases and irresistible food festivals, where people meet for a drinks and food on the square.
If you're in Catania around September, ask about the festival "Ursino Buskers", where street performers from all around the world meet in Catania for 3 days of fun and incredible performances!
3 of our personal favourite bars for you:
πΉGammazita: Nestled in Piazza Federico di Svevia, Gammazita is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. Known for its local cocktails and beers, this artsy, underground spot is a magnet for interesting personalities. Its unique vibe and eclectic crowd make it a must-visit when exploring the nightlife around Castello Ursino.
π₯€ Bar Chiosco in68: A historical kiosk that has become a meeting point for both locals and tourists, Bar Chiosco in68 offers affordable drinks and delicious paninis from the food truck. On Wednesdays, it transforms into a hub for expats, making it a great place to meet new people and immerse yourself in the local culture.
πΈ BarnAut: Tucked away in a small alley just a stone's throw from Castello Ursino, BarnAut is a hidden gem off the beaten tourist path. With its cool music, great selection of craft beers, and reasonably priced drinks, this bar is always buzzing. The vintage furniture and bohemian atmosphere make you feel like you're hanging out in a cozy, welcoming space. Its friendly vibe and extensive drink menu make it a favorite among many.
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Bangla Birreria:
Straddling the line between an off-licence and a bar, Bangla Birreria offers a wide variety of drinks, beers, wines, and even some Indian foods. Always bustling with people, it's a popular hangout spot for the younger crowd. Whether you're looking to try a new beer or mingle with locals, Bangla Birreria is a great place to start your night.
picture by Nadia Arancio
3. "A' Piscaria" Fish Market
When the sun sets, the bustling Catania Fish Market, famous for its daytime hustle, takes on a new role as Catania's nightlife hotspot.
Especially around Piazza Santa Maria dell'Indirizzo, the energy is palpable. It's the kind of place where you can easily strike up a conversation with a stranger, dance to the rhythm of local Djs, and discover a new favorite drink.
The vibe? Think lively chatter, infectious laughter, and the unmistakable sound of cheers. The incredible scent of local food and pizza fills the air, making it hard to resist.
It's this unique blend of cultures, where both locals and travellers bond over over delicious food and cool drinks.
Our favourite bars in the area:
Mangiadischi: Located in the heart of Piazza Santa Maria dell'Indirizzo, Mangiadischi is a unique blend of a bistro and pub. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the square adorned with colourful umbrellas, as you savour exquisite tapas and sip on refreshing cocktails.
Ostello: also known as A Putia dell'Ostello, is a unique spot that offers a delightful blend of food, drinks, music and an intriguing ambiance. This place is not just a bar, but a culinary experience that serves a variety of dishes, from pizza to seafood, and even sushi. One of the highlights of Ostello is the opportunity to dine in a subterranean grotto, where you can hear the gentle flow of the Amenano river.
4. Borghetto Europa
Tucked away near the renowned Corso Italia, Borghetto Europa is a hidden gem in Catania's vibrant nightlife scene. It took us over a year to hear about this place, but totally wirth it. This unique spot is easy to overlook; it's a pulsating hub of nocturnal activity, hidden away in a park's lower ground terrace.
Borghetto Europa is the perfect place to kick off your night in style. The air is filled with the beats of buzzing music and there are many different tempting aperitifs and drinks, served in an array of bars that each boast their own unique charm and ambiance.
Which one to choose?
Stark's Cafè: Stark's Cafe is a meticulously designed venue offering a diverse menu ranging from sandwiches and pizzas to salads and calzones. The staff is known for their professionalism and kindness, providing swift service even on busy nights. The cafe boasts an excellent variety of beers and cocktails, making it a great spot for those looking to unwind with a drink. On Monday evenings, the cafe comes alive with live music, adding to the overall appeal. Booking in advance is recommended. Must-go!
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πΊοΈ Move like a local with our Customised Map of Catania...
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In the map we have saved all the best spots in Catania, so you can find them easily!
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-Best Street Food in Catania
-Arancini Tour
-Best Fine-Dining Restaurants
-Food: Delicious yet Affordable
-International Flavours
-Best Bars to make New Friends
-Best Cocktail Bars
-Best Gelato
Enjoy!
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Explore the city's best free activities, restaurants, and insider tips, all curated from our local and personal experience.
Explore the city's best free activities, restaurants, and insider tips, all curated from our local and personal experience.
Great fun guaranteed.