As first-time visitors to Sicily, we chose Catania as our first port of call simply for the convenience of the airport and fight schedules. Thanks to this lovely apartment, and the warm, engaging personality of Rosanna who met us upon arrival, we fell in love with this under-appreciated, vibrant city.
Others have mentioned the fabulous location of the apartment, right in the historic heart of Catania just steps from the famous fish market (not to mention vegetable, fruit, meat, cheese, bread and herb vendors) and the Piazza del Duomo with its famed Elephant Fountain. It's also just a few minutes' walk to landmarks like the Castello Ursino, Teatro Massimo Bellini, and the prime commercial street of Via Etnea, that runs straight up into the foothills of Mount Etna which hovers above the city like a mirage. You can walk everywhere from this apartment, and we did.
The photos don't do the apartment justice. It's surprisingly spacious, painted in warm gold, terracotta and sage, with gorgeous vaulted ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows in each room, opening to Juliette balconies. The eat-in kitchen is equipped with everything you need to prepare, cook and serve food -- including a wide range of condiments, olive oil, tea and coffee, even pasta. The bottle of good local wine waiting to welcome us was much appreciated!
Of the countless bars and restaurants in the vicinity, we enthusiastically endorse Rosanna's recommendation: try Da Antonio Trattoria. They dish up wonderful food at reasonable prices - again, just steps from the apartment.
This review wouldn't be complete without a renewed accolade for Rosanna. She's fluent in English (a native Sicilian as well as expat American), personable, knowledgeable, and hands-on if needed.. When the water in the entire apartment building unaccountably turned off early one morning, Rosanna responded to our message instantly and everything was fixed in short order.
Highly recommended, with thanks!
