A whole day between history, legends, and the vibrant nightlife of Catania. Shaoran and Akame's Sicilian vacation is drawing to a close, but their enthusiasm shows no signs of waning.
Having explored almost every corner of eastern and southeastern Sicily — from Etna to Ortigia, from Noto to Modica, from Scopello to Salemi — today a special day awaits us: Catania, with all its energy, its cultural heritage, and its famous nightlife.
But first, a mythical stop: the Cyclopean Isles in Aci Trezza. Shaoran has read something about Polyphemus, and his curiosity is palpable.
A Mythological Beginning: The Cyclopean Isles
We meet early in the morning in front of their hotel in Taormina. Shaoran is wearing a T-shirt with the map of Sicily printed on it. Akame is already with her notebook, ready to collect legends and impressions.
"Today will be a long day, but it will be one of the most exciting," we anticipate, as we get into our chauffeured car.
"We're absolutely ready!" exclaims Akame. "We don't want to miss anything!"
"First stop: Aci Trezza. You will learn about the legend of Polyphemus and the sea stacks," we explain.
During the journey, we drive along the Cyclops Riviera. Shaoran observes the large black rocks emerging from the sea and asks curiously:
"Are those the ones Polyphemus threw at Ulysses?"
"Exactly. According to the Odyssey, after being blinded by Ulysses, the blinded cyclops threw enormous boulders into the sea to hit the escaping ship. Those boulders, according to the legend, are the sea stacks you see."
We stop briefly on the Aci Trezza waterfront for a walk. The sea is calm, the air smells of salt.
"It's fascinating to think that this place has witnessed such ancient myths," says Akame, photographing the sea stacks.
Towards Catania: Between History and Black Baroque
We resume our journey towards the center of Catania. In just over twenty minutes, we find ourselves catapulted into a vibrant city, where the black of lava stone blends with the blue of the sky.
"Welcome to Catania, the city of Etna," we say with a smile.
"It's very different from Syracuse or Noto," Shaoran notes.
"Yes, here the Baroque style is made of lava. After the earthquake of 1693, the city was rebuilt using the black stone of Etna. The result is a unique architecture."
We begin our visit in Piazza Duomo, where the majestic Elephant Fountain, the symbol of Catania, welcomes us.
"Why an elephant?" asks Akame.
"It's called 'u Liotru'. Legend has it that it was a magical statue used by an Arab necromancer to fly. Today it is the symbol of the city's protection."
We visit the Cathedral of Sant'Agata, the patron saint of Catania. We recount the martyrdom of the young Agatha, persecuted by the Romans for her Christian faith.
"Her feast day, February 5th, is one of the largest religious events in the world," we explain.
Walk through the Fish Market
A few steps from the Duomo, we venture into the fish market. It's mid-morning and the atmosphere is lively: shouts of vendors, the smell of the sea, intense colors.
"It looks like an open-air theater!" laughs Shaoran.
"Here you can buy the freshest fish in Sicily," we say. "And you can also understand a lot about the Catanese soul: direct, passionate, genuine."
Akame is struck by the variety of fish and the voices in dialect.
"I don't understand anything, but I like it," she smiles.
Typical Lunch at the Foot of Castello Ursino We move towards Castello Ursino, built by Frederick II in the 13th century. Next to it, a trattoria welcomes us with the most iconic dishes.
The menu of the day?
Pasta alla Norma Arancini (rice balls) Eggplant caponata Cannoli and granita to finish "Pasta alla Norma is dedicated to Bellini, the Catanese composer," we tell them.
"Everything is so good," exclaims Akame. "Sicilian food has never disappointed us."
Afternoon between Culture and Relaxation
After lunch, we visit the Roman Theater in Via Vittorio Emanuele, hidden among modern houses. It is one of the city's most fascinating treasures, and Shaoran remains silent for a long time, observing the lava stone steps.
"It's like a bridge between different eras," he says. "An ancient theater, in the heart of a living city."
We continue our walk towards Via Etnea, the heart of shopping, up to the Bellini Gardens, where we stop for a moment of relaxation in the shade of centuries-old trees.
Dinner and the Start of the Nightlife
The sun sets and Catania begins to transform. The lights come on, the bars and restaurants fill up. Shaoran and Akame change for the evening.
"We've heard that Catania's nightlife is famous throughout Italy," says Shaoran with a curious smile.
"It really is! Get ready to see another side of the city."
We accompany them to an area full of bars and restaurants: Via Santa Filomena, in the heart of young Catania. Dinner is eaten late there, with gourmet street food and modern dishes inspired by tradition.
"And after?" asks Akame.
"After, we dance!"
Night of Music, Cocktails, and Laughter
The next stop is Piazza Teatro Massimo, surrounded by lounge bars, clubs, and alternative venues. In one of these, with a terrace overlooking the city, we sit down for a drink.
"This city is full of energy," comments Shaoran, as we listen to live music.
"And even after such an intense day, we still feel energized," adds Akame.
We dance, laugh, and toast to this unforgettable experience.
Late Night Return Around 2:30 in the morning, we take the road back to Taormina. Silence reigns in the car, broken only by the soft lights of the coast.
"Catania was a continuous surprise," says Shaoran, with an emotional tone.
"The perfect city to conclude this trip," adds Akame.
We leave them in front of the hotel with a smile and a promise: "Sicily will always be here waiting for you."
Conclusion: Why Choose a Tour with a Chauffeured Car
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Advantages?
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