Where to go shopping In Catania

Catania, in the shadow of the active volcano Mount Etna, is one of Italy's seemingly endless supply of beautiful and historic cities. Sicily is a region with a proud culture and language of its own, and Catania is like nowhere else on earth. Known as the Black City because of its buildings built from the black volcanic rock the volcano produces, this is a Baroque masterpiece of a town that is absolutely packed with Mediterranean charm. There aren't many cities on earth where you can see an active volcano the moment you land, but you can see the smoking summit of Mount Etna right from Catania Airport.

Like many Italian cities, Catania is bursting with Roman ruins, medieval streets, Renaissance art, and lively street life. And while it isn't Milan, Catania also has its share of shopping experiences to offer. Whether you are on the lookout for luxury brands or would prefer to soak up the vibrant atmosphere at a local market, Catania is the perfect place to do it.

And Bounce is the perfect partner for your Catania shopping excursion. We provide short-term luggage storage locations in Catania and all over Sicily so you can leave your things safely with us, whether you're waiting to check into your hotel or have already checked out. Plus, shoppers who have bought more than they anticipated can leave their belongings behind with us so you can stock up on gifts and unique items without worrying about what you'll do with them afterward.

All you need to know when shopping in Catania

Shopping in Catania, much like the city itself, is a delightful mix of tradition and modernity. This is a place where you can rub shoulders with the international jet set as you shop for luxury brands, or haggle in a local market over colorful produce from the slopes of Mount Etna. No matter what kind of shopping experience you are after, you can probably find it here, and no matter what it is, it's bound to have that unique Sicilian charm that keeps people coming back to this beautiful city.

Shopping architecture

Catania’s shopping districts include lively markets, elegant streets, and contemporary malls. Although it's not a small city, it isn't huge either, and it's quite easy to get around and explore different parts of town. That means you can indulge yourself in a variety of different shopping experiences and still stay close to Catania's main attractions.

• Via Etnea: The main shopping street, lined with boutiques, high-street brands, and cafes. This Broad Street is always bustling with life, and it's a great place to soak up the sun and the atmosphere in one of the many cafés along the way. Sure, you'll pay a little more for an aperitif here than you would in other parts of the city, but it makes for a wonderfully enjoyable shopping experience, no matter what you're looking to buy.
• La Pescheria Market: A vibrant fish market offering local produce, seafood, and traditional Sicilian products. Not only is this a lively market that's ideal for seafood lovers, especially if you're staying in a vacation rental and have access to your own kitchen. It's also a fantastic place to eat. The narrow streets around the market are full of restaurants cooking up the catch of the day, so you can explore Catania's culinary traditions here better than probably anywhere else.
• Corso Italia: A chic area with luxury boutiques and designer stores. This is the place to come if you want the most exclusive brands and the latest trends. Even just windowshopping along the street is an eye-opening experience for anyone with expertise in fashion.
• Centro Sicilia: A modern shopping mall with a variety of retailers and dining options. This is a great choice for one-stop shopping, as you'll find all the usual fashion names here, along with plenty of options for food and drink. This is Italy, after all.

Opening hours and seasonality

Most shops in Catania open from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, then reopen from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, reflecting the traditional Sicilian siesta. Markets generally operate in the morning. Seasonal sales in January, February, July, and August are perfect for finding bargains.

Pricing and bargaining

Prices in boutiques and malls are fixed, but bargaining is common at markets like La Pescheria. Don’t hesitate to negotiate for better deals on fresh produce or local goods. To that end, it's helpful to learn numbers and a few phrases in Italian, if not Sicilian. English is widely spoken in Catania, especially at the tourist attractions, but market traders may not speak much English at all.

Shop like a local

• Bring cash for markets and small shops, as not all vendors accept cards.
• Visit markets early for the best selection and to experience the vibrant atmosphere.
• Take a break at a local cafe for a granita or espresso while shopping on Via Etnea.

Unique shops to visit in Catania

Catania’s independent boutiques and artisan shops are the perfect place to explore a quirky aside to the city. Step off the usual tourist track and visit some of these locations to get a better sense of what Catania is all about and maybe pick up some items you would never find any other way.

Mastro Pastaio - Pastificio di Pappalardo Andrea

A local favorite for handcrafted pasta, this shop offers traditional Sicilian recipes and cooking classes. It’s a perfect spot for food lovers, and although it's a little way outside the city itself, it's worth the trip if you're exploring the Sicilian countryside. Pastor travels well and makes an excellent gift or just a delicious souvenir of your trip for yourself.

Address: Via Vittorio Emanuele, 247

Centro Ceramiche Faro Pinuccia

This shop specializes in colorful, handcrafted ceramics, including plates, vases, and traditional Moorish heads. Pottery is a very ancient tradition in Sicily, so the right piece of ceramic art is a perfect souvenir of your time here.

Address: Via Sant'Euplio, 12

GIOVANNI RASPINI

A charming boutique offering unique handmade jewelry and gifts inspired by Sicilian traditions. If your budget stretches to jewelry shopping, there are few better gifts and souvenirs to bring back from a trip.

Address: Via Etnea, 159

Shopping experiences in Catania

Catania’s markets and specialty stores offer more than just fashion. If you really want to immerse yourself in the life of the city, the markets and specialty stores are the perfect places to do it. Step away from the beaten path and explore some of these locations to get a sense of what life in Catania is really all about. Along the way, you're bound to find plenty of items worth buying, too.

La Pescheria

This historic fish market is a sensory feast, offering fresh seafood, local cheeses, spices, and wines. It’s a must-visit for foodies and forms the heart of one of Catania's best dining districts.

Address: Piazza Alonzo di Benedetto

Mercato di Piazza Carlo Alberto

A bustling open-air market selling fresh produce, Sicilian delicacies, and handcrafted goods. This is still a place where local people come to do their shopping, so spending a little time here really allows you to immerse yourself in the culture and history of Catania.

Address: Piazza Carlo Alberto

Cioccolato di Modica

A specialty shop offering the famous Modica chocolate, made using ancient techniques and unique flavors. Sicilians take their confectionery seriously, and this store offers beautiful items that are almost too good to eat.

Address: Multiple locations in Catania

Traditional Shopping Options in Catania

For a more conventional shopping experience, Catania offers modern malls and high-street options. If you're just looking for one-stop shopping and want to pick up a few items with a minimum of fuss, these are the places that can help you out.

Centro Sicilia

A large shopping center just outside the city, featuring international brands, a cinema, and dining options.

Address: Strada Provinciale 54

Etnapolis

Another major shopping mall offering a mix of fashion stores, electronics, and family-friendly activities.

Address: Contrada Valcorrente, Belpasso

Corso Italia

A luxurious shopping street with designer brands, jewelers, and high-end boutiques, perfect for an upscale retail experience.

Catania’s shopping scene is as vibrant and diverse as the city itself. Whether you’re browsing luxury boutiques on Corso Italia, exploring the lively markets like La Pescheria, or discovering local crafts on Via Etnea, the city promises a shopping experience infused with Sicilian charm. Enhance your visit with Bounce’s luggage storage options near popular places like Catania Centrale and the city center, allowing you to shop hands-free and explore Catania’s unique retail culture at your leisure. From handcrafted ceramics to fresh Sicilian delicacies, Catania guarantees a shopping adventure as unforgettable as its views of Mount Etna.