Catania Airport (CTA), also called Fontanarossa, sits on Sicily's east coast about 5 km from the city center. It is the gateway to Etna, Syracuse and Taormina, so a good plan for reaching the center saves both time and money.
🚌 Alibus — cheapest and most convenient
Alibus 457 links the airport with the central railway station (Stazione Centrale) and main stops in the center. The ride takes about 20-30 minutes and a ticket costs around $4. Buses run frequently, roughly every 25 minutes, although the exact timetable changes by season and time of day.
🚕 Taxi
A taxi reaches the center in 15-20 minutes and the official fixed fare is around $27. Use only the official taxi rank and confirm the price before getting in — see "Avoiding Taxi Scams Abroad: How to Protect Yourself". For groups of three or more, a taxi is often worthwhile.
🚐 Onward to other Sicilian towns
- Syracuse — about 1-1.5 hours by bus, tickets roughly $7-9
- Taormina — about 1-1.5 hours by bus, tickets roughly $9-11
- Etna excursions — usually depart from the center, sometimes from the airport
- Car rental at the airport — convenient for exploring Sicily
Prices and timetables change. Check the operator's official website before you travel.
🏛️ In the city and beyond
Catania is known for black-lava buildings, a lively fish market and views of Etna. Read more in "Tbilisi → Catania: The Complete Sicily and Etna Guide".
💡 Practical tips
- Buy your ticket at a stop, a machine or from the driver
- For late-night arrivals, check in advance whether Alibus is running
- Watch your bag and pockets on crowded buses
- The trip is simpler if your hotel is near Stazione Centrale
Compare flights to Catania on Travel365's price calendar.
Tags
