comparisons
Palermo vs Catania
Sicily's two main cities, on opposite coasts. Palermo is Arab-Norman, chaotic, and dazzling in its decay; Catania is Baroque, working, and sits under Etna. Most Sicily itineraries force a choice.
Curatorial note
Choose Palermo for the street markets, the Arab-Norman mosaic work, and the rawest city energy in Italy. Choose Catania for a cleaner Baroque base that puts you closer to Etna and the east coast. Palermo is the more memorable city; Catania is the more practical hub. If you're driving the whole island, do both.
Town · Sicilia
Catania
Catania is worth a night as the base for Etna and the east coast. It is grittier than Palermo but has a great fish market and a Baroque center built from Etna's lava stone. Use it as a hub.
Town · Sicilia
Palermo
Palermo is worth two nights and is the best base for western Sicily. It is intense, faded, and magnificent. Pair it with Monreale and the coast, and use it to reach Erice and Segesta.
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