A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Catania vs. Genoa for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Catania or Genoa?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Catania and Genoa can help you decide which place is right for you.

Catania

Catania is a fun, historic, and lively port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Genoa

Genoa is a historic, vibrant, and colorful port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Catania and Genoa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Catania or Genoa?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Catania than Genoa. While Genoa is larger than Catania, Catania has more sights and attractions for tourists. Catania is more popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Genoa is known for its museums & sights and impressive beauty. Catania is popular for its fun nightlife scene, many beaches, and easy access to Mt. Etna. It is also home to Mount Etna. Genoa is popular for its maritime history, its vibrant cultural scene, and being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus.

How is Catania different from Genoa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Genoa and Catania. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Catania or Genoa?

Genoa is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Genoa specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has a long history and it is filled with monuments, palaces, and museums. Popular places to visit include the Via Garibaldi Palaces, the aquarium (one of the largest in Europe), the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Santi Ambrogio.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Catania. There are many examples of beautiful architecture around town including Basilica Cattedrale Sant'Agata and Monastero dei Benedettini. You can also visit Castello Ursino. The main square in town is Piazza del Duomo.

Is the Food Better in Catania or Genoa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Catania is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Catania is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city's food scene is excellent. Dishes are influenced by both the sea and the land, and you'll find a large and popular street food setting. If you're sampling the street food, make sure you try the arancino (rice balls). Pasta dishes are also popular and many use a variety of cheeses. You'll also find plenty of fresh vegetables incorporated into many dishes.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Genoa makes for a great culinary experience. The city's maritime roots have influenced its cuisine and you'll find seafood in many local dishes. Other classic Genoese flavors include pesto, anchovies, fried squid, and focaccia and cheese.

Is Catania or Genoa Better for Nightlife?

Catania is great for its evening party scene. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for nightlife.

Many people head to Catania for the nightlife scene. The city has a reputation for its great nightlife scene that spreads beyond Sicily. The large student population and popularity with tourists mean you can find a party most nights of the week. There are many bars and clubs to check out, many of which are found in the old town center.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Genoa. The city lights up at night and it's fun to experience the activity and energy. There's a nice evening atmosphere with many people out and about. You can grab drinks in Piazza Lavagna or see live music in Porto Antico. There are also many bars and clubs around town.

Is Catania or Genoa Better for Beaches?

Catania is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Genoa is not a good destination for its beaches.

Catania has a beach worth visiting. The best time to visit the beach is between April and October. There are sandy beaches to the south of town that span a few kilometers and beaches to the north tend to be rocky. Many beaches are also accessible by public transit.

Genoa is a good spot to see the beach. While many people head to other nearby towns to enjoy the beach, you will also find a beach just ten minutes from the old town by bus. Boccadasse is one of the closest beaches to town. It's also possible to do a day trip to other more famous beaches in the area, but you need to be prepared to travel a bit farther.

Is Catania or Genoa Better for its Old Town?

Catania and Genoa are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

Many people head to Catania to see the old town. The old town is a bit small. At its center is Piazza Duomo and you'll find many activities and attractions in the area.

Genoa has an old town worth visiting. The old town is large and complex, with many different time periods represented in the architecture and development style.

Is Catania or Genoa Better for Hiking?

Catania is great for hiking. However, Genoa is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Catania for the hiking trails. Many people visit Mt. Etna as a day trip. You can take the bus to Sapienza Refuge to begin your climb. While it's a doable hike for many people, it can be steep and requires some determination. Unless you're a very experienced hiker, a guide is a must as the trail disappears for large sections. There are also buses and cable cars that take people up sections of the mountain.

Genoa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Catania or Genoa?

Both Catania and Genoa are good shopping destinations.

Catania offers some nice shopping areas. The city has a number of shopping malls where you can pick up anything you may need or might have forgotten. Check out Catania Shopping Center or Etnapolis.

Genoa has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You can pick up a number of different souvenirs around town including baskets, t-shirts, and local pesto. Popular shopping areas include Galleria Mazzini, Via Roma, and Via XX Settembr.

Is Catania or Genoa Better for Families?

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Catania or Genoa.

Catania is a very kid-friendly port city. There's a toy museum as well as the Polo Tactile Multimedia Museum which kids and adults alike will enjoy. A highlight of a visit to the city is a trip up Mt. Etna, which can be done either by hiking, bus, or cable car. The city also has many plazas, gardens, and parks that kids will enjoy exploring. Another fun activity is to spend the day at the beach.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Genoa. The city is home to the second biggest aquarium in Europe as well as the Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine. In the port there's also Vascello Nettuno, which was a pirate ship that was used in the filming of the movie 'Pirates' by Roman Polanski. Other fun kid-friendly attractions include La Biosfera, The Children's Museum, and the Bigo Lift.

Is Catania or Genoa Better for Couples?

Genoa is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for couples.

Genoa is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a beautiful port city with charming neighborhoods and some great restaurants. Couples will enjoy exploring this beautiful city and visiting its palaces and cathedrals.

Catania is a good port city for couples to visit. With interesting architecture, a pleasant urban beach, and plenty of outdoor space, this is a nice couples destination.

Is Catania or Genoa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Catania and Genoa are excellent destinations for backpackers.

Catania is a great port city to visit for backpackers. There's a large number of hostels around town and the city is generally affordable, so backpackers often enjoy spending some time here. There's also a great social scene.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Genoa. There are a number of affordable hostels in the area, and while this isn't the top backpacker destination in Italy, it is a nice place to spend some time.

Is Catania or Genoa Better for Students?

Catania and Genoa are both excellent destinations for students and younger travelers.

Catania is very popular with students. This is a university town with a very social atmosphere. Students love the wide variety of activities around town as well as the frequent night time parties.

Genoa is a great port city to visit as a student. It's a popular study abroad destination so you'll find a number of international students in the area. The city is also well connected for exploring the region.

Is Catania or Genoa Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Catania and Genoa offer excellent public transit options.

The public transit in Catania can get you around easily. There are many buses around town that offer access to most places. If you drove you can park and take Line 504M to the historic center. You can also take a bus from Piazza Giovanni XXIII to Rifugio Sapienza if you're going to Mt. Etna. It leaves every morning at 8:15 and returns at 4:30 in the afternoon. The city also has a metro, which has one line and ten stops.

Genoa offers a very effecient public transportation network. There's a wide range of different public transit options that are all operated by AMT. The system includes buses, an underground (one line), funiculars (two), lifts (ten), a boat, cogwheel and narrow gauge railways.

Is Catania or Genoa a more walkable city?

Catania and Genoa both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Catania is a very walkable port city. Many of the city's main sights are close together in the center of town, making them easy to access on foot.

Genoa is a very walkable destination. The old town, where most tourists spend the majority of their time, is easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Catania Worth Visiting? and Is Genoa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Genoa or Catania?

How long in Catania or Genoa?

It's fun to spend time in either Catania or Genoa. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Genoa due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Catania, and 2-4 days is enough time in Genoa.

Families should spend more time in Catania than Genoa. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Catania, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Genoa than Catania. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Genoa that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Catania than Genoa if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Catania.

One day in Catania or Genoa?

In Catania, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this youthful destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the food. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Genoa, you'll find nightlife and food. This port city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Catania or Genoa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Catania. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Genoa, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Genoa has to offer.

Five days in Catania or Genoa?

Catania is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Catania. Lots of people come for the food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Genoa is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Catania or Genoa?

You'll find food and shopping around the youthful destination of Catania. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Genoa. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Genoa. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Catania and Genoa, we can see that Genoa is more expensive. And not only is Catania much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Catania would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Catania and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Genoa would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Genoa than you might in Catania.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Catania Expensive? and Is Genoa Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Catania or Genoa?

Genoa has a larger population, and is about 92% larger than the population of Catania. When comparing the sizes of Catania and Genoa, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Catania or Genoa?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Catania or Genoa in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Catania as well as Genoa. The beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Catania this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Genoa for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Catania is around the same temperature as Genoa. Typically, the summer temperatures in Catania in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Genoa averages at about 25°C (76°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Genoa. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Catania this time of the year. In the summer, Catania often gets more sunshine than Genoa. Catania gets 325 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 295 hours of full sun.

Catania usually gets less rain in July than Genoa. Catania gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Catania or Genoa in the Autumn?

Both Genoa and Catania are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Catania for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Genoa in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Catania is generally around the same temperature as Genoa. Daily temperatures in Catania average around 19°C (67°F), and Genoa fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Catania usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Genoa during autumn. Catania gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Catania. In October, Catania usually receives more rain than Genoa. Catania gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Catania or Genoa in the Winter?

Both Genoa and Catania during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Catania in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Genoa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Catania is around the same temperature as Genoa in the winter. The daily temperature in Catania averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Genoa fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Catania often gets more sunshine than Genoa. Catania gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 127 hours of full sun.

Catania usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Genoa. Catania gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Catania or Genoa in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Catania and Genoa. Most visitors come to Catania for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Genoa because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Catania is around the same temperature as Genoa. Typically, the spring temperatures in Catania in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Genoa averages at about 15°C (58°F).

In Catania, it's very sunny this time of the year. Catania usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Genoa during spring. Catania gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Catania usually receives less rain than Genoa. Catania gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Genoa and Catania