After Mangia's Maratona di Ragusa: Catania and Etna

The Route: Ragusa → Catania → Etna → Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA) Logistics: A bus of about two hours from Ragusa, or a hire car. Check the timetable for Monday. Marathon Month: January Duration: 2 nights

Ragusa ──(bus, about 2 hours, check timetable)──> Catania ──(excursion or bus)──> Etna ──> Catania ──> CTA

Mangia's Maratona di Ragusa finishes in Ibla on a Sunday, and Catania is the big city to the north, with the international airport. The bus takes about two hours, and a hire car is an alternative. Check timetables for the Monday, since services are lighter.

January in Catania is cool and can be wet. On Etna, the weather is different, and snow is possible at height, so check conditions before booking any excursion.

Night one: Catania

The historic centre is flat around Via Etnea, the main street, and the cathedral square. The fish market near the cathedral runs in the morning, so visit early. The pace is easy, and the street surfaces are paved, which suits stiff legs. Avoid a long walk on your first evening.

Night two: Etna

Etna is best visited with a guide or organised excursion in winter, since the upper slopes may be closed or snowy. Check the conditions and operating days on the day, and book a half-day trip rather than a long hike. Bring warm layers, because the summit area is cold. A hike is a poor idea on marathon legs, so a vehicle tour or cable-car option is the kinder choice where it is running.

Where to stay

Stay near Via Etnea or the cathedral square for a flat walk. Confirm parking and lift access, and book a refundable room.

Food

Catania has a strong street-food and seafood culture. Ask the hotel for current recommendations and confirm opening days, because some places close on Mondays.

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