When to Visit Catania
Climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit
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Year-Round Essentials
Spring (Mar-May)
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Autumn (Sep-Nov)
Winter (Dec-Feb)
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Month-by-Month Guide
January
January brings Catania's coolest temperatures, though 'cool' is relative—you're looking at mild days around 16°C (60°F) and crisp evenings. It's the wettest month of the year, so you'll likely encounter some rainy days, but it's far from constant downpours. The city feels quieter with fewer tourists, and you'll find locals bundled up in ways that might seem amusing if you're from a colder climate.
February
February is marginally warmer than January but still feels like proper winter by Sicilian standards. Rainfall drops slightly from January's peak, though you'll still want to pack an umbrella. This is carnival season in Sicily, which can add some festive energy to the cooler weather, and the almond blossoms start appearing toward month's end.
March
Spring starts making itself known in March with noticeably warmer days and the city coming back to life. Temperatures climb to a comfortable 18°C (65°F), and while you'll still get some rain, it's less frequent than the winter months. The landscape around Catania becomes particularly green and vibrant, and it's a lovely time to explore before the tourist season really kicks in.
April
April is genuinely pleasant, with temperatures reaching 21°C (70°F) and rainfall dropping off significantly. This is when Catania starts feeling properly Mediterranean again—outdoor cafes fill up, beach season begins for the brave, and the city shakes off its winter quietness. The weather is ideal for sightseeing, though you might still want a light jacket for evenings.
May
May is one of the best months to visit Catania, with warm but not oppressive temperatures around 26°C (78°F) and minimal rainfall. The sea starts becoming swimmable for most people, and the city hasn't yet hit peak tourist season. You'll get long, sunny days perfect for exploring both the city and surrounding areas without the intense heat that's coming in summer.
June
Summer arrives properly in June with temperatures climbing to 31°C (87°F), though the heat is still manageable compared to the peak months ahead. Rainfall becomes almost non-existent, and beach season is in full swing. The city gets busier with tourists, but it's not yet at August's overwhelming levels, making it a solid choice if you want summer weather with slightly fewer crowds.
July
July brings serious heat—you're looking at 34°C (93°F) regularly, and it can feel even hotter in the city center's stone streets. Rain is basically non-existent, and the beaches are packed with both tourists and locals escaping the heat. If you're not a fan of high temperatures, this might not be your month, but it's peak Mediterranean summer if that's what you're after.
August
August is the hottest month, hitting 34°C (94°F), and it's when many Italians take their holidays, so the city can feel either packed with tourists or oddly quiet as locals leave. The heat can be intense, especially for sightseeing during midday hours. Many visitors adopt the local rhythm of early mornings, long afternoon breaks, and late evenings out when temperatures finally drop.
September
September is often considered ideal—temperatures cool to a more comfortable 30°C (86°F), the sea is at its warmest, and summer crowds start thinning out after mid-month. You might catch some rain as the season transitions, but it's usually brief. The light takes on that beautiful late-summer quality, and the city feels more relaxed than the peak months.
October
October offers that classic autumn Mediterranean experience with temperatures around 26°C (78°F)—still warm enough for the beach on good days but comfortable for exploring. Rainfall picks up compared to summer, and you'll likely see some stormy days, but there's plenty of sunshine between systems. The tourist season winds down significantly, and prices tend to drop.
November
November marks the transition into the wetter season, with temperatures dropping to 21°C (69°F) and rainfall becoming more frequent. The weather can be unpredictable—you might get beautiful sunny days or grey, rainy stretches. Tourist numbers are low, which means better prices and a more authentic local experience, though some seasonal businesses start closing.
December
December is the wettest month in Catania, though temperatures remain mild at 17°C (62°F) during the day. The city takes on a festive atmosphere with Christmas markets and decorations, and you can often see snow on Mount Etna's peak while enjoying relatively comfortable temperatures at sea level. It's quiet tourism-wise except around the Christmas holidays, when some European visitors arrive.