Malta: Mount Etna and Catania Guided Day Trip by Catamaran

Planning a day trip that crosses international borders sound exciting, but knowing what to expect is essential. This guided day tour from Malta to Sicily offers a unique blend of sea adventure, volcanic wonder, and vibrant city life. We’ve looked into the details to give you a clear picture, capturing what makes this experience special — and some of the things to keep in mind.

Three things we particularly like about this trip:

• The speedy catamaran crossing, which is both fun and efficient
• The stunning views of Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano
• The chance to wander through Catania’s bustling streets and markets

One possible consideration is the long travel times—with over two hours on the bus returning to Malta, it’s a full day. This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure, scenic landscapes, and cultural exploration, and who don’t mind a long day on the move.

Good To Know

• Fast-paced day: Combining sea, city, and mountain excursions in one trip
• Authentic experiences: Guided walking tour of Catania and scenic drive to Mount Etna
• Family-friendly: Suitable for those comfortable with a busy schedule
• Value for money: Includes transportation, guide, and catamaran trip, with free time for exploring
• Minimal extra costs: Food and drinks not included, so plan accordingly
• Impressive scenery: Views of Mount Etna, picturesque villages, and lush forests

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Overview of the Experience

This tour provides a full day packed with diverse activities, designed to give you a taste of Sicily’s best highlights without the hassle of planning multiple trips yourself. The journey begins at the Virtu Ferries Passenger Terminal in Malta, where you hop aboard a catamaran for a crossing that lasts approximately 105 minutes. The vessel is comfortable, and reviews mention a café onboard, making it a relaxed start to your adventure.

The crossing itself is an enjoyable part of the day, offering sweeping sea views and a chance to unwind before arriving in Sicily. Many travelers appreciate the smooth operation of the ferry, with some noting it as a “very nice ferry ride” that sets the tone for the day. The ferry’s schedule varies depending on availability, so early booking is recommended to secure your preferred time.

The City of Catania: A Vibrant Welcome

Once ashore in Pozzallo, you’ll transfer by bus to Catania, a city alive with energy, baroque architecture, and historic piazzas. The guided walking tour lasts around three hours, and it’s a highlight for many visitors.

During this segment, you’ll see iconic sights like Piazza del Duomo, where the stunning Catania Cathedral and the famous Elephant Fountain are located. The tour also includes some free time to explore local markets or grab a quick espresso—something many reviewers find delightful. Sara, who took this trip, mentions that the free time “was almost 3 hours for food/shopping and sightseeing,” giving plenty of room to soak up the local vibe and indulge in Sicilian street food.

The guide enriches the experience with commentary about the city’s architecture and history, making it more than just a walk through pretty streets. If you’re a fan of lively markets, you’ll appreciate the chance to browse local stalls, which offer everything from fresh produce to souvenirs.

Ascending Mount Etna: Nature’s Masterpiece

Leaving Catania, the tour heads towards Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano and one of the continent’s most spectacular natural attractions. The drive takes about 1.5 hours, passing through charming villages and forests.

Many reviews highlight the scenic drive as an impressive part of the experience—viewpoints along the way provide photo-worthy landscapes of lush forests and volcanic terrain. Visitors often comment on the breathtaking views and the changing vegetation, from chestnut trees to beech, oak, and pine.

At Mount Etna, the group typically enjoys a photo stop, a guided walk around the crater area, and free time to explore or even indulge in optional activities like the €52 cable ride (which some reviewers like Sara, recommend taking if you’re up for it). There’s a café at the top, offering beverages and snacks with an incredible backdrop of the volcano.

The tour’s highlight is the scenery—many guests mention how beautiful and powerful Etna looks up close, with some noting that the views are so striking they are worth every penny. However, keep in mind that weather conditions can affect accessibility, and some areas may be limited depending on volcanic activity.

Long Return Journey and Overall Value

After exploring Etna, the group heads back towards Malta, spending around 2.5 hours on the bus. This part of the trip can be lengthy but is broken up with a toilet stop, helping to make the journey more comfortable.

The entire tour, including transportation, guide, ferry, and sightseeing, offers good value, especially considering the variety of experiences packed into one day. However, it’s a full itinerary, so patience and energy are essentials.

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Practical Details and Tips

• Start times vary; check availability when booking to align with your travel plans.
• Bring your passport or ID as part of the border crossing process.
• Food and drinks are not included, so packing snacks or planning to buy at markets or cafés is advisable.
• The tour is conducted in English, with an audio guide available, making it easy to follow along.
• Comfortable footwear is recommended for walking tours and exploring Mount Etna.
• If you’re interested in the cable car ride, budget around €52, as mentioned by a reviewer, and consider booking in advance if possible.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a multi-faceted day—combining sea travel, cultural sightseeing, and natural wonders. It’s suitable for those comfortable with a busy schedule and long hours on a coach. History buffs, nature lovers, and foodies will all find something to enjoy here.

If you’re looking for a low-effort, high-reward way to experience Sicily in a day, this tour ticks those boxes. However, if you prefer more relaxed paced trips or want to spend longer in any one location, you might find this itinerary a bit rushed.

This guided day trip from Malta to Sicily offers a well-rounded introduction to one of Italy’s most captivating islands. From the exhilaration of crossing the Mediterranean by catamaran to wandering through the lively streets of Catania and marveling at Mount Etna’s volcanic majesty, there’s plenty of excitement packed into a single day.

The trip provides great value for the included transportation, guided tours, and scenic stops, making it a smart choice for travelers eager to tick off multiple highlights without extra planning. It’s particularly perfect for those who enjoy diverse experiences—sea travel, city exploration, and natural beauty—all in one adventure.

While the long hours might be tiring for some, the stunning views, authentic local flavor, and memorable landscapes make it worth the effort. This tour offers a genuine taste of Sicily’s character, ideal for curious travelers wanting a snapshot of Sicily’s best in a single day.

How long is the ferry crossing from Malta to Sicily?
The catamaran crossing lasts approximately 105 minutes, offering a smooth and scenic sea journey.

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included. You may want to bring snacks or plan to enjoy local cafés during your free time.

What sights will I see in Catania?
You’ll visit Piazza del Duomo, the Elephant Fountain, and the Cathedral, with plenty of time for sightseeing, shopping, and enjoying local markets.

Can I visit Mount Etna if I have mobility issues?
The tour involves a scenic drive and walking around the crater area. If you’re concerned about accessibility, consider this in your decision.

What is the best way to prepare for the trip?
Bring your passport or ID, wear comfortable shoes, and pack a jacket or layers. If you plan to take the cable car ride, budget €52.

How long is the entire day?
The trip runs a full day, with activities, travel, and free periods totaling around 8-10 hours, depending on the ferry and traffic.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially those comfortable with a full schedule and long bus rides.

What should I do if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

In summary, if you’re after a unique, action-packed day trip that takes you from Malta to Sicily’s volcanic landscapes and lively streets, this tour offers a memorable experience worth considering.

You can check if your dates are available here: