Catania, perched on the eastern coast of Sicily, offers more than just stunning Baroque architecture and lively markets. Its proximity to Mount Etna, Europe’s tallest active volcano, makes it a prime spot for hiking and trekking adventures. Whether you’re after a challenging summit climb, a scenic sunset walk, or a family-friendly exploration, Catania’s tours deliver a mix of outdoor excitement and authentic regional flavor. I personally love the Mount Etna: Guided Trek 3,000 Meters to the Summit for its expert guide-led approach—nothing beats standing atop an erupting volcano with a volcanologist explaining the fiery landscape beneath your feet.
Catania’s terrain offers a perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The tours range from intense summit hikes and off-road adventures to more relaxed sunset treks and even combined wine tasting experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or just looking to enjoy some fresh air, each option brings its own flavor of Sicily’s volcanic wonder.
Quick Overview
This list captures Catania’s best hiking and trekking options, from up-close volcano explorations to family-friendly walks and adventure-packed off-road tours. You’ll find guided summit ascents, off-road 4×4 explorations, sunset walks, and multi-activity day trips that include visits to Alcantara Gorges and local wineries. For each, we’ve highlighted unique features, practical details, and what makes them stand out—perfect info to match your fitness level and interest. Ready to lace up? Let’s explore the top options.
1. Mount Etna: Guided Trek 3,000 Meters to the Summit

At number 1 on our list, the Mount Etna: Guided Trek 3,000 Meters to the Summit takes you right to the fiery heart of Europe’s most active volcano. This 6-hour journey is led by a volcanologist, making it ideal for those eager to learn while experiencing the rugged landscape firsthand. The tour begins at La Terrazza Dell’Etna and includes a cable car ride to ascend the slopes, followed by roughly 3 hours of hiking. You’ll reach the impressive 2001 Crater and witness fuming vents at 2,700 meters. The guide shares insights into volcanic activity and regional geology, adding depth to your adventure.
What makes this tour special is the combination of physical challenge and educational richness. The group size is moderate enough to allow personalized attention, and reviews praise Luka’s knowledge and friendly vibe. Many mention that the experience feels like standing on another planet, with the lava fields and volcanic craters creating a surreal backdrop. It’s perfect for those with moderate fitness levels who want an authentic, guided high-altitude adventure.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a well-balanced mix of challenging terrain, expert guidance, and unforgettable views. Ideal for travelers who want to push themselves a bit and learn from a volcanologist.
2. Mount Etna: Top Craters by 4×4 and Trekking Tour

Ranking second is the Mount Etna: Top Craters by 4×4 and Trekking, a 4.5-hour adventure that combines off-road exploration with guided hikes to the summit craters. Limited to 10 participants, this tour offers a more intimate experience with a focus on powerful volcanic landscapes. Starting at Sole-neve Souvenirs, you’ll first enjoy a 20-minute off-road ride that brings you close to the active craters, followed by about 90 minutes of hiking up to 3,357 meters—the highest point accessible on this tour.
What sets this trip apart is the combination of off-road excitement and panoramic views. The guides are official Etna experts, and guests rave about the chance to touch moon-like lava fields and stand amid steaming vents. The tour’s shorter duration makes it appealing for travelers with limited time but a strong interest in volcanoes.
Bottom Line: For a dynamic, hands-on volcanic experience packed with spectacular scenery, this tour is hard to beat. It’s especially suited for those who want a more adventurous approach with guided safety and expert narration.
3. Catania: Etna 2000 m & Alcantara Gorges Hiking Tour, Pick-up

The Etna 2000 m & Alcantara Gorges Hiking Tour offers a full-day journey combining easy hiking with natural wonders. Over 8 hours, you’ll trek along the buttonhole of the Sartorius craters and visit a lava flow cave, with a stop at the striking Alcantara Gorges. The tour is perfect for those who want a light hike with plenty of scenic breaks and natural exploration.
This tour is highly rated and praised for its experienced guides and the inclusion of a river excursion. The itinerary covers lava fields and gorges, providing a good mix of volcanic landscapes and natural beauty. The pick-up from multiple locations, including Syracuse, Taormina, Naxos, and Catania, makes it practical for travelers staying outside the city center.
Guests appreciate the local storytelling and the chance to touch untouched nature, making it a well-rounded option for families or less-fit travelers. The trip provides a relaxed pace with a focus on experiential learning.
Bottom Line: This is a flexible, scenic day trip suited for those wanting light hiking combined with natural wonders and natural caves. It’s especially good for travelers who appreciate local guides sharing stories.
4. Catania: Etna Sunset Trekking with Hotel Pickup

Number 4 is the Etna Sunset Trekking, a 5-hour experience perfect for those who love magical views. Starting with pickup from Catania, Taormina, Naxos, or Syracuse, this tour takes you on a moderate 2-hour trek on the northern side of Etna to reach the best spot to watch the sunset.
Led by certified environmental guides, the journey combines scenic drives with a walk at dusk, culminating in breathtaking sunset views over the volcano’s crater. The guide shares insights into geology and local flora, making it both relaxing and informative. Many reviews highlight the personalized attention and the stunning atmosphere as the sky turns orange and pink.
This tour is ideal for travelers who prefer a less strenuous, scenic experience with hotel pickup and drop-off included, making logistics simple. It’s especially popular for couples or anyone wanting a romantic or peaceful sunset moment.
Bottom Line: A great fit for those seeking beautiful photo moments and a relaxed pace, with the added comfort of hotel pickup.
5. Mount Etna: Day trip to the high altitude craters at 3000 meters trekking

Number 5 on our list is the Mount Etna day trip, which focuses on reaching the craters at 3000 meters with a certified volcanological guide. This is a full-day outing, perfect for those eager to explore the volcanic activity up close.
Highlights include visits to hot fumaroles, walks on lava deserts, and viewing recent lava flows. The tour provides a packed lunch with stunning panoramic views, making it suitable for travelers seeking both adventure and comfort. You’ll also explore a lava channel, gaining insight into volcanic processes.
Many visitors describe this as a highlight of their trip, especially because of the active fumaroles and volcanic features. The emphasis on safety and education suits active travelers and geology enthusiasts. The day balances physical activity with informative commentary from the guide.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting an immersive volcanic experience, this tour offers a full-day of exploration, learning, and stunning scenery.
6. Catania: Etna Full-Day Trekking with Hotel Pickup

Number 6 is the Etna Full-Day Trekking, a 9-hour journey on the Serracozzo path. This moderate to difficult trek covers 5 hours and takes you from the Citelli Refuge up to the Valle del Bove ridge.
The tour highlights include crossing wooded areas and reaching scenic viewpoints on the north-east side of Etna. The guides are certified environmental experts who share insights into the flora, fauna, and geology of the volcano. The journey appeals to serious hikers looking for a comprehensive day of exploration.
Guests often praise the well-organized logistics and the chance to see less-visited parts of Etna. The pickup from multiple locations offers flexibility, and the scenic drive adds to the experience. It’s suitable for fit travelers ready for a longer, more strenuous day.
Bottom Line: For those seeking a full-day, in-depth trek with expert guidance and fewer crowds, this is an excellent choice.
7. EtnaRunWalk: Hiking with GV on Europe’s highest active volcano

Coming in at number 7, EtnaRunWalk offers a customizable experience—whether you want to run or walk to the top, guided personally by a local expert. With a focus on flexibility and personal pace, this tour is designed for adventurers who want to experience Etna at their own speed.
The tour lasts about 4 hours, and the guide emphasizes personalized routes and timings. It’s perfect for fitness-minded travelers who enjoy self-paced exploration but still desire expert support. The guide’s 25 years of experience ensures safety and interesting insights.
Many reviews mention the unique opportunity to combine running or walking with stunning views, making it more than a typical hike. This is a bespoke experience suited for those who want an active, tailored adventure.
Bottom Line: Ideal for athletic travelers looking for personalized, flexible hikes with a knowledgeable guide.
8. From Catania: Etna Trekking 2000m With Pick-up

Number 8 features the Etna Trekking 2000m with Pick-up, offering a light 3-hour trek along the Sartorius craters or 2002 eruption craters. It includes a visit to a lava flow cave, making it accessible for less-fit travelers or those new to hiking.
Guided by certified environmental guides, the tour provides an experiential encounter with volcanic landscapes. The itinerary’s short duration makes it ideal for families or anyone seeking a manageable adventure.
Reviews highlight the informative guides and relaxed pace, which allows plenty of time for photos and questions. The pick-up and drop-off from Catania, Naxos, and Taormina add to the convenience.
Bottom Line: A gentle introduction to Etna’s volcanic scenery, perfect for beginners or travelers with limited time.
9. FROM CATANIA: Etna Trekking Under the Stars

For something truly magical, check out the Etna Trekking Under the Stars. This 6-hour night trek is led by expert guides who reveal geology and local traditions under a starry sky. You’ll visit panoramic spots away from tourist crowds, enjoying stunning night views and a final tasting of local products.
Tours start with pickup from several central locations in Catania, followed by a drive to the volcano. The walk is medium to high level, but the experience of exploring Etna in darkness is unforgettable. Many who have taken this tour describe it as “surreal” and “absolutely unique”.
This experience is perfect for adventurers who enjoy nighttime landscapes and want an atmospheric exploration away from the usual daytime crowds.
Bottom Line: For a once-in-a-lifetime night adventure with stunning views and cultural insights, this trek is hard to beat.
10. From Catania: Etna Trekking & Wine Tasting Tour with Pickup

Rounding out our list, the Etna Trekking & Wine Tasting Tour combines a 2-hour trek from 1800m to 2150m with a visit to a local winery. This is great for those who want a short hike coupled with regional tastings.
The tour emphasizes experiential excursions, with a certified guide leading the walk and then guiding you through wine tastings among native white and red wines. Many reviews note the relaxed pace and high-quality wine samples, making it ideal for foodies or casual hikers.
The visit to the winery offers a taste of local Sicilian flavors, making this a well-rounded, leisurely day. The pickup from multiple locations makes logistics easy.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a gentle hiking experience combined with wine tasting, especially those interested in gastronomy and regional culture.
How to Choose the Best Hiking and Trekking Tour in Catania
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your fitness level, interest in volcanic geology, and whether you prefer adventure, education, or relaxation. If you’re after a challenging summit ascent, the Guided Trek to 3,000 meters is unbeatable. For a more relaxed day, the Sunset Trekking offers stunning views without intense exertion.
Travelers on a limited schedule might opt for the half-day craters tour or the light trek at 2000 meters. For those interested in combining experiences, the wine tasting or night trek add a tasty or atmospheric dimension. Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours like the Guided Summit Trek or Sunset Walk.
Final Thoughts
Catania’s array of hiking and trekking tours makes it a fantastic destination for outdoor lovers and adventure seekers alike. If you want to stand atop Europe’s highest volcano or explore volcanic caves and gorges, there’s a tour for you. For a romantic sunset or starlit adventure, options are equally compelling.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker looking for a full-day summit climb or a family seeking a gentle walk in nature, Catania’s volcanic landscapes promise memorable experiences. Be sure to book ahead, especially during peak seasons, and remember to wear appropriate gear—sturdy shoes, layered clothing, and plenty of water. Now, lace up and get ready for some of Europe’s most exhilarating outdoor adventures.