Catania

Catania is a bold, buzzing city on the island of Sicily in southern Italy, and it lives life in the shadow of something truly enormous. Mount Etna, Europe's tallest active volcano, looms dramatically over the city, rumbling and steaming above the rooftops. Far from being scared of their fiery neighbour, the people of Catania actually celebrate it. Much of their city is built from dark lava stone, giving Catania a striking, unique look you won't find anywhere else. The city's beloved symbol is a cheerful elephant statue standing proudly in the gorgeous main square, and locals have considered it a good-luck charm for centuries.

Catania is a place where ancient history and noisy everyday life crash together in the best possible way. You can stand beside ruins of a Roman arena that once roared with 16,000 spectators, then wander a few steps to a famously chaotic fish market where vendors have been hollering and haggling every single morning for hundreds of years. Catania is loud, proud, and completely unforgettable.