How to hire a cheap car at Catania Airport

Catania

Sicily is one of those places people return from saying they can’t wait to go back. A glimpse of Mount Etna from the plane or the first breath of Mediterranean air as you step off your flight is enough to see why the island captures everyone’s heart. And if there’s one secret to enjoying it at your own pace — without being tied to timetables and reaching corners that public transport never touches — it’s hiring a car the moment you land at Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (CTA), the gateway to eastern Sicily and one of the best-connected starting points for exploring the island.

Although Catania is reasonably well served by public transport, timetables are often limited, journeys can be long, and many of Sicily’s most fascinating spots lack direct connections. That’s why thousands of travellers choose to collect their hire car straight from the airport, allowing them to begin their trip without delay, make the most of their days, and move around with complete freedom.

Thanks to comparison sites such as DoYouItaly, finding cheap car hire at Catania Airport has become much easier. Booking in advance and comparing prices has proved the smartest way to save money without compromising on good service.

Catania Airport (CTA): location and how to get around

Catania-Fontanarossa Airport is the busiest in Sicily and one of the most important in southern Italy. It lies just 6 kilometres from the centre of Catania, making it the perfect starting point for any journey across the island.

Thanks to its strategic location, from Catania you can easily reach popular destinations such as Taormina (50 km), Syracuse (65 km), Noto (90 km), or Mount Etna National Park. For this very reason, most travellers choose to begin their adventure right here.

Why hiring a car in Catania is cheaper with a comparison site like DoYouItaly

If you’re looking to hire a cheap car in Catania , the best approach is to avoid booking directly with a single company and instead compare. Why? Prices vary enormously depending on the date, supply, and demand.

Using DoYouItaly offers several advantages:

Lower prices. DoYouItaly shows rates from different companies and often suppliers exclusive deals that are cheaper than those on the agencies’ own websites.

Complete transparency. You can immediately see what each tariff includes, which insurance is advisable to add, and the fuel policy.

Time saving. All available options for your travel dates can be compared in one place.

Wide choice of models. Small and economical cars, family SUVs, automatics, hybrids, or premium models — all in a single search.

For these reasons, booking through DoYouItaly is usually the most effective way to save money without hassle.

How to find cheap car hire at Catania Airport

Although Sicily is a very popular destination, there are strategies to secure an economical rental :

Book in advance

During the summer months and public holidays, demand rises sharply. Booking several weeks ahead can mean significant savings.

Choose smaller cars

Compact cars are cheaper, use less fuel, and are easier to drive through historic centres or narrow streets.

Check the fuel policy

The most convenient option is usually full-to-full, which avoids extra charges.

Review the deposit and excess

The lowest rates often come with higher excesses. Consider whether it’s worth adding extra insurance for peace of mind.

Consider different times

Sometimes adjusting the pick-up or drop-off time to less busy intervals can reduce the final price.

Where to collect your car: car hire offices inside and outside the airport

Offices inside the terminal. Here you’ll find the larger, more established companies. They’re convenient and allow you to pick up your car just a few metres from the airport.

External offices with shuttle service. Companies such as Goldcar or Centauro often have offices slightly further away, connected by free shuttle buses. The journey takes between 3 and 5 minutes.

Comparison sites like DoYouItaly clearly show where each car is collected, making it easy to choose based on convenience or price.

Recommended routes from Catania Airport

With a hire car, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideal routes to start your trip:

• Mount Etna. Just 40 minutes from the airport. You can drive up to Rifugio Sapienza and, if you’re keen, join guided excursions.
• Taormina. One of Sicily’s gems: Greek theatre, stunning viewpoints, and spectacular beaches.
• Syracuse and Ortigia. A must for lovers of archaeology and Baroque architecture.
• Noto. The capital of Sicilian Baroque and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Costa dei Ciclopi. A beautiful stretch of coastline with charming fishing villages such as Aci Trezza and Aci Castello.


Frequently asked questions about hiring a car at Catania Airport

Is it expensive to hire a car in Catania? Not necessarily. With DoYouItaly it’s common to find very affordable deals, especially if you book in advance.

Is it safe to drive in Sicily? Yes, although it’s advisable to drive carefully in urban areas or on narrow roads.

What type of car is best to hire? For couples or city trips, a compact car is ideal. For families, an SUV makes longer journeys easier.

Can I return the car to another city? Yes, many companies allow drop-off in Palermo or Trapani, although this may involve an additional cost.

The most convenient and economical way to discover Sicily

Hiring a car at Catania Airport is the most practical way to explore Sicily without limitations. It allows you to make the most of your time, reach remote places, and enjoy your journey with complete flexibility. And thanks to comparison sites like DoYouItaly, finding cheap car hire is easier than ever.

Plan ahead, compare options, and start your Sicilian adventure from the very first minute. The island is full of incredible places — and having a car is the best way to discover them.

What’s more, if you decide to book your hire car with DoYouItaly, you’ll benefit from 24-hour customer service, whether by phone on +34 964 83 09 95, online, or via their Virtual Assistant.