Loading map...

BLQ destination photo
CTA destination photo

BLQCTA

Our Recommendation
9.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side of the aircraft offers a spectacular aerial parade of Italy's most famous volcanic landscapes and the stunning Tyrrhenian coastline.

Right Side Highlights
9.5
🍷

Tuscan Landscapes

Early in the flight, view the rolling hills, vineyards, and cypress-lined roads of the iconic Tuscan countryside.

🌋

Mount Vesuvius

A major highlight mid-flight; the perfectly formed cone of Vesuvius and the sprawling Bay of Naples are visible on clear days.

🏝️

Aeolian Islands

Spot the volcanic archipelago in the Tyrrhenian Sea, including the smoking peak of Stromboli and the island of Vulcano.

🔥

Mount Etna

The undisputed star of the route; enjoy unparalleled, close-up views of Europe's most active volcano as you descend into CTA.

🏘️

Catania Urban Area

See the black lava-stone buildings of Catania's historic center and the bustling port area just before touching down.

The right side is essential for the best views of Mount Etna, which often features active steam plumes. For photography, book a seat in front of the wing to ensure the engine exhaust doesn't blur your shots of Vesuvius and the Aeolian Islands. Sunset flights on this side offer dramatic lighting over the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Left Side Highlights
6.8
🏙️

Bologna Skyline

Catch a glimpse of the Two Towers and the terracotta rooftops of Bologna immediately after takeoff from Guglielmo Marconi Airport.

⛰️

Central Apennines

Enjoy views of the rugged limestone peaks and deep valleys of the 'backbone of Italy' as you fly south over the mountain range.

🌊

Ionian Coastline

As the plane descends towards Sicily, the deep blue waters of the Ionian Sea provide a beautiful contrast to the rugged Calabrian coast.

🏛️

Taormina

Look down to see the ancient Greek Theater and the cliffside luxury hotels of this historic resort town during the final approach.

🏖️

Giardini Naxos

The sweeping bay and sandy beaches of Sicily's first Greek colony are clearly visible just before the aircraft aligns with the runway.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is better for viewing the high peaks of the Apennines and the beautiful coastline of Taormina during the descent into Catania. Keep an eye out for the San Marino enclave shortly after leaving the Bologna area.

Top Activities in Catania
Route Information

Distance: 847 km (526 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 25 min

Departure: BLQ (44.5354, 11.2887)

Arrival: CTA (37.466801, 15.0664)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.