Nightlife

Lapis is a monthly bulletin issued by the tourist office, and available at hotels and bars throughout Catania. It documents special concerts or festivals, movies, or nightclubs (such as they are).

Music lovers should head for the Teatro Massimo, sometimes called Teatro Bellini in honor of the hometown composer. It's at Piazza Teatro Massimo, Via Perotta Giuseppe 12 (tel. 095-7306111). Some of Italy's best operas and concerts are presented here, with tickets costing from 13€ to 70€ ($17-$91). Nothing is grander than hearing Bellini's Norma or La Sonnambula on its home turf. The opera and ballet seasons extend from mid-January to right before Christmas, whereas the concert season runs from mid-October to late May. The box office is open Tuesday to Friday 9:30am to 12:30pm, Monday and Saturday 9:30am to 12:30pm and 5 to 7pm. Bus: 429.

Pubs and dance clubs rule the night. One such option is Royal Pub Ceres, Via San Giuseppe al Duomo 17-21 (tel. 095-7152294), on a block northwest of the Duomo. This woodsy-looking English pub comes complete with a carved Victorian-style bar and a crowd of good-looking people under 35. Its reputation for beers on tap is unequaled in Catania. The venue sometimes spills onto the narrow street outside. The place rocks daily from 7am (for that early libation) to 2am. Take bus no. 448, 449, 457, 722, or 733.