Car Rental at Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (CTA)

Catania Fontanarossa (CTA) is Sicily's largest and most trafficked airport, located 4 km south of Catania city center. With 60 rental agencies on-site, you have one of Italy's widest selection of rental car options right at the arrivals hall. The airport is the hub for exploring all of Sicily, from Mount Etna in the north to baroque towns in the south.

Fontanarossa is located right by the Ionian Sea and is reached from Catania city center via Viale Castromarino in about 10 minutes. Motorway A18 northward toward Messina and A19 westward toward Palermo start just 2 km from the airport, making it a perfect starting point for your Sicily trip. Pick up your car upon arrival and drive north on A18 toward Taormina, 50 km and about 45 minutes – book hotels in advance during peak season.

Drive south on SS114 and SS115 toward Ragusa Ibla and Modica, Sicily's baroque pearls, about 100 km and 1.5 hours. Plan an early morning drive up Mount Etna via SP92 to avoid tour buses and enjoy the volcanic landscape. Where do I find the rental desks at Fontanarossa Airport?

Most rental agencies are in the arrivals hall in Terminal A, with some operators in a separate car rental center just outside the terminal with free shuttle. Do I need to book a rental car in advance at Fontanarossa? Highly recommended, especially June–September when Sicily is extremely popular and cars run out quickly.

How long does it take to drive from Fontanarossa to Palermo? Palermo is about 210 km to the west via A19, taking about 2 hours under normal traffic conditions.

We compare prices from all major providers at Catania-Fontanarossa Airport so you can see the total cost upfront — including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.