Calabria

Discover Calabria — Rugged Coasts, Ancient Roots & Southern Intensity

Wild, dramatic, and deeply expressive, Calabria forms the toe of Italy’s boot, where mountains plunge into two seas and traditions run strong. Framed by the Tyrrhenian and Ionian coasts, Calabria is a land of fiery flavors, cliffside villages, and landscapes that feel raw and untamed. Greek ruins, Norman castles, and centuries-old rituals sit alongside turquoise waters and forested peaks — an Italy that is bold, proud, and unforgettable.

Main Towns

Tropea — Cliff-top seaside jewel with white sand beaches and postcard views.

Reggio Calabria — Elegant coastal city facing Sicily across the Strait of Messina.

Scilla — Fishing village of myth and beauty, tied to Homer’s legends.

Cosenza — Historic inland city with medieval heart and cultural energy.

Gerace — Stone hill town crowned by one of southern Italy’s largest cathedrals.

Why You’ll Love It

Two coastlines with crystal-clear water and dramatic scenery

Ancient Greek, Roman, and Norman history

Bold cuisine with unforgettable flavors

Authentic southern Italy — proud, intense, and deeply rooted

Things to Do

Coast & Sea

Swim beneath Tropea’s cliffs and explore nearby coves

Boat along the Costa degli Dei

Relax on quiet Ionian beaches near Soverato

Hill Towns & Heritage

Wander Gerace’s medieval streets and cathedral

Explore Scilla’s Chianalea fishing quarter

Discover ancient villages perched above valleys and sea

Nature & Outdoors

Hike Aspromonte National Park’s forests and waterfalls

Explore Pollino National Park’s dramatic landscapes

Scenic drives through mountains and along coastal roads

Unique Calabrian Experiences

Sunset aperitivo overlooking the Strait of Messina

Village festivals celebrating food, faith, and tradition

Long seaside lunches followed by late evening passeggiata

Eat & Drink

Signature Flavors

Spicy, rustic cuisine shaped by land and sea

Peppers, pork, citrus, and preserved foods

Local Dishes

’Nduja — soft, fiery spreadable salami

Fileja pasta with tomato and chili

Swordfish with citrus and herbs

Stuffed vegetables and slow-cooked meats

Cheeses & Specialties

Caciocavallo Silano DOP

Pecorino Crotonese

Bergamot — prized citrus unique to Calabria

Wines To Sip

Cirò — historic red from ancient Greek vineyards

Greco di Bianco — aromatic dessert wine

Calabria IGT reds and whites

Where To Taste

Family-run trattorie, seaside restaurants, village kitchens, agriturismi, and local festivals

Where to Stay

Boutique & Coastal Stays

Borgo di Fiuzzi Resort &. Spa

La Dolce Vita a Tropea

Hotel Medinblu

Charming Bases

Tropea for coast and beauty

Scilla for culture and fishing-village charm

Aspromonte foothills for nature-focused stays

History & Culture of Calabria — Magna Graecia & Living Traditions

Cultural Legacy

Heart of Magna Graecia (Ancient Greek Italy)

Roman roads, Norman castles, and Byzantine churches

Strong traditions shaped by isolation and resilience

Sacred & Scenic Sites

Riace Bronzes Museum (Reggio Calabria)

Norman castles and cliffside fortresses

Ancient monasteries and hilltop sanctuaries

Travel Info & Tips

Getting There

Lamezia Terme Airport — main regional gateway

Naples → Calabria: ~4–5 hours by train or car

Ferries connect Calabria with Sicily

Best Time To Visit

May–June & Sept — warm sea, fewer crowds

July–August — peak summer, lively coast

Spring & Autumn — ideal for hiking and villages

Getting Around

Car recommended for flexibility and hill towns

Trains run along both coasts but are slower inland

Practical Tips

Expect bold flavors — Calabrian food is spicy

Allow extra time for travel through mountains

Embrace the rhythm — evenings start late and linger