If you are looking for a destination that combines enchanting beaches, majestic mountains and a culture rich in history, Calabria is the answer to your dreams. This hidden treasure of southern Italy is a true paradise to explore, with breathtaking scenery and fascinating traditions. In this article, we will guide you through 10 unmissable places to visit in Calabria, each of which tells a unique story and offers unforgettable experiences. Get ready to discover the beating heart of this region, where natural beauty blends with the authenticity of local life. Let yourself be inspired and start your journey to discover a corner of Italy that will surprise you!
Tropea beach: the Calabrian seaside paradise
The Tropea Beach is undoubtedly one of the most precious treasures of Calabria, a place where natural beauty blends with history and culture. With its turquoise waters and very fine white sand, this beach is a true paradise for those seeking relaxation and beauty.
Walking along the coast, you can admire our naturalistic heritage: the cliffs that plunge into the crystalline sea, the cliffs that embrace the coast and the panorama that dominates the suggestive historic center of Tropea. Don't forget to visit the Chapel of Santa Maria dell'Isola, an iconic symbol that stands on a promontory, offering a breathtaking view at sunset.
For food lovers, the seafront offers a variety of restaurants where you can taste typical dishes based on fresh fish and the famous 'nduja, a spicy cured meat that represents the Calabrian tradition.
If you're looking for adventure, you'll also find opportunities for water sports, such as snorkeling and paddle surfing.
To reach Tropea, the closest airport is Lamezia Terme, easily connected by trains and shuttles. Book your stay in one of the many bed and breakfasts or hotels overlooking the sea in advance for an unforgettable experience.
Don't miss the opportunity to discover this corner of Calabrian paradise: the Tropea Beach awaits you!
Aspromonte: trekking between nature and history
In the heart of Calabria, Aspromonte stands majestically, a true paradise for lovers of trekking and uncontaminated nature. This national park, with its imposing peaks and breathtaking landscapes, offers a unique experience for those who want to immerse themselves in the history and culture of the area.
Walking along the paths, you can admire the age-old forests, the deep canyons and the rushing waterfalls that characterize the landscape. Among the most evocative routes, the Sentiero del Crati offers extraordinary views and the possibility of spotting wildlife, such as the rare Apennine wolf.
Not just nature: Aspromonte is steeped in history. Visitors can explore ancient villages such as Gerace and Santo Stefano in Aspromonte, where local traditions are alive and well. Here the medieval churches and castles tell stories of a fascinating past, while the popular festivals offer a taste of Calabrian culture.
For adventure lovers, don't forget to bring with you a good pair of trekking shoes and a camera: every corner of Aspromonte is an opportunity to capture unforgettable memories. And if you are looking for an authentic experience, don't hesitate to stop in one of the local restaurants to savor typical dishes, such as fried meats and Calabrian chili pepper. Aspromonte awaits you with its natural and cultural treasures, ready to give you unique emotions.
Scilla: legends and crystalline sea
Scilla, an enchanting village overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, is a place where natural beauty blends with ancient legends. Here, the crystal clear waters meet the rugged coastline, creating a breathtaking panorama. Chianalea beach, with its colorful houses overlooking the shore, is a real invitation to relax and enjoy the Calabrian sun.
But Scilla is not just the sea. The legend of this place tells of Scylla, the mythological creature who, according to Homer, terrified sailors. Visit the Ruffo castle, located on the top of a promontory, to discover the history of this fascinating village and admire a panoramic view that embraces the sea and the coast.
For those who love adventure, excursions in the surrounding area offer paths that wind through the Mediterranean vegetation, revealing hidden corners and breathtaking views. Don't forget to taste the local cuisine: the dishes based on fresh fish, such as the famous Scilla tuna, are unmissable.
Useful information: Scilla is easily reachable by car or train, and offers various accommodation options, from welcoming guest houses to seaside hotels. Visit Scilla in spring or autumn to avoid the summer crowds and enjoy a more authentic and peaceful experience.
Sila: lakes and enchanting mountain landscapes
If you want an experience that combines pristine nature and tranquility, Sila is the perfect destination for you. This mountain range, which extends into the heart of Calabria, is a true paradise for outdoor lovers. Here, the crystalline lakes, such as Lake Arvo and Lake Cecita, offer postcard-perfect scenery, surrounded by centuries-old pine and beech forests.
Imagine walking along the shores of Lake Arvo, where the waters reflect the colors of the sky and surrounding mountains. The hiking opportunities are endless: well-marked trails will lead you through lush woods and breathtaking views. Don't forget to bring a camera with you; every corner of Sila is an invitation to capture the beauty of nature.
For those looking for a more adventurous experience, trekking in the Sila National Park is a must. You will find yourself immersed in unique biodiversity, with the possibility of spotting wildlife such as deer and golden eagles. During the winter, the ski slopes of Villaggio Mancuso and Camigliatello Silano offer fun for winter sports lovers.
Practically, Sila is easily accessible from Cosenza and Catanzaro, making it an ideal destination for a day trip or extended stay. Don't miss the opportunity to discover this enchanting corner of Calabria, where every visit leaves an indelible mark on the heart.
Gerace: the castle and its charm
In the heart of Calabria, the village of Gerace stands majestically, guarded by a medieval castle that tells stories of a past full of adventures and conquests. Walking through its cobbled streets, you will be able to admire the fascinating architecture that intertwines with the surrounding nature, creating a magical and timeless atmosphere.
The Norman Castle, which stands on the hill, is a must-see for every visitor. From here, the view opens onto a breathtaking landscape that embraces the valleys and the sea. Don't forget to explore the Gerace Cathedral, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, with its frescoes and evocative cloister.
For nature lovers, the surroundings offer numerous paths that wind through olive groves and vineyards, perfect for a relaxing walk. During your visit, take a break in one of the typical local trattorias to savor traditional Calabrian dishes, such as 'Nduja and bergamot-based desserts.
Gerace is easily reachable from other Calabrian destinations, making it an ideal stop for a weekend dedicated to history, culture and scenic beauty. Don't miss the opportunity to discover this jewel, where every corner tells a story and every view is a painting to admire.
Pizzo: the famous truffle and its ice cream
In the heart of Calabria, Pizzo is a jewel that enchants visitors with its traditions culinary and its historical charm. This picturesque village overlooking the sea is best known for the Pizzo truffle, an artisanal ice cream that has conquered palates all over the world. Prepared with a base of chocolate and hazelnut ice cream, the truffle is wrapped in a cocoa and hazelnut crust, offering an unparalleled taste experience. Don't miss the opportunity to taste it in one of the many local ice cream parlors, where the ice cream is produced following recipes handed down from generation to generation.
But Pizzo is not just sweets: walking through its cobbled streets, you can admire the characteristic colorful houses and the Church of Piedigrotta, set among the rocks. This fascinating place, consecrated in the 18th century, is famous for its statues carved in stone, a true open-air museum.
Find out about local events, such as the Truffle Festival, held in summer, for an authentic Calabrian experience. Furthermore, Pizzo is well connected to other destinations in Calabria, making it an ideal stop for those wishing to explore the region. Don't forget to take some ice cream home, perhaps in a thermal container, to enjoy the flavor of Calabria even when you're away!
Cosenza: art, culture and local traditions
In the heart of Calabria, Cosenza stands as a true treasure chest of art and culture, where local traditions are intertwined with a thousand-year history. Walking through the historic center, visitors can admire the majestic Norman Castle, which dominates the city from its hill, offering a breathtaking view of the Crati valley.
The cobbled streets of Cosenza are dotted with historic buildings, such as Palazzo Arnone, home to the National Art Gallery, where art lovers can immerse themselves in works by artists from Calabria and beyond. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Cosenza Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece that recounts centuries of faith and beauty.
The city is also famous for its culinary traditions. Taste typical dishes such as 'nduja, a spreadable spicy salami, and caciocavallo silano, a cheese with an unmistakable flavour. Every year, cultural events and festivals enliven Cosenza, such as the Festival dei Due Mondi, which celebrates music and the arts.
For those who wish to explore further, the paths surrounding the city offer trekking and walking opportunities in the uncontaminated nature of the surrounding area. Cosenza is, without a doubt, an unmissable stop for those who want to discover the authenticity of Calabria.
Stilo: the wonder of the Cattolica
In the heart of Calabria, Stilo is an architectural and cultural treasure that cannot be missed on your itinerary. Here stands the Cattolica, one of the most fascinating Byzantine churches in Europe, which seems to emerge from the rock itself. Built in the 9th century, the Catholic is an extraordinary example of religious architecture, with its frescoes telling stories of faith and tradition.
Walking through the streets of Stilo, you can feel an atmosphere of times gone by, with its ancient buildings and characteristic cobbled alleys. Don't miss the panoramic view from Piazza del Popolo, where the panorama extends to the sea, offering a unique array of colors and scents.
For nature lovers, the surrounding area offers paths that wind through the hills, ideal for a relaxing walk or a more challenging excursion. Furthermore, the Norman Castle, although in ruins, offers a particular charm and a glimpse of local history.
If you want an authentic culinary experience, stop in one of the town's trattorias to savor typical dishes, such as porcino alla Stilo and caciocavallo.
Visit Stilo to discover a corner of Calabria where history, art and nature intertwine in perfect balance, making every moment unforgettable.
Capo Vaticano: breathtaking views and snorkeling
Nestled in the heart of the Costa degli Dei, Capo Vaticano is a true corner of paradise. Its beaches, with fine sand and crystal clear waters, are surrounded by cliffs overlooking the sea, creating a landscape that takes your breath away. Here, the intense blue of the sea blends with the green of the Mediterranean vegetation, offering a postcard setting at every step.
For snorkelling lovers, Capo Vaticano is a must. The calm waters, rich in marine life, invite you to explore an underwater world teeming with colour. Don't miss the opportunity to swim among tropical fish and fascinating coral beds, which make every dive an unforgettable experience. The best spots for snorkeling include Grotticelle beach, famous for its clear waters and biodiversity.
In addition to the sea, the area also offers panoramic paths that wind along the coast, perfect for those who want to enjoy a spectacular view at sunset. Don't forget to visit the Capo Vaticano lighthouse, a historic place that offers an unparalleled view of the sea and the Aeolian Islands in the distance.
To reach Capo Vaticano, you can start from Tropea, easily reachable by car or public transport. This corner of Calabria awaits you to offer you an experience of relaxation and adventure in an extraordinary natural context.
Roccella Jonica: exploration of a hidden jewel
In the heart of Calabria, Roccella Jonica is a pearl to discover, a place where time seems to have stopped. This charming village overlooking the Ionian Sea is famous for its golden beaches and its historical heritage. Walking through the cobbled streets, you will be able to admire the ancient churches and the noble palaces, witnesses of a fascinating past.
Roccella beach is a real corner of paradise: with its crystal clear waters and fine sand, it is ideal for a relaxing day. Don't forget to visit Roccella Castle, which dominates the landscape and offers spectacular views of the coast. This historic site is perfect for photography lovers and those who want to immerse themselves in local history.
For those who love nature, the surroundings offer hiking trails that wind through green hills and breathtaking views. In summer, the town comes alive with events and festivals that celebrate Calabrian culture, allowing you to taste typical products and watch traditional shows.
Finally, Roccella Jonica is easily accessible, making it an ideal destination for a day trip. Don't miss the opportunity to discover this hidden jewel of Calabria, where every corner tells a story!