Calabria

Italy

Santa Maria dell\'Isola Monastery
Altomonte
Scilla
Serra San Bruno
Riaci Beach

Discover a Southern Italian region blessed with miles of rugged natural coastline, well-preserved remnants from the ancient era and mountainous nature parks.

Calabria is the “boot” of Italy, the southernmost region that juts out into the sea. Visit Calabria for a unique view of Italy far away from the busier, more tourist-oriented destinations. Admire views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, bike along trails leading through vast nature parks and marvel at sculptures and mosaics from ancient times.

Most people come to Calabria for outdoor adventure and stunning natural views. Build sandcastles on beaches of the granite-backed Capo Vaticano in Vibo Valentia and follow schools of fish along the coast as you snorkel in glassy waters. For an even closer view of Calabria’s colorful underwater world, sign up for a scuba diving lesson. Other popular coastal activities include wind-driven watersports, which can be practiced in the seaside town of Scalea.

Away from the coast, the Lao River is often used for rafting trips or canyoneering, a multidiscipline sport that involves a mixture of rafting, rappelling, walking, jumping and climbing. If you would rather stay dry, go for a hike along the edge of the Strait of Messina, a channel of water which separates Calabria from the island of Sicily.

Many tourists use the city of Cosenza, characterized by its pastel-colored houses, as a base from which to explore inland regions. Learn about local plant life in the mountainous natural parks of Sila and Serre and hike to waterfalls, through conifer forests and around mountains in the Aspromonte National Park. Watch the sun reflect off the still waters of Lake Cecita while enjoying lunch down by the banks.

In addition to natural wonders, Calabria also promise compelling cultural and historical attractions. See the Riace Bronzes, classical Greek statues representing two warrior heroes, at the National Museum of Reggio Calabria and study an intricate Roman mosaic in Vibo Valentia.

Reliable buses serve most of the larger towns and cities, but if you plan on traveling inland, consider renting a car. Visit in June and September for lower crowds or book a vacation in July or August to see Calabria at its most active.

Calabria is the perfect choice for any traveler who wants to discover a lesser-visited Italian region.

Popular cities in Calabria

Tropea
Tropea
Known for Sea, Luxury and Small town
A picturesque medieval town spills down rocky cliffs to spectacular bays and beaches at this seaside resort in southern Italy’s Calabria region.

Reasons to visit

  • Port of Tropea
  • Santa Maria dell'Isola Monastery
  • Norman Cathedral
Reggio di Calabria
Reggio Calabria
Known for Sea, Natural parks and Marinas
A jumping-off point for trips to Sicily, this busy port town is home to one of Italy’s finest collections of ancient objects as well as a pretty waterfront area.

Reasons to visit

  • Reggio di Calabria Promenade
  • National Archaeological Museum of Reggio Calabria
Pizzo
Pizzo
Known for Beaches, Monuments and Historical
Try the nutty chocolate ice cream balls, learn about the castle execution of Napoleon’s brother-in-law and relax on the beach.

Reasons to visit

  • Piedigrotta Church
  • Murat Castle
Grotticelle Beach
Ricadi
Known for Sea, Swimming and Gardens
Stroll along the scenic trails on the cliffs, swim in the blue-green sea near fascinating caves and admire the medieval towers.

Reasons to visit

  • Torre Marrana
Catanzaro
Catanzaro
Known for Friendly people, Historical and Museums
Escape to Catanzaro! Enjoy its history, museums, and monuments.
Alba
Corigliano-Rossano
Check out the local area in Corigliano-Rossano—home to attractions like Amarelli Licorice Factory and Corigliano Seafront.