Calabria Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Calabria with this comprehensive travel guide. Explore cultural attractions, natural wonders, hiking & biking routes, must-try local dishes, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Calabria

Calabria is a region in Southern Italy, bordered by the Ionian Sea to the east and the Tyrrhenian Sea to the west. It is known for its beautiful coastline, ancient architecture, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture.

Calabria is a must-visit destination for those looking for an authentic Italian experience, away from the crowds found in other regions. This travel guide will provide you with everything you need to plan your trip to Calabria.

List of Places to Visit in Calabria

When it comes to places to visit in Calabria, there is no shortage of options. Here are just a few of the top destinations to include on your trip:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Riace Bronzes Museum
  • Archaeological Park of Scolacium
  • Reggio Calabria National Archaeological Museum
  • Norman Castle of Cosenza
  • Le Castella

Natural Attractions of Calabria: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Aspromonte National Park
  • Santa Maria dell’Isola
  • Capo Vaticano
  • Tropea
  • Sila National Park
  • The Aeolian Islands

Hiking/Biking Routes of Calabria

Calabria is a hiker’s and biker’s paradise with a diverse range of landscapes to explore. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • The Sentiero degli Dei trail
  • The Aspromonte Ridge trail
  • The Cirò wine route
  • The Serra San Bruno loop

Best Things to Do in Calabria: Activities and Tours

Calabria offers plenty of activities and tours to keep you busy during your trip. Some of the best things to do include:

  • Take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Calabrian dishes.
  • Explore the wineries and taste local wines along the Cirò wine route.
  • Visit the historic town of Gerace to see the Cathedral of Gerace, one of the most beautiful churches in Italy.
  • Take a boat tour of the Aeolian Islands to see the stunning landscapes.
  • Explore the hidden beaches of Tropea.

Week-Long Itinerary for Calabria

If you have a week to spend in Calabria, here is a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day 1: Reggio Calabria and Scilla Day 2: Aspromonte National Park Day 3: Tropea and Capo Vaticano Day 4: Le Castella and the Cirò wine route Day 5: Gerace and Stilo Day 6: Serra San Bruno Day 7: The Aeolian Islands

Food and Drink Scene of Calabria

Calabrian cuisine is delicious and unique, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and simple preparations. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Nduja - a spicy Calabrian sausage
  • Spaghetti alla diavola - spaghetti with tomato and chili sauce
  • Fileja Calabrese - a type of pasta made with flour, water, and chili pepper
  • Caciocavallo cheese
  • Swordfish

Local Beverages

  • Cirò wine
  • Amaro del Capo - a liqueur made with local herbs

Where to Stay in Calabria: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Calabria offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some recommended places to stay:

  • Villa Afrodite in Tropea
  • Hotel Cenobio dei Dogi in Reggio Calabria
  • Hotel Palazzo Foti in Cosenza
  • Hotel Umberto in Le Castelle
  • B&B Santa Lucia in Gerace

What to Buy in Calabria: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When it comes to souvenirs and local products, Calabria has plenty of options to choose from. Some popular choices include:

  • ‘Nduja - a spicy sausage
  • Calabrian chili peppers
  • Caciocavallo cheese
  • Red onions from Tropea
  • Bagnara ceramics

Local Culture and Customs of Calabria

Calabria has a rich and vibrant culture with its own unique customs and traditions. Some things to keep in mind when traveling to Calabria include:

  • It is customary to greet someone with a kiss on both cheeks, even if you have just met.
  • Refrain from wearing revealing clothing when visiting churches or religious sites.
  • Italians tend to eat later than other Europeans, with lunch usually starting around 1 pm and dinner no earlier than 8 pm.

Best Time to Visit Calabria

The best time to visit Calabria is between March and June or between September and November. During these months, the weather is mild, and there are fewer tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of Calabria

Do:

  • Do try local specialties like ‘nduja and Cirò wine.
  • Do greet people with a kiss on both cheeks.
  • Do take the time to explore the smaller towns and villages.

Don’t:

  • Don’t wear revealing clothing when visiting religious sites.
  • Don’t expect everyone to speak English – it’s always helpful to learn a few basic Italian phrases.
  • Don’t plan to visit during August, when most Italians go on holiday and many businesses close.

Safety and Health

Safety in Calabria

Calabria is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, it is always advisable to take precautions, such as avoiding dark alleys at night and keeping your valuables safe.

Health in Calabria

Calabria’s healthcare system is good, and there are plenty of pharmacies and hospitals throughout the region. EU visitors are entitled to free or reduced-cost medical treatment with a European Health Insurance Card.

Getting to Calabria: Transportation Options and Logistics

Calabria is accessible by both air and land. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Calabria

  • Lamezia Terme International Airport
  • Reggio Calabria Tito Minniti Airport

Bus Stations Near Calabria

  • Rome Bus Terminal
  • Naples Bus Terminal

Other Options

  • You can reach Calabria by train from Naples, Rome, and other major Italian cities.

How to Get Around in Calabria

To explore Calabria, a car is highly recommended. Rental cars are available at the airports and train stations. Alternatively, you can also use public transportation, such as local buses and trains.

Where to Go Next from Calabria: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Calabria is a great base for exploring other nearby destinations, such as:

  • Sicily
  • Amalfi Coast
  • Puglia

Conclusion

Calabria is a hidden gem that offers travelers a unique Italian experience. With a stunning coastline, rich history and culture, and delicious cuisine, it is a destination worth exploring. Plan your trip using this comprehensive travel guide and get ready to experience all that Calabria has to offer.



    Cosenza
    Crotone
    Isca Marina
    Lamezia Terme
    Praia a Mare
    Reggio Calabria
    San Fili
    Scalea
    Trebisacce
    Tropea
    Vibo Valentia