Crotone Travel Guide

Explore the best of Crotone, Calabria, in Southern Italy with this comprehensive travel guide. From culturally significant museums and historical places to scenic natural attractions and outdoor adventures, we've got you covered.


Crotone Travel Guide: Discover Southern Italy’s Hidden Gem

Nuzzled at the bottom of Italy’s toe, a hidden gem of Southern Italy awaits to be discovered: Crotone. This ancient city finds its roots in Greek mythology and the archaeological sites are a testament to this rich history. Crotone is not a classic tourist destination, but for those seeking authentic experiences, this is the destination to add to your list.

List of Places to Visit in Crotone

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Archaeological Museum: This museum displays a wide range of ancient artifacts and is dedicated to preserving the rich history of Crotone. Highlights include Greek pottery, Roman statues, and Magna Graecia coins and jewelry.
  • Castle of Charles V: Built in 1550, this castle stands on a hilltop overlooking the sea and the city. It was originally built as a defense against pirate raids and is now home to a museum showcasing the city’s history.
  • Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta: This beautiful Baroque-style cathedral was built in the 9th century and renovated in the 18th century. It houses several precious treasures such as the Chapel of the Sacrament, the altar of St. Peter Martyr, and paintings by Carlo Maratta.
  • Capocolonna Archaeological Park: This ancient Greek temple to Hera Lacinia is beautifully preserved and stands just as it did when it was built in 470 BC.

Natural Attractions of Crotone: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Le Castella Beach: This picturesque beach is located on a small island just off the Calabrian coast and is accessible by boat or bridge.
  • Cavallaro Tower: Climb this ancient tower and be rewarded with a stunning view of the Gulf of Taranto and the surrounding countryside.
  • Mount Sant’Anna Natural Park: This park is filled with hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Make sure to climb to the top of the mountain to see the panoramic view of the city and the sea.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Crotone

Crotone is a popular destination for hikers and bikers due to its natural beauty and rugged terrain. Some of the best hiking and biking routes include:

  • Sentiero del Cancrinone (The Cancrinone Trail): This 4.5 km trail starts from the town of Botricello and goes through the forests and hills of the countryside, passing through ancient ruins, farms, orchards, and small villages.
  • Monte Cocuzzo Trail: This trail offers panoramic views of the Ionian sea, the Gulf of Squillace, and the surrounding mountains. It is an easy 3 km hike and is perfect for families and beginner hikers.
  • Lighthouse of Capo Colonna trail: Take the trail through the Capocolonna Archaeological Park to reach the lighthouse at the end of the cape. The trail offers breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Crotone: Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking and biking, there are many other activities to enjoy in Crotone. Some of the best things to do include:

  • Sailing and boat tours: Take a boat tour around the coast of Crotone and discover the hidden coves and crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea.
  • Wine Tours: Calabria is famous for its full-bodied red wines. Take a wine tour and taste some of the best wines in the area while enjoying the lush countryside.
  • Cooking Classes: Learn how to make traditional Calabrian dishes such as nduja, ciabotta, and fileja at one of the many cooking classes offered in the city.

Week-Long Itinerary for Crotone

Day 1: Visit the Archaeological Museum and explore the ancient ruins of Capocolonna.

Day 2: Hike the Monte Cocuzzo Trail in the morning and spend the afternoon relaxing on Le Castella Beach.

Day 3: Take a boat tour around the coast of Crotone and discover hidden coves and crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea.

Day 4: Learn how to make traditional Calabrian dishes at a cooking class.

Day 5: Explore the historic Castle of Charles V and enjoy the panoramic view of the city.

Day 6: Take a wine tour and taste some of the best wines in the area.

Day 7: Relax and enjoy the stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea from Mount Sant’Anna Natural Park.

Food and Drink Scene of Crotone

Calabrian cuisine is a delicious blend of seafood, meats, vegetables and aromatic herbs. Some of the must-try dishes in Crotone include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Nduja: A spicy spreadable sausage made of pork fat and red chili peppers.
  • Fileja: A traditional Calabrian pasta made from durum wheat semolina and twisted into a spiral like shape.
  • Peperoncino: A sweet and spicy red pepper used to spice up most dishes.

Local Beverages

  • Cirò wine: Known for its full-bodied and robust taste, Cirò wine is made from the Gaglioppo grape and is one of the oldest wine varieties in Italy.
  • Liquore di Limoncello: A refreshing lemon-flavored liqueur best enjoyed on a hot summer day.

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

Crotone offers a range of accommodation options including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some of the best places to stay include:

  • Hotel S.Anna: A boutique hotel located in the heart of Crotone’s historic district.
  • B&B Casa del Sole: A cozy bed and breakfast located on the outskirts of the city.
  • Hostel del Mare: A charming hostel located just steps from Le Castella beach.

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

Crotone is famous for its handmade ceramics, terracotta pottery, and wrought iron works. Other local products to bring home include:

  • Cialda di Crotone: A crispy wafer filled with almonds, honey, and cinnamon.
  • Olio di Crotone: High-quality extra-virgin olive oil produced in the surrounding countryside.

Local Culture and Customs of Crotone

The locals in Crotone are warm and friendly people who take pride in their town. The traditional festivals and celebrations include the Festa della Madonna di Capocolonna in August and the Carnevale in February.

Best Time to Visit Crotone

The best time to visit Crotone is from May to October when the weather is warm and sunny. The peak season is in July and August when the town is bustling with tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of Crotone

Do:

  • Learn some basic Italian phrases before your trip.
  • Try some of the local seafood delicacies.
  • Follow the dress codes of religious sites and dress modestly.

Don’t:

  • Forget to carry cash as not all establishments accept credit cards.
  • Sunbathe topless or nude on the beaches as it is considered inappropriate.
  • Leave your valuables unattended on the beach.

Safety and Health

Safety in Crotone

Crotone is a relatively safe destination but like any other city, you should remain vigilant and avoid wandering alone at night. Take extra care when driving as the roads can be narrow and winding.

Health in Crotone

There are no major health risks in Crotone, but it is always advisable to take standard travel precautions such as drinking bottled water, wearing sunscreen, and applying mosquito repellent.

Getting to Crotone: Transportation Options and Logistics

Crotone is well connected to the rest of Italy by bus, train and airplane.

Airports Near Crotone

The closest airport to Crotone is Sant’Anna Airport(CRN),which is located about 10km from the city center.

Bus Stations Near Crotone

Buses regularly depart from the bus station in the center of Crotone for destinations all over southern Italy.

Other Options

Trains run frequently to and from Crotone to other major cities in Italy and there is a ferry service to the Ionian Islands.

How to Get Around in Crotone

The easiest way to get around Crotone is on foot. Alternatively, you can rent a bike, scooter, or car to explore the surrounding countryside and beaches.

Where to Go Next from Crotone: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Reggio Calabria: Visit the ancient Roman villa of Casignana and the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Reggio Calabria.
  • Tropea: Known as the “Jewel of Calabria” for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters.
  • Ionian Islands: Take a ferry to the beautiful Ionian Islands of Zakynthos, Corfu, and Kefalonia.

Conclusion

Crotone is a hidden gem of Southern Italy, filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking to relax on the beach, Crotone has something to offer. So pack your bags, and come discover this charming city on the Italian coast.