Vibo Valentia Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and what to eat in Vibo Valentia, Southern Italy. Explore the beautiful region and enjoy its rich culture, outdoor activities, and stunning scenery.


Introduction to Vibo Valentia

Welcome to Vibo Valentia, a charming and historic town located in Calabria, Southern Italy. This picturesque town is surrounded by rolling hills, olive groves, and the stunning Tyrrhenian Sea. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the best things to see and do in Vibo Valentia, including its cultural and natural attractions, outdoor activities, hiking and biking routes, local food and drink, accommodations, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Vibo Valentia

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Vibo Valentia has a rich cultural heritage, reflected in its numerous museums and historical sites. Here are a few must-visit destinations:

  • Norman-Swabian Castle: Constructed over 1,000 years ago, this impressive fortress is located in the heart of Vibo Valentia. It boasts stunning views of the surrounding landscape, as well as an array of artifacts from the region’s history.

  • Museo Archeologico: This museum is dedicated to the archaeology of the province of Vibo Valentia. It houses over 20,000 ancient artifacts, including pottery, sculptures, and tomb furnishings.

  • Pizzo Calabro: This charming medieval town is perched on a rocky hill overlooking the sea. It’s renowned for its Baroque architecture, historic churches, and stunning views.

Natural Attractions of Vibo Valentia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Vibo Valentia’s natural beauty is truly breathtaking. Here are some of the best outdoor activities and scenic spots in the region:

  • Parco Nazionale dell’Aspromonte: This stunning national park is the perfect place to explore Calabria’s rugged mountains and verdant forests. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and camping in the heart of the park.

  • Costa degli Dei: The “Coast of the Gods” is home to a stretch of beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning cliffs. It’s the perfect place to soak up the sun or enjoy water activities like snorkeling, diving, and sailing.

  • Monte Poro: This mountain offers stunning views of the Calabrian landscape. At 680 meters tall, it’s also a great place to challenge yourself with a hike or enjoy the view via cable car.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Vibo Valentia

Vibo Valentia is home to some of Italy’s most beautiful landscapes. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in the region:

  • Sentiero degli Dei: This trail offers breathtaking views of the coastline, cliffs, and secluded coves. Hikers can experience the stunning scenery and diverse wildlife along the route, which is also great for birdwatching.

  • Riserva Naturale Valle del Fiume Mercure: This natural reserve is 60,000 hectares of unspoiled land, including rivers, valleys, and woodlands. Visitors can enjoy hiking and biking, as well as birdwatching, fishing, and camping.

Best Things to Do in Vibo Valentia: Activities and Tours

From cultural tours to outdoor adventures, there is something for everyone in Vibo Valentia. Here are some of the best things to experience:

  • Calabrian cooking lessons: Learn the secrets of traditional Calabrian cuisine from local chefs. Courses range from fresh pasta workshops to gourmet olive oil and wine tastings.

  • Tarantella dance classes: Get a taste of local life by learning traditional Calabrian folk dances. From the tarantella to the pizzica, these classes offer a fun and interactive way to experience the region’s culture.

  • Boat Tours: Get a glimpse of the stunning coastline, secluded beaches, and pristine waters of Tyrrhenian Sea. There are plenty of tours and boat trips available, from short excursions to full-day adventures.

Week-Long Itinerary for Vibo Valentia

Vibo Valentia offers visitors a diverse range of experiences, from culture to nature. Here’s a week-long itinerary to help you plan your trip:

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Vibo Valentia – take time to settle in and explore the town
2 Visit the Norman-Swabian Castle and Museo Archeologico
3 Spend the day in Pizzo Calabro exploring the town’s history and architecture
4 Explore the Parco Nazionale dell’Aspromonte, with hiking and biking
5 Relax along the Costa degli Dei, and soak in the stunning views of the sea
6 Visit Monte Poro and enjoy the stunning views via the cable car
7 Take a boat tour and experience the beauty of the Tyrrhenian Sea
8 Depart from Vibo Valentia

Food and Drink Scene of Vibo Valentia

Italy is renowned for its food and Vibo Valentia is no exception. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • ‘Nduja: This is a spicy Calabrian sausage made from pork and chili. It’s versatile and can be used as a spread or a sauce.

  • Fileja: This is a handmade pasta that’s twisted into a spiral shape and is typically served with a tomato-based sauce. It’s a traditional dish that’s popular in the region.

  • Tropea Onion: These onions are grown in the town of Tropea, just a few miles from Vibo Valentia. They’re sweet and mild and make for great toppings on pizzas or salads.

Local Beverages

  • Cedro: This is a liqueur made from citron fruit and is produced in the region. It’s typically served as an after-dinner drink, and it’s refreshing and flavorful.

  • Calabrese Wine: The region of Calabria is renowned for its wines, particularly the reds. From Gaglioppo to Greco Bianco, there is a range of varieties that are worth trying.

Where to Stay in Vibo Valentia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Vibo Valentia caters to a range of budgets and interests. Here are some of the best accommodations to consider:

  • Tenuta San Francesco: This is a charming bed and breakfast that’s situated amidst lush olive groves. It offers beautiful views, a pool, and a gourmet breakfast.

  • Hotel Ipomea Club: This is a luxurious hotel with stunning sea views and exceptional service. The hotel has a spa, a pool, and an excellent restaurant serving local cuisine.

  • Hostel Vibo Valentia: This is a budget-friendly option for travelers looking for a comfortable and affordable stay. The hostel offers basic amenities, but it’s clean, safe, and in a great location.

What to Buy in Vibo Valentia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Liquorice: This sweet is made by combining liquorice and sugar and is a popular traditional candy in the region.

  • Calabrian Chili Pepper Oil: This oil is infused with red chili peppers and is a staple ingredient in Calabrian cooking. It’s perfect as a dressing for salads or on pizzas.

  • Olive Oil: Calabria is known for its excellent olive oil, which is produced from the region’s vast groves. It makes for a great souvenir or gift to bring back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Vibo Valentia

Calabria is steeped in tradition, and Vibo Valentia is no exception. Here are some of the customs and cultural practices to expect while in the region:

  • Feast of Saint Leoluca: This annual festival takes place in Vibo Valentia in honor of the town’s patron saint. It’s a colorful event that’s celebrated with food, traditional music, and dancing.

  • Greetings: Italians value greetings, and it’s customary to greet people you meet throughout the day, from shopkeepers to passing strangers. Saying “buongiorno” is the standard way to greet someone in the morning, while “buonasera” is used in the evening.

Best Time to Visit Vibo Valentia

The best time to visit Vibo Valentia is between May and October when the weather is mild and sunny. However, summer can be hot and crowded so it’s ideal to visit during the shoulder season, between May and June or September and October.

Do’s and Don’ts of Vibo Valentia

Do:

  • Learn a few basic Italian phrases to help with communication.

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

  • Try the local cuisine, which is a highlight of any visit to Vibo Valentia.

Don’t:

  • Wear beachwear outside of the beach area, it’s considered disrespectful.

  • Be loud or rude in public places, Italians generally appreciate quiet and polite behavior.

  • Expect shops to be open 24/7, most shops in Italy close for a few hours in the middle of the day.

Safety and Health

Safety in Vibo Valentia

Vibo Valentia is a relatively safe destination, but like any city or town, it is important to take precautions. It is recommended to take care of your belongings, avoid walking alone at night, and stay aware of your surroundings.

Health in Vibo Valentia

Vibo Valentia has good healthcare facilities, including hospitals and pharmacies. Make sure you have adequate travel insurance as visiting the doctors offices or healthcare providers could be costly. It is also advisable to carry any necessary medication with you and check with the relevant authorities about any vaccinations or health precautions needed for traveling into Italy.

Getting to Vibo Valentia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Vibo Valentia

The nearest airport to Vibo Valentia is the Lamezia Terme Airport (SUF), located approximately 50 kilometers from the town. A train from the airport to the town is available for those who prefer this means of transport. Alternatively, you can book a cab or car rental directly from the airport.

Bus Stations Near Vibo Valentia

The main bus station in Vibo Valentia is Centro, which connects multiple cities to the town via regular bus services.

Other Options

For those coming from other parts of Italy, taking the train into Vibo Valentia is a good option. There are regular train services connecting Vibo Valentia to Naples and other destinations in the area.

How to Get Around in Vibo Valentia

The best way to explore the town and surrounding region is by car or motorbike. The town is easily navigable on foot, but to really experience the area, you’ll need to venture out into the countryside. Public transportation is available, but it can be unreliable, making a car rental the top recommendation.

Where to Go Next from Vibo Valentia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Vibo Valentia makes an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region of Calabria. Here are some of the nearby destinations and excursions worth considering:

  • Tropea: A charming historic town located just a few miles from Vibo Valentia. It boasts stunning beaches, charming streets, and it’s famous for its sweet red onions.

  • Reggio Calabria: This beautiful city boasts a fascinating history and culture, and it’s home to one of the world’s most famous ancient artworks: the Riace Warriors.

  • Scilla: Just a short drive from Vibo Valentia, Scilla is a charming fishing village with winding, narrow streets and a picturesque harbor.

Conclusion

Vibo Valentia is a hidden gem in Calabria that’s just waiting to be discovered. With its rich cultural history, stunning natural landscapes, and delicious cuisine, it’s the perfect destination for travelers looking to experience the authentic Italian lifestyle. We hope this guide has provided you with all the information you need to plan your trip to Vibo Valentia.