Calabria’s hill towns and coastal fortresses reveal a long history from Magna Grecia to the medieval era. Explore fortifications, cathedrals, and cliffside monasteries that punctuate the region's landscape.

Castello Aragonese di Reggio Calabria

Iconic coastal fortress overlooking the Strait of Messina, dating to the Aragonese era with sweeping sea views.

Rocca di Scilla

Medieval fortress perched above the village of Scilla, offering dramatic sea panoramas and stories from local legends.

Castello di Le Castella

Sea-front fortress at the tip of Capo Rizzuto, with walls rising from turquoise waters and scenic coastal views.

Cattedrale di Gerace

Norman-Gothic cathedral set high above the Ionian coast, renowned for its austere exterior and serene interior.

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Museums

Calabria’s museums showcase Magna Graecia archaeology, regional art, and religious relics that trace the region’s diverse past.

Museo Nazionale della Magna Grecia (Reggio Calabria)

Home to the Riace Bronzes and other Magna Graecia artifacts highlighting ancient Calabria.

Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Locri Epizefiri

Archaeological collections focusing on Locri Epizefiri and nearby Magna Graecia sites.

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Religious Monuments

Ancient churches and dramatic cathedral settings dot the landscape, from Reggio's waterfront to inland hill towns.

Cattedrale di Maria Santissima Assunta, Reggio Calabria

Grand waterfront cathedral anchoring the city with Baroque and classical influences.

Tropea Cathedral

Prominent cliff-top cathedral offering sea views and a striking architectural presence.

Gerace Cathedral

Majestic hillside church famed for its medieval interior and commanding exterior.

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National & Theme Parks

Natural parks protect rugged mountains, forests, and coastline across Calabria, ideal for hiking, wildlife watching, and coastal scenery.

Parco Nazionale dell'Aspromonte

Montane landscapes with forests, canyons, and traditional villages perfect for hiking.

Parco Nazionale del Pollino

Calabria’s portion of the southern Alps featuring dramatic canyons, limestone peaks, and diverse wildlife.

Parco Naturale Regionale delle Serre

Rugged plateau with ancient beech forests and scenic overlooks near Serra San Bruno.

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Neighborhoods

Street-level charm awaits in Calabria's historic centers and fishing districts, where local life and sea views mingle.

Tropea Centro Storico

Medieval lanes, cliff-edge views, and artisan shops in Tropea's historic heart.

Chianalea di Scilla

Picturesque fishing district with narrow lanes, colorful houses, and seafood taverns on the water.

Gerace Centro Storico

Historic hill town with whitewashed alleys, churches, and sweeping valley views.

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Free Things to Do

Calabria offers plenty of free ways to soak in scenery, from coastal promenades to cliff-top viewpoints.

Lungomare Falcomatà, Reggio Calabria - by night

Stroll along the elegant seafront and enjoy views of the Strait as lights reflect on the water.

Santa Maria dell'Isola, Tropea

Walk from the old town to the cliff-top church with panoramic sea views.

Capo Vaticano beaches (public access)

Relax on free public beaches and soak in crystal-clear turquoise waters.

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Gastronomy

Bold Calabrian flavors define the region, from spicy sausages to citrusy notes and onion sweetness.

Nduja di Spilinga

Spicy, spreadable salami-like pork sausage used to add heat to breads and pastas.

Cipolla rossa di Tropea

Sweet red onions famed for their crisp sweetness in salads and dips.

Liquore al Bergamotto

Fragrant bergamot liqueur or products made from Calabria’s prized citrus.

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Nightlife

Evenings in Calabria range from seaside promenades to small-town bars and live music in historic squares.

Lungomare Falcomatà by night, Reggio Calabria

Seafront strolls, gelato, and lively weekend atmospheres along the water.

Chianalea di Scilla after dark

Narrow lanes glow with lanterns and harbor-side bars offering fresh seafood.

Tropea squares and cafés

Evenings in the old town feature music, cafés, and panoramic views over the Ionian Sea.

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Entertainment

Seasonal festivals and cultural performances bring tradition to life across towns from Reggio to Tropea.

Teatro Cilea, Reggio Calabria

Historic theatre hosting concerts and performances in an atmospheric setting.

Festa della Vara, Palmi

Traditional religious festival featuring a ceremonial processional statue and street festivities.

Calabrian folk music evenings

Live traditional music and dancing in town squares during local fiestas.

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Sports

Beyond city limits, Calabria invites active visitors to hike, dive, and paddle along its coast.

Hiking in Aspromonte National Park

Rugged trails through forests and ridges with sweeping sea vistas.

Diving near Capo Vaticano

Clear waters, underwater features, and marine life suitable for divers.

Kayaking along the Ionian coast (Scilla/Tropea)

Coastal paddling to explore coves, caves, and sea caves.

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Off the Track

Beyond the well-trodden highlights, off-the-track experiences reveal ancient ruins, troglodyte caves, and hidden viewpoints.

Grotte di Zungri

Troglodyte cave village showcasing ancient habitations carved into rock.

Locri Epizefiri Archaeological Site

Ruins of an ancient Greek city with well-preserved structures and statues.

Pentedattilo

Ghost town perched on a rocky spur offering dramatic views and atmospheric streets.