Encompassing the “toe” of Italy’s “boot”, Calabria is a sun-drenched region renowned for its rugged landscapes, traditional villages and picture-perfect coastline. It blends influences from ancient Greece, Bourbon-era Spain and France in its towns and cities, which range from bustling Reggio Calabria to laid-back Tropea.
Things to do in Calabria
Blissful beaches, dramatic nature reserves and archaeological treasures - Calabria is just waiting to be explored.
Sightsee in Reggio Calabria. Perched at the southwestern end of Calabria, Reggio is the largest city in the region and lies just across the Strait of Messina from Sicily. Learn about its citrus industry at the Bergamot Museum and marvel at the famous Riace Bronzes, a pair of ancient Greek statues housed within the National Archaeological Museum.
Explore the Raganello Gorge Nature Reserve. Forming part of Pollino National Park, this spectacular nature reserve encompasses a namesake gorge featuring high rock walls that rise to 700 metres. It’s a paradise for nature lovers, where you can hike along one of the trails that wind through its valleys or marvel at the multi-coloured rocks on a river rafting adventure.
Relax in Tropea. One of Calabria’s most popular resort destinations is Tropea, which centres around a clifftop town and its 12th-century cathedral. But it’s the white sandy beaches nestled below the cliffs that are its biggest allure, with several voted among the most beautiful in Europe.
Cruise to the Aeolian Islands. From Reggio Calabria or Vibo Valentia, you can board a boat and cruise to this archipelago of seven islands, which are all volcanic in origin. Protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Aeolian Islands are home to crater hiking trails, an archaeological museum and open-air sulphurous baths.
Getting around Calabria
Reggio Calabria Airport and Lamezia Terme International Airport are the main aviation gateways to Calabria, with the former serving domestic routes and the latter offering flights to destinations across Europe. Trains link towns along the coast of Calabria while buses connect to interior towns and villages. Having your own vehicle is the most convenient way of exploring the region.