Have you heard about the wonderful sea in Calabria and decided to take a few days' holiday to visit it? In this guide we give you some advice on where to go in Calabria to save money while enjoying all the beauty this region has to offer. 

We will also advise you on which cities to visit, what tourist attractions you cannot miss, nature parks to see and what to eat. You'll get right into the heart of Calabrian culture and you'll want to try and see everything we recommend. 

What are the must-see tourist attractions in Calabria?

Calabria is a fascinating land rich in history, nature and traditions. Here are some must-see attractions that will make your trip unforgettable:

• Tropea: known as the 'Pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea', Tropea will enchant you with its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque historic centre perched on a cliff.
• Scilla and Chianalea: this charming seaside village offers spectacular views and a romantic walk among the old fishermen's houses built directly on the sea.
• Reggio Calabria: don't miss the chance to admire the famous Riace Bronzes at the National Archaeological Museum and take a walk along the seafront, considered one of the most beautiful in Italy.
• Sila: discover the Sila plateau, an oasis of tranquillity where you can hike, relax in the lakes and breathe the fresh mountain air.
• Gerace: a medieval village with a unique atmosphere, where you can stroll through the narrow streets and visit the majestic Norman Cathedral.
• Capo Vaticano: famous for its sheer cliffs and heavenly beaches, it is the ideal place for diving and snorkelling.
• Cosenza: a city steeped in history, with a fascinating historic centre and the Swabian Castle dominating the valley.
• Stilo: visit the striking Cattolica di Stilo, an extraordinary example of Byzantine architecture in Italy.
• Locri Epizefiri and Gerace Marina: discover the ancient Greek ruins and enjoy the crystal-clear sea in this corner of Calabria.
• Sellia Marina: an ideal place in Calabria to relax and enjoy the region's natural beauty.
• Baia di Caminia di Staletti in Catanzaro: one of the most beautiful and uncontaminated bays in Calabria, perfect for those who love crystal-clear sea and striking cliffs.
• Torre Melissa in Crotone: a small jewel on the Ionian coast, known for its golden beaches and clear sea.
• Roccella Jonica in Reggio Calabria: an enchanting village with a long sandy beach and a historic centre rich in history and culture.
• Marina di Gioiosa Ionica in Reggio Calabria: famous for its promenade, enchanting beaches and lively marina.
• Pizzo Calabro: known for its Aragonese castle and the delicious 'Pizzo truffle' ice cream.
• Ricadi: an ideal destination for sea lovers, with spectacular beaches and unspoilt nature.
• Amantea: a fascinating town with a historical centre rich in history and a long sandy beach.

What are the natural parks to visit in Calabria?

If you are a lover of parks, nature and hiking, you certainly must visit the national parks in this beautiful region. 

The Scolacium Archaeological Park is a site of great historical and cultural value, where you can admire the remains of ancient civilisations and visit an interesting museum that tells the history of this land. 

For lovers of unspoilt nature, the Aspromonte National Park is a true paradise: here, the paths run through lush forests, lead to hidden waterfalls and offer breathtaking views. 

No less fascinating is the Pollino National Park, which stretches between Calabria and Basilicata, offering spectacular mountain landscapes, deep gorges and rich biodiversity. 

Finally, the Sila National Park is an oasis of tranquillity where you can hike through centuries-old forests, relax by the lakes and breathe in the fresh mountain air. 

Each park offers a unique experience, allowing you to discover and appreciate the diverse natural beauty that Calabria has to offer.

What are the best low-cost seaside resorts in Calabria?

If you want to enjoy a beach holiday in Calabria without spending too much, there are several resorts that offer natural beauty and services at affordable prices. Caminia di Staletti is one of Calabria's hidden gems, with enchanting beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for those looking for a quiet and inexpensive destination. 

Sellia Marina is another good choice, with its golden beaches and numerous affordable accommodations available, ideal for families and groups of friends. Torre Melissa, with its clear sea and affordable tourist facilities, is a destination that combines beauty and convenience. 

Marina di Gioiosa Ionica, famous for its wide and well-equipped beaches, offers several affordable accommodation options. Finally, Roccella Jonica, with its charming historic centre and long sandy beaches, is a perfect location for a relaxing and affordable holiday. 

These resorts represent some of the best options for those who want to spend an unforgettable summer in Calabria without emptying their wallets.

What are the typical products and traditional dishes to try in Calabria?

A trip to Calabria is not complete without tasting and enjoying the traditional dishes of this beautiful land. 

Among the most renowned products is 'nduja, a spicy, spreadable sausage from Spilinga, perfect on a slice of bread or as an ingredient to enrich sauces and pizzas. Another must-try dish is pasta e fagioli alla calabrese, a rustic recipe with short pasta and local beans, often flavoured with bacon and chilli pepper, particularly tasty in Cosenza restaurants.

Caciocavallo silano is a pasta filata cheese produced on the Sila plateau, with a strong flavour, ideal to be enjoyed grilled or with a good Calabrian red wine. Sardella, also known as 'poor man's caviar', is a condiment made with fish, chilli pepper and salt, typical of Crucoli, delicious spread on fresh bread during local festivals.

Calabrian sweets are no less: chocolate figs from Amantea are a real delicacy, as are the torroni (nougats) from Bagnara Calabra, made with almonds, honey and chocolate, perfect at Christmas time. The red onion of Tropea, sweet and crunchy, is used in salads, jams and traditional dishes such as pitta 'mpigliata, a Christmas cake filled with dried fruit and honey.

Finally, in Reggio Calabria, you can taste morzello, a dish made with veal offal stewed with tomato, chilli pepper and spices, served inside homemade bread. These typical dishes and products reflect the cultural and gastronomic richness of Calabria, offering a unique and memorable culinary experience.

Useful answers for you travelling in Calabria 

What are the best towns to visit in Calabria?

The best cities to visit in Calabria are Reggio Calabria, Tropea and Cosenza. Reggio Calabria will enchant you with its breathtaking waterfront and the Riace Bronzes, while Tropea, known as the 'Pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea', offers spectacular beaches and a picturesque historic centre. Cosenza, with its fascinating historic centre and Swabian Castle, is a must for lovers of history and culture.

What are the traditions and festivals in Calabria?

Calabria is rich in traditions and popular festivals that will allow you to immerse yourself in the local culture.

• Varia di Palmi: this spectacular festival, held every year in August, has very ancient roots and celebrates the Assumption of Mary. The Varia is a large processional machine representing the Virgin Mary's ascension to heaven. Thousands of people participate in this event, with crowds of believers carrying the car through the streets of the city. The festival is a moment of great devotion and community, a symbol of Palmi's religious and cultural identity.
• Feast of San Rocco in Scilla: celebrated on 16 August, this feast is dedicated to San Rocco, the patron saint of Scilla. San Rocco is venerated for having healed the sick during the plague. The feast includes a procession through the streets of the village, where the statue of the saint is carried on the shoulders of the faithful. It is an occasion for prayer and thanksgiving, accompanied by music, dancing and fireworks.
• Feast of Our Lady of Consolation in Reggio Calabria: this feast, held on the second Saturday of September, is one of the most important religious events in Calabria. Our Lady of Consolation is the patron saint of Reggio Calabria, and the festival celebrates her miracle of saving the city from a plague in 1576. The statue of the Madonna is carried in procession from the Sanctuary of the Hermitage to the Cathedral, followed by thousands of devotees. The festival is characterised by moments of intense spirituality and popular events, including concerts and fireworks displays.

If you can happen upon one of these festivities during your trip, you will truly enjoy the Calabrian spirit.

What is the best time to visit Calabria?

The best time to visit Calabria is from May to September, when the weather is warm and ideal for enjoying the beautiful beaches and crystal-clear sea. However, autumn and spring are also good seasons to explore the natural parks and historic villages without the summer crowds, offering a quieter and more authentic experience.

Does Calabria inspire you as a destination but have questions?

Where can I find cheap holiday homes in Calabria?

On Bluepillow's website discover the Calabria section, where you can find many affordable accommodation alternatives. So visit this page Bluepillow - Calabria and find the best place for you to stay. 

What are the best beaches in Calabria?

In this guide we have indicated some of the most famous and also the cheapest. These are some of the ones we have mentioned: Sella Marina, Capo Vaticano, Pizzo Calabro.

How can I get to Calabria?

Calabria is well connected to the rest of Italy through various transport options. You can reach it by train, plane or bus, with main railway stations such as Reggio Calabria, Lamezia Terme and Cosenza, and airports in Lamezia Terme, Reggio Calabria and Crotone. 

However, to fully enjoy the region's natural beauty and hidden attractions, the best option is to travel by car. Travel by car and you will have the freedom to explore picturesque villages, remote beaches and natural parks at your own pace, discovering enchanting corners that might otherwise remain inaccessible. Car travel will give you a more authentic and flexible experience, and you may fall in love with Calabria in all its wonderful diversity.

19.07.2024