Calabria, Italy’s Best-Kept SecretDreaming of golden beaches, crystal-clear waters and gelatos to keep you cool? Welcome to Reggio Calabria, Italy’s most southern and overlooked gem. From ancient history in the city to tropical beach life in Tropea, every corner breaths the raw, untamed charm of Italy… 🌊🍋🍦AuthorsTristanTravels
DestinationsReggio CalabriaItinerary

1. Reggio Calabria

Lungomare Falcomatà
Start your day in Reggio Calabria with a breath of fresh sea air at Lungomare Falcomata. This coastal boulevard stretches along the waterfront, offering amazing views of the sea and you can even spot Sicily from here!
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Arena dello Stretto
Located at the Lungomare, Arena dello Stretto is one of Reggio Calabria's main landmarks. This elegant, white, modern arena overlooks the Strait of Messina, with a statue of Goddess Athena standing proudly in the middle, symbolically defending the city. Take a seat in the stands, feel the sea breeze and pause for a moment to take in the South-Italian atmosphere. PS: It's also the perfect spot to eat your takeaway pizza :))
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Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Reggio Calabria
You can't miss the Archaeological Museum, when visiting Reggio Calabria. I'm not the usual museum person, but this one really surprised me. There is a very rich collection of ancient Greek and Roman artefacts, from vases and mosaics to weapons and statues. But the absolute highlight? The Bronze di Riace, two life-sized bronze warriors discovered in the sea, after centuries underwater. Miraclously well-preserved these statues feel as if they were pulled straight from a myth.
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Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi
Corso Garibaldi is the main street of the city, it's the perfect place to go shopping, listen to street-musicians and soak up the city's charm. From big, fancy boutiques to small, charming souvenirshops. this lovely boulevard offers modern flair, with a warm South-Italian spirit.
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Castello Aragonese
This imposing castle, is defintely worth a look from the outside! Built in the 6th century, it has guarded the city through the ages. I didn't go inside myself, but for the castle-lovers, it's worth a visit, offering exhibitions and insights into the city's history.
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Basilica Cattedrale di Maria Santissima Assunta in Cielo
Reggio's cathedral is the largest religious building in Calabria and you'll feel its grandeur, from the moment you step into the square. I personally think I found it more impressive from the outside, but as its free to enter, yit's worth stepping inside to admire the simplicity of its Roman and Gothic architecture.
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2. Costa degli Dei

Costa Degli Dei
This breathtaking coast stretches from Pizzo to Nicotera, offering 55km of dramatic cliffs, hidden cloves and turquoise waters. Named the Coast of the Gods, for its mythique beauty, this gem hasn't stolen its name. From Tropea's postcard-perfect beaches, to Capo Vaticano's panoramic cliffs, Scilla's old town charm and Pizzo's truffle gelato, every stop brings its own magic. It may not get the recognition and fame of its famous siblings Amalfi and Cinque Terre, but the Costa degli Dei is just as magical!
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2.1 Tropea

Tropea
The most famous town of the Costa degli Dei? Tropea! This idyllic village is a coastal paradise, think turquise waters, soft sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs and a charming old town full of narrow alleys. Whether you come for the beach, the food or the views, Tropea is South-Italian magic!
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Santuario di Santa Maria dell'Isola di Tropea
Located on a hill at the penisula, known as Isola di Tropea, this small monastery-turned-church is not only an iconic relgious sight, it offers some of the best views at sea and the beach. With its magical vibe and peaceful gardens, it's worth the short climb for the incredible views over the beach and turquoise sea.
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Montagna di Tropea
My favorite spot in Tropea!!! It's located at the very end of the terrace at Santuario di Santa Maria. The view is absolutely amazing, I remember walking up the many stairs, completely out of breath, but the moment I reached the top I was speechless. The views over the beach, the ciffs and the sparkling sea were absolutely unreal. PS: This is the spot of the cover picture :).
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Rotonda Beach
With its magical location right beneath the cliffs of Tropea, Rotonda Beach is the most iconic and beautiful beach in town. The white sand, turquoise water and epic backdrop of the Santuario and town above make it a must-visit. I actually fell in the sea while filming a video here, but honestly? The water was lovely and not at all cold, so no regrets!
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2.2 Scilla

Spiaggia Di Scilla
Your go-to spot during a sunset!! I actually missed my train back to Reggio and had to wait for the very last one... so I went back to the beach to kill time. Turned out it was the best thing that could've happened as the sky gave me a free magical show! Really recommended! During the day, this beach, surrounded by the Aspromonte mountains and colorful old town houses, is the perfect spot to sunbathe and take a refreshing dip in the sea.
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Castello Ruffo di Scilla
Idyllically perched on a hill, high above the beach, Castello Ruffo is impossible to miss in Scilla, it's visible from almost everywhere. Funny enough I never made it to the castle itself, I kept getting lost in the narrrow, cosy alleys of the town. as I always got lost in the narrow, cosy alleys of Scilla. But actually seeing it from the beach was already very fascinating, so if you don't feel like going up the steep alleys, you can perfectly capture it from below.
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Borgo Chianalea
Just a short walk through the tunnel brings you to Chialanea, a charming fishing village. It's often called the Venice of the South. Its narrow alleys lead straight to the see, waves crash at your feet, colorful fishermen boats are everywhere to spot and the houses seem to rise directly from the water. It's the kind of place , where time moves slower, a true hidden gem!
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2.3 Capo Vaticano

Capo Vaticano
Capo Vaticano is the most stunning spot of Costa degli Dei. If you're chasing views, this place feels like heaven... Think panoramic cliffs, hidden beaches and endless shades of blue. It's untouched, wild and a bit more off-the-beaten path, than Tropea. After you took in the views, it's time to relax at the beach in a paradisal surrounding. Don't forget to stay for sunset, as you'll get some golden hour magic! TIP: You can reach Capo Vaticano from Tropea by train, it's only a 10 minutes ride.
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2.4 Pizzo

Pizzo
Pizzo is a small but vibrant village perched above the sea, this village is the most northern of the four. It is known for its colorful alleys, relaxed vibe and clifftop views. Wander through the old town, sit down for a coffee and don't forget to try Tartufo, a rich chocolate-hazelnut truffle gelato, which was founded here in Pizzo, a must try! TIP: My personal Tartufo recommendation is waiting for you in the culinary section below.
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Church Piedigrotta
Just outside of Pizzo, tucked into a rocky cliff by the sea, you'll find the Chiesetta di Piedigrotta, one of Calabria's most unuasal and fascinating chuches. It's not your typical cathedral. This small chapel was carved entirely by hand into the rock by local sailors in the 17th century, as a tribute after surviving a heavy storm at sea. Inside you'll find stone altars, statues and carvings, all sculptured from the cave walls themselves. A truly surreal place!
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Castello Murat
Perched right on the rocky edge of Pizzo's harbor, Castello Murat offers both history and views, that make it unmissable. It was built in 1806, by Napoleon's brother in law and guards the towns coastline. Stroll around its old walls, admire the panoramic vista over the bay and watch ports bustling with sailors. TIP: Come here at sunset for the perfect picture!
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Stays

B&b Sea House
Only a 3 minutes walk from the lungomare, this B&B, has the perfect location. It offers elegantly furnished rooms with all necesities included. In some rooms, you even have a hot tub or jacuzzi.
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B&B La Collina Felice
Located in Pellaro, a charming town, about 10km from Reggio Calabria, it's quiet and directly at sea. I stayed in Pellaro for 2 days and absolutely loved the easy-going atmosphere. The B&B is perfect for travelers, who seek some more comfort during their trip, offering a pool, garden, sun terrace, billiars and even shuttle service to the airport and train station.
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Hotel Continental
Overlooking Reggio Calabria's port and waterfront, Hotel Continental is the perfect place for those who seek a sleep-over before heading to Sicily, early in the morning. The rooms are very comfortable and well-equiped.
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Palazzo Mottola Tropea
Nestled in the historic old town of Tropea, Palazzo Mottola, is the perfect place for those who seek a stay in Tropea. The hotel is perched on Tropea's cliffs in a historic palazzo, offering fantastic sea views and if you're into sunsets from a rooftop, this place is for you!
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Villa Paola
Set in a 16th century convent, this boutique hotel felt like a secret garden by the sea, with pool, gourmet restaurant and serene rooms, Villa Paola is for those who seek a unic and luxury stay.
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Hotel Village Eden - Capo Vaticano
Want to stay in Capo Vaticano? This hotel is for you! Just 30 metres from Grotticelle Beach, surrounded by gardens, this relaxing resort feels like paradise, pool, private beach, helpful team, hotel Eden has it all!
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Culinary

Cremeria Sottozero
Italy without gelato wouldn't be Italy. And the best place in Reggio Calabria to enjoy a refreshing scoop is Cremeria Sottozero. Located just off the promenade, this local favorite has been favoring artisanal gelato for over 50 years. From pistachio to fruity sorbets, you'll find it all here. TIP: Grab a cup and enjoy it by the sea. Life won't get more Italian than this :).
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Pizzeria Lievito Reggio Calabria
Craving for Italian pizza? Look no further! Pizzeria Lievito is your go-to place in Reggio Calabria.
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IL BISTROT CALABRESE by REM
My personal favorite, I stumbled upon this place in Tropea and it felt so local and historic that I actually created content in here, and the staff is the surprisingly friendly! Oh and the food was absolutely delicious, my personal recommendation is to try arancino, a traditional Calabrese dish of little balls with meat, fish or other fillings.
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Gelateria Enrico - Tartufo di Pizzo®
Gelateria Enrico in Pizzo is your go-to spot to try traditional Tartufo. This rich gelato ball is filled with a heart of molten chocolate, dusten in cocoa. It was invented right here in the 1950s, and Enrico's version is still one of the best!
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Ristorante da Michele
Looking for traditional Calabrese food in Scilla? Ristorante da Michele is for you. This family-run restaurant has been serving local classics since 1975. Expect dishes like stroncatura pasta, fresh grilled swordfish, roasted meats and seasonal sides.
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Transport

Reggio Calabria Airport
This is where you will arrive, if you travel by plane. I was very surprised to see how small the airport is, you won't get lost here! Just outside the exit, you can take a bus to the city, not the most comfortable ride, but a great adventure to start your trip. :)
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Reggio Di Calabria Centrale
This is the main station of Reggio Calabria and it is connected to all four Costa degli Dei towns. To Scilla is about 25 minutes, Tropea and Capo Vaticano around an hour and a half and Pizzo over 2 hours. The station is big and its best to ask the staff which platform you need, as it can change sometimes. All in all the trains are on time and easy to use.
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