Calabria, Italy Travel Guide

Discover Calabria: A hidden paradise in Italy with stunning beaches, rich history, and delicious cuisine, perfect for an authentic and tranquil escape.

Calabria, located in the southernmost part of Italy, is a hidden gem that offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its rugged coastline, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages, Calabria is a paradise for those seeking an authentic Italian experience away from the usual tourist crowds. The region boasts stunning beaches such as Tropea, known for its dramatic cliffs and picturesque town perched above the turquoise sea. Inland, you can explore the Aspromonte National Park, a haven for hikers and nature lovers, offering breathtaking views and diverse wildlife. The ancient city of Reggio Calabria is home to the famous Riace Bronzes, ancient Greek statues that are a must-see for history enthusiasts. Calabria's cuisine is a delightful adventure in itself. The area is known for its spicy 'nduja sausage, fresh seafood, and delicious bergamot-flavored dishes. Pair your meals with locally produced wines for a truly immersive culinary experience. Friendly locals, vibrant festivals, and a slower pace of life make Calabria an ideal destination for relaxation and exploration.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Calabria.

Visit in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall to avoid the summer crowds and enjoy milder weather.
Rent a car to explore the region fully, as public transportation can be limited in rural areas.
Don't miss the chance to taste local specialties like 'nduja and bergamot-infused dishes.
Learn a few basic Italian phrases; while many locals are friendly, English is not widely spoken.
Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring hilly towns and nature trails.

Explore Calabria: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Calabria

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Sila National Park

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Sila National Park, a national park in Calabria, Italy, perfect for adventure and relaxation.

4.7

Basilica Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta

Experience the stunning Basilica Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, a masterpiece of architecture and history in the heart of Messina, Sicily.

4.7

I Giganti della Sila

Explore the breathtaking beauty of I Giganti della Sila, a nature preserve in Calabria, Italy, renowned for its ancient trees and stunning landscapes.

4.7

Castello Aragonese

Explore the historical Castello Aragonese in Reggio Calabria, a stunning fortress with breathtaking views and rich Italian heritage.

4.4

Best landmarks in Calabria

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Castello Aragonese

Explore the Castello Aragonese, a stunning medieval castle in Reggio Calabria, rich in history and offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.

4.4

Comune di Messina - Palazzo Zanca

Explore the rich history and architectural beauty of the Comune di Messina - Palazzo Zanca, a cultural gem in the heart of Messina, Sicily.

3.9

Chiesa di Santa Maria Alemanna

Explore the captivating Chiesa di Santa Maria Alemanna, a stunning historical church showcasing rich architectural beauty in the heart of Messina, Italy.

4.5

Palazzo Mariani (Ex Palazzo delle Poste)

Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of Palazzo Mariani, a majestic landmark in Messina, Italy, rich in culture and charm.

4.7

Best restaurants in Calabria

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La Taverna del Borgo

Experience authentic Italian flavors at La Taverna del Borgo in Mammola – where fresh seafood meets traditional recipes.

4.7

Le vie del gusto

Experience authentic Calabrian cuisine at Le Vie del Gusto in Reggio Calabria – where every meal tells a story.

4.5

Ristorante La Capanna

Experience authentic Italian seafood cuisine with stunning Mediterranean views at Ristorante La Capanna in Reggio Calabria.

4.6

Ristorante La Tavernetta

Experience authentic Italian and seafood cuisine at Ristorante La Tavernetta in Reggio Calabria - a culinary gem steeped in tradition.

4.5

Best bars in Calabria

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Bridge Lounge Pub

Experience the vibrant culinary scene at Bridge Lounge Pub in Reggio Calabria, where gourmet dining meets lively entertainment in a welcoming atmosphere.

4.6

Les FoliesCafè

Discover the charm of Les FoliesCafè in Reggio Calabria, where local flavors and a cozy atmosphere await every traveler.

4.5

Vesper American Bar

Experience Reggio Calabria's nightlife at Vesper American Bar, where exceptional cocktails and fine wines meet vibrant ambiance.

4.5

Free Pub

Discover the lively ambiance of Free Pub in Cosenza, where great drinks, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Calabria

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White Different Club

Experience unforgettable nights filled with music, dance, and vibrant energy at White Different Club in Corigliano, Italy.

4.3

Havana club 7

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Havana Club 7, a premier night club and pub in Reggio Calabria, perfect for dancing, drinks, and unforgettable memories.

4.7

A Scalitta I Don Carmelo

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Reggio Calabria at A Scalitta I Don Carmelo, where music, dance, and good vibes await!

4.1

Top Club

Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Top Club in Mosorrofa, where cocktails, dancing, and live music meet in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.0

Best shops in Calabria

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Centro Commerciale Due Mari

Discover an unparalleled shopping experience at Centro Commerciale Due Mari in Maida, Italy, featuring a wide range of shops and delightful dining options.

4.3

Porto degli Ulivi

Discover Porto degli Ulivi: a vibrant shopping mall in Gioia Tauro offering diverse shops, dining, and a family-friendly atmosphere for all visitors.

4.2

Porto Bolaro Shopping Center

Experience the ultimate shopping and dining extravaganza at Porto Bolaro Shopping Center in Reggio Calabria, where variety meets vibrance in one lively location.

4.1

Centro Commerciale Vibo Center

Explore the Centro Commerciale Vibo Center: Your ultimate shopping destination in Vibo Valentia, offering fashion, food, and family fun.

4.0

Explore Calabria on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Calabria, mapped for you.

Calabria Essentials

Calabria is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The main airport is Lamezia Terme International Airport, which offers both domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use shuttle services to reach various destinations within Calabria. The region is also accessible by train, with major stations in cities like Reggio Calabria, Cosenza, and Catanzaro. For those driving, major highways such as the A2 (Autostrada del Mediterraneo) connect Calabria with other parts of Italy.
Calabria has a variety of transportation options. Regional trains connect most of the major cities and towns, making it convenient for intra-regional travel. Buses are available for local travel and connect smaller towns and rural areas. Taxis are available in urban areas, and rental cars provide flexibility for exploring the more remote parts of the region. Keep in mind that public transportation schedules can be less frequent in rural areas, so plan accordingly.
The official currency in Italy is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are readily available in cities and larger towns, but may be less accessible in remote areas. Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions.
Calabria is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious in crowded places. Some areas in Reggio Calabria and Catanzaro have higher crime rates, particularly for petty theft and pickpocketing, so stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and always keep an eye on your belongings.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, medical services, and fire departments. Hospitals and medical facilities are available in major cities like Reggio Calabria and Cosenza. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are readily available for minor health issues, and pharmacists can often provide advice and over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing in such places. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. In more familiar settings, a kiss on both cheeks is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties such as ‘nduja and Tropea onions. Don’t rush meals; dining is considered a leisurely, social activity.
To experience Calabria like a local, visit local markets such as the one in Cosenza for fresh produce and traditional goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and eager to share insights about their culture and history. Don’t miss the traditional festivals, which offer a deep dive into local customs and are a feast for the senses. For a unique experience, explore the lesser-known beaches and hiking trails in the Aspromonte National Park.

When is the best time to visit Calabria?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Calabria

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Calabria. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloCiao
  [chow]
- GoodbyeArrivederci
  [ah-ree-vay-der-chee]
- YesSì
  [see]
- NoNo
  [no]
- Please/You're welcomePer favore
  [pair fah-vor-ay]
- Thank youGrazie
  [grah-tsee-eh]
- Excuse me/SorryScusa
  [skoo-zah]
- How are you?Come stai?
  [koh-meh sty]
- Fine. And you?Bene. E tu?
  [beh-neh. eh too]
- Do you speak English?Parli inglese?
  [par-lee een-glay-zeh]
- I don't understandNon capisco
  [non kah-pees-koh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVorrei vedere il menu, per favore
  [vor-ray veh-deh-ray eel meh-noo, pair fah-vor-ay]
- I don't eat meatNon mangio carne
  [non mahn-jo kar-neh]
- Cheers!Salute!
  [sah-loo-tay]
- I would like to pay, pleaseVorrei pagare, per favore
  [vor-ray pah-gah-ray, pair fah-vor-ay]
- Help!Aiuto!
  [ah-yoo-toh]
- Go away!Vai via!
  [vai vee-ah]
- Call the Police!Chiama la polizia!
  [kee-ah-mah lah poh-leet-zee-ah]
- Call a doctor!Chiama un dottore!
  [kee-ah-mah oon doht-toh-ray]
- I'm lostMi sono perso
  [mee soh-noh pair-soh]
- I'm illSono malato
  [soh-noh mah-lah-toh]
- I'd like to buy...Vorrei comprare...
  [vor-ray kom-prah-ray]
- I'm just lookingSto solo guardando
  [sto soh-loh gwahr-dahn-doh]
- How much is it?Quanto costa?
  [kwahn-toh koh-stah]
- That's too expensiveÈ troppo costoso
  [eh troh-poh koh-stoh-soh]
- Can you lower the price?Puoi abbassare il prezzo?
  [pwoy ah-bah-sah-ray eel pret-soh]
- What time is it?Che ore sono?
  [keh oh-ray soh-noh]
- It's one o'clockÈ l'una
  [eh loo-nah]
- Half past (10)Dieci e mezzo
  [dee-eh-chee eh med-zoh]
- MorningMattina
  [maht-tee-nah]
- AfternoonPomeriggio
  [poh-meh-ree-joh]
- EveningSera
  [seh-rah]
- YesterdayIeri
  [yeh-ree]
- TodayOggi
  [oh-gee]
- TomorrowDomani
  [doh-mah-nee]
- 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
- 2Due
  [doo-eh]
- 3Tre
  [treh]
- 4Quattro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5Cinque
  [cheen-kweh]
- 6Sei
  [say]
- 7Sette
  [seht-teh]
- 8Otto
  [oht-toh]
- 9Nove
  [noh-veh]
- 10Dieci
  [dee-eh-chee]
- Where's a/the...?Dove è un/il...?
  [doh-veh eh oon/eel]
- What's the address?Qual è l'indirizzo?
  [kwahl eh lin-dee-reet-soh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Puoi mostrarmi (sulla mappa)?
  [pwoy mohs-trar-mee (soo-lah mahp-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?Quando è il prossimo (autobus)?
  [kwahn-doh eh eel prohs-see-mo (ow-toh-boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un biglietto (per ....)
  [oon bee-lyet-toh (pair ....)]

History of Calabria

Calabria's history dates back to the 8th century BCE when Greek settlers established colonies along its coastal areas. Sybaris, Kroton, and Locri were among the most significant Greek colonies, each contributing to the region's cultural and economic development. These colonies became centers of art, science, and philosophy, laying the foundation for Calabria's rich cultural heritage.
Following the Greek period, Calabria fell under Roman control in the 3rd century BCE. The Romans called the region 'Bruttium' and integrated it into the Roman Empire. Important roads, such as the Via Popilia, were constructed to connect Calabria with other parts of Italy. The Roman influence brought advancements in infrastructure, law, and governance, leaving a lasting impact on the region.
After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, Calabria became a battleground for various powers. The Byzantines controlled the region in the 6th century CE, fortifying towns and introducing Eastern Orthodox Christianity. By the 11th century, the Normans conquered Calabria, incorporating it into the Kingdom of Sicily. The Normans brought Romanesque architecture and feudalism, which reshaped the social and cultural landscape.
In the late 15th century, Calabria became part of the Kingdom of Naples under Aragonese rule. The Spanish Habsburgs later took control in the 16th century, introducing Spanish customs and governance. This period saw the construction of impressive castles and the strengthening of coastal defenses against Ottoman raids. The Spanish influence deeply embedded itself in the language, cuisine, and traditions of Calabria.
Calabria played a significant role in the Italian unification movement known as the Risorgimento in the 19th century. The region was a hotspot for revolutionary activities against the Bourbon Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. Notable figures like Giuseppe Garibaldi led military campaigns through Calabria, which eventually contributed to the unification of Italy in 1861. This era marked a new chapter of political and social transformation for the region.
The 20th century brought significant challenges and changes to Calabria, including the devastation caused by World War II. Post-war efforts focused on rebuilding infrastructure and reviving the economy. In recent decades, Calabria has experienced a cultural renaissance, celebrating its unique heritage through festivals, culinary traditions, and the preservation of historical sites. Today, it stands as a vibrant region that harmoniously blends its ancient history with modern life.