Catanzaro: What to See, Where to Eat And What to do in The Evening

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Discovering the Hidden Gem of Catanzaro: A Guide to Exploring this Calabrian City

Tucked away in the region of Calabria, Italy, lies a city that is steeped in history and culture, yet remains relatively off the beaten path for tourists. Catanzaro, with its rich heritage and stunning natural surroundings, is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. As a seasoned travel blogger, I’m excited to share my insights on what makes this city so special, from its must-see attractions to its delicious local cuisine and vibrant nightlife.

A City Steeped in History: Exploring Catanzaro’s Must-See Attractions

Catanzaro is a city with a rich history dating back to the 12th century. Its strategic location on the Ionian coast made it an important hub for trade and commerce, leaving behind a legacy of stunning architecture and cultural landmarks.

Cattedrale Santa Maria Assunta: A Marvel of Baroque Architecture

The Cattedrale Santa Maria Assunta is one of Catanzaro’s most iconic landmarks, showcasing breathtaking baroque architecture. This magnificent cathedral took over 200 years to complete and features intricate stone carvings and ornate decorations.

Parco della Biodiversità Mediterranea: A Nature Reserve Like No Other

The Parco della Biodiversità Mediterranea is a natural wonder that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. This protected area is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers.

MUSMI Museo Storico Militare: A Museum of Military History

The MUSMI Museo Storico Militare is a museum dedicated to the military history of Calabria. With an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits, this museum provides a fascinating insight into the region’s complex past.

Piazza Matteotti and Statue of the Plowman: A Symbol of Local Pride

Piazza Matteotti is one of Catanzaro’s main squares, surrounded by beautiful buildings and historic landmarks. The statue of the Plowman, which stands proudly in the center of the square, is a symbol of local pride and represents the city’s agricultural heritage.

Complesso Monumentale San Giovanni: A Hidden Gem

The Complesso Monumentale di San Giovanni is a lesser-known attraction that offers a glimpse into Catanzaro’s rich history. This complex features a stunning library and underground galleries, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the city’s hidden gems.

MARCA: A Cultural Hub

MARCA is a cultural hub that celebrates Calabrian art and culture. With regular exhibitions and events, MARCA provides a platform for local artists to showcase their work, offering a unique insight into the region’s vibrant arts scene.

Day Itinerary in Catanzaro: Making the Most of Your Visit

When planning your visit to Catanzaro, it’s essential to make the most of your time. Here’s a suggested day itinerary that takes you on a journey through the city’s main attractions:

Start the day with a visit to the Parco della Biodiversità Mediterranea and then walk to Piazza Matteotti, where you’ll find the Statue of the Plowman.
Head to the Complesso Monumentale di San Giovanni to explore its stunning library and underground galleries.
Take a break for lunch at Fazzari’s, a historic trattoria in Catanzaro that serves delicious local cuisine.
After lunch, head to Corso Mazzini, where you can visit the Basilica Minore Maria SS Immacolata and Piazza Duomo with the Cattedrale Santa Maria Assunta.
Take a stroll along Bellavista and then head to Villa Margherita to relax in its beautiful gardens.
In the late afternoon, move on to Catanzaro Lido for some well-deserved relaxation.

Where to Eat in Catanzaro: Savoring Local Cuisine

Catanzaro is known for its delicious local cuisine, which reflects the region’s rich cultural heritage. Here are some of my top recommendations for where to eat in this culinary paradise:

Fazzari’s: This historic trattoria serves up delicious local specialties, including pizzas and traditional Calabrian dishes.
Vecchia Catanzaro: This informal trattoria offers a wide range of traditional Calabrian cuisine, including pizzas and pasta dishes.
Tavola Calda “da Chiricò”: This pizzeria and roastery serves up some of the best pizzas in town, along with a variety of local specialties.
Trattoria Assettati E Mangia: This restaurant serves up traditional Calabrian cuisine, including delicious pasta dishes and pizza.

What to Do at Night: Exploring Catanzaro’s Vibrant Nightlife

Catanzaro’s nightlife is centered around the historic center and coastal area. Here are some of my top recommendations for where to go in this vibrant city:

Mallard Pub: This pub in the historic center offers a wide range of craft beers, making it the perfect spot to relax with friends.
Atmosfera: This historic discotheque is a must-visit for anyone looking for a night out on the town. With three rooms and different music styles, this club has something for everyone.
Miraya Experience: This outdoor elegant discotheque offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a night under the stars.

Accommodation in Catanzaro: Finding the Perfect Place to Stay

Catanzaro is easily accessible by air, with the closest airport being Lamezia Terme (40 km). Here are some options for accommodation:

Musofalo Parking Lot: This parking lot offers a shuttle service to popular tourist sites, making it an ideal option for those who want to explore the city without worrying about transportation.
Public Parking in Piazza Venezia: For those looking to park on their own, public parking spots can be found in Piazza Venezia, with prices starting from €0.70 per hour.

Conclusion: Discovering the Hidden Gem of Catanzaro

In conclusion, Catanzaro is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its stunning attractions, delicious local cuisine, and vibrant nightlife, this city has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s main landmarks or relaxing on the beach, Catanzaro is an ideal destination for any traveler.

FAQs

What is the best way to get to Catanzaro?
- The closest airport is Lamezia Terme (40 km), which can be reached by bus from the airport.
Where should I stay in Catanzaro?
- Musofalo Parking Lot offers a shuttle service to popular tourist sites, while public parking spots are available in Piazza Venezia.
What is the best time to visit Catanzaro?
- The best time to visit Catanzaro is during the spring and summer months when the weather is warm and sunny.
What is the local cuisine like in Catanzaro?
- Catanzaro is known for its delicious local specialties, including pizzas, pasta dishes, and traditional Calabrian cuisine.
Are there any cultural events or festivals that I should know about?
- Yes, Catanzaro hosts regular cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including concerts, exhibitions, and street performances.
What is the nightlife like in Catanzaro?
- The nightlife in Catanzaro is centered around the historic center and coastal area, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and discos to choose from.
Are there any must-see attractions that I shouldn’t miss?
- Yes, some must-see attractions include the Cattedrale Santa Maria Assunta, Parco della Biodiversità Mediterranea, and Complesso Monumentale di San Giovanni.
How can I get around Catanzaro?
- Public transportation options are available, including buses and taxis, while there are also plenty of walking paths to explore the city on foot.

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Additional Tips

Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as pizza and pasta dishes, which are delicious and authentic.
Don’t miss out on the stunning views from the top of Villa Margherita, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
If you’re looking for a unique experience, be sure to check out the outdoor discotheque at Miraya Experience, which is a must-visit for anyone looking for a night out under the stars.

Getting There

Catanzaro is easily accessible by air, with the closest airport being Lamezia Terme (40 km). From there, you can take a bus or taxi to your accommodation. Alternatively, you can also fly into Naples International Airport and then take a train or bus to Catanzaro.

Accommodation Options

Catanzaro has a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, B&Bs, and vacation rentals. Here are some of my top recommendations:

Hotel San Giovanni: This hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
B&B La Dolce Vita: This bed and breakfast is a cozy and intimate option that offers delicious homemade meals and comfortable rooms.
Vacation Rental Villa Margherita: This vacation rental is a beautiful and spacious villa that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Budget

Catanzaro is a relatively affordable destination, with prices starting from €20 per night for accommodation. Here are some estimated costs:

Accommodation: €20-€100 per night
Food: €10-€30 per meal
Transportation: €5-€20 per day

Language

The official language of Catanzaro is Italian, but many locals also speak English and other languages. Here are some useful phrases to help you get around:

Hello: Ciao (CHOW)
Thank you: Grazie (GRAH-zee-eh)
Where is…?: Dove è…? (DOH-vay EH…)
How much does it cost?: Quanto costa? (KWAHN-toh KOH-sta)

Safety

Catanzaro is a safe city, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, be sure to take normal precautions to stay safe:

Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
Avoid walking alone at night and use reputable transportation services.
Keep your valuables secure and consider using a hotel safe.

Conclusion

Getting Around

Catanzaro has a wide range of transportation options, including buses, taxis, and walking paths. Here are some of my top recommendations:

Bus: The bus system in Catanzaro is efficient and reliable, with routes covering the entire city.
Taxi: Taxis are widely available and affordable, making it easy to get around the city.
Walking: Catanzaro is a walkable city, with many attractions within walking distance of each other.

Tips for Travelers

Here are some additional tips for travelers: