Tucked away in the toe of Italy’s boot lies a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty waiting to be explored – Calabria. This southern Italian region is often overlooked by tourists flocking to more popular destinations, but trust us, it’s a gem worth uncovering. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the 15 unmissable attractions in Calabria, from stunning national parks to medieval towns and breathtaking beaches.
1. Sila National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Located between Cosenza, Catanzaro, and Crotone, Sila National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Covering an area of 73,695 hectares, this park offers a diverse range of landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to lush forests and picturesque villages.
Sila National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities like hiking, skiing, and horseback riding available throughout the year. Visitors can also explore the park’s many museums and visitor centers, which offer insight into the region’s unique geology, flora, and fauna. The park’s stunning scenery makes it an ideal destination for photographers, nature lovers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat from urban life.
2. Tropea and Pizzo Calabro: A Tale of Two Towns
Located on the Tyrrhenian coast, Tropea and Pizzo Calabro are two seaside resorts that offer a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Visit Pizzo for its historic center, featuring cobblestone streets and stunning views of the sea, while Tropea boasts a beautiful beach and an impressive medieval castle.
Tropea is a charming town with a rich history dating back to ancient Greece. Its historic center features narrow streets lined with ancient buildings, including the 14th-century Cathedral of Santa Maria della Cava. Pizzo Calabro, on the other hand, offers a more modern atmosphere, with a beautiful beach and a picturesque waterfront promenade.
3. Stilo and Cattolica: A Byzantine Gem
Perched on a hilltop in the province of Reggio Calabria, Stilo is a small village with a rich history dating back to the Byzantine era. Visit the town’s historic center, featuring narrow streets and ancient churches, including the beautiful Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta.
Stilo is a hidden gem for anyone interested in history and architecture. The village boasts a stunning medieval architecture, with many buildings dating back to the 12th century. Visitors can explore the village’s narrow streets, admire its ancient churches, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
4. Capo Vaticano: A Natural Wonder
Located on the Tyrrhenian coast, Capo Vaticano is one of Calabria’s most famous natural attractions. This scenic promontory stretches from the Gulf of Santa Eufemia to the Gulf of Gioia Tauro, offering breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding cliffs.
Capo Vaticano is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in nature and outdoor activities. Visitors can hike along its rugged coastline, explore its scenic trails, or simply enjoy breathtaking views from its many lookout points.
5. Amantea: A Town with Two Souls
Amantea is a charming town located on the Tyrrhenian coast, boasting two distinct personalities – an old medieval imprint and a modern, vibrant atmosphere. Visit the town’s historic center, featuring stunning views of the sea and picturesque alleys, or relax on its beautiful beaches.
Amantea is a fascinating town that offers visitors a glimpse into Calabria’s rich history. Its historic center features narrow streets lined with ancient buildings, including the 14th-century Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. Visitors can explore the town’s many museums, attend cultural events, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
6. Parco Archeologico di Scolacium: A Glimpse into Ancient Times
Located in the town of Borgia, near Catanzaro Lido, Parco Archeologico di Scolacium is a fascinating archaeological park that showcases the region’s rich history dating back to ancient Greece. Explore the ruins of an ancient city, featuring homes, temples, theaters, and statues.
Parco Archeologico di Scolacium is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and archaeology. The park features many well-preserved ruins, including a stunning temple dedicated to Zeus. Visitors can explore the park’s many trails, attend guided tours, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
7. Reggio Calabria: A City with a Rich History
Reggio Calabria is a city that seamlessly blends history and modernity, boasting breathtaking views of the Sicilian coast. Visit the National Archaeological Museum to discover artifacts related to ancient Greek and Roman civilizations, or stroll along the picturesque beach promenade.
Reggio Calabria is a fascinating city that offers visitors a glimpse into Calabria’s rich history. Its historic center features narrow streets lined with ancient buildings, including the 14th-century Cathedral of Santa Maria della Cava. Visitors can explore the city’s many museums, attend cultural events, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
8. Gerace: A Medieval Settlement with a Panoramic View
Gerace is a small hamlet perched on a rocky outcrop, offering breathtaking views of the Ionian coast and surrounding mountains. Visit the former convent and explore the narrow streets and ancient buildings that line its historic center.
Gerace is a hidden gem for anyone interested in history and architecture. The village boasts a stunning medieval architecture, with many buildings dating back to the 12th century. Visitors can explore the village’s narrow streets, admire its ancient churches, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
- Featuring 120 new destinations, this best-selling inspirational travel guide reveals 500 celebrated...
- Completely revised and updated for its 10th anniversary
- Compiled from the favorite trips of National Geographic's legendary travel writers, this fully...
9. Isola di Dino e Arcomagno Beach: A Hidden Gem
Located in the northern part of the Tyrrhenian coast, Isola di Dino is a natural island covered in lush vegetation, surrounded by crystal-clear waters. Visit the island’s beaches, featuring scogli and sandy shores, or enjoy snorkeling excursions to explore the underwater world.
Isola di Dino is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in nature and outdoor activities. The island features many scenic trails, including a stunning hike to its highest peak. Visitors can also enjoy snorkeling excursions, relax on its beautiful beaches, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding waters.
10. Parco Nazionale del Pollino: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Located between Basilicata and Calabria, Parco Nazionale del Pollino is a stunning national park that boasts breathtaking natural scenery, including the Papasidero Orientation Valley, Gole del Raganello, and Valle dell’Argentino.
Parco Nazionale del Pollino is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in nature and outdoor activities. The park features many scenic trails, including a stunning hike to its highest peak. Visitors can also enjoy horseback riding excursions, relax on its beautiful beaches, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
11. Crotone: A City with Ancient Origins
Crotone is one of Calabria’s five capoluoghi (cities), boasting ancient origins dating back to Greek colonization. Visit the Cathedral-Basilica of S.Maria Assunta, the National Archaeological Museum, and the Gardens of Pythagoras, or explore the city’s historic center, featuring narrow streets and ancient buildings.
Crotone is a fascinating city that offers visitors a glimpse into Calabria’s rich history. Its historic center features narrow streets lined with ancient buildings, including the 14th-century Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. Visitors can explore the city’s many museums, attend cultural events, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
12. Le Castella e le Spiagge Rosse: A Tourist Resort with Arab Fortifications
Located in the province of Crotone, Le Castella is a famous tourist resort boasting Arab fortifications built on a small platform reachable via a narrow trail. Visit the castle, featuring ancient photographs and artifacts, or explore the colorful streets lined with restaurants, ice cream shops, and local workshops.
Le Castella e le Spiagge Rosse is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and culture. The resort features many well-preserved Arab fortifications, including a stunning castle that dates back to the 12th century. Visitors can explore the resort’s many trails, attend guided tours, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
13. Pentedattilo: A Medieval Settlement Abandoned by Time
Located in the Aspromonte mountains, Pentedattilo is a small hamlet that was once home to a thriving community but was abandoned in the 1970s. Visit the old village, featuring ancient Greek-roman architecture and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Pentedattilo is a hidden gem for anyone interested in history and architecture. The village boasts a stunning medieval architecture, with many buildings dating back to the 12th century. Visitors can explore the village’s narrow streets, admire its ancient churches, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
14. Ski Slopes at Gambarie: A Winter Wonderland
Located in the province of Reggio Calabria, Gambarie is a ski resort that turns white every winter, offering breathtaking scenery and landscapes. Enjoy skiing or snowboarding on 11 kilometers of slopes, relax on its beautiful beaches, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Gambarie is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in winter sports. The ski resort features many well-groomed slopes, including challenging downhill runs and gentle beginner trails. Visitors can also enjoy horseback riding excursions, relax on its beautiful beaches, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
15. Matera: A City with a Rich History
Matera is a city that seamlessly blends history and modernity, boasting breathtaking views of the Sassi district and the Valley of the Beasts. Visit the Sassi district, featuring narrow streets and ancient buildings, or explore the valley’s natural beauty, including its stunning rock formations.
Matera is a fascinating city that offers visitors a glimpse into Calabria’s rich history. Its historic center features narrow streets lined with ancient buildings, including the 14th-century Cathedral of Santa Maria della Cava. Visitors can explore the city’s many museums, attend cultural events, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
In conclusion, Calabria is a region that offers something for everyone – from stunning natural scenery to rich history and culture. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, history, or architecture, there’s no shortage of exciting attractions to explore. So why not plan a trip to Calabria today and discover its many secrets for yourself?