Buonvicino
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Latest page update: 19 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Buonvicino
Buonvicino, a hillside village above the Tyrrhenian coast near Diamante, offers mainly guesthouses and agriturismi rather than full-service hotels. For established accommodation with wider facilities, visitors typically look to nearby Diamante and other towns along the coast.
In Diamante, Hotel Guardacosta provides a seafront stay with a private beach, pool, and restaurant, making it popular with holidaymakers (€€€). Also nearby, Hotel Club Cirella combines hotel-style rooms with resort facilities, including leisure areas and organised activities (€€€). Another option is Hotel Poseidon, a central property in Diamante offering straightforward accommodation with convenient access to both the beach and town centre (€€).
In Diamante, Hotel Guardacosta provides a seafront stay with a private beach, pool, and restaurant, making it popular with holidaymakers (€€€). Also nearby, Hotel Club Cirella combines hotel-style rooms with resort facilities, including leisure areas and organised activities (€€€). Another option is Hotel Poseidon, a central property in Diamante offering straightforward accommodation with convenient access to both the beach and town centre (€€).
Where is
Where is Buonvicino?
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The hill town of Buonvicino is situated within the Province of Cosenza and has a population of around 2,100 inhabitants.
It stands at an elevation of 400 metres above sea level and is included in the list of Borghi Più Belli d'Italia (most beautiful villages in Italy). Places of interest nearby include the towns of Diamante, Cirella, Belvedere Marittimo and Scalea. |
Comune di Buonvicino
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Province: Cosenza
Region: Calabria Population: 1,995 (in 2024 - source) Size: 55 km² Elevation: 400 metres Highlights: Santuario Madonna della Neve, Statue of San Ciriaco Close by: Diamante, Cirella, Belvedere Marittimo, Scalea Recommended stay: Hotel Bellavista (14 km) |
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Listing headline: Rapporti di Buon Vicinato (Relationships of a Good Neighbourhood)
Listing headline: Rapporti di Buon Vicinato (Relationships of a Good Neighbourhood)
What People Ask About Buonvicino, Calabria
Is Buonvicino worth visiting?
Yes, Buonvicino is worth visiting for its hilltop setting above the Riviera dei Cedri, offering panoramic views and a traditional Calabrian village atmosphere. It is also known for the Sanctuary of San Ciriaco and local food traditions.
How do I get to Buonvicino?
Buonvicino is located inland from Diamante in the province of Cosenza. By car, it can be reached via the SS18 coastal road and a short uphill drive from Diamante. The nearest railway station is Diamante-Buonvicino, on the Tyrrhenian line, with regional connections to Paola and Sapri.
What are the main attractions in Buonvicino?
Main attractions include the Sanctuary of San Ciriaco, the old stone houses and narrow lanes of the historic centre, and the viewpoints over the Tyrrhenian coast. The village also hosts cultural events celebrating its culinary heritage.
When is the best time to visit Buonvicino?
The best time to visit is from spring to autumn, when the weather is pleasant for walking around the old town and enjoying the surrounding views. Summer is popular for festivals, while autumn is ideal for food and wine events.
How long should I stay in Buonvicino?
A one-day visit is usually enough to explore the historic centre, the sanctuary, and enjoy local food. Staying longer works well if you want to combine Buonvicino with visits to Diamante, Cirella, and the Riviera dei Cedri coastline.
Related links
Discover
Discover Buonvicino
Buonvicino is a mountain village in the province of Cosenza, situated a few kilometres inland from the Tyrrhenian coast on the Riviera dei Cedri. Set on the slopes of the Pollino foothills, it overlooks valleys filled with olive groves, chestnut woods, and streams that descend towards the sea. The old town retains a compact medieval structure, with narrow cobbled alleys, stone houses, and archways that reveal views of the surrounding landscape.
At the heart of the village stands the Church of San Ciriaco Abate, dedicated to its patron saint, alongside several small chapels and noble residences that recall its medieval and Renaissance history. The Museo del Peperoncino e delle Tradizioni Popolari highlights local culture and agricultural life, while nearby trails connect Buonvicino to the Cilento and Pollino mountain routes. Its proximity to Diamante, Maierà, and Belvedere Marittimo places it within one of the most authentic and scenic areas of northern Calabria.
At the heart of the village stands the Church of San Ciriaco Abate, dedicated to its patron saint, alongside several small chapels and noble residences that recall its medieval and Renaissance history. The Museo del Peperoncino e delle Tradizioni Popolari highlights local culture and agricultural life, while nearby trails connect Buonvicino to the Cilento and Pollino mountain routes. Its proximity to Diamante, Maierà, and Belvedere Marittimo places it within one of the most authentic and scenic areas of northern Calabria.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Buonvicino
- Centro Storico di Buonvicino is perched on a hillside overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, its narrow streets winding among stone houses, arched doorways, and small piazzas. The village radiates a quiet, historic charm, with views stretching across olive groves and coastal plains. Small squares reveal fountains and shaded corners. Walking here offers a glimpse into a place where tradition and natural beauty meet.
- Chiesa Madre di San Michele Arcangelo stands in the heart of Buonvicino, its simple façade leading to an interior adorned with frescoes and religious artworks. The church has been central to local worship for centuries. It remains a place of faith and cultural importance for the community.
- Palazzo Lo Basso is a notable historic building reflecting the village’s noble past. Its architecture and period details offer insight into local history and heritage. The palace contributes to Buonvicino’s architectural landscape and cultural identity.
- Piazza Municipio serves as Buonvicino’s social hub, bordered by traditional houses, cafés, and small shops. The square hosts local festivals, markets, and community gatherings. Its cobblestones and sea views create a welcoming atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot to experience village life and customs.
- Guided cultural and nature tours in Buonvicino lead visitors through medieval streets, historic buildings, and surrounding countryside paths. Local guides share stories of ancient traditions, architectural heritage, and natural landscapes. Tours often include tastings of local cheeses, wines, and traditional dishes. Exploring reveals Buonvicino’s blend of history, culture, and scenic surroundings.
Tours and Activities
Buonvicino Tours and Activities
Photo Gallery
Buonvicino Photo Gallery
Calabria Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Calabria
1. Tropea
2. Pizzo
3. Scilla
4. Sila National Park
5. Le Castella
6. Capo Vaticano
7. Pentedattilo
8. Santa Severina
9. Riace Bronzes
10. Altomonte
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Calabria
1. Tropea
2. Pizzo
3. Scilla
4. Sila National Park
5. Le Castella
6. Capo Vaticano
7. Pentedattilo
8. Santa Severina
9. Riace Bronzes
10. Altomonte
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Calabria
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Buonvicino
By Rail: Buonvicino does not have its own train station, but the nearest one is in Diamante, about 10 kilometres away, on the Salerno–Reggio Calabria line operated by Trenitalia. Regional trains connect Diamante to Paola in around 30 minutes and to Reggio Calabria in about 2 hours and 15 minutes. From the station, local buses and taxis provide regular connections to Buonvicino, which lies inland in the hills above the Tyrrhenian coast.
By Road: Buonvicino is situated in northern Calabria, about 45 kilometres northwest of Cosenza. The drive takes roughly 1 hour via the SS107 and SS283. From Diamante, the journey is approximately 10 kilometres, taking about 20 minutes along the SP9. The town is reached by winding roads through scenic countryside, and parking is available near the historic centre.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Buonvicino is situated in northern Calabria, about 45 kilometres northwest of Cosenza. The drive takes roughly 1 hour via the SS107 and SS283. From Diamante, the journey is approximately 10 kilometres, taking about 20 minutes along the SP9. The town is reached by winding roads through scenic countryside, and parking is available near the historic centre.
Nearest International Airports:
- Lamezia Terme International Airport: Located about 95 kilometres south of Buonvicino, with a drive of around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A2 motorway and SS283. This is the most convenient airport, offering numerous domestic and international flights.
- Naples–Capodichino International Airport: Situated roughly 240 kilometres northwest, taking about 3 hours by car via the A2 motorway. It provides frequent national and European connections.
- Reggio Calabria Airport: Approximately 210 kilometres south, with a journey time of around 3 hours via the A2 motorway. It offers regional and national routes.
Private Transfers
Buonvicino Private Transfers
A private transfer provides a comfortable and convenient way to travel to or from Buonvicino, offering a direct journey without the need to drive or organise public transport. You’ll be met by a professional local driver and taken straight to your destination in comfort.
Lamezia Terme International Airport is the most practical option for arrivals and departures, easily reached by road. Transfers can also be arranged to nearby destinations such as Diamante, Maierà, and Belvedere Marittimo, or to other towns and mountain areas between the Tyrrhenian Coast and the Pollino National Park.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
Lamezia Terme International Airport is the most practical option for arrivals and departures, easily reached by road. Transfers can also be arranged to nearby destinations such as Diamante, Maierà, and Belvedere Marittimo, or to other towns and mountain areas between the Tyrrhenian Coast and the Pollino National Park.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.

