Gioia Tauro
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Latest page update: 17 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Gioia Tauro
Gioia Tauro, situated on Calabria’s Tyrrhenian coast, is best known for its port, one of the largest in the Mediterranean. The town itself has limited hotel infrastructure, so for established hotels visitors often look to nearby coastal areas.
In Gioia Tauro, Hotel Le Palme offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant and convenient access to the main routes, with good reviews for service (€€). Nearby Palmi provides additional options such as Hotel Arcobaleno, which features a pool, restaurant and spacious rooms, often highlighted for its facilities (€€). Another choice is CapoSperone Resort, just outside Palmi, offering modern rooms, gardens and sea views, regularly praised for its setting (€€).
In Gioia Tauro, Hotel Le Palme offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant and convenient access to the main routes, with good reviews for service (€€). Nearby Palmi provides additional options such as Hotel Arcobaleno, which features a pool, restaurant and spacious rooms, often highlighted for its facilities (€€). Another choice is CapoSperone Resort, just outside Palmi, offering modern rooms, gardens and sea views, regularly praised for its setting (€€).
Where is
Where is Gioia Tauro?
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The sea port of Gioia Tauro is situated within the Metropolitan City of Reggio Calabria province and has a population of 20,078.
The town's port is one of the most important in Italy, dealing with commercial shipping. There are four hotels in the town centre while nearby places of interest include Tonnara di Palmi, Bagnara Calabra and Scilla. |
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Comune di Gioia Tauro
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Province: Metropolitan City of Reggio Calabria
Region: Calabria Population: 19,236 (in 2024 - source) Size: 38 km² Elevation: 0-29 metres Nearest train station: Gioia Tauro (town centre) Fly to: Lamezia Terme Airport (79 km) Recommended accommodation: Hotel Palace Gioia Tauro |
What People Ask About Gioia Tauro, Calabria
Is Gioia Tauro worth visiting?
How do I get to Gioia Tauro?
What are the main attractions in Gioia Tauro?
When is the best time to visit Gioia Tauro?
How long should I stay in Gioia Tauro?
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Discover
Discover Gioia Tauro
Gioia Tauro is a coastal town in the province of Reggio Calabria, situated on the Tyrrhenian Sea along the Plains of Gioia Tauro, one of the widest and most fertile lowlands in Calabria. The town lies between the sea and the Aspromonte foothills, with a landscape characterised by agricultural fields, citrus groves, and long stretches of sandy coastline. Its modern layout developed close to the port, while the surrounding area includes small hamlets and rural communities.
The Port of Gioia Tauro is one of the largest container terminals in the Mediterranean, giving the town a key economic role in southern Italy. Historically, the area has roots dating back to ancient Greek settlements, with archaeological finds linking it to the nearby site of Metauros. The town centre includes the Church of San Francesco da Paola and open squares that reflect its post-war development. Well connected by rail and road, Gioia Tauro provides access to coastal destinations such as Palmi and Scilla, as well as inland routes leading towards the Aspromonte National Park.
The Port of Gioia Tauro is one of the largest container terminals in the Mediterranean, giving the town a key economic role in southern Italy. Historically, the area has roots dating back to ancient Greek settlements, with archaeological finds linking it to the nearby site of Metauros. The town centre includes the Church of San Francesco da Paola and open squares that reflect its post-war development. Well connected by rail and road, Gioia Tauro provides access to coastal destinations such as Palmi and Scilla, as well as inland routes leading towards the Aspromonte National Park.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Gioia Tauro
- Centro Storico di Gioia Tauro lies near the Tyrrhenian coast, its streets shaped by a mix of historical and modern influences. The town features wide avenues, small piazzas, and a variety of shops and cafés. Views extend across coastal plains and olive groves. Walking here offers insight into a community balancing tradition with contemporary life.
- Port of Gioia Tauro is one of the largest seaports in the Mediterranean, playing a key role in regional commerce. The port’s activity shapes the town’s economy and landscape, with container terminals and shipping facilities. Visitors can appreciate the industrial scale alongside the nearby coastal areas.
- Santuario di Santa Maria del Bosco stands on a hill overlooking Gioia Tauro, its religious significance attracting pilgrims and visitors. The sanctuary’s simple architecture and peaceful surroundings provide a spiritual retreat. It remains central to local faith and cultural traditions.
- Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II serves as the town’s social centre, bordered by shops, cafés, and municipal buildings. The square hosts markets, events, and daily social activities. Its open space and views create a welcoming atmosphere. It’s an ideal place to experience local life and community.
- Guided cultural and nature tours in Gioia Tauro explore the town’s historical sites, religious landmarks, and surrounding countryside. Local guides share stories of maritime history, agricultural traditions, and regional culture. Tours often include tastings of Calabrian wines, olive oils, and local dishes. Exploring reveals Gioia Tauro’s mix of urban life and coastal heritage.
Tours and Activities
Gioia Tauro Tours and Activities
Photo Gallery
Gioia Tauro 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 Gioia Tauro
By Rail: Gioia Tauro has its own train station on the Lamezia Terme–Reggio Calabria line, operated by Trenitalia. Regional and intercity trains connect the town to Reggio Calabria in approximately 50 minutes and to Lamezia Terme in about 1 hour and 20 minutes. The station is centrally located and within walking distance of the port and main commercial areas.
By Road: Gioia Tauro is situated on the Tyrrhenian coast of Calabria, around 65 kilometres northeast of Reggio Calabria. The drive from Reggio Calabria takes about 1 hour via the A2 motorway. From Lamezia Terme, the journey is approximately 90 kilometres and takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Public parking is available near the port, railway station, and town centre.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Gioia Tauro is situated on the Tyrrhenian coast of Calabria, around 65 kilometres northeast of Reggio Calabria. The drive from Reggio Calabria takes about 1 hour via the A2 motorway. From Lamezia Terme, the journey is approximately 90 kilometres and takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Public parking is available near the port, railway station, and town centre.
Nearest International Airports:
- Reggio Calabria Airport: The closest airport, located about 70 kilometres to the south. The drive takes approximately 1 hour via the A2 motorway.
- Lamezia Terme International Airport: Situated around 90 kilometres to the north, with a driving time of about 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A2.
- Crotone Airport: Located roughly 180 kilometres to the northeast, the journey takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes by car.
Private Transfers
Gioia Tauro Private Transfers
A private transfer provides a comfortable and efficient way to travel to or from Gioia Tauro, offering a direct journey without the need to drive or rely on public transport. You’ll be met by a professional local driver and taken straight to your destination in comfort.
Reggio Calabria Airport is the most convenient option for arrivals and departures, with a straightforward route along the Tyrrhenian coast. Transfers can also be arranged to nearby destinations such as Palmi, Rosarno, and Villa San Giovanni, or to other towns and seaside resorts across southern Calabria.
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.
Reggio Calabria Airport is the most convenient option for arrivals and departures, with a straightforward route along the Tyrrhenian coast. Transfers can also be arranged to nearby destinations such as Palmi, Rosarno, and Villa San Giovanni, or to other towns and seaside resorts across southern Calabria.
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.
