Praia a Mare
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Latest page update: 8 June 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Praia a Mare
Praia a Mare, on Calabria’s north-western coast close to the Basilicata border, has a solid range of established hotels catering to beachgoers and those exploring the Tyrrhenian coastline.
Hotel Germania sits close to the seafront with comfortable rooms, a private beach area, and a restaurant specialising in regional cuisine (€€). Hotel Villaggio Club Altalia combines hotel-style accommodation with resort facilities, offering pools, sports activities, and organised entertainment suitable for longer stays (€€€). Hotel Garden provides straightforward, well-located accommodation within walking distance of the beach, with positive reviews for cleanliness and hospitality (€€).
Hotel Germania sits close to the seafront with comfortable rooms, a private beach area, and a restaurant specialising in regional cuisine (€€). Hotel Villaggio Club Altalia combines hotel-style accommodation with resort facilities, offering pools, sports activities, and organised entertainment suitable for longer stays (€€€). Hotel Garden provides straightforward, well-located accommodation within walking distance of the beach, with positive reviews for cleanliness and hospitality (€€).
Where is
Where is Praia a Mare?
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The beach resort of Praia a Mare lies on the Tyrrhenian Coast in the Province of Cosenza, part of the Calabria region in southern Italy. It is situated approximately 108 kilometres north-west of Cosenza and functions as an independent municipality.
The town has its own train station and the closest international airport is Lamezia Terme Airport, around 129 kilometres away. |
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Comune di Praia a Mare
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Province: Cosenza
Region: Calabria Population: 6,367 (in 2024 - source) Size: 23 km² Highlights: beaches, Isola di Dino, Torre di Fiuzzi, restaurants Water quality: Blue Flag Beach 2024-2025 Close by: Tortora Marina, San Nicola Arcella, Tortora, Aieta |
What People Ask About Praia a Mare, Calabria
Is Praia a Mare worth visiting?
What are the main attractions in Praia a Mare?
How do I get to Praia a Mare?
What is Praia a Mare known for?
When is the best time to visit Praia a Mare?
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Discover
Discover Praia a Mare
Praia a Mare is a coastal town in the province of Cosenza, situated on the Tyrrhenian Sea at the northern tip of Calabria. Set along a wide bay with fine grey sand and clear blue waters, it is framed by cliffs and wooded hills that rise inland. The long beachfront, lined with lidos and a promenade, makes it one of the region’s most popular seaside resorts, while its location at the mouth of the River Lao connects it naturally to the surrounding landscape of valleys and mountains.
Offshore lies the Isola di Dino, a small island noted for its sea caves and dramatic rock formations, accessible by boat from the marina. The town also features the Sanctuary of Madonna della Grotta, built into a natural cave overlooking Praia a Mare. Tourism plays a central role in local life, supported by good rail and road connections to Scalea, Maratea, and the Pollino National Park, placing Praia a Mare at the meeting point of Calabria, Basilicata, and the southern Tyrrhenian coast.
Offshore lies the Isola di Dino, a small island noted for its sea caves and dramatic rock formations, accessible by boat from the marina. The town also features the Sanctuary of Madonna della Grotta, built into a natural cave overlooking Praia a Mare. Tourism plays a central role in local life, supported by good rail and road connections to Scalea, Maratea, and the Pollino National Park, placing Praia a Mare at the meeting point of Calabria, Basilicata, and the southern Tyrrhenian coast.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Praia a Mare
- Isola di Dino is a rocky island just off the coast, known for its sea caves, including the Grotta Azzurra and Grotta del Leone. The island is accessible by kayak, pedal boat, or guided boat tours from the beach. Its cliffs, vegetation, and crystal-clear waters make it one of the area’s most recognisable landmarks.
- Spiaggia di Praia a Mare is a long, wide beach with a mix of sand and pebbles, stretching along the Tyrrhenian coast. The beach offers both free-access areas and private lidos with umbrellas, sunbeds, and bars. Water sports and boat rentals are widely available in the summer season.
- Lungomare and Waterfront run parallel to the beach and include walking and cycling paths, shaded seating areas, and a variety of seaside restaurants and cafés. The promenade is a central meeting point for locals and visitors, especially in the evenings.
- Santuario della Madonna della Grotta is set within a cave in the cliffs above the town, reached by a staircase from the main road. The sanctuary includes a chapel and viewing platform, and is a site of pilgrimage, especially during local religious festivals.
- Torre di Fiuzzi is a 16th-century coastal watchtower located near the southern end of the beach, opposite Isola di Dino. Although not open to the public, it remains a prominent historic structure and is often photographed with the island in the background. The surrounding area includes viewpoints and beach access.
Tours and Activities
Praia a Mare Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Praia a Mare
- Ristorante Da Peppe: Located along the seafront, Da Peppe is well known for its refined seafood dishes and relaxed, elegant atmosphere. Menu highlights include linguine with clams, grilled local fish, and seafood antipasti, all paired with a solid selection of Calabrian wines. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Osteria Del Peperoncino: Situated near the centre of town, this osteria celebrates regional flavours, with dishes such as pasta with nduja, chilli-infused meats, and rustic vegetable sides. The informal setting and focus on local ingredients make it a popular choice for an authentic meal. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Pizzeria Basilicò: A casual spot close to the beach, Basilicò offers wood-fired pizzas, calzones, and simple pasta dishes. Service is quick and friendly, and the setting is ideal for a relaxed evening out. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
- Ristorante L’Arcora: Located slightly inland from the town centre, L’Arcora offers traditional Calabrian dishes in a rustic environment. The menu includes handmade pasta, grilled meats, and seasonal starters, with warm hospitality and a countryside feel. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Il Chiosco di Praia: Positioned along the beachfront, this seasonal kiosk-restaurant serves seafood snacks, salads, and cocktails with views of Dino Island. It’s ideal for a light lunch or informal dinner by the sea. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Praia a Mare Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Praia a Mare
- Scalea (approx. 15 km north of Praia a Mare): A lively coastal town with a rich history, Scalea offers a combination of beautiful beaches, charming old town streets, and stunning mountain views. The town’s historic centre is home to the ancient Norman castle, and visitors can explore the narrow alleys lined with traditional Sicilian buildings. Scalea is also a great base for those looking to explore the surrounding area, with plenty of opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities.
- Diamante (approx. 20 km north of Praia a Mare): Known for its striking murals and picturesque seafront, Diamante is a small coastal town that offers a vibrant atmosphere. The town’s colourful streets are lined with cafes and shops, while the nearby beaches provide a perfect spot for swimming and relaxing. Diamante also hosts an annual chili pepper festival, celebrating the local agricultural traditions.
- Morano Calabro (approx. 30 km east of Praia a Mare): A charming hilltop town, Morano Calabro is known for its medieval castle and breathtaking views over the Pollino National Park. The town’s historic centre, with its narrow streets and stone houses, offers a glimpse into traditional Calabrian life. It’s an ideal destination for those interested in history, nature, and stunning landscapes.
- Belvedere Marittimo (approx. 35 km north of Praia a Mare): A scenic seaside town with a medieval old town, Belvedere Marittimo features narrow, cobbled streets and a lovely beach. The historic centre, with its ancient castle, provides a charming backdrop to the modern waterfront. The town offers a relaxing atmosphere and is a great spot for enjoying the coast and exploring the local heritage.
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 Praia a Mare
By Rail: Praia a Mare has its own train station on the Salerno–Reggio Calabria railway line, served by Trenitalia regional and Intercity trains. Regular services connect the town with Salerno, Naples, Paola, and Reggio Calabria. Journey times are approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes to Salerno, 2 hours and 30 minutes to Naples, and just over 3 hours to Reggio Calabria. The station is located close to the seafront and within easy walking distance of the beach and town centre.
By Road: Praia a Mare lies on the Tyrrhenian coast in northern Calabria, approximately 115 kilometres south of Salerno and 65 kilometres north of Cosenza. The town can be reached via the SS18 coastal road, with a driving time of about 1 hour and 45 minutes from Salerno and 1 hour and 15 minutes from Cosenza. The A2 motorway provides inland access. Public parking is available throughout the town, including areas near the beach and main streets.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Praia a Mare lies on the Tyrrhenian coast in northern Calabria, approximately 115 kilometres south of Salerno and 65 kilometres north of Cosenza. The town can be reached via the SS18 coastal road, with a driving time of about 1 hour and 45 minutes from Salerno and 1 hour and 15 minutes from Cosenza. The A2 motorway provides inland access. Public parking is available throughout the town, including areas near the beach and main streets.
Nearest International Airports:
- Lamezia Terme Airport (Aeroporto di Lamezia Terme): Located about 125 kilometres south of Praia a Mare, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. The airport serves domestic routes and seasonal international flights to several European destinations.
- Naples Airport (Aeroporto di Napoli-Capodichino): Situated around 215 kilometres north of Praia a Mare, the journey by car takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes. The airport offers a wide range of connections throughout Italy and across Europe.
Private Transfers
Praia a Mare Private Transfers
A private transfer offers a comfortable and reliable way to travel to or from Praia a Mare, providing a direct service without the need to drive or depend on public transport. You’ll be collected from your chosen location and taken straight to your destination by a professional local driver.
Lamezia Terme International Airport is the most convenient for arrivals and departures, with straightforward access by road. Transfers can also be arranged to nearby destinations such as Tortora, Scalea, and Maratea, or to other coastal towns and resorts along the Tyrrhenian Coast of Calabria and southern Basilicata.
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 convenient for arrivals and departures, with straightforward access by road. Transfers can also be arranged to nearby destinations such as Tortora, Scalea, and Maratea, or to other coastal towns and resorts along the Tyrrhenian Coast of Calabria and southern Basilicata.
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.
