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Roccella  Ionica​

Latest page update: 16 May 2025
By: Dion Protani
The seaside town of Roccella Ionica is situated on the Ionian Coast in the Metropolitan City of Reggio Calabria province.

It has a population of 6,416 inhabitants and is located 109 kilometres north east of Reggio Calabria, the provincial capital. 
Places of interest nearby include Marina di Gioiosa Ionica, Siderno, Locri and Gerace.
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Discover

Discover Roccella Ionica
Roccella Ionica is a charming town located in the province of Reggio Calabria, along the Ionian coast of Calabria. Nestled between the mountains and the sea, it offers a stunning landscape of rugged hills and clear, blue waters. The town is known for its tranquil atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and well-preserved historical sites. The seafront is lined with sandy shores, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and water sports.

Roccella Ionica is home to the impressive Castle of Roccella, a 16th-century fortress overlooking the town and providing panoramic views of the surrounding area. The town’s old centre retains traditional architecture, with narrow streets and quaint buildings that reflect its long history and cultural heritage.

Nearby, the larger town of Locri offers more archaeological sites, including the remains of the ancient Greek city of Locri Epizefiri, which is rich in ruins and historical significance. The Aspromonte National Park, a protected area with stunning mountain landscapes and hiking trails, is also easily accessible from Roccella Ionica. The town’s coastal location, combined with its proximity to both natural beauty and historical attractions, makes it an ideal base for exploring the southern Calabria region.​

Things to Do

Things to Do in Roccella Ionica
  • Spiaggia di Roccella Ionica is a long stretch of fine, light-coloured sand along the Ionian coast, regularly awarded Blue Flag status for cleanliness and water quality. The beach includes both free areas and well-managed lidos, with facilities such as bars, sunbed rental, and children’s play zones.
  • Castello Carafa stands on a hill above the town and dates back to the medieval period, later rebuilt and expanded by the Carafa family. The castle ruins include towers, walls, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the coast and surrounding hills. The site is accessible by a walking path from the historic centre.
  • Centro Storico di Roccella includes narrow streets, stone stairways, and traditional houses clustered on the lower slopes of the hill. The old town contains small churches, archways, and terraces, along with signs of the town’s noble past and religious traditions.
  • Lungomare and Porto delle Grazie form the modern seafront area, with a wide promenade used for walking and cycling. The marina provides mooring for leisure boats and hosts sailing events, while the adjacent waterfront includes gardens, cafés, and spaces for concerts and seasonal markets.
  • Roccella Jazz Festival – Rumori Mediterranei is one of Calabria’s best-known cultural events, held each summer in the castle, old town, and seafront venues. The festival attracts international performers and blends music with theatre, talks, and workshops, bringing the town to life during the peak holiday season.
Roccella Ionica Tours and Activities
Comune di Roccella Ionica
Province: Metropolitan City of Reggio Calabria

Region: Calabria

Population: 6,116​ (in 2024 - source)

​​Size: 37 km²

Elevation: 0-16 metres

​Highlights: ​​beach, Castello Carafa

​​​​​​Water quality: Blue Flag Beach 2024-2025

Close by: Marina di Gioiosa Ionica, Siderno, Locri, Gerace

Recommended accommodation: Hotel Mediterraneo

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10. Altomonte

​👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Calabria

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