Santa  Domenica  Talao​

Latest page update: 18 May 2025
By: Dion Protani

  Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Santa Domenica Talao
Santa Domenica Talao, a small hilltop village in Calabria’s Cosenza province, overlooks the Tyrrhenian coast and the Riviera dei Cedri. Accommodation in the village itself is mainly limited to B&Bs and private rentals, so for established hotels the best choices are found in nearby coastal towns such as Scalea and Praia a Mare.
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In Scalea, Hotel Santa Caterina Village is a large resort with pools, restaurants and direct beach access, often praised for its family-friendly facilities (€€). Also in Scalea, Grand Hotel de Rose offers elegant sea-view rooms, a pool and convenient access to both the beach and the old town (€€€). In Praia a Mare, Hotel Germania provides comfortable rooms, on-site dining and a central location close to the seafront, with positive feedback for value (€€).

Where is

Where is Santa Domenica Talao?
​The hill town of Santa Domenica Talao is situated in the Province of Cosenza. It has a population of around 1,200 inhabitants and stands at an elevation of 304 metres above sea level. 

​Places of interest nearby include the towns of Scalea, Papasidero, San Nicola Arcella and Praia a Mare. The recommended accommodation is the La Suite del Faro​ in Scalea.
Comune di Santa Domenica Talao
Province: Cosenza

Region: Calabria

Population: 1,131​ (in 2024 - source)

​Size: 35 km²

​​​​​Elevation: 304 metres

​Close by: Scalea, Papasidero, San Nicola Arcella, Praia a Mare

Recommended accommodation: La Suite del Faro (9 km)

What People Ask About Santa Domenica Talao, Calabria

Is Santa Domenica Talao worth visiting?
Yes, Santa Domenica Talao is worth visiting for its hilltop position overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Pollino mountains. It is a traditional Calabrian village with narrow streets, historic churches, and panoramic views of the Riviera dei Cedri.
How do I get to Santa Domenica Talao?
Santa Domenica Talao is in northern Calabria, about 5 kilometres inland from Scalea. It is best reached by car from the SS18 coastal road. The nearest railway station is Scalea–Santa Domenica Talao, which has connections to Naples, Salerno, and Reggio Calabria.
What are the main attractions in Santa Domenica Talao?
The main attractions include the old town centre with its stone houses and narrow lanes, the Church of San Giuseppe, and scenic viewpoints across the coast and mountains. Nearby, the Pollino National Park offers hiking and nature experiences.
When is the best time to visit Santa Domenica Talao?
The best time to visit is from May to October, when the weather is pleasant and nearby coastal resorts are lively. Spring and autumn are particularly good for enjoying the village and exploring the surrounding countryside with fewer visitors.
How long should I stay in Santa Domenica Talao?
A one-day visit is enough to explore the old town and enjoy the views. Staying two or three days allows more time for excursions to Scalea, the beaches of the Riviera dei Cedri, and hiking in the Pollino mountains.
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Discover

Discover Santa Domenica Talao
Santa Domenica Talao is a hillside village in the province of Cosenza, located a few kilometres inland from the Tyrrhenian coast of northern Calabria. Set at an elevation of around 300 metres, it overlooks the Gulf of Policastro and the surrounding countryside, with views that stretch towards the mountains of the Pollino National Park. The village is compact and traditional in layout, with narrow lanes, stone houses, and a central square that serves as its social hub.
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Local landmarks include the Church of San Domenico and the remains of ancient fortifications that reflect the area’s long history. Olive and citrus cultivation continues to play a role in village life, alongside small-scale tourism linked to nearby coastal resorts. Its proximity to Praia a Mare, Aieta, and San Nicola Arcella makes Santa Domenica Talao a peaceful inland alternative for visitors exploring both the mountain and coastal landscapes of northern Calabria.

Things to Do

Things to Do in Santa Domenica Talao
  • Centro Storico di Santa Domenica Talao perches on a hillside overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, its streets winding through stone houses, narrow alleys, and small piazzas. The village offers views across olive groves and coastal plains. Small squares reveal fountains and shaded corners. Walking here provides a glimpse into a place where history and natural beauty meet.
  • Chiesa di Santa Maria delle Grazie stands in the village centre, its simple façade leading to an interior decorated with frescoes and religious art. The church has long been central to local worship and community life. It remains a valued place of faith and heritage.
  • Piazza Umberto I serves as Santa Domenica Talao’s social hub, bordered by traditional houses, cafés, and small shops. The square hosts markets, festivals, and gatherings that celebrate community traditions. Its cobblestones and sea views create a welcoming atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot to experience village life.
  • Nearby countryside features olive groves, vineyards, and walking trails offering opportunities for hiking and nature observation. The rural landscape shapes the village’s character and lifestyle, providing fresh air and scenic views.
  • Guided cultural and nature tours in Santa Domenica Talao lead visitors through historic streets, religious sites, and surrounding landscapes. Local guides share stories of agricultural traditions, local history, and natural beauty. Tours often include tastings of regional cheeses, wines, and traditional dishes. Exploring reveals Santa Domenica Talao’s blend of heritage and countryside charm.

Tours and Activities

Santa Domenica Talao Tours and Activities

Photo Gallery

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How to Get to [Place Name]

How to Get to Santa Domenica Talao
By Rail: Santa Domenica Talao does not have its own train station, but the nearest one is in Praia a Mare, about 8 kilometres away, on the Salerno–Reggio Calabria line operated by Trenitalia. Regional and intercity trains connect Praia a Mare to Salerno in approximately 2 hours and to Reggio Calabria in about 2 hours and 30 minutes. From Praia a Mare, buses and taxis provide regular services to Santa Domenica Talao.

By Road: Santa Domenica Talao is situated in northern Calabria, about 115 kilometres north of Reggio Calabria. The drive takes roughly 2 hours via the A2 motorway and SS18. From Potenza, the distance is around 135 kilometres, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes via the SS653 and SS18. The town lies a short distance inland from the Tyrrhenian coast, accessible by winding hillside roads, with parking available near the historic centre and the panoramic viewpoints overlooking the coastline.

Nearest International Airports:
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  • Lamezia Terme International Airport: Located about 145 kilometres northeast of Santa Domenica Talao, with a drive of around 2 hours via the A2 motorway. This is the most convenient airport, offering numerous domestic and international flights.
  • Naples–Capodichino International Airport: Situated roughly 210 kilometres northwest, taking about 3 hours by car via the A3 motorway. It provides frequent national and European routes.
  • Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport: Approximately 250 kilometres northeast, with a journey time of around 3 hours and 40 minutes via the SS407. It offers a wide range of domestic and international connections.

Private Transfers

Santa Domenica Talao Private Transfers
A private transfer provides a comfortable and convenient way to travel to or from Santa Domenica Talao, offering a direct journey without the need to drive or use 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 choice for arrivals and departures, easily reached by road. Transfers can also be arranged to nearby destinations such as Scalea, Praia a Mare, and San Nicola Arcella, or to other mountain and coastal areas within northern Calabria and along the Tyrrhenian Coast.
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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.

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