Scalea
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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 Scalea
Scalea, on Calabria’s Tyrrhenian coast, is a lively resort town with a long sandy beach and an old town rising on the hillside. The area offers a number of established hotels that cater to both beach holidays and cultural visits.
Hotel Santa Caterina Village is one of the largest properties, with pools, restaurants, entertainment and direct access to the beach, often praised for its family-friendly services (€€). Grand Hotel de Rose provides elegant accommodation with sea views, a pool and easy access to the town centre, regularly highlighted for its comfort and location (€€€). Another option is Hotel Talao, a long-standing hotel near the beach offering comfortable rooms, a pool and consistently positive guest feedback (€€).
Hotel Santa Caterina Village is one of the largest properties, with pools, restaurants, entertainment and direct access to the beach, often praised for its family-friendly services (€€). Grand Hotel de Rose provides elegant accommodation with sea views, a pool and easy access to the town centre, regularly highlighted for its comfort and location (€€€). Another option is Hotel Talao, a long-standing hotel near the beach offering comfortable rooms, a pool and consistently positive guest feedback (€€).
Where is
Where is Scalea?
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The beach resort of Scalea lies on the Tyrrhenian Coast in the Province of Cosenza, part of the Calabria region in southern Italy.
It is situated approximately 112 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, located approximately 124 kilometres away. |
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Comune di Scalea
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Province: Cosenza
Region: Calabria Population: 11,427 (in 2024 - source) Size: 22 km² Elevation: 0-25 metres Highlights: beach, centro storico (old town), Castello Normanno Connected to the Italian High Speed Train Network Close by: San Nicola Arcella, Praia a Mare, Diamante, Buonvicino |
What People Ask About Scalea, Calabria
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Discover
Discover Scalea
Scalea is a coastal town in the province of Cosenza, situated on the Tyrrhenian Sea in northern Calabria. The modern area stretches along a wide beach, while the medieval centre rises on a hillside behind, connected by winding streets and stairways. Its name, meaning “stairway”, reflects this distinctive layout between the seaside and the old town above. The surrounding landscape combines coastal plains with wooded slopes and mountain views towards the Pollino National Park.
The old town is characterised by stone houses, narrow alleys, and the remains of ancient walls and towers, while the lower part of Scalea serves as a popular summer destination with hotels, cafés, and beach facilities. Notable landmarks include the Norman Tower, the Church of Santa Maria d’Episcopio, and the Palazzo dei Principi Spinelli. Well connected by rail and road, it forms part of a scenic coastal route linking Praia a Mare and Belvedere Marittimo, making it one of the key resorts on the Calabrian Tyrrhenian coast.
The old town is characterised by stone houses, narrow alleys, and the remains of ancient walls and towers, while the lower part of Scalea serves as a popular summer destination with hotels, cafés, and beach facilities. Notable landmarks include the Norman Tower, the Church of Santa Maria d’Episcopio, and the Palazzo dei Principi Spinelli. Well connected by rail and road, it forms part of a scenic coastal route linking Praia a Mare and Belvedere Marittimo, making it one of the key resorts on the Calabrian Tyrrhenian coast.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Scalea
- Centro Storico di Scalea climbs the hillside above the modern town and includes a maze of narrow alleys, staircases, and medieval stone houses. Highlights include the Norman Tower, ancient gateways, and the Church of San Nicola in Plateis. The old town offers wide views over the coast and retains a strong historical character.
- Spiaggia di Scalea is a wide, sandy and pebbly beach that stretches for several kilometres along the Tyrrhenian Sea. The beach includes both free-access zones and private lidos with full facilities, and is popular for swimming, beach games, and summer events.
- Torre Talao is a 16th-century watchtower located directly on the coast, once built on a small island and now connected to the mainland. It serves as one of Scalea’s most recognisable landmarks and offers sea views from nearby promenades and beaches.
- Lungomare di Scalea features a wide promenade lined with palm trees, cafés, and seasonal stalls. It is ideal for walking and cycling, especially in the evenings, and includes open spaces used for concerts, markets, and other summer events.
- Palazzo dei Principi Spinelli is a historic building in the old town, originally a noble residence and now used for cultural exhibitions and public events. The palazzo forms part of Scalea’s artistic and architectural heritage and reflects the town’s importance during the medieval and Renaissance periods.
Scalea Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Scalea
- Ristorante Il Corsaro: Located on the seafront, Il Corsaro offers refined Calabrian and Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood. Dishes include scampi linguine, grilled swordfish, and octopus salad, all served in an elegant setting with sea views. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Trattoria Bistro del Corso: Found along one of the main streets in the centre of Scalea, this welcoming trattoria serves traditional local dishes such as pasta with nduja, stuffed aubergines, and meatballs in tomato sauce. The atmosphere is casual, with friendly service and outdoor seating available. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Pizzeria La Rondinella: A popular spot near the beach, La Rondinella offers wood-fired pizzas with a wide choice of toppings, along with salads and pasta dishes. It’s a great option for a relaxed, informal meal with family or friends. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
- Ristorante Pizzeria Genova: Situated close to the old town, this long-running restaurant blends classic Italian and Calabrian flavours. The menu includes seafood risottos, homemade pasta, and grilled meats, with a large dining area suitable for groups. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- La Playa Beach Restaurant: Positioned directly on the sand, this seasonal beachside venue offers light seafood dishes, snacks, and cocktails. It's ideal for a laid-back lunch or early dinner during the summer months. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Scalea Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Scalea
- Diamante (approx. 10 km north of Scalea): A charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and colourful murals, Diamante offers a relaxed atmosphere with a vibrant seafront promenade. The town is famous for its annual chili pepper festival, celebrating the region's agricultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque streets, local shops, and the stunning view of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
- Praia a Mare (approx. 15 km south of Scalea): A popular beach destination with crystal-clear waters and a long stretch of sandy coastline, Praia a Mare is perfect for sunbathing and water sports. The town is home to the Isola di Dino, a small island just off the coast that can be reached by boat. The island features caves, clear waters for snorkelling, and is a favourite spot for boat tours.
- Verbicaro (approx. 20 km inland from Scalea): A small village in the mountains, Verbicaro offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the Tyrrhenian coast. The town is known for its historic centre and the Church of Santa Maria Assunta. It’s a great destination for those wanting to explore a quieter, more traditional side of Calabria, with opportunities for hiking and enjoying local cuisine.
- Belvedere Marittimo (approx. 25 km north of Scalea): A picturesque seaside town with a medieval old town and a long stretch of beach, Belvedere Marittimo offers a combination of history and natural beauty. The town's historic centre, with its narrow streets and ancient castle, provides a contrast to the modern seafront, making it a pleasant place for leisurely walks and enjoying the local atmosphere.
- Lago di Frido (approx. 30 km northeast of Scalea): A peaceful mountain lake surrounded by lush greenery, Lago di Frido is a great spot for nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching in the surrounding area. The lake offers a tranquil environment for those looking to escape the coastal heat and explore the inland beauty of Calabria.
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 Scalea
By Rail: Scalea 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 destinations including Naples, Salerno, Paola, and Reggio Calabria. Journey times are approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes to Naples, 1 hour and 40 minutes to Salerno, and 3 hours to Reggio Calabria. The station is located close to the seafront and within walking distance of the town centre.
By Road: Scalea is situated on the Tyrrhenian coast in northern Calabria, around 110 kilometres south of Salerno and 60 kilometres north of Cosenza. It can be reached via the SS18 coastal road, with a driving time of about 1 hour and 40 minutes from Salerno and 1 hour and 10 minutes from Cosenza. The A2 motorway provides further inland connections. Public parking is available in various areas of the town, including near the beach and the old town.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Scalea is situated on the Tyrrhenian coast in northern Calabria, around 110 kilometres south of Salerno and 60 kilometres north of Cosenza. It can be reached via the SS18 coastal road, with a driving time of about 1 hour and 40 minutes from Salerno and 1 hour and 10 minutes from Cosenza. The A2 motorway provides further inland connections. Public parking is available in various areas of the town, including near the beach and the old town.
Nearest International Airports:
- Lamezia Terme Airport (Aeroporto di Lamezia Terme): Located approximately 120 kilometres south of Scalea, the drive takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes. The airport offers regular domestic flights and seasonal international routes to several European destinations.
- Naples Airport (Aeroporto di Napoli-Capodichino): Situated about 210 kilometres north of Scalea, the journey by car takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes. This is one of southern Italy’s busiest airports, with a wide network of flights across Europe.
Private Transfers
Scalea Private Transfers
A private transfer offers a comfortable and reliable way to travel to or from Scalea, 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 Praia a Mare, San Nicola Arcella, and Santa Maria del Cedro, or to other coastal towns and resorts along the Tyrrhenian Coast of 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.
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 Praia a Mare, San Nicola Arcella, and Santa Maria del Cedro, or to other coastal towns and resorts along the Tyrrhenian Coast of 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.
