Squillace​

Latest page update: 19 May 2025
By: Dion Protani

  Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Squillace
Squillace, a historic town inland from Calabria’s Ionian coast, offers mainly B&Bs and small residences within its old centre. For travellers seeking established hotels with fuller facilities, the best options are found in nearby Catanzaro Lido and Soverato.
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In Catanzaro Lido, Best Western Plus Hotel Perla del Porto provides modern accommodation overlooking the marina, with a spa and restaurant (€€€). Also nearby, Hotel Palace offers a seafront setting, comfortable rooms, and business facilities (€€). In Soverato, Villa Ersilia is a well-regarded hotel featuring elegant rooms, a restaurant, and panoramic views of the coast (€€€).

Where is

Where is Squillace?
​The town of Squillace is situated within the Province of Catanzaro in the southern region of Calabria and has a population of 3,652 inhabitants.

Standing at an elevation of 344 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 34 km². The Squillace described on this page is the inland hill town but there's also a beach town called Squillace Lido.
The most famous sight in the town is the castle, simply called Castello di Squillace, while just a short walk from there is a cluster of churches including the Concattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta. ​
Comune di Squillace
Province: Catanzaro

Region: Calabria

Population: 3,575​ (in 2024 - source)

Size: 33 km²

​Elevation: 344 metres

Recommended accommodation: Villa Aurelio (6 km)

What People Ask About Squillace, Calabria

Is Squillace worth visiting?
Yes, Squillace is worth visiting for its medieval town centre, Norman castle, and traditional ceramic craftsmanship. Its elevated position offers views over the Ionian coast, making it a cultural and scenic destination.
How do I get to Squillace?
Squillace is located about 15 km south of Catanzaro. The nearest railway station is Squillace, on the Ionian line, about 5 km from the old town. By car, it can be reached via the SS106 Ionica coastal road with a short uphill drive to the historic centre.
What are the main attractions in Squillace?
The main attractions include the Norman Castle, the Cathedral of Squillace, and several churches such as Santa Maria della Pietà. The town is also renowned for its ceramics tradition, with workshops and shops in the historic centre.
When is the best time to visit Squillace?
The best time to visit Squillace is in spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and exploring the historic centre. Summer is also popular, as many visitors combine the old town with beach days at Squillace Lido.
How long should I stay in Squillace?
A half-day to full-day visit is enough to explore the castle, cathedral, and ceramic shops. Staying overnight is recommended if you want to enjoy both the historic town and the nearby coastline.
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Discover

Discover Squillace
Squillace is a historic hill town in the province of Catanzaro, overlooking the Gulf of Squillace on the Ionian coast of Calabria. Built on a ridge between the Alaca and Grespano valleys, it offers wide views over the surrounding countryside and the sea below. The old town retains its medieval layout of narrow streets and stone houses that climb towards the castle, while olive groves and vineyards spread across the lower slopes.
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The Norman Castle, dominating the summit, is the town’s main landmark and reflects centuries of Byzantine, Norman, and Aragonese influence. Squillace is also famous for its traditional terracotta ceramics, a craft that dates back to ancient Skylletion, the Greek and Roman city that once stood on the plain below. Visitors can explore churches such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the Church of San Matteo, which preserve elements from different periods. Its proximity to Copanello, Catanzaro Lido, and Soverato links Squillace to both Calabria’s cultural history and the scenic Costa degli Aranci.

Things to Do

Things to Do in Squillace
  • Centro Storico di Squillace perches on a hill overlooking the Ionian Sea, its streets winding among medieval stone houses, narrow alleys, and small piazzas. The town radiates historical character, with views stretching across olive groves and coastal plains. Small squares reveal ancient fountains and quiet corners. Walking here offers a journey into a place where history and daily life intertwine.
  • Castello di Squillace dominates the skyline, a Norman fortress with thick walls and towers that have guarded the town for centuries. The castle’s ramparts offer panoramic views of the sea and surrounding countryside. Inside, visitors can explore its stone chambers and learn about Squillace’s strategic past. The castle remains a key historic landmark.
  • Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta stands in the heart of the town, its simple façade hiding an interior decorated with frescoes, sacred art, and carved woodwork. The cathedral has been central to Squillace’s religious life for generations. It remains a place of worship and cultural significance.
  • Piazza della Repubblica serves as Squillace’s social centre, bordered by cafés, shops, and historic buildings. The square hosts markets, festivals, and daily gatherings under the warm Calabrian sun. Cobblestones and sea views create a welcoming atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot to experience local culture and community life.
  • Guided historical and cultural tours in Squillace lead visitors through medieval streets, the castle grounds, and churches rich in art and history. Local guides share stories of noble families, ancient crafts, and regional traditions. Tours often include tastings of local ceramics, wines, and Calabrian specialities. Exploring reveals Squillace’s deep heritage and vibrant village life.

Tours and Activities

Squillace Tours and Activities

Photo Gallery

Places Close to [Place Name]

Places Close to Squillace
The immediate area around the hill town of Squillace is dominated by a series of mostly small beach resorts on the Ionian Coast. Closest of all are first Squillace's beach equivalent called Squillace Lido which is 6 kilometres away, while just south of that is Copanello Beach. 

​The prettiest location along this stretch of coastline is Caminia where the water is some of the clearest in the Calabria region. The humble beach resort of Montepaone Lido is further south of Caminia while heading in the opposite direction, Catanzaro Lido is a distance of 14 kilometres from Squillace. The main seaside town in this part of Calabria is Soverato which lies 20 kilometres south of Squillace. 
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

How to Get to [Place Name]

How to Get to Squillace
By Rail: Squillace has its own train station, Squillace Station, on the Lamezia Terme–Catanzaro Lido–Reggio Calabria line operated by Trenitalia. Regional trains connect the town to Catanzaro Lido in about 10 minutes and to Lamezia Terme in roughly 1 hour. The station is located near the lower coastal district, with local buses and taxis available for the short uphill journey to the old town.

By Road: Squillace is located on the Ionian coast of Calabria, about 15 kilometres south of Catanzaro. The drive takes around 20 minutes via the SS106 coastal highway. From Lamezia Terme, the distance is approximately 55 kilometres, with a journey time of about 1 hour via the A2 motorway and SS280. The town is easily accessible by road, with parking available near the historic centre and the coastal area.

Nearest International Airports:
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  • Lamezia Terme International Airport: Situated about 55 kilometres northwest of Squillace, with a drive of around 1 hour via the A2 motorway and SS280. This is the most convenient airport, offering numerous domestic and international flights.
  • Crotone–Sant’Anna Airport: Located roughly 60 kilometres northeast, taking about 1 hour and 10 minutes by car via the SS106. It provides a limited range of domestic services.
  • Reggio Calabria Airport: Approximately 160 kilometres southwest, with a journey time of around 2 hours and 20 minutes via the A2 motorway. It offers regional and national routes.

Private Transfers

Squillace Private Transfers
A private transfer offers a comfortable and reliable way to travel to or from Squillace, providing a direct journey without the need to drive or rely on public transport. You’ll be collected from your chosen location and taken straight to your destination by a professional local driver.

Both Lamezia Terme International Airport and Crotone Airport are within reach by road, making private transfers a convenient option for arrivals and departures. Transfers can also be arranged to nearby destinations such as Catanzaro Lido, Copanello, and Soverato, or to other towns and coastal areas along the Ionian Coast of Calabria.
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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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