Top 10 Places to Visit in Calabria
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Latest page update: 14 April 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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This top ten list highlights the coastal towns, ancient villages and wild landscapes that define Calabria.
From the white-sand beaches of Tropea and Scilla to the pine forests of Sila National Park, the region offers a broad mix of experiences. Historic landmarks and natural scenery come together in places that still feel off the main tourist trail. You’ll find clifftop views, castle ruins, fishing harbours and unique archaeological sites like the Riace Bronzes. It’s a region full of character, with traditional food, quiet roads and striking views at every turn. |
Capo Vaticano, Calabria
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Tropea
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Tropea is Calabria’s most iconic coastal town, set high on cliffs above white beaches and turquoise waters. The historic centre is filled with narrow streets, lively piazzas, and sea views.
The Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell’Isola stands on a rocky promontory below the town, creating one of Italy’s most photographed scenes. The area is also known for sweet red onions and local seafood. Tropea has rail links and beach access on foot. It's the most visited destination in the region for good reason. |
Tropea, Calabria
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Pizzo
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Pizzo is a colourful seaside town perched above the Tyrrhenian Sea. It’s famous for its creamy tartufo gelato and its relaxed, sun-drenched piazza lined with cafés and gelaterias.
The small Aragonese castle has strong links to Murat, Napoleon’s brother-in-law, who was executed here. Below town, the cave church of Piedigrotta holds stone-carved altars beside the sea. Pizzo is easily accessed by road or train. It pairs well with a visit to nearby Tropea. |
Pizzo, Calabria
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Scilla
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Scilla sits at the northern end of Calabria’s coast, where mythology meets natural beauty. The cliffside houses of Chianalea tumble into the sea, with restaurants built directly on the rocks.
According to legend, this is where the sea monster Scylla once terrorised sailors. Today, the castle-topped promontory and peaceful beaches make it a favourite with travellers heading south. Scilla is just north of Reggio Calabria. Trains run regularly from the city and from Villa San Giovanni. |
Scilla, Calabria
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Sila National Park
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Sila National Park covers a vast mountain plateau in central Calabria, with forests, lakes, and small villages spread across three provinces. It’s a year-round destination for nature and activity.
In summer, visitors come for hiking, biking, and boating on Lake Arvo and Lake Ampollino. In winter, local ski resorts attract families and weekend travellers from nearby cities. The park is easiest to reach by car. Camigliatello Silano is the best base for exploring the area. |
Sila National Park, Calabria
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Le Castella
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Le Castella is a small seaside village on the Ionian coast, dominated by a striking fortress that appears to float offshore. The Aragonese castle is reached by a narrow walkway across the sea.
The town has sandy beaches and calm, shallow waters popular with families. Boat tours offer glass-bottom views of the marine reserve, and the area is rich in Calabrian seafood traditions. Le Castella lies south of Crotone. It’s best visited with a car for flexibility and access to the coast. |
Le Castella, Calabria
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Capo Vaticano
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Capo Vaticano is known for its dramatic coastline, hidden coves, and stunning views across to Sicily. The cliffs drop steeply to beaches that can be reached by footpaths or boat.
It’s a popular summer destination with clear water, snorkelling spots and low-rise hotels spread across the cape. The sunsets from the lighthouse viewpoint are among the best in Calabria. Located near Tropea, Capo Vaticano is well suited to day trips or longer coastal stays. |
Capo Vaticano, Calabria
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Pentedattilo
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Pentedattilo is a haunting abandoned village set into the rock face of Monte Calvario. Its name means “five fingers,” reflecting the shape of the cliffs that loom above the ruins.
Long deserted, the village has been partially restored and now hosts summer festivals, artisan workshops, and visitors drawn by its otherworldly setting and silence. Pentedattilo is about 30 minutes by car from Reggio Calabria. It’s a popular side trip from the city. |
Pentedattilo, Calabria
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Santa Severina
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Santa Severina is a small hill town with a mighty Norman castle at its centre. The town rises above a wide valley and preserves layers of Byzantine, medieval, and Renaissance history.
Visitors can walk the castle walls, explore ancient churches, and visit the Diocesan Museum. The compact centre is well cared for, with views over the surrounding countryside. Santa Severina is inland from Crotone and best visited by car. It offers a different side to Calabria from the coast. |
Santa Severina, Calabria
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Riace Bronzes
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The Riace Bronzes are two life-size Greek statues discovered in the sea off the town of Riace. They are now housed in the National Archaeological Museum of Reggio Calabria.
Considered among the greatest examples of classical sculpture, the bronzes draw visitors from around the world. The museum also features finds from Locri, Kaulon, and other ancient sites. The museum is in Reggio Calabria’s centre. It’s a must-see stop on any southern Calabria itinerary. |
Riace Bronzes, Reggio Calabria
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Altomonte
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Altomonte is a quiet town in the Pollino foothills, often listed among Italy’s most beautiful villages. Its main attraction is the Gothic Church of Santa Maria della Consolazione.
The town has a strong cultural identity, with summer concerts, folk traditions, and a focus on local produce and olive oil. Its panoramic setting overlooks valleys and distant mountains. Altomonte is north of Cosenza and best reached by car. It’s a good base for visiting the Pollino National Park. |
Altomonte, Calabria
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