Villa  San  Giovanni​

By Dion Protani
Latest update: 21 November 2023
​Located on the eastern bank of the Messina Straits, the town of Villa San Giovanni is an important port that links the Italian mainland to Sicily.

​The main provincial town of Reggio Calabria is situated 15 km from Villa San Giovanni which in turn, is well-served by the E45 Motorway which runs up to Salerno in Campania.
​The town is dominated by the ferry port with crossings throughout the day with a journey time of around 20 minutes to the Sicilian port of Messina. ​
Related links
Profile
Villa San Giovanni is a coastal town located in the Calabria region of southern Italy. Situated at the southern tip of the Italian peninsula, Villa San Giovanni is renowned for its strategic location as the gateway to Sicily, making it a bustling transportation hub and a popular destination for travelers and tourists.

The town offers a blend of historical landmarks, beautiful beaches, and a vibrant atmosphere, making it an appealing destination for history enthusiasts and beach lovers alike.
History
The history of Villa San Giovanni dates back to ancient times, with evidence of human settlement in the area dating back to Greek and Roman periods.

​The town was an important port during the Roman Empire, and over the centuries, it was influenced by various civilizations, including the Byzantines, Normans, and Spanish. Each culture left its mark on the town's architecture, traditions, and cultural heritage.
Highlights and nearby attractions​
  • Strait of Messina: Villa San Giovanni is famous for its proximity to the Strait of Messina, which separates the Italian mainland from Sicily. The town's ferry terminal connects Calabria to the city of Messina in Sicily, providing a picturesque and convenient way to travel between the two regions.
  • Beaches: The town's coastline offers several beautiful beaches with clear blue waters and sandy shores. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports activities.
  • Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista: The Church of St. John the Baptist is a historic landmark in Villa San Giovanni. The church features beautiful architecture and religious artwork.
  • Scenic Views: Villa San Giovanni offers stunning views of the Strait of Messina and the Sicilian coast. The Capo Peloro promontory, located nearby, provides a panoramic vista of the surrounding seascape.
  • Local Cuisine: Villa San Giovanni and the Calabria region are known for their delicious cuisine. Visitors can savor local dishes made with fresh seafood, regional cheeses, and traditional Calabrian specialties.
  • Festivals and Events: Throughout the year, Villa San Giovanni hosts various festivals and events that celebrate its history, culture, and local traditions. These events often include religious processions, music, and culinary festivities.
Comune di Villa San Giovanni
Province: Metropolitan City of Reggio Calabria

Region: Calabria

Population: 12,931​​ ​(source: ISTAT 1 January 2022)

​​Size: 12 km²

Close by: Reggio Calabria, Scilla, Chianalea, Bagnara Calabra

Fly to: ​​Lamezia Terme Airport - 1 hour 4 minutes​ by car

​Recommended accommodation: Hotel Scilla (12 km)

​Villa  San  Giovanni​  Gallery

SITE SEARCH

If you want to find a page quickly and you're not sure where to look you can use the Site Search box below and it'll point you in the right direction. 

YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO ITALY

Italy Review is an independent guide to Italy, showcasing the very best that the country has to offer. Throughout the four thousand pages of the website you'll find comprehensive tourist information, opinion and original photos.

​Alongside the major tourist destinations that you've already heard of, there are thousands of others that may come as a surprise with the intention of the website to provide inspiration for your future trips to the country. 

The photos and descriptions on the website are all my own work and are the fruit of my extensive travels around the country. I've visited every place that's listed on the website which means I'm able to give useful advice for first-time visitors. 

​You can keep in touch with the latest developments in Italy via my Italy Review Blog for which you'll find links below to the Facebook and Twitter pages. 

If you'd just like to start your exploration of Italy with some ideas of places to go then I'd recommend starting at the highlighted must see Italy page.  Or using the grid to your right you can click a photo to enter  the main menus.                 
Booking.com

THE ITALY REVIEW NETWORK SISTER SITES:

​All photos and images on the site that are marked with the © copyright symbol or with the Italy Review series logos are the property of Italy Review and must not be used elsewhere without prior permission. All written content on the website is also the property of Italy Review and its use is strictly limited to this website alone.