Best Places to Visit in Calabria, Italy

Calabria is one of Italy’s most underrated regions, with stunning coastal towns, crystal-clear waters, and authentic Italian charm.

Before visiting Calabria, we didn’t realize just how beautiful it really was—or how much there was to see. We stayed in Tropea and Zambrone, soaking in the incredible coastline and exploring nearby towns. Even with a few day trips, we left wishing we had more time (and a car) to explore deeper into the region.

From medieval hilltop villages to secluded beaches and historic towns, Calabria is full of must-visit destinations that still feel untouched by mass tourism.

If you’re planning a visit, here are some of the best places to visit in Calabria.

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Best Places to Visit in Calabria

Whether you’re looking for beautiful coastal towns, historic villages, or hidden gems, Calabria has no shortage of incredible places to explore. Here are some of the best destinations to add to your itinerary.

1. Tropea – The Jewel of Calabria

Tropea is one of the best towns in Calabria, and for good reason. Perched high on dramatic cliffs, it’s known for its gorgeous beaches and dramatic cliffs, but we honestly didn’t know much about it when we booked our stay. Friends of ours, who have a house there, recommended it—and it turned out to be the perfect introduction to Calabria.

Tropea’s historic centre is full of hidden piazzas, narrow alleys, and stunning sea views at every turn. The slow Mediterranean pace, friendly locals (even though we don’t speak Italian!), and warm, sun-soaked atmosphere made it easy to settle in and enjoy southern Italy at its best.

the sanctuary of santa maria dell'isola sits high on a rocky outcrop off the coast of tropea. the white church is surrounded by green trees and a walkway leads from the shore up to the church. — Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell’Isola

But Tropea’s most iconic sight is the Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell’Isola, a monastery perched on a rocky promontory overlooking the sea. Just below, the town’s main beach is one of the most beautiful in Calabria. Walking down the steps to the shore is an epic sight, although on the way back up, it doesn’t quite seem as fun!

While Tropea is known for its beaches, there’s plenty of other things to do as well, including day trips to some of the places in Calabria that we list below.

Where to Eat in Tropea

Il Marchese – Excellent swordfish dishes, a local specialty
Il Convivio – Great pizza, including ‘nduja pizza, perfect for kids

Where to Stay in Tropea

Terrazzo Del Borgo – We stayed here and loved it! Great location and beautiful views.
Hotel Villa Antica Tropea – A beautiful hotel with classic charm and a central location.

2. Pizzo – Coastal Charm & Famous Gelato

Pizzo is a small seaside town with colourful streets, lively piazzas, and amazing coastal views. It’s just a short train ride from Tropea or Zambrone, and was one of our favourite day trips in Calabria.

Two young boys wearing colorful Paw Patrol and Thomas the Tank Engine hats play on a large black anchor mounted against a peach-colored wall. One child climbs the anchor while the other sits on one of its flukes, both dressed in casual summer outfits with playful energy.

the town of pizzo italy, with colourful flower baskets along a railing and the town's buildings stretching out behind the road.

A charming narrow alleyway in an old Italian town, lined with a rustic yellow stone building featuring arched windows with decorative iron grilles. Small potted plants with green foliage and flowers sit on the window ledges, adding a touch of warmth. Sunlight casts soft shadows on the textured walls, highlighting the character of this picturesque Mediterranean street.

Pizzo is best known for Tartufo di Pizzo, a decadent chocolate-and-hazelnut gelato dessert with a melted chocolate centre. Of course, we had to try it—and it absolutely lived up to the hype. After a relaxed afternoon exploring, we hopped back on the train to Tropea, glad we had made the short trip.

A unique stop just outside the centre is the Piedigrotta Cave Church—a small rock-hewn chapel filled with intricately carved stone statues, all set within a cave facing the sea. If you have extra time, it’s worth a visit.

👉 Want to explore more? Check out our complete list of things to do in Pizzo.

Where to Eat in Pizzo

Bar Gelateria Artigianale Ercole – One of the best places to try Tartufo di Pizzo
Lido Chiringuito -Excellent family friendly spot on the beach, serving great pizza and would be amazing spot for sunsets.

3. Zambrone – A Relaxing Beach Escape

Zambrone is a laid-back coastal town that’s perfect for a relaxing stay. The beaches here are more rugged and rocky than Tropea, but the views are just as spectacular—especially at sunset, when you can see Stromboli volcano in the distance, sometimes spewing fire.

But one of our favourite, and unexpected spots? The gelato counter in the train station, which was an easy walk from where we were staying. Choosing a new flavour and sitting to watch the train became a daily stop during our stay. If you’re visiting with kids, they’ll love it.

Where to Stay in Zambrone

Scoglio del Leone Hotel – A beachfront resort with excellent food, including a Michelin-starred restaurant, kids club, private beach and pool. We absolutely loved our stay here.

A beautiful beach in Zambrone, Italy, with soft golden sand and turquoise waves gently rolling onto the shore. The beach is filled with sunbathers, colorful umbrellas, and swimmers enjoying the warm Mediterranean waters. In the distance, a striking white rock formation juts out from the sea, with rocky cliffs and lush greenery providing a scenic backdrop.

4. Scilla – Calabria’s Fairytale Fishing Village

Scilla (pronounced “Sheila”) is one of the places that should definitely be on your Calabria itinerary. Often called Calabria’s Little Venice, this seaside town is is straight out of a postcard, with its colourful houses stacked along the hillside and fishing boats bobbing in the water.

At the heart of Scilla is Castello Ruffo, a fortress dating back to the 5th century that towers over the sea. The castle’s lighthouse still operates today!

For the most picturesque views, head to Chianalea, the old fishing district where buildings sit right at the edge of the water. It’s the perfect place to enjoy fresh swordfish, a local speciality.

A panoramic view of the seaside town of Scilla in Calabria, Italy, where colorful houses hug the steep coastline beneath lush green mountains. Small fishing boats and yachts dot the crystal-clear harbor, and the deep blue sea stretches into the horizon under a bright, cloudless sky.

Where to Stay in Scilla

Hotel Scilla – A comfortable stay in a great location, perfect for exploring the town.
Hotel U Bais – A well-rated option with friendly service and easy access to the waterfront.

5. San Nicola Arcella & Arco Magno

San Nicola Arcella is a beautiful coastal town known for its breathtaking sea views and the famous Arco Magno, a natural rock arch that hides a stunning turquoise cove.

This secluded beach is one of the most unique spots in Calabria and is best reached by boat or a short hike. The town itself is a charming stop along the Riviera dei Cedri, with small cafés and quiet streets perfect for a scenic stroll.

A stunning natural sea arch at San Nicola Arcella in Calabria, Italy, frames turquoise water and jagged cliffs beyond. The view is seen from a small, pebbled beach, where the gentle waves lap at the shore beneath towering rock walls.

6. The Coast of the Gods

Stretching from Pizzo to Nicotera, the Coast of the Gods (Costa degli Dei) is one of Italy’s most beautiful stretches of coastline and one of the top places to visit in Calabria. The area is home to Calabria’s best beaches, including Marasusa Beach in Zambrone and the famous beaches of Tropea.

If you’re road-tripping through Calabria, following the coastline and stopping at small villages and hidden coves is the best way to experience it.

Where to Stay along the Coast of the Gods

Hotel Damanse (Santa Domenica) – A beautiful hotel with a pool and a private beach.

7. Diamante – Calabria’s City of Murals

Diamante sits along the Riviera dei Cedri, a stretch of coastline known for its citrus groves and picturesque beaches. But it’s most famous for its vibrant street art, with over 300 murals covering the town’s walls. Walking through the historic centre is an experience, with colourful paintings decorating houses and buildings.

And if you’re visiting in September, you’ll get to experience the Peperoncino Festival, celebrating Calabria’s love for spicy chili peppers, one of the foods Calabria is known for . The festival features performances, exhibits, food tastings, and even a chili-eating contest for the brave.

Where to Eat in Diamante

Ristorante Il Principe – Traditional Calabrian cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood.

8. Reggio Calabria – The Riace Bronzes & Waterfront

Reggio Calabria is Calabria’s largest city, but the main highlights for visitors are the waterfront promenade and the famous Riace Bronzes.

The Lungomare Falcomatà is a scenic seaside walkway with views of Sicily. Lined with palm trees and historic buildings, it’s the perfect place for a relaxed stroll.

A dramatic coastal view from Reggio Calabria, Italy, with a palm-lined promenade curving along the shore and the snow-capped peak of Mount Etna rising in the distance across the water. The sky is painted with streaks of golden and blue clouds, adding depth to the tranquil seascape.

Just a short walk away, the National Archaeological Museum houses the Riace Bronzes, two ancient Greek warrior statues that are among Italy’s most important archaeological discoveries. These well-preserved bronze sculptures date back to the 5^th century BC and are an absolute must-see for history lovers.

Where to Eat in Reggio Calabria

Gelato Cesare – One of the most famous gelato shops in Calabria, right near the promenade.
Spaccanapoli – An excellent restaurant serving and delicious pizzas and authentic Southern Italian food.

9. Stilo – Home to a Byzantine Gem

Stilo is best known for La Cattolica, a tiny Byzantine church perched on a hillside with incredible views. Built in the 9^th century, this well-preserved church features distinctive red brick domes and beautiful frescoes inside.

A picturesque hilltop town of Stilo in Calabria, Italy, bathed in warm sunset light with terracotta-roofed buildings and a prominent historic church. The town overlooks a dramatic landscape of rolling hills, winding roads, and a river snaking through a lush valley.

But the town itself is just as fascinating. Laid out in tiers, Stilo features stone palaces, small squares, and narrow alleys weaving between dark stone houses. Flights of steps connect different levels of the town, creating a maze-like layout that feels frozen in time.

With its medieval charm and historic architecture, Stilo is a must-visit for those looking to experience Calabria beyond the coastline.

10. Morano Calabro – A Mountain Village Straight Out of a Fairytale

Morano Calabro is a picture-perfect mountain town that looks almost unreal. This stunning medieval village, set against the backdrop of Calabria’s mountains, has a unique pyramid-like shape makes it one of the most beautiful in the region.

It’s the perfect place for wandering, soaking in mountain views, and experiencing small-town Calabria without the crowds.

If you love history, don’t miss the 11th-century Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, which was once a key pilgrimage stop for travellers heading to Rome.

The area is also a great base for hiking, as it sits on the edge of Pollino National Park, Italy’s largest national park. With deep gorges, dramatic peaks, and wild landscapes, it’s a paradise for outdoor lovers and there’s plenty of scenic hiking trails leading into the surrounding mountains.

Where to Stay:

Casale Trifoglio – A recently renovated B&B with mountain views, a peaceful garden, and a sun terrace—perfect for a relaxing stay in Morano Calabro.

11. Pentedattilo – Calabria’s Ghost Town

Pentedattilo is one of the most surreal places to visit in Calabria. This (almost) abandoned village sits dramatically against a jagged rock formation that looks almost otherworldly.

The town was largely abandoned in the 1960s, and today, it has only one permanent resident. Walking through the empty stone streets feels like stepping into a forgotten past, with crumbling houses and breathtaking views over the countryside.

It’s a must-visit for photographers, history lovers, or anyone looking for a truly off-the-beaten-path experience in Calabria.

the abandoned ghost town of pentedatillo in italy. houses and buildings sit empty on the hillside and the setting sun gives a warm orange glow to the historic town.

12. Brancaleone Vetus – Calabria’s Forgotten Village

Brancaleone Vetus is an ancient abandoned village perched on a rocky hilltop. Dating back to the Byzantine era, it was once a thriving settlement before being gradually abandoned in the 20th century.

Today, wandering through the ruins of stone houses and old churches, you get a real sense of Calabria’s history. The village also offers stunning panoramic views over the Ionian coastline.

If you visit, keep an eye out for the Grotta della Madonna, a small cave church with ancient frescoes.

Golden sunlight bathes the crumbling stone ruins of an old structure in Brancaleone, Calabria, with rolling green hills and terraced farmland stretching into the hazy distance. The scene captures a peaceful, nostalgic atmosphere amidst the rugged beauty of southern Italy.

13. Aspromonte National Park – Calabria’s Wild Side

Aspromonte National Park is one of Calabria’s most untouched and rugged natural areas. Located in the southern part of the region, it’s is home to towering mountains, dense forests, and hidden waterfalls, and is one of the best places to stay in Calabria if you’re looking for something away from the coast.

The park is home to rugged landscapes and diverse wildlife, including the elusive Italian wolf and golden eagle. It’s also a great destination for hiking, with trails leading to spectacular viewpoints and deep canyons, and some of Calabria’s most untouched nature.

One of the most unique sights is the Montalto Peak, the highest point in the park, offering breathtaking views over the Ionian and Tyrrhenian seas.

A sweeping view of the Aspromonte mountains in Calabria, Italy, showcasing a patchwork of rolling hills, farmland, and dense clusters of trees. The varied terrain is dotted with olive groves, winding paths, and scattered houses under a partly cloudy sky. — Aspromonte

Final Thoughts: Beautiful Places to Visit in Calabria

Even after spending time in Tropea and Zambrone, we know we barely scratched the surface of what Calabria has to offer. While we managed to visit a few of these incredible places, many others on this list came from recommendations from friends who spend summers in Zambrone. After hearing about hidden villages, breathtaking coastal spots, and historic towns, we already have a list of places to explore next time.

Whether you’re visiting for the beaches, history, or the quiet charm of small-town Italy, there’s no shortage of incredible places to visit in Calabria.