Located at the “toe” of Italy’s boot, Calabria boasts an astonishing 800 km of coastline. Nestled between the Tyrrhenian Sea to the west and the Ionian Sea to the east, it is a land of striking contrasts—where rugged mountains meet pristine beaches.
Calabria is divided into five provinces: Catanzaro, Cosenza, Crotone, Reggio Calabria, and Vibo Valentia. However, when visitors speak of Calabria, they often refer to its two most vibrant coastal hubs—Tropea and Soverato—both renowned for their natural beauty and lively atmosphere.
What Makes Calabria Special?
- A Landscape of Contrasts – From the dramatic coastline to lush forests and highland villages, Calabria’s diverse scenery is breathtaking.
- A Crossroads of Cultures – The region’s heritage is an extraordinary mix of Greek, Norman, Albanian, and Waldensian influences, reflected in its architecture, dialects, and customs.
- A Taste of Tradition – Calabria’s cuisine is as rich as its history, with bold flavors and local specialties like ‘nduja (spicy spreadable sausage), fresh seafood, and the renowned red onions of Tropea.
- A Place of Ancient Legends – Calabria is a land steeped in myths and history, where centuries-old villages overlook the sea and ancient Greek temples stand as reminders of a glorious past.
Easy to Reach, Impossible to Forget
Despite its rugged and untamed beauty, Calabria is well connected. With modern airports, railways, and highways, exploring one of Italy’s most picturesque regions has never been easier.
The region’s main cities—Catanzaro, Cosenza, Crotone, Reggio Calabria, and Vibo Valentia—offer a perfect blend of historic charm and contemporary amenities. Each city serves as a gateway to fascinating cultural and natural experiences.
Ready to experience Calabria? Watch the stunning video above for a bird’s-eye view of this breathtaking region!
A Hidden Gem of Southern Italy
Calabria is mysterious, enchanting, and rich with history, captivating visitors with its raw natural beauty and authentic charm. Long ago, the Greeks chose this region as the birthplace of Italy’s name, founding settlements that thrived and establishing Calabria as part of Magna Graecia. Over the centuries, many civilizations have left their mark, shaping the region’s diverse cultural heritage. Even today, ancient traditions and folklore remain deeply rooted in everyday life. One remarkable example of this heritage is the Aragonese Castle of Charles V.
A Nature Lover’s Paradise
For those who love nature, the Sila National Park is a must-visit. Stretching across rolling mountains and dense forests, the park is home to rich wildlife and breathtaking panoramas. Don’t miss a visit to Catanzaro, where the historic Fortezza dei Borgia offers a glimpse into the region’s medieval past, or Reggio Calabria, home to the world-famous Riace Bronzes, a pair of ancient Greek statues on display at the archaeological museum.
Sun, Sea, and History
In Calabria, you will find some of the cleanest waters in Italy, shimmering in endless shades of blue, alongside white sandy beaches, centuries-old ruins, and the warmth of legendary Calabrian hospitality.
The region is blessed with two stunningly diverse coastlines:
- The Tyrrhenian Coast (West) – Here, Tropea rivals the best of France’s Côte d’Azur and Sardinia’s emerald shores. From Tropea, you can embark on a once-in-a-lifetime excursion to the Aeolian Islands, a favorite getaway for the world’s elite.
- The Ionian Coast (East) – In Soverato, the Ionian Sea offers gentle waters and golden beaches. From here, you can venture to Puglia and explore the relics of St. Nicholas in Bari or the fairy-tale-like Trulli houses of Alberobello.
