Where to Visit in Calabria? Hidden Gems Revealed

Located in the southern region of Italy, Calabria is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. This region is often overlooked by tourists, but it has a lot to offer, from its stunning beaches and mountains to its ancient ruins and delicious cuisine. In this article, we will explore the best places to visit in Calabria, a region that is waiting to be discovered.

The Beaches of Calabria

Calabria is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Italy, with crystal-clear waters and golden sand. The most popular beach destinations in Calabria include:

• Pizzo Calabro: A picturesque town on the Ionian coast, known for its stunning beaches and historic center.
• Sila National Park: A protected area with several beaches, including the popular beach of Scalea.
• Capo Vaticano: A scenic headland with a beautiful beach and stunning views of the Strait of Messina.
• Maratea: A charming coastal town with several beaches, including the popular beach of Marina Po.

The Mountains of Calabria

Calabria is also home to several mountain ranges, including the Sila Mountains and the Aspromonte Mountains. These mountains offer a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. Some of the most popular mountain destinations in Calabria include:

• Sila National Park: A protected area with several mountain peaks, including the highest peak in Calabria, Botte Donato.
• Aspromonte National Park: A protected area with several mountain peaks and scenic hiking trails.
• Mount Etna: A dormant volcano that is located on the border with Sicily and offers stunning views and outdoor activities.

The Cities of Calabria

Calabria is home to several historic cities, including the capital city of Reggio Calabria. Some of the most popular cities to visit in Calabria include:

• Reggio Calabria: The capital city of Calabria, known for its historic center and stunning views of the Strait of Messina.
• Crotone: A historic city on the Ionian coast, known for its ancient ruins and stunning beaches.
• Cosenza: A charming city in the heart of Calabria, known for its historic center and scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
• Vibo Valentia: A historic city on the Tyrrhenian coast, known for its ancient ruins and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

The Cuisine of Calabria

Calabrian cuisine is known for its rich flavors and aromas, with a focus on local ingredients such as olive oil, garlic, and citrus fruits. Some of the most popular dishes to try in Calabria include: (See Also: Where to Visit in Tasmania? Ultimate Guide)

• Peperoncino: A spicy pepper that is used in many Calabrian dishes.
• Olives: Calabria is known for its high-quality olive oil, which is used in many local dishes.
• Citrus fruits: Calabria is known for its citrus fruits, including lemons, oranges, and mandarins.
• Arancini: Stuffed rice balls that are typically filled with meat, cheese, and tomato sauce.

The History of Calabria

Calabria has a rich history that dates back thousands of years, with evidence of human habitation dating back to the Paleolithic era. Some of the most important historical sites to visit in Calabria include:

• Reggio Calabria National Museum: A museum that houses many of the region’s most important archaeological finds.
• Paestum: A ancient Greek city that is located on the Ionian coast and is known for its stunning ruins.
• Crotone Archaeological Museum: A museum that houses many of the region’s most important archaeological finds.
• Aspromonte National Park: A protected area that is home to many ancient ruins and historic sites.

Conclusion

Calabria is a region that is waiting to be discovered, with its stunning beaches, mountains, cities, and cuisine. From its ancient ruins to its modern cities, there is something for everyone in Calabria. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an active adventure, Calabria is the perfect destination for you.

Recap

In this article, we have explored the best places to visit in Calabria, including its beaches, mountains, cities, and cuisine. We have also looked at the region’s history and culture, and highlighted some of the most important historical sites to visit. Whether you are looking for a relaxing vacation or an active adventure, Calabria is the perfect destination for you.

FAQs

What is the best time to visit Calabria?

The best time to visit Calabria is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the region can be visited year-round, with the winter months being the best time to visit if you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation. (See Also: Where to Visit in the Arctic? Unforgettable Adventures)

What is the best way to get around Calabria?

The best way to get around Calabria is by car, as the region has a well-developed highway system. However, there are also many public transportation options available, including buses and trains.

What are the most popular beaches in Calabria?

The most popular beaches in Calabria include Pizzo Calabro, Scalea, Capo Vaticano, and Marina Po. These beaches are known for their crystal-clear waters and golden sand.

What are the most popular cities to visit in Calabria?

The most popular cities to visit in Calabria include Reggio Calabria, Crotone, Cosenza, and Vibo Valentia. These cities are known for their historic centers and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. (See Also: Where to Visit in Kerala India? Unveiling Paradise)

What is the best way to experience the cuisine of Calabria?

The best way to experience the cuisine of Calabria is by trying some of the region’s most popular dishes, such as peperoncino, olives, and arancini. You can also visit one of the many local markets or food festivals to sample some of the region’s specialties.