4 day itinerary for Calabria

Itinerary

Calabria is a stunning region in southern Italy, known for its beautiful coastline, charming towns, and delicious cuisine. Here’s a fun and engaging 4-day itinerary that will let you soak in the best of what Calabria has to offer!

## Day 1: Explore Tropea

Morning:

• Start your day with a delicious Italian breakfast at a local café. Try a cornetto (Italian croissant) and a cappuccino!
• After breakfast, head to Tropea, a picturesque town perched on a cliff overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. Stroll through the narrow streets, and don’t miss the stunning views from the Belvedere.

Afternoon:

• Grab lunch at a seaside restaurant. You must try the ‘nduja, a spicy spreadable salami that’s a local specialty!
• Spend your afternoon at Tropea Beach. Relax on the sandy shores or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider renting a kayak to explore the coastline.

Evening:

• As the sun sets, head back to the town for dinner. Enjoy fresh seafood at a local trattoria, and pair it with a glass of Cirò wine, a regional favorite.
• After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the beach promenade and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

## Day 2: Pizzo and Capo Vaticano

Morning:

• After breakfast, make your way to Pizzo, a charming coastal town known for its Tartufo ice cream. Stop by a gelateria and treat yourself to this delicious dessert!
• Explore the historic center, visiting the beautiful Church of Piedigrotta, which is carved into the rock.

Afternoon:

• For lunch, enjoy a slice of Pizzo’s famous pizza, known for its thin crust and fresh toppings.
• Afterward, head to Capo Vaticano, one of the most beautiful beaches in Calabria. Spend the afternoon swimming, sunbathing, or hiking along the scenic trails that offer breathtaking views of the coastline.

Evening:

• Return to Pizzo for dinner. Try the local specialty, swordfish, at a cozy restaurant.
• If you’re up for it, enjoy a nightcap at a bar with a view of the sea, and watch the stars twinkle above.

## Day 3: Reggio Calabria and Scilla

Morning:

• Start your day with a drive to Reggio Calabria, the largest city in the region. Visit the National Archaeological Museum, home to the famous Riace Bronzes.
• Take a stroll along the Lungomare, a beautiful promenade with stunning views of Sicily across the Strait of Messina.

Afternoon:

• For lunch, try some local street food, like arancini (fried rice balls) or a panino with local meats and cheeses.
• After lunch, head to Scilla, a charming fishing village. Explore the picturesque Chianalea district, where houses are built right on the water.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant in Scilla, where you can savor fresh fish dishes while listening to the sound of the waves.
• If you’re feeling adventurous, take a sunset boat tour to see the coastline from the water.

## Day 4: Aspromonte National Park

Morning:

• After breakfast, venture into Aspromonte National Park for a day of nature and adventure. The park is known for its stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and waterfalls.
• Choose a hiking trail that suits your level of experience. The hike to the Cascate del Marmarico is a popular choice, leading you to one of the tallest waterfalls in Italy.

Afternoon:

• Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature, or find a local trattoria in one of the nearby villages for a hearty meal.
• Spend the afternoon exploring more of the park or visiting the charming village of Gerace, known for its medieval castle and beautiful cathedral.

Evening:

• Head back to your base and enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Celebrate your trip with a traditional Calabrian meal, perhaps featuring homemade pasta and local wines.
• Take a moment to reflect on your adventures and the beautiful memories you’ve created in Calabria!

Tips:

• Don’t forget to try local specialties like bergamot, a citrus fruit unique to the region, and the various cheeses produced in Calabria.
• Renting a car is a great way to explore the region at your own pace, as public transport can be limited in some areas.

Enjoy your trip to Calabria! It’s a region full of charm, beauty, and delicious food that you won’t soon forget! 🌊🍝✨