5 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 5-day itinerary that will let you soak in the best of what Calabria has to offer!

## Day 1: Arrival in Lamezia Terme & Tropea

Morning:

• Arrive at Lamezia Terme Airport. Grab a coffee and a pastry at a local café to kickstart your adventure!
• Rent a car (it’s the best way to explore Calabria) and head towards Tropea, which is about an hour away.

Afternoon:

• Check into your hotel in Tropea. After settling in, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of this cliffside town.
• Visit the stunning Tropea Beach. The turquoise waters and sandy shores are perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant. Try the local specialty, ‘nduja, a spicy spreadable salami, and don’t forget to sample some Calabrian wine!

## Day 2: Explore Tropea & Capo Vaticano

Morning:

• Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café. Try the ‘pasta con le sarde’ for a true Calabrian experience.
• Visit the Santa Maria dell’Isola, a beautiful church perched on a cliff with breathtaking views.

Afternoon:

• Head to Capo Vaticano, just a short drive away. Spend some time at the beach or hike the scenic trails for panoramic views of the coastline.
• Grab a light lunch at a beachside trattoria.

Evening:

• Return to Tropea for dinner. Explore the local gelaterias for a sweet treat afterward. You can’t leave without trying the gelato!

## Day 3: Pizzo & Vibo Valentia

Morning:

• After breakfast, drive to Pizzo, a charming coastal town known for its Tartufo ice cream. Visit the Castello Murat, where Joachim Murat was imprisoned.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy lunch in Pizzo, and make sure to try the famous Tartufo for dessert!
• Afterward, head to Vibo Valentia. Explore the historic center and visit the Norman Castle for some fantastic views.

Evening:

• Return to Tropea for dinner or try a local restaurant in Vibo Valentia. Enjoy some fresh seafood dishes, which are a highlight of Calabrian cuisine.

## Day 4: Aspromonte National Park

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a day trip to Aspromonte National Park. It’s about an hour’s drive from Tropea.
• Start with a hike to the stunning Cascate del Marmarico, the highest waterfall in Calabria.

Afternoon:

• Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature or find a local trattoria in one of the nearby villages.
• Spend the afternoon exploring the park’s trails, enjoying the lush landscapes and perhaps spotting some local wildlife.

Evening:

• Head back to Tropea. Treat yourself to a relaxing dinner, perhaps at a restaurant with a view of the sunset over the sea.

## Day 5: Reggio Calabria & Scilla

Morning:

• Check out of your hotel and drive to Reggio Calabria, the largest city in the region. Visit the National Archaeological Museum, home to the famous Riace Bronzes.

Afternoon:

• Stroll along the Lungomare, a beautiful promenade with stunning views of Sicily across the strait.
• Enjoy lunch at a local pizzeria—Calabria is known for its delicious pizza!

Evening:

• Head to Scilla, a picturesque fishing village. Explore the charming Chianalea district and relax on the beach.
• For your final dinner, indulge in some local seafood dishes while enjoying the view of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Departure:

• Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance for a leisurely breakfast in Scilla before heading back to Lamezia Terme for your departure.

And there you have it! A delightful 5-day itinerary filled with stunning sights, delicious food, and the warm hospitality of Calabria. Enjoy your trip! 🌞🍝🏖️