Attractions and Places To See in Calabria - Top 20

Calabria offers diverse natural beauty. You can visit Lake Cecita, an artificial lake within Sila National Park, which is part of the Calabria Parks cycle path. Another stunning natural feature is the Raganello Gorge and Devil's Bridge, a narrow canyon perfect for hiking and enjoying clear mountain water. The region also boasts three national parks: Pollino, Sila, and Aspromonte, offering rugged mountains, dense forests, and deep canyons.

Yes, Calabria is rich in history. The iconic Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell'Isola in Tropea, perched on a rock, is a must-see religious building with panoramic views. You can also explore the Murat Castle of Pizzo Calabro, a significant historical site. Beyond these, the region features ancient Greek and Roman archaeological parks like Scolacium, Locri Epizephyrii, and Sibaritide, as well as charming medieval villages such as Gerace and Stilo with its Byzantine Cattolica.

Many attractions in Calabria are suitable for families. Lake Cecita in Sila National Park has a visitor center and botanical garden, making it an excellent starting point for excursions. The town of Tropea and the picturesque fishing village of Scilla offer beautiful beaches and charming environments. The Zungri Cave Settlement provides an interesting historical exploration for all ages.

Calabria is a fantastic destination for hiking. You can find numerous trails in its national parks, such as Pollino, Sila, and Aspromonte. For easy hikes, consider routes like 'From Orsomarso to Ficara Waterfall' or 'Waterfalls Trail' in the Argentino River Valley Nature Reserve. You can find more options and details on the Easy hikes in Calabria guide page.

Yes, Calabria offers several scenic running trails. In Reggio Calabria, you can enjoy 'The Lungomare and the center of Reggio Calabria – loop run'. Other options include the 'Capo Vaticano Panoramic Trail' or a 'Tour around the fortress of Le Castella'. For more detailed routes, refer to the Running Trails in Calabria guide.

Calabria's coastlines are stunning. Tropea, known as the 'Pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea,' offers dramatic cliffside views and crystal-clear waters. Scilla, on the Costa Viola, is a picturesque fishing village with its unique Chianalea district built over the water. Capo Vaticano is renowned for having one of Calabria's most beautiful beaches, and the Aragonese Castle of Le Castella, situated on a promontory, is another coastal highlight.

The best time to visit Calabria for outdoor activities largely depends on the specific activity. For hiking and exploring national parks like Pollino, Sila, and Aspromonte, spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures. For beach activities and enjoying the coast, summer (July-August) is ideal, though it can be quite warm. Winter offers opportunities for snow sports in the mountainous areas of Sila National Park.

Calabria is dotted with incredible viewpoints. The Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell'Isola in Tropea provides an excellent vantage point from its roof terrace. The Raganello Gorge and Devil's Bridge offers amazing views of the canyon. Additionally, Ruffo Castle in Scilla and the Castello Aragonese in Reggio Calabria provide stunning panoramic views of the sea and surrounding landscapes.

Beyond the popular spots, Calabria holds many hidden gems. The Zungri Cave Settlement offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient cave dwellings. The medieval village of Gerace, with its Norman Cathedral and cobbled streets, provides an authentic historical experience. Pentedattilo, an abandoned village built on a rock resembling a giant hand, offers mysterious ruins and beautiful views. The Cattolica di Stilo, a 9th-century Byzantine church, is another unique historical find.

Visitors frequently praise the diverse beauty of Calabria, from its rugged mountains to its pristine coastlines. The komoot community has shared over 180 photos and given more than 160 upvotes, highlighting the region's appeal. Specific tips mention the breathtaking views from the Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell'Isola, the refreshing experience of the Raganello Gorge, and the natural habitats around Lake Cecita.

Yes, Calabria features several beautiful waterfall hikes. You can explore trails like 'From Orsomarso to Ficara Waterfall' in the Argentino River Valley Nature Reserve or the 'Waterfalls Trail'. The Aspromonte National Park also offers routes such as 'Cascate del Maesano'. More options and details can be found on the Waterfall hikes in Calabria guide page.