Attractions and Places To See in Calabria - Top 20
Attractions and places to see in Calabria include a diverse landscape spanning rugged mountains, extensive coastlines, and historical sites. The region is characterized by its three national parks, offering varied natural features from dense forests to deep canyons. Calabria also features ancient ruins and picturesque villages, reflecting its rich history and cultural significance. Its position between the Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas provides a range of coastal attractions.
Best attractions and places to see in Calabria
- The most popular attractions is Lake Cecita, a lake of artificial origin within the Sila National Park. It features a visitor center and is part of the Calabria Parks cycle path.
- Another must-see spot is Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell'Isola, a religious building perched on a rock in Tropea. This former monastery offers panoramic views from its roof terrace and includes a cloister garden.
- Visitors also love Raganello Gorge and Devil's Bridge, a narrow canyon with a bridge offering scenic views. It provides opportunities for hiking and enjoying clear mountain water.
- Calabria is known for its historical sites, natural monuments, and religious buildings. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient settlements to national parks.
- The attractions in Calabria are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 160 upvotes and more than 180 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell'Isola
Highlight • Religious Site
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Tropea
Highlight • Settlement
Tropea, also called "the pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea", is probably the most famous town in Calabria and a "must" for every vacationer in Calabria. The coastal town is the epitome of this region in Italy, here you can experience (almost) everything that Calabria has to offer for vacationers. Stroll down the cobblestone street past quaint little cafes, souvenir shops and ice cream parlors to the most beautiful viewpoint in town!
The town of Tropea is located in the Vibo Valentia region and, together with Capo Vaticano, forms one of the most popular holiday areas in Calabria. The unique location on an imposing cliff directly on the sea makes Tropea an extraordinary place. The houses were built right up to the vertical cliff edge and offer a spectacular view of the open sea. If you look down vertically, you will discover the beautiful, wide sandy beach with crystal-clear water, which can be reached via steep stairs from the old town of Tropea.
Text / source: Calabria Ferien.com
calabriaholidays.com/tropea
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Lake Cecita
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Murat Castle of Pizzo Calabro
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Church of the Most Holy Immaculate Conception, Scilla
Highlight • Religious Site
The mother church of the Santissima Immacolata di Scilla is also called the church "Mesa" or half because it is located at the crossroads of the streets that lead to the three main districts of the country: Marina Grande, Chianalea and San Giorgio. The current building was built on a pre-existing church dedicated to Santa Maria Cattolica and part of the ancient Basilian monastery of San Pancrazio. In the sixteenth century it was badly damaged by earthquakes, so much so that it had to undergo extensive renovations, which also led to an expansion of the structure. The church also suffered the same fate in the eighteenth century, with an earthquake that collapsed the entire central vault, and in 1908, when the rear and the interior of the colonnade on the west side were demolished.
Text / Source: Italia Virtual Tour is a project by Comunicando Leader
italiavirtualtour.it/dettaglio.php?id=95990
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Church of Saint Roch and Saint Francis of Paola, Pizzo
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Raganello Gorge and Devil's Bridge
Highlight • Gorge
Try to make the round trip (the path is a bit overgrown and steep but the views on the way up are worth it). It starts on the right when returning from the bridge.
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Zungri Cave Settlement
Highlight • Cave
The ancient, carved in the rock settlement is located about 20 km from Tropea and looks out on a deep valley and further on the "Gods" out, one of the most beautiful landscapes of Calabria.
The village probably dates from the 6th or 7th century, when the monks of the Basilian Order fled the persecution from the east and settled here on Monte Poro. The settlement comprises a total of one hundred caves, which served either as a habitation or as a granary. The oldest develops on four levels; a wall shows a fish-like incised drawing.
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Scilla
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Chapel of the Charterhouse of Serra San Bruno
Highlight • Religious Site
The Charterhouse of Santo Stefano
The first monastery was in the Dauphiné, a region on the western slope of the Alps, southwest of Savoy, near the present city of Grenoble, in the summer of 1084, for the feast of John the Baptist, in a mountainous and wooded area, at 1175 m .above sea level, in the heart of the massif called "Cartusia" in Bruno's time, hence the Italian name "Certosa" and the French name "Chartreuse".
The construction work started immediately and progressed quickly. In fact, the main part had to be completed before the start of winter. The cells for the hermits were built around a spring and had to resemble the huts of shepherds and woodcutters: primitive and rustic construction, but fairly solid. In fact, they had to withstand the weight of snow from year to year. At first, each house (or cell) housed two monks, probably to save time and funds; Only later did each loner have his own cell.
The church was the only stone building: a sine qua non for its consecration, which took place on September 2, 1085 for the service of Bishop Ugo and under the patronage of Our Lady and the Baptist. Today, on the site where the cells of the first Carthusians once stood, there is a chapel called "Chapel of San Bruno" and another dedicated to the Madonna called "Madonna di Casalibus". The life of those first fathers of the Gran Certosa is known to us through the testimonies of the writer Guigo in the life of Saint Hugh and the traveler Guiberto di Nogent, from which, adding some information contained in the "Customs" of Guigo and some important ones phrases of the letters of Saint Bruno, Venerable and Saint Bernard create a picturesque image of fervor, rigor and the authentic monastic spirit. Bishop Hugo gave them every security, protecting them in any dispute with neighbors and allowing Bruno and his family full ownership of the Chartreuse desert. The new loners could then live there completely separated from the world in a legally untouchable retreat that only formed the outer framework of an existence in which the essentials were elsewhere. Saint Bruno displayed paternal care for his brothers and a sense of balance and measure that made him say to his own, perhaps too fervently, as is customary for beginners: "If the bow is constantly stretched, it loosens and becomes for less suitable for his task". Instead, when he stayed too long with the monks for solitude's sake, his friend Hugh reminded the Bishop of Grenoble of the duties of his ministry: "Go to your sheep". Seeing the beautiful cliffs covered with snow and glowing in the sun, he let his deep and contemplative heart expand his habitual prayer of admiration and adoration of the Creator: "O goodness of God!".
Text / Source: Serra San Bruno
visitserrasanbruno.it/visitare-serra-san-bruno/la-certosa-di-santo-stefano
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Tips from the Community
It is worth climbing the steps up to the church. From up there you have a magnificent view of the Tropea cityscape and the mountain landscape behind it. The basilica is surrounded by a garden with cacti and olive trees. The dreamlike view of the turquoise-blue sea and the beach "Spiaggia della Rotonda" below the old town of Tropea, in particular, makes a visit to the small park worthwhile. (Source KunstundReisen)
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An excellent starting point for a visit to the historic center of Pizzo Calabro
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A very beautiful church.
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Magnificent Charterhouse. A must-visit. Info: https://www.certosini.info/
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Beautiful fortress with a great history of Napoleon's brother-in-law
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Fantastically beautiful, very well organized and very well maintained and clean.
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Among the most beautiful places in all of Calabria, Scilla stands on a scenic promontory not far from the Strait of Messina. It is famous for the church of San Rocco, the Ruffo Castle and above all for its seaside hamlet, Chianalea, a splendid fishing village.
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Many Italian churches are dedicated to the Mother of God Mary and thus have a "SANTA MARIA" (sometimes, as here, increased to "SANTISSIMA") in their name. This church in Scilla has the addition "IMMACOLATA", so it is dedicated to the "Immaculate Conception" of the Mother of God. This term, which today may sound a bit theoretical and difficult to understand, is intended to say that the Mother of God was freed from the beginning by the grace of God from the burden of original sin - which otherwise every person carries within themselves. This meant that when the archangel later announced to her in Nazareth that she would give birth to the Son of God, she was willing to answer YES of her own free will. In 1854, Pope Pius IX elevated this article of faith to dogma. The feast for this occasion - and at the same time the patronage of this church here - which in the Catholic liturgy is called the "Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary without Original Sin" is celebrated annually on December 8th.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore in Calabria?
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.
Are there any historical sites or ancient ruins to visit in Calabria?
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.
What are some family-friendly attractions in Calabria?
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.
Where can I find hiking trails in Calabria?
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.
Are there any running trails available near the attractions?
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.
What are some unique coastal towns or beaches to visit?
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.
What is the best time to visit Calabria for outdoor activities?
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.
Are there any specific viewpoints offering panoramic scenery?
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.
What are some lesser-known or 'hidden gem' attractions in Calabria?
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.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions in Calabria?
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.
Are there any waterfall hikes in Calabria?
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.
Most popular routes in Calabria
Most popular attractions in Calabria
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