Planning your perfect escape to southern Italy’s hidden gem requires careful consideration of where to base yourself. I’ve spent months exploring this stunning region, from the dramatic cliffs of Tropea to the cultural richness of Reggio Calabria, discovering that choosing the right location can make or break your Italian adventure.
Each area in Calabria offers something completely different – whether you’re seeking pristine beaches along the Tyrrhenian Sea, authentic fishing villages, or mountain retreats with breathtaking views. The region’s diverse landscape means you could spend days lounging on white sand beaches, exploring ancient Greek ruins, or savoring some of Italy’s most authentic cuisine at family-run restaurants and hotels. This comprehensive guide breaks down the eight best areas to consider, helping you match your travel style with the perfect base for exploring everything this remarkable region has to offer.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Calabria:
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Galia Luxury Resort
- ✨ 5-Star: Borghetto Creative Resort Tropea
- 🏨 4-Star: Infinity Resort Tropea
- 🛏 3-Star: Albergo Centrale
- 💸 Cheap: B&B El Bisagra
- 🏢 Apartment: 87029 House
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Club La Castellana
- 🏩 For Couples: Palace Eight
Quick Guide to the Best Places to Stay in Calabria 📋
- 🏖️ Beach Lovers: Tropea Hotels
- 🏛️ Culture & History: Reggio Calabria Hotels
- 🌊 Quiet Beaches: Zambrone Hotels
- 🍝 Food Lovers: Pizzo Hotels
- 🎣 Fishing Village Charm: Scilla Hotels
- 🏨 Luxury Resorts: Capo Vaticano Hotels
1. Tropea – Where to Stay in Calabria for Beach Lovers
Cliffside Drama. I’ll never forget my first glimpse of Tropea’s dramatic coastline from the clifftop. The town perches 200 feet above crystal-clear waters, creating one of Italy’s most photographed seaside settings. The Santa Maria dell’Isola monastery sits on a rocky outcrop, creating the iconic postcard view that draws photographers from around the world.
Beach Access Adventures. Getting down to Tropea’s beaches requires either a steep walk or the convenient funicular railway (€2 each way, about $2.20 USD). The main beach stretches for nearly a mile, with soft white sand meeting turquoise waters that rival the Caribbean. Beach equipment rentals cost €15-25 daily for umbrella and two chairs at establishments like Lido Tropical or Bagni Marino.
Local Dining Scene. Tropea’s famous red onions appear on every menu, from the simple Osteria del Pescatore (open 7pm-midnight) to upscale Pimm’s Restaurant (reservations essential). The local ‘nduja spicy spread pairs perfectly with fresh seafood and regional wines. For a quick lunch, Taverna Antica Grecia offers excellent paninis with local ingredients (open 11am-3pm).
Best Local Experiences:
- Blue Grotto Beach Bar – Excellent granita (€4, $4.40 USD), open until 2am
- Gelateria Ercole – Town’s best gelato (€3-5, $3.30-5.50 USD), opens 10am daily
- Mirador Bar – Cliff-edge cocktails (€8-12, $8.75-13 USD), sunset views from 6pm
- Weekly Market – Monday mornings at Piazza Ercole, local produce and crafts
Transportation & Practical Tips. The historic Corso Vittorio Emanuele pedestrian street is car-free, so parking at Parcheggio Comunale costs €3-5 daily. Tropea’s train station connects to Reggio Calabria (€8, $8.75 USD, 2 hours) with scenic coastal views.
Restaurant | Price Range (€) | Price Range (USD) | Opening Hours |
---|---|---|---|
Osteria del Pescatore | €25-35 | $27-38 | 7pm-midnight |
Pimm’s Restaurant | €45-65 | $49-71 | Reservations required |
Taverna Antica Grecia | €8-12 | $8.75-13 | 11am-3pm |
Caffè Centrale | €4-7/glass | $4.40-7.70/glass | 7pm aperitivo |
Best Hotels in Tropea
Luxury Hotels
- La Dolce Vita Tropea – This elegant property offers sophisticated rooms with modern amenities and exceptional service in the heart of the historic town center.
- NoOne Tropea Guesthouse – An intimate boutique property providing personalized service and stylish rooms with attention to detail and contemporary design.
- Mediterranean Boutique Hotel – This elegant property offers sophisticated rooms with modern amenities in Tropea’s historic center, just steps from major attractions.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- La Torre del Mulino – This family-friendly property offers comfortable rooms with traditional charm and modern conveniences at excellent value for money.
- La Maison Derriere – A welcoming accommodation featuring cozy rooms and friendly service in a convenient location near local restaurants and shops.
- Tropea Centro – Situated in the town center, this hotel provides clean, comfortable rooms with essential amenities and easy access to local attractions.
Best Budget Options
- The Bridge Tropea – A budget-friendly property providing basic but clean rooms with good location and friendly service ideal for backpackers and young travelers.
- Casolare Al Porto – An economical choice offering simple accommodations with essential facilities and a convenient location for exploring the town on a budget.
2. Reggio Calabria – Where to Stay in Calabria for Culture & History
Ancient Greek Heritage. Walking through Reggio Calabria’s streets feels like traveling through 3,000 years of history. The city sits at the very tip of Italy’s boot, where ancient Greeks first landed and built Rhegion. I spent hours at the Museo Nazionale della Magna Grecia admiring the famous Riace Bronzes – two perfectly preserved Greek warrior statues discovered in the sea. Entry costs €8 (about $8.75 USD) and the museum opens 9am-8pm Tuesday to Sunday.
Seaside Promenade Life. The 2-kilometer Lungomare Falcomatà stretches along the Strait of Messina with stunning views of Sicily and Mount Etna. I recommend early morning walks when local fishermen sell fresh catch directly from their boats. The promenade comes alive during evening passeggiata, when families stroll and kids play in the small parks. Street vendors sell fresh granite (€3-4, $3.30-4.40 USD) and roasted nuts throughout the day.
Local Food Culture. Reggio’s cuisine blends Calabrian traditions with Sicilian influences due to its location. At Trattoria Baylik (open 12:30pm-3pm, 7:30pm-11pm), I discovered swordfish prepared three different ways. The central Corso Garibaldi offers dozens of cafes serving strong espresso (€1.20, $1.30 USD) and fresh cannoli filled to order.
Best Cultural Sites:
- Castello Aragonese – Medieval fortress with panoramic views, €5 entry ($5.50 USD)
- Cathedral of Reggio Calabria – Rebuilt after 1908 earthquake, free admission
- Villa Comunale – Historic botanical garden, perfect for afternoon relaxation
- Teatro Comunale Francesco Cilea – Opera and concerts, tickets from €15 ($16 USD)
Modern City Conveniences. Unlike smaller Calabrian towns, Reggio offers excellent public transport and shopping. The city center around Via del Torrione provides easy access to banks, pharmacies, and supermarkets. The main train station connects directly to Rome (€45-65, $49-71 USD, 5.5 hours) and offers regional services to other Calabrian destinations.
Attraction | Entry Fee (€) | Entry Fee (USD) | Opening Hours |
---|---|---|---|
Museo Nazionale | €8 | $8.75 | 9am-8pm (closed Mon) |
Castello Aragonese | €5 | $5.50 | 8:30am-7:30pm |
Teatro Cilea | €15-45 | $16-49 | Evening shows |
Villa Comunale | Free | Free | 24 hours |
Best Hotels in Reggio Calabria
Luxury Hotels
- Grand Hotel Excelsior – This prestigious property offers elegant rooms with premium amenities and exceptional service in the heart of the historic city center.
- Xenia Luxury Rooms – Features sophisticated accommodations with upscale furnishings and refined comfort just steps from major cultural attractions and dining venues.
- Malalbergo – An intimate boutique property providing personalized service and stylish rooms with attention to detail and contemporary design.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Fata Morgana 34 – A welcoming accommodation featuring cozy rooms and friendly service in a convenient location near local restaurants and shops.
- Lungomare Reggio di Calabria – Situated along the waterfront, this hotel provides clean, comfortable rooms with essential amenities and easy access to local attractions.
- Garibaldi Rooms – A budget-friendly property providing basic but clean rooms with good location and friendly service ideal for backpackers and young travelers.
Best Budget Options
- Reggio Centro B&B – This charming budget option offers simple yet comfortable rooms with a warm atmosphere and helpful staff for travelers seeking affordable accommodation.
- Pellicano Guest House – This family-friendly property offers comfortable rooms with traditional charm and modern conveniences at excellent value for money.
3. Zambrone – Where to Stay in Calabria for Quiet Beaches
Secluded Paradise. Zambrone offers everything I love about Calabria without the crowds of Tropea. This small fishing village sits between dramatic cliffs and pristine beaches, just 15 minutes drive from its famous neighbor. I discovered that Zambrone’s main beach stretches for 2 kilometers with fine white sand and remarkably clear water. The town maintains its authentic character with only a few thousand residents year-round.
Beach Bliss. The coastline here features three distinct beach areas – each with its own personality. Zambrone Centro offers the most amenities with beach bars like Lido Azzurro serving fresh seafood salads (€12-18, $13-20 USD, open 8am-8pm). Paradiso del Sub provides excellent snorkeling spots with rental gear available for €15 daily ($16 USD). The quieter Spiaggia di Michelino remains almost untouched by tourism.
Local Flavors. Zambrone’s restaurants focus on simple, fresh preparations that let the ingredients shine. At Ristorante Da Nino, I enjoyed the catch of the day grilled with local herbs. The family-run Trattoria Il Borgo serves homemade pasta with ‘nduja (€14, $15 USD) that locals consider the best in the area.
Local Beach Options:
- Zambrone Centro – Main beach with amenities and restaurants
- Paradiso del Sub – Best for snorkeling and diving activities
- Spiaggia di Michelino – Quietest spot, perfect for reading
- Formicoli Beach – Rocky coves ideal for photography
Village Life. The town center clusters around a small piazza where elderly men play cards in the afternoon shade. The weekly market on Thursday mornings (8am-1pm) brings farmers from surrounding hills selling fresh produce, cheese, and honey. I found excellent olive oil at Frantoio Zambrone (€10-15 per bottle, $11-16 USD) and watched them press olives during harvest season.
Restaurant | Price Range (€) | Price Range (USD) | Specialty |
---|---|---|---|
Da Nino | €20-30 | $22-33 | Fresh seafood |
Trattoria Il Borgo | €12-18 | $13-20 | Homemade pasta |
Lido Azzurro | €10-15 | $11-16 | Beach snacks |
Bar Centrale | €3-6 | $3.30-6.60 | Coffee & granita |
Best Hotels in Zambrone
Luxury Hotels
- Villa Ludo – This elegant villa property offers spacious accommodations with premium amenities and personalized service in a tranquil setting away from crowds.
- Villaggio Le Muse – Features upscale resort facilities with sophisticated rooms and refined comfort plus recreational activities for discerning guests.
- Villa Panorama – An intimate boutique villa providing exclusive service and stylish accommodations with attention to detail and contemporary design.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- La Valle Verde – This family-friendly property offers comfortable rooms with traditional charm and modern conveniences at excellent value for money.
- La Praia – A welcoming accommodation featuring cozy rooms and friendly service in a convenient location near local restaurants and shops.
- Airone Residence – Situated in a quiet area, this residence provides clean, comfortable apartments with essential amenities and easy access to local attractions.
4. Pizzo – Top Place to Stay in Calabria for Food Lovers
Gelato Capital. Pizzo claims to have invented tartufo, the famous ice cream dessert that I now crave whenever I visit Italy. At Gelateria Ercole on Corso Umberto I, I watched them hand-roll each tartufo in cocoa powder before serving (€4-6, $4.40-6.60 USD). The original recipe dates back to the 1950s when a local chef created this chocolate-hazelnut masterpiece. Three gelaterias on the same street compete for the title of “best tartufo maker.”
Historic Castle Views. The 15th-century Castello Aragonese dominates Pizzo’s skyline and houses the small museum where French King Joachim Murat met his end. I spent an afternoon exploring the castle’s rooms (€3 entry, open 9am-1pm, 3pm-7pm) and enjoyed incredible views over the Gulf of Sant’Eufemia. The castle’s outdoor concerts during summer evenings create a magical atmosphere with classical music echoing off ancient stones.
Seafood Traditions. Pizzo’s fishing boats return each morning around 7am, and I love watching the organized chaos as fishermen sort their catch. Restaurant owners arrive early to select the best fish for their daily menus. At Ristorante Medusa (€25-40, open 7:30pm-11pm), the chef prepares whatever the boats brought in that day. Their raw tuna with Tropea onions has become my standard order.
Must-Try Food Experiences:
- Original tartufo at Gelateria Ercole – The inventor’s recipe
- Fresh tuna crudo at waterfront restaurants – Daily catch preparation
- ‘Nduja tastings at local delis – Spicy Calabrian specialty
- Morning fish market – Watch the daily catch sorting
Artisan Shopping. The narrow streets leading from the castle hide small workshops where craftsmen create traditional items. At Ceramiche di Pizzo, I found hand-painted plates and bowls (€15-50) that capture the region’s colors perfectly. Local women still make lace by hand at Merletti di Pizzo, continuing a tradition that dates back centuries.
Food Experience | Price Range (€) | Price Range (USD) | Best Time |
---|---|---|---|
Tartufo tasting | €4-6 | $4.40-6.60 | Afternoon |
Seafood dinner | €25-40 | $27-44 | Evening |
‘Nduja products | €8-15 | $8.75-16 | Anytime |
Fish market visit | Free | Free | 7am-9am |
Best Hotels in Pizzo
Luxury Hotels
- Galia Luxury Resort – This prestigious resort offers elegant accommodations with premium amenities and exceptional service in a stunning location with sophisticated facilities.
- La Dimora del Generale – Features upscale rooms with refined comfort and historic charm plus personalized service in an intimate boutique setting.
- Asterias Residence – An elegant residence providing stylish accommodations with attention to detail and contemporary design for discerning travelers.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- HOTEL MERCURIO SUL MARE – This family-friendly property offers comfortable rooms with modern conveniences and excellent proximity to the water at great value.
- Suite Pizzo – This charming budget option offers simple yet comfortable accommodations with a warm atmosphere and helpful staff for travelers seeking affordable stays.
- Della Piazza – Situated in the town center, this property provides clean, comfortable rooms with essential amenities and easy access to local sights.
Best Budget Options
- Murat Guesthouse – A welcoming accommodation featuring cozy rooms and friendly service in a convenient location near local restaurants and attractions.
- Dimora Le Pietre del Mare – A budget-friendly property providing basic but clean rooms with good location and friendly service ideal for backpackers and young travelers.
- Angels Home L&R – An economical choice offering simple accommodations with essential facilities and a convenient location for exploring the town on a budget.
5. Scilla – Where to Stay in Calabria for Fishing Village Charm
Mythical Coastline. Scilla sits where Homer placed the legendary sea monster in his Odyssey, and I can understand why ancient sailors found this coastline both beautiful and treacherous. The town splits into two distinct areas – Marina Grande with its colorful fishing boats, and the upper Scilla with narrow medieval streets. I love watching the daily rhythm of fishermen mending nets in Chianalea, the picturesque fishing quarter built directly into the rocks.
Chianalea Magic. This ancient fishing village feels like stepping into a fairy tale with houses carved directly from cliffsides. The narrow alleys between stone buildings lead to small terraces overlooking the sea. At Trattoria U Bais (meals €18-25, $20-27 USD, open 7pm-11pm), I enjoyed fresh swordfish while waves crashed just meters below my table. The restaurant sources everything from local fishermen who dock their boats right outside.
Castle Fortress. The medieval Castello Ruffo towers over the Strait of Messina from its rocky promontory. I climbed up for sunset views (€3 entry, $3.30 USD, open 9am-7pm) that stretch across to Sicily’s mountains. During summer evenings, the castle courtyard hosts concerts and cultural events. The small archaeological museum inside displays artifacts from Greek and Roman settlements.
Traditional Activities:
- Chianalea boat tours – Explore sea caves and hidden coves (€20-30, $22-33 USD)
- Swordfish watching – Early morning fishing boat departures
- Castle concerts – Summer evening performances in medieval setting
- Coastal hiking – Cliff paths with spectacular sea views
Beach Adventures. Scilla offers both sandy beaches and rocky swimming spots. Marina Grande provides the easiest beach access with several lidos renting umbrellas and chairs (€12-18, $13-20 USD daily). For a more secluded experience, I discovered small coves accessible by walking paths along the coastline where crystal-clear water makes snorkeling incredible.
Experience | Price Range (€) | Price Range (USD) | Duration |
---|---|---|---|
Castello Ruffo visit | €3 | $3.30 | 1-2 hours |
Boat tour | €20-30 | $22-33 | 3 hours |
Beach equipment | €12-18 | $13-20 | Full day |
Best Hotels in Scilla
Luxury Hotels
- U Bais – This elegant property offers sophisticated accommodations with premium amenities and exceptional service in a prime location with stunning water views.
- Il Casato Restaurant & Rooms – Features upscale rooms combined with fine dining experiences and refined comfort in an intimate boutique setting.
- La Sciabica Scilla – An intimate boutique property providing personalized service and stylish accommodations with attention to detail and contemporary design.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Il Porticciolo B&B Scilla – This family-friendly property offers comfortable rooms with traditional charm and modern conveniences at excellent value for money.
- Hotel Scilla – A welcoming accommodation featuring cozy rooms and friendly service in a convenient location near local restaurants and attractions.
- Palazzo Krataiis – Situated in a historic building, this property provides clean, comfortable rooms with essential amenities and easy access to local sights.
Best Budget Options
- Villa Paladino B&B e Guest House – This charming budget option offers simple yet comfortable accommodations with a warm atmosphere and helpful staff for travelers seeking affordable stays.
- Omnia Scilla B&B – A budget-friendly property providing basic but clean rooms with good location and friendly service ideal for backpackers and young travelers.
- Casetta Verde Felice – An economical choice offering simple accommodations with essential facilities and a convenient location for exploring the town on a budget.
6. Capo Vaticano – Where to Stay in Calabria for Luxury Resorts
Pristine Coastline. Capo Vaticano’s dramatic promontory offers some of Calabria’s most spectacular scenery with pristine beaches tucked between granite cliffs. I discovered that this area remains relatively undeveloped compared to other Italian coastal destinations, with crystal-clear waters that earn it regular “Blue Flag” environmental certifications. The lighthouse at the cape’s tip provides incredible panoramic views across to Sicily and the Aeolian Islands.
Beach Paradise. The coastline features several distinct beaches, each with unique characteristics. Grotticelle Beach offers the finest white sand and calmest waters, perfect for families. At Spiaggia di Riaci, I found excellent snorkeling among the rocks where colorful fish hide. Beach facilities like Bar Grotticelle serve fresh granite and light meals (€8-15, open 8am-8pm) right on the sand.
Natural Beauty. The protected marine area around Capo Vaticano supports incredible biodiversity both above and below water. I spent hours hiking coastal trails that wind through Mediterranean scrubland filled with wild herbs and flowers. Local boat operators like Nautica Capo Vaticano offer excursions to hidden caves and snorkeling spots (€35-50, 4-hour trips) that you can’t reach from shore.
Luxury Activities:
- Private beach clubs – Exclusive access to premium facilities
- Yacht excursions – Full-day trips to Aeolian Islands
- Spa treatments – Natural thermal springs and wellness centers
- Wine tastings – Local vineyards producing unique coastal varieties
Gourmet Dining. The area’s restaurants take advantage of both excellent local seafood and the fertile inland farms. At Ristorante La Tonnara (€30-45, $33-49 USD, open 7:30pm-midnight), I enjoyed a tasting menu that showcased everything from sea urchins to wild boar. The restaurant’s terrace overlooks Stromboli volcano on clear evenings, creating an unforgettable dining atmosphere.
Premium Experience | Price Range (€) | Price Range (USD) | Season |
---|---|---|---|
Private beach day | €50-80 | $55-88 | Peak season |
Yacht charter | €200-400 | $220-440 | Half day |
Fine dining | €30-60 | $33-66 | Year-round |
Spa treatments | €40-100 | $44-110 | Available daily |
Best Hotels in Capo Vaticano
Luxury Hotels
- Happy Days Capo Vaticano – This premium resort offers elegant accommodations with exceptional amenities and personalized service in a stunning location with direct access to pristine waters.
- Casa Cunaci Bed and Breakfast – Features upscale rooms with refined comfort and boutique charm plus attentive service in an intimate setting with sophisticated facilities.
- I Fichi d'India Rooms – An elegant property providing stylish accommodations with attention to detail and contemporary design for discerning travelers.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Mercurio Santa Maria – This family-friendly property offers comfortable rooms with modern conveniences and excellent value in a convenient location near local attractions.
- Agriturismo Seaview – A welcoming rural accommodation featuring cozy rooms with traditional charm and friendly service surrounded by natural beauty.
- Agroturistica Villa Mantineo – Situated in peaceful countryside, this agriturismo provides clean, comfortable rooms with essential amenities and authentic local experiences.
7. Soverato – Where to Stay in Calabria for Nightlife & Activities
Entertainment Capital. Soverato transforms into Calabria’s party hub once the sun sets, earning its nickname as the “Pearl of the Ionian.” I discovered that this lively town attracts young Italians from across the south who come for its vibrant club scene and summer festivals. The main strip along Lungomare Europa buzzes with energy from aperitivo time through dawn, offering everything from quiet wine bars to pulsing discos.
Summer Festival Scene. The town hosts major music events throughout summer that draw international DJs and performers. At venues like Kontiki Club (entry €15-25, open 10pm-4am), I danced until sunrise with crowds from Naples and Rome. The annual Soverato Web Festival in July brings tech entrepreneurs and digital nomads together for conferences by day and networking parties by night.
Active Adventures. Beyond nightlife, Soverato offers excellent opportunities for water sports and outdoor activities. The local diving center Aquasport rents equipment and leads underwater excursions (€35-50, full day trips). I tried kitesurfing lessons at Scuola Kite Soverato (€80 for 3-hour session, $88 USD) where constant Ionian winds create perfect conditions for beginners.
Nightlife Options:
- Kontiki Club – Main disco with international DJs and themed nights
- Bar Centrale – Aperitivo spot with live music and outdoor seating
- Luna Rossa – Wine bar featuring local varieties and light bites
- Discoteca Mirage – Popular with locals, authentic southern Italian atmosphere
Shopping District. The pedestrian zone around Corso Umberto I comes alive during evening passeggiata with boutiques, cafes, and street performers. Local shops like Moda Mediterranea offer Italian fashion at reasonable prices, while Enoteca del Borgo specializes in Calabrian wines perfect for bringing home (€12-25 per bottle, $13-27 USD).
Venue Type | Price Range (€) | Price Range (USD) | Peak Hours |
---|---|---|---|
Nightclub entry | €15-25 | $16-27 | 11pm-4am |
Cocktail bars | €6-12 | $6.60-13 | 7pm-1am |
Wine bars | €4-8/glass | $4.40-8.75/glass | 6pm-midnight |
Live music venues | €10-20 | $11-22 | 9pm-2am |
Best Hotels in Soverato
Luxury Hotels
- Villa Ersilia – This prestigious 4-star superior resort offers luxurious suites with stunning views over the Gulf of Squillace and features a spa covering over 2000 square meters.
- Il Nocchiero City Hotel – An intimate boutique property providing personalized service with 36 comfortable rooms, on-site restaurant, and rooftop terrace in the city center.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Hotel Gli Ulivi – This family-run 3-star property offers comfortable rooms just 100 meters from the water with private beach access and complimentary parking.
- La Pinetina Soverato – A welcoming accommodation featuring cozy rooms with air conditioning, flat-screen TV, and free WiFi located 600 meters from Spiaggia Libera di Soverato.
- Hotel Nettuno Soverato – Situated directly on the waterfront, this 3-star hotel provides clean, comfortable rooms with essential amenities and easy access to local attractions.
8. Cosenza – Where to Stay in Calabria for Mountain Views
Historic Capital. Cosenza serves as Calabria’s cultural heart, nestled in the Sila Mountains where three rivers converge. I spent days exploring the UNESCO-listed old town with its maze of medieval streets and Renaissance palaces. The impressive Duomo dominates the skyline while the hilltop castle offers panoramic views across the valley. This university city maintains intellectual energy year-round with students filling cafes and bookshops.
Mountain Adventures. The nearby Sila National Park provides endless hiking opportunities through ancient forests and pristine lakes. I rented mountain bikes at Outdoor Sila (€20 daily, $22 USD, open 8am-7pm) and explored trails that wind past shepherds’ huts and wildflower meadows. During winter months, the Lorica ski resort operates just 45 minutes from the city center with lift tickets costing €25-35 ($27-38 USD).
University Culture. The University of Calabria brings international students and professors to this mountain city, creating a cosmopolitan atmosphere rare in southern Italy. I enjoyed lectures and cultural events at the modern campus, while the student quarter around Via Arabia offers affordable restaurants and lively bars. Osteria del Borgo serves excellent mountain cuisine (open 12pm-3pm, 7pm-11pm) including wild mushroom dishes and local cheeses.
Cultural Highlights:
- Castello Normanno-Svevo – Medieval fortress with valley views (€4 entry, $4.40 USD)
- Teatro Rendano – Historic opera house with regular performances
- MAB Museum – Contemporary art in a converted monastery setting
- Villa Comunale – Gardens perfect for afternoon strolls and picnics
Artisan Traditions. Cosenza’s craftsmen continue ancient traditions passed down through generations. At Laboratorio di Liuteria, I watched master violin makers shape instruments by hand using techniques from the 1600s. The weekly antique market in Piazza dei Bruzi (Saturday mornings, 8am-2pm) features handmade ceramics, textiles, and woodwork from mountain villages. Local honey producers sell varieties flavored with chestnut and wildflower (€8-12 per jar, $8.75-13 USD).
Mountain Activity | Price Range (€) | Price Range (USD) | Best Season |
---|---|---|---|
Sila Park hiking | Free | Free | Spring-Fall |
Bike rental | €20/day | $22/day | Year-round |
Ski resort access | €25-35 | $27-38 | December-March |
Castle admission | €4 | $4.40 | Year-round |
Best Hotels in Cosenza
Luxury Hotels
- Italiana Hotels Cosenza – This internationally recognized hotel offers premium accommodations with modern amenities including fitness center, business facilities, and exceptional service in the heart of the city.
- Royal Hotel – Features elegant rooms with upscale furnishings and refined comfort plus personalized service in a sophisticated setting with restaurant and bar facilities.
- Cosenza Luxury Apartment – An intimate luxury property providing stylish accommodations with attention to detail and contemporary design for discerning travelers seeking apartment-style comfort.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Hotel Ariha Cosenza – This family-friendly property offers comfortable rooms with modern conveniences and excellent value in a convenient location near the historic center and local attractions.
- Manu's Guest Suite – An economical choice offering simple accommodations with essential facilities and a convenient location for exploring the historic town on a budget.
- Palace Eight – Situated in a prime location, this property provides clean, comfortable rooms with essential amenities and professional service at reasonable rates.
Best Budget Options
- B&B Cosenza – This charming budget option offers simple yet comfortable accommodations with a warm atmosphere and helpful hosts for travelers seeking affordable stays in the city center.
- Paparelle B&B – A budget-friendly property providing basic but clean rooms with good location and friendly service ideal for backpackers and young travelers exploring the region.
- B&B Inn Centro – A welcoming accommodation featuring cozy rooms and friendly service in the city center with easy access to restaurants, shops, and cultural sites.
FAQs about Visiting Calabria
1. What are the best places to stay in Calabria?
The Calabria region offers diverse accommodation options from the Tyrrhenian Sea to the Ionian coast, with popular destinations including Tropea, Reggio Calabria, and Pizzo. You’ll find everything from luxury beach resorts overlooking the Tyrrhenian to charming agriturismo properties nestled among olive trees in the mountains.
2. Which hotels in Calabria offer the best beaches?
Properties along the Calabrian coast provide direct access to some of Italy’s most pristine waters, with many beach resorts featuring private stretches of sand. The Tyrrhenian Sea side offers dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters, while the Ionian Sea provides calmer conditions perfect for families or groups.
3. Where should I stay in Reggio Calabria?
Reggio Calabria offers hotels in the historic center near the Aragonese Castle and Magna Grecia Museum, with properties like Grand Hotel Excelsior providing easy access to cultural attractions. The city serves as an excellent base for exploring Byzantine ruins and Norman architecture while enjoying mountain and garden views from many accommodations.
4. What makes Tropea special for accommodation?
Tropea features cliffside hotels with spectacular views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the iconic Santa Maria dell’Isola church perched on its rocky outcrop. Many properties offer sun terraces and rooms and suites overlooking the coast, making it one of the most photographed destinations in the Calabria region.
5. Are there good villa rentals in Calabria?
Private villas throughout the region offer families or groups spacious accommodation with amenities like pools and gardens, particularly around Tropea and Gerace. Many properties feature traditional architecture dating from the 16th century and provide free private parking plus easy access to local markets and towns and villages.
6. What accommodation options exist in Pizzo?
Pizzo offers charming B&B properties and apartments near Pizzo beach, with many featuring modern amenities and proximity to the town’s famous gelato shops. The area provides excellent access to both the Tyrrhenian Sea waters and inland attractions while maintaining authentic Calabrian character.
7. How do I reach hotels in Calabria?
Most visitors arrive through Lamezia Terme International Airport, which provides convenient access to destinations across the region including the Ionian coast and Pollino National Park areas. Many hotels in Calabria offer transfer services and free private parking for those exploring towns and villages by car.
8. What makes Scilla unique for visitors?
Scilla offers intimate B&B accommodations in a historic fishing village setting, with properties like Hotel Palazzo Krataiis providing authentic experiences. The town combines Norman architecture with stunning Mediterranean views, making it perfect for travelers seeking quiet charm away from larger resort destinations.
9. Are there mountain accommodation options in Calabria?
The Pollino National Park region and areas around Catanzaro offer agriturismo properties and mountain retreats with garden views and access to hiking trails. These accommodations provide a different perspective of Calabria, showcasing the region’s diverse landscape beyond its famous Tyrrhenian and Ionian waters.
10. What should I know about Calabrian beach resorts?
Beach resorts in the region range from all-inclusive properties to boutique establishments, with many featuring pools, spas, and direct access to pristine Mediterranean waters. Popular destinations like Le Castella offer historic castle views combined with modern resort amenities, while Praia Art Resort provides contemporary luxury along the Calabrian coast.