The Province of Reggio Calabria is set on the “toe” of the Italian boot. You’ll find excellent Calabrian restaurants, historic churches and one of the best archeological museums in the country in the city of Reggio Calabria. Venture into the mountainous interior to explore forest-covered national parks. Charming towns dot the sparkling Tyrrhenian coast and offer sun, sand and ocean-fresh seafood.
Things to do in Reggio Calabria
The coastal city of Reggio Calabria is a gateway to the province. It boasts a spectacular setting on the Strait of Messina and is packed with museums, galleries and historic monuments. Admire ancient Greek bronzes at the National Archaeological Museum and learn about the history of citrus oil at the Bergamot Museum. Wrap up a day of sightseeing with an evening stroll along the “lungomare” seafront promenade. The views across the Messina Strait are spectacular.
Escape to the Tyrrhenian coast for a fix of sun, sand and saltwater. In Scilla, colourful houses cascade down to the waterfront. The town is reminiscent of Cinque Terre, without the crowds. Wander along cobbled streets decorated with bright-pink bougainvillea, relax on the pebble beach and explore Castello Ruffo, an ancient stronghold perched on the headland.
Tropea is another beautiful Tyrrhenian town. Get lost in a maze of lanes and alleys in the clifftop historic centre and visit the centuries-old cathedral. White-sand beaches attract throngs of summer sunseekers.
Stretch your legs on trails in Aspromonte National Park. The park is set in the Apennine Mountains and covered with sun-dappled pine, fir and beech forests. Hike to tumbling waterfalls and spot Italian wolves, wild boar, peregrine falcons and other wildlife.
The food in the Province of Reggio Calabria is delicious and showcases local produce and flavours. Swordfish cooked in olive oil and seasoned with anchovies and red onions is a local specialty. Try other signature dishes like “lagane e cicciari” pasta with chickpeas, thin-crust Calabrian pizza and bergamot-infused gelato.
Getting around Reggio Calabria
All towns and cities in the Province of Reggio Calabria are pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. Ferries run between Reggio Calabria and Sicily in around 30 minutes. Reggio Calabria Airport is a 10-minute drive from the city centre.