MileHacker Logo
Crafting Your Journey

Crafting Your Journey

Italy

Lamezia Terme Area Quick Visit

Arrive at Lamezia Terme International Airport (SUF). Head to Pizzo (approx. 20-30 minutes). Visit the Aragonese Castle and explore Pizzo's charming streets.

Enjoy fresh seafood or a classic Calabrian pizza. Indulge in "Tartufo di Pizzo" ice cream. Take a short boat trip or walk to the unique Piedigrotta Church.

Departure Options

  • Consider a quick drive towards Tropea (40 min from Pizzo) for iconic views.
  • Enjoy dinner in Pizzo or Lamezia Terme before returning to the airport.
  • Ensure adequate time for transit back to SUF for your departure.

Time-Based Exploration

Structured plans for different visit durations, from short breaks to comprehensive journeys.

Coastal Focus: Tropea & Scilla

For a 2-3 day weekend getaway, focus on Calabria's stunning Tyrrhenian coast. Arrive at Lamezia Terme (SUF) and transfer to Tropea.

Coastal Beauty & Relaxation

  • Explore Tropea's iconic Santa Maria dell'Isola sanctuary.
  • Take a boat trip to Capo Vaticano for breathtaking views and coves.
  • Enjoy sunset views and dinner in Tropea's old town.
  • Visit Scilla's picturesque Chianalea and Ruffo Castle.
Enjoy fresh swordfish lunch in Scilla before returning to Lamezia Terme or Reggio Calabria for departure.

Coast and Culture Immersion

A one-week plan combines coastal beauty with inland cultural experiences. Days 1-3: Tyrrhenian Coast (base Tropea/Vibo Valentia), explore Tropea, Capo Vaticano, Pizzo, and Scilla.

Inland & Ionian Exploration

  • Days 4-5: Drive to Cosenza, explore Cosenza Vecchia and take a day trip to Sila National Park for hiking.
  • Days 6-7: Head to the Ionian coast (base Locri/Gerace), visit Locri Epizefiri and Gerace.
  • Visit the Byzantine Cattolica di Stilo.

Extended Discovery

Two weeks allow for an in-depth exploration. Week 1: Northern & Central Calabria, starting with Pollino National Park (rafting on Lao River) and Cosenza (Sila National Park).

Southern Calabria Focus

  • Explore the northern Ionian coast, including Amarelli Licorice Museum in Rossano.
  • Travel to a central coastal town like Soverato for beach relaxation.
  • Week 2: Costa degli Dei (Tropea, Capo Vaticano, Pizzo), Reggio Calabria (Bronzi di Riace, Lungomare).
  • Explore Aspromonte National Park and the ghost town of Pentedattilo before departure.

Extended Immersion

For several weeks or months, consider a self-catering apartment or villa rental for a dive into local life.

Authentic Living

  • Renting in charming towns like Tropea or Scilla.
  • A quiet agriturismo in the countryside offers rural living.
  • This type of stay fosters routines and a slower pace.
  • Access to a kitchen makes it a more cost-effective option.

Tailoring Your Expenses

Calabria caters to every budget, allowing you to control costs without compromising on experiences.

Budget Travel

Stay in B&Bs or simple guesthouses. Opt for street food and budget-friendly trattorias. Use regional buses and trains. Focus on free attractions.

Comfortable Journeys

Stay in comfortable B&Bs, 3-star hotels, or charming agriturismi. Enjoy a mix of dining out and self-catering. Rent a car for flexibility. Participate in some paid tours.

Premium Vacations

Stay in 4-5 star hotels, boutique hotels, or private villas. Dine at upscale restaurants. Opt for private transfers. Enjoy exclusive guided experiences.

Embrace Spontaneity

While itineraries provide structure, Calabria's charm often lies in unexpected discoveries. Allow some free time for spontaneous exploration.

Interest-Based Routes

Focus your Calabria trip on specific passions and interests.

Journey Through Time

Explore Calabria's rich historical and heritage sites, from ancient Magna Graecia to medieval hilltop towns.

Locations

  • Begin in Reggio Calabria (Bronzi di Riace, National Archaeological Museum).
  • Visit Magna Graecia sites: Locri Epizefiri, Sibari, Kaulon.
  • Explore medieval hilltop towns: Gerace, Stilo (Cattolica), Pentedattilo.
  • Discover the historic center of Cosenza Vecchia and Aragonese Castle in Pizzo.
Consider a GetYourGuide historical tour for deeper insights.

Taste of Calabria

Indulge in a culinary journey focused on the region's unique flavors and specialties.

Culinary Hotspots

  • Focus on towns renowned for products like 'Nduja (Spilinga) and Red Onion (Tropea).
  • Savor Tartufo di Pizzo ice cream in Pizzo.
  • Explore the Sila mountains for local cheeses, mushrooms, and pork products.
  • Participate in cooking classes at an agriturismo.

Nature's Playground

For adventure seekers, Calabria offers white-water rafting, hiking, and water sports.

Active Exploration

  • Dedicate time to Pollino National Park for white-water rafting on the Lao River.
  • Explore Sila National Park for hiking, mountain biking, and lake activities.
  • Discover Aspromonte National Park for hiking to waterfalls and scenic drives.
  • Engage in water sports along the Costa degli Dei: snorkeling, diving, kayaking.

Cultural Canvas

Immerse yourself in Calabria's artistic and architectural heritage.

Architectural Gems

  • Reggio Calabria: National Archaeological Museum (Bronzi), Byzantine art.
  • Stilo: The Cattolica, an unique example of Byzantine architecture.
  • Gerace: Its grand Norman Cathedral and medieval town layout.
  • Cosenza: The old town's layered architecture and the modern open-air Bilotti Museum.

Calabria Through the Seasons

Summer Highlights June-August

Focus on beach holidays, swimming, water sports, and boat trips. Ideal for coastal exploration and sunbathing.

Winter Highlights December-March

Focus on skiing and winter sports in Sila and Aspromonte national parks. Enjoy quiet city breaks and traditional winter foods.

Off-Season Exploration Autumn/Spring

Enjoy lower prices, fewer crowds, and mild weather. Perfect for cultural sites, hiking, and city exploration. Note some coastal closures.

Festival Timings

Plan your trip around local "sagre" (food festivals) or major religious festivals for deep cultural immersion and unique culinary delights.

Tailored Experiences

Crafting a journey around your preferences, budget, and travel style.

Adventures for All Ages

A family-friendly itinerary balances relaxation with discovery for everyone.

Coastal & Inland Fun

  • Base near the beaches of Tropea or Capo Vaticano for easy swimming access.
  • Visit Sila National Park for easy walks around lakes and adventure parks.
  • Explore Pizzo; the castle and Tartufo ice cream are popular.
  • Consider a short, fun boat trip along the coast.
A car rental is often the best option for families for flexibility and carrying gear.

Path to Serenity

A spiritual and wellness journey offers tranquility and connection.

Tranquil Retreats

  • Visit Certosa di Serra San Bruno, a tranquil Carthusian monastery.
  • Experience the thermal baths at Terme di Spezzano Albanese.
  • Seek out quiet agriturismi or retreats for relaxation and meditation.
  • Enjoy peaceful walks in the less-trafficked areas of national parks.

Smart Savings

Value-focused recommendations for maximizing your budget.

Maximizing Value

  • Travel during the shoulder season (April-May, Sept-Oct) for lower prices.
  • Explore smaller, less-known towns for authentic experiences at lower costs.
  • Choose family-run businesses for dining and accommodation for better value.

Budget Essentials

  • Consider a regional train pass for extensive train travel.
  • Opt for a smaller, fuel-efficient rental car.
  • Utilize public transport for inter-city travel.

Unforgettable Indulgence

For a luxury experience, elevate your stay with premium comforts and exclusive services.

Exclusive Choices

  • Stay in 4-5 star hotels, boutique hotels, or private villas with amenities.
  • Dine at upscale restaurants and enjoy daily aperitivos.
  • Opt for private transfers for ultimate convenience.
  • Enjoy exclusive guided experiences tailored to your interests.

Adventure on a Dime

For backpackers, Calabria offers economical options without sacrificing experience.

Budget Essentials

  • Stay in B&Bs ("affittacamere"), simple guesthouses, or campsites.
  • Purchase groceries from supermarkets for breakfast and some lunches.
  • Opt for street food (pizza al taglio, panino) and budget-friendly trattorias for dinner.
  • Utilize regional buses and trains, and walk whenever possible.

Travel Disruption Support

Claiming for Delays

A service that helps customers receive compensation for flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding.

Know Your Rights

Check eligibility and claim your compensation with Compensair.

Cherish Calabria

Enjoy the unique beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality of this incredible region.
← Previous
Sustainable Journeys
← Back to Calabria
Next →
Digital Resources

Next Up: Digital Resources

Continue to Digital Resources