Discover Calabria: History, Taste & Scenery

Day 1 Sat. 15 May 2027: Arrival - Reggio Calabria

Upon arrival at Reggio Calabria Airport (REG), private individual transfers (not included – please see under supplements) to your centrally located 4-star hotel in Reggio. 

Time to settle in and welcome dinner featuring Calabrian cuisine and local wines. 

(D) 

Reggio Calabria Airport (REG) – city center: 10 km / 20 minutes

Day 2 Sun. 16 May 2027: Reggio Calabria

This morning, meet your local guide and begin your exploration of Reggio Calabria, the vibrant gateway to the Calabria region. Stroll along the Lungomare Falcomatà, often called “Italy’s most beautiful kilometre”, with its panoramic views of the Strait of Messina and charming seaside promenade. Continue towards the city centre, wandering through picturesque streets and lively squares. Visit the Duomo, a magnificent landmark showcasing the city’s rich history and architecture. 

Enjoy some time at leisure for lunch. In the afternoon, consider an optional visit to the National Archaeological Museum, home to one of Italy’s most important collections of ancient art and artefacts, including the world-famous Riace Bronzes (not included). 

(B) 

Please note that the walk from the hotel to the city centre is about 1.5 km each way. It is a pleasant stroll along the Lungomare Falcomatà. Transfers are not included.

Day 3 Mon. 17 May 2027: Reggio Calabria

Embark on a scenic drive along the breathtaking Costa Viola, with its dramatic cliffs and sparkling sea views. Stop in the charming village of Scilla and explore Chianalea, the “Venice of the South”, with its narrow streets and waterfront houses, then enjoy a fresh seafood lunch overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. Continue to Palmi, perched on natural terraces, where panoramic viewpoints offer breathtaking views of the coast and the distant Aeolian Islands. 

Return to Reggio Calabria and enjoy the evening at leisure. 

(B, L)

Day 4 Tue. 18 May 2027: Siderno

After breakfast and check-out, begin your journey towards the opposite side of the region. Stop in Bova, the heart of the Grecanic area. Discover the rich Greek-Calabrian heritage of this charming village as your guide shares stories of its history, language, and traditions. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant, savouring authentic regional flavours. 

In the afternoon, visit a bergamot-producing farm, where you can explore fragrant groves and learn about the cultivation and processing of Calabria’s famous citrus. Continue along the scenic Ionian coast to Siderno and check in to your accommodation. Dinner is at leisure tonight. 

(B, L) 

Reggio-Bova-Siderno: 124 km / 3 hours

Day 5 Wed. 19 May 2027: Siderno

This morning, enjoy a gentle walk through the scenic Aspromonte Natural Park. The trail winds through shady forests, small streams, and fragrant Mediterranean vegetation, offering a relaxing immersion in nature. Along the way, enjoy the charm of local legends that give the trail its magical name, and take in panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. 

Stop for lunch at a local agriturismo before reaching the historic hilltop town of Gerace, one of Calabria’s most picturesque borghi. Wander through its narrow cobbled streets, past mediaeval palaces and ancient churches, and admire the stunning views over the surrounding valleys and the Ionian coast. Enter the magnificent cathedral, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. 

Return to Siderno for an evening at leisure. 

(B, L)

Day 6 Thu. 20 May 2027: Siderno

This morning, visit the extensive archaeological area of ancient Locri Epizephiri, founded by Greek colonists at the end of the 8th century BC. In antiquity, it was famous for being the first city, in 660 BC, to establish a written code of laws. The archaeological park preserves significant remains from the Greek colonial city and the Roman period. In 1971, the adjacent National Archaeological Museum was built near the sacred area of Marasà. It houses artefacts uncovered from excavations in the ancient city, offering exceptional insights into daily life, including the pinakes – small terracotta plaques dedicated to the goddess Persephone that tell many fascinating stories. 

Enjoy lunch at leisure in Locri. After a leisurely afternoon, gather for dinner at a local restaurant. 

(B, D)

Day 7 Fri. 21 May 2027: Isola di Capo Rizzuto

After breakfast and check-out, depart north with a stop in Stilo, one of Calabria’s most charming hilltop villages. Wander through its narrow, cobbled streets, past mediaeval palaces and ancient churches, and admire the stunning views over the surrounding hills and valleys. Highlights include the Cattolica di Stilo, a small Byzantine church renowned for its unique architecture, and the charming piazzas where local life continues much as it has for centuries. 

Enjoy lunch at leisure in the village before continuing to your hotel in Isola di Capo Rizzuto. In the evening, relax with dinner at the hotel. (B, D) 

Siderno-Stilo-Isola di Capo Rizzuto: 150 km / 3 hours

Day 8 Sat. 22 May 2027: Isola di Capo Rizzuto

Depart in the morning towards the Cirò area, famous for its historic wine tradition. Visit a Cirò DOC winery, where a guided tour will introduce you to the vineyards and the winemaking process. Enjoy a tasting of the estate’s wines, accompanied by a selection of local products that showcase the flavours of the region. 

Spend the afternoon at leisure, relaxing at your hotel or exploring the surroundings on your own. 

(B)

Day 9 Sun. 23 May 2027: Isola di Capo Rizzuto

This morning, enjoy a guided tour of Crotone’s historic centre, wandering through its charming streets and squares while learning about the city’s rich history. The tour includes entrance to the impressive Castello di Carlo V, a 16th-century fortress offering panoramic views and insight into Crotone’s strategic past. 

After some free time for lunch in town, return to your accommodation for an afternoon at leisure. 

(B)

Day 10 Mon. 24 May 2027: Capo Vaticano

After breakfast and check-out, depart towards the Tyrrhenian coast. Stop in Pizzo Calabro, a charming seaside town, and wander through its historic centre, with narrow streets, colourful buildings, and lively piazzas. Conclude your visit with a tasting of the famous Tartufo di Pizzo, the region’s iconic chocolate-and-cream dessert. 

Enjoy lunch at leisure in town before continuing along the coast to Capo Vaticano, arriving in the afternoon to soak in the stunning views and vibrant atmosphere of this beautiful cliffside town. Check in to your accommodation and gather for dinner at the hotel. 

(B, D) 

Isola di Capo Rizzuto-Pizzo-Capo Vaticano: 143 km / 2.5 hours

Day 11 Tue. 25 May 2027: Capo Vaticano

This morning, enjoy a guided walking tour of Tropea, an ancient town steeped in myths and legends. Stroll through the historic centre, with its elegant palaces and Baroque noble houses, and visit the Cathedral, a stunning example of Norman architecture. The tour also includes a tasting experience featuring local cheeses and Tropea red onions, giving you a true flavour of the region. 

After lunch at leisure in town, reach Spilinga to visit a traditional ’nduja producer, learning about this famous soft, spreadable Calabrian cured pork salami, followed by a guided tasting of local specialities. 

Return to Capo Vaticano for an evening at leisure. 

(B)

Day 12 Wed. 26 May 2027: Capo Vaticano

Enjoy the day at leisure at your resort and take advantage of the included access to the spa (1 access included per person during the stay). 

In the late afternoon, immerse yourself in Tropea’s culinary traditions with a hands-on cooking class led by a local cook. Learn to prepare delicious recipes typical of Tropea cuisine, then sit down to enjoy a convivial farewell dinner featuring the dishes you’ve helped create. 

(B, D)

Day 13 Thu. 27 May 2027: Departure

Private individual transfers (not included – please see under supplements) to Reggio Calabria Airport (REG) or Lamezia Terme (SUF) for your return flights. 

(B) 

Capo Vaticano – Reggio Calabria Airport (REG): 107 km / 2 hours 

Capo Vaticano – Lamezia Terme (SUF): 69 km / 1.5 hours

Please, note that Italyscape will adhere to the itinerary as much as possible. However, certain conditions (political, climatic, environmental and cultural) may necessitate changes in the itinerary. Italyscape reserves the right to alter any itinerary at any time, if necessary. Our client and travellers will be notified of changes in due time. 

Supplements

Optional Private Transfers

Private individual transfers are available by Mercedes E-Class car, Mercedes V-Class minivan, or equivalent. Prices are per vehicle and depend on the route and vehicle type.

• Reggio Calabria Airport to hotel in Reggio: Mercedes E-Class car or equivalent, max 2 passengers with 2 bags each — upon arrival — €110 per vehicle.
• Reggio Calabria Airport to hotel in Reggio: Mercedes V-Class minivan or equivalent, max 5 passengers with 2 bags each — upon arrival — €135 per vehicle.
• Hotel in Tropea to Lamezia Airport: Mercedes E-Class car or equivalent, max 2 passengers with 2 bags each — upon departure — €330 per vehicle.
• Hotel in Tropea to Lamezia Airport: Mercedes V-Class minivan or equivalent, max 5 passengers with 2 bags each — upon departure — €365 per vehicle.
• Hotel in Tropea to Reggio Calabria Airport: Mercedes E-Class car or equivalent, max 2 passengers with 2 bags each — upon departure — €420 per vehicle.
• Hotel in Tropea to Reggio Calabria Airport: Mercedes V-Class minivan or equivalent, max 5 passengers with 2 bags each — upon departure — €460 per vehicle.

Services included in the package price 

ACCOMMODATION

3 x Overnights in Reggio Calabria at the 4-star Grand Hotel Excelsior – Superior Rooms with partial sea view

3 x Overnights in Siderno at the 4-star Grand Hotel President Siderno – Deluxe Rooms

3 x Overnights in Isola di Capo Rizzuto at the 5-star Praia Art Resort – Deluxe Rooms

3 x Overnights in Capo Vaticano at the 4-star Capovaticano Resort – Classic Rooms with sea view (including direct access to the equipped beach with sun umbrellas and sun loungers + 1 access per person to the Thalasso Spa Wellness path) 

12 x Breakfast at hotels

Porterage at all accommodation, VAT, and all city taxes 

TRANSPORT

Private coach at FD disposal in Scilla and Palmi – day 3 

Private coach transfer from Reggio to Siderno, with stop in Bova – day 4 

Private coach at FD disposal in the Aspromonte Park and Gerace – day 5 

Private coach at FD disposal in Locri – day 6 

Private coach transfer from Siderno to Isola di Capo Rizzuto, with stop in Stilo – day 7 

Private coach at FD disposal in Cirò and Isola di Capo Rizzuto – day 8 

Private coach at FD disposal in Crotone and Isola di Capo Rizzuto – day 9 

Private coach transfer from Isola di Capo Rizzuto to Capo Vaticano, with stop in Pizzo Calabro – day 10

Private coach at FD disposal in Tropea and Spilinga – day 11 

Private coach at HD disposal in Tropea – day 12

OTHER SERVICES

Audio headset system for all visits 

Professional English-speaking Tour Manager throughout, accommodated at the same hotels with the group

Welcome dinner at a local restaurant in Reggio Calabria (3 courses, water, 2 glasses of wine per person, coffee or tea) 1 x Professional English-speaking local guide in Reggio Calabria – HD 

Entrance to the Duomo of Reggio Calabria 

Professional English-speaking local guide in Scilla and Palmi – FD 

Lunch at a local restaurant in Scilla (2 courses, water, 1 glass of wine or soft drink per person, coffee or tea). Professional English-speaking local guide in Bova – HD 

Lunch at a local restaurant in Bova (2 courses, water, 1 glass of wine or soft drink per person, coffee or tea). Guided visit to a bergamot-producing farm with tasting 

Professional English-speaking local guide for the hike in the Aspromonte park and in Gerace – FD 

Lunch at a local agriturismo near Gerace (2 courses, water, 1 glass of wine or soft drink per person, coffee or tea). Entrance to the Cathedral of Gerace 

Entrance to the Archaeological Park and Museum of Locri Epizefiri 

Professional English-speaking local guide in Locri – HD 

Dinner at a local restaurant in Siderno (3 courses with water, 2 glasses of wine, coffee or tea) 

Professional English-speaking local guide in Stilo – HD 

Entrance to the Cattolica di Stilo 

Dinner at the hotel restaurant in Isola di Capo Rizzuto (3 courses with water, 2 glasses of wine, coffee or tea). Private visit to a historic Cirò DOC winery with wine tasting paired with local products 

Professional English-speaking local guide in Crotone – HD 

Entrance to Castello di Carlo V in Crotone 

Professional English-speaking local guide in Pizzo Calabro – HD 

Tasting of Tartufo di Pizzo Calabro 

Dinner at the hotel restaurant in Capo Vaticano (3 courses with water, 2 glasses of wine, coffee or tea) Professional English-speaking local guide in Tropea – HD 

Entrance to the Cathedral of Tropea 

Tasting of local cheeses and Tropea red onions in Tropea 

Guided visit to a ’nduja producer with tasting in Spilinga 

Hands-on Calabrian cooking class in Tropea with a Professional local Chef, followed by dinner with wine

24/7 Emergency telephone support