Ciao, travelers! I’m Rileigh, the owner of Travel Mellow and a former resident of Italy. I lived in the beautiful country for two years, and I’m excited to share my insider knowledge to help you plan an unforgettable trip to the stunning region of Calabria. Specifically, we’ll be exploring the charming town of Tropea and its surroundings during the
Day 1: Arrive in Tropea and Explore the Historic Center
Welcome to Tropea, a picturesque town perched atop a cliff overlooking the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea. After settling into your accommodation, I recommend starting your exploration in the historic center. Wander through the charming narrow streets lined with colorful buildings and stop by the impressive Norman Cathedral with its unique blend of architectural styles. Don’t miss a stroll along the lively Corso Vittorio Emanuele, the main street where you’ll find plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants. For dinner, head to La Cambusa and indulge in fresh seafood and local specialties.
Day 2: Beach Day in Tropea
No visit to Tropea is complete without spending a day at its famous beaches. Start your morning at the Tropea Beach, a stunning stretch of golden sand with crystal-clear waters. Soak up the sun, take a refreshing dip, or simply relax and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Aeolian Islands in the distance. In the afternoon, head to the nearby Rotonda Beach, known for its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters. For a delicious lunch, grab a slice of pizza or a panino from one of the beachside cafes.
Day 3: Day Trip to Reggio Calabria
Today, we’ll venture to the city of Reggio Calabria, about an hour’s drive from Tropea. Your first stop should be the Museo Nazionale della Magna Grecia, where you can marvel at the famous Bronzi di Riace, two ancient Greek bronze statues that are among the most impressive archaeological finds in Italy. After exploring the museum, take a stroll through the city’s historic center and enjoy lunch at a local trattoria.
Day 4: Hike the Sentiero dell’Amore
Lace up your hiking shoes and get ready for a scenic adventure along the Sentiero dell’Amore (Path of Love), a coastal trail that offers stunning views of the Calabrian coastline. This moderate hike takes you through a series of tunnels carved into the cliffs, with plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the turquoise waters and dramatic rock formations. After your hike, reward yourself with a delicious gelato from Gelatomania in Tropea.
Day 5: Visit Pizzo and Try the Tartufo di Pizzo
Today, we’ll explore the nearby town of Pizzo, known for its charming historic center and, most importantly, the famous Tartufo di Pizzo gelato. Wander through the narrow streets and admire the colorful buildings before stopping at Ristorante Pietra Fenicia to try this delectable treat – a chocolate-coated gelato ball filled with a rich hazelnut and chocolate center. In the afternoon, you can relax on one of Pizzo’s beaches or explore the town’s castle.
Day 6: Day Trip to Scilla and Chianalea
Prepare for a day of picturesque coastal villages as we head to the towns of Scilla and Chianalea. In Scilla, you’ll be greeted by a stunning seaside castle and the charming Chianalea fishing village, where colorful houses cling to the cliffs above the water. Wander through the narrow alleys, admire the traditional fishing boats, and stop for a seafood lunch at one of the local restaurants. On your way back to Tropea, you can also stop at the nearby town of Bagnara Calabra to explore its historic center.
Day 7: Cooking Class in Tropea
Immerse yourself in the rich culinary traditions of Calabria by taking a cooking class in Tropea. Learn from a local chef how to prepare classic dishes like pasta alla Norma, peperoncini ripieni (stuffed peppers), and frittole (fried dough balls). Not only will you get to enjoy the fruits of your labor for lunch, but you’ll also take home valuable cooking skills and recipes to impress your friends and family back home.
Day 8: Visit the Certosa di Serra San Bruno
Today, we’ll venture inland to the Certosa di Serra San Bruno, a stunning Carthusian monastery nestled in the mountains. This historic complex, dating back to the 11th century, is known for its beautiful architecture, peaceful gardens, and breathtaking natural surroundings. After exploring the monastery, you can enjoy a traditional Calabrian lunch at one of the nearby agriturismi (farm stays) and savor the flavors of locally sourced, homemade dishes.
Day 9: Wine Tasting in the Cirò Wine Region
Calabria is home to some excellent wine regions, and today we’ll explore the Cirò area, known for its full-bodied red wines. Join a guided tour and visit several local wineries, where you’ll learn about the winemaking process and have the opportunity to taste a variety of wines paired with local cheeses and cured meats. It’s a perfect day for wine enthusiasts and those who appreciate the art of winemaking.
Day 10: Day Trip to the Aeolian Islands
Prepare for a day of island-hopping as we embark on a ferry ride to the stunning Aeolian Islands. Our first stop will be the island of Lipari, where you can explore the charming town, visit the archaeological museum, and enjoy a leisurely lunch by the harbor. In the afternoon, we’ll continue to the volcanic island of Vulcano, known for its dramatic landscapes, mud baths, and natural hot springs. Don’t miss the opportunity to hike to the top of the Gran Cratere for breathtaking views of the surrounding islands.
Day 11: Explore Gerace and Its Norman Cathedral
Today, we’ll venture to the hilltop town of Gerace, a hidden gem known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and stunning Norman Cathedral. Wander through the narrow streets, admire the historic buildings, and visit the cathedral, which boasts an impressive blend of Norman, Byzantine, and Arabic architectural styles. After exploring Gerace, you can stop for lunch at a local trattoria or continue your journey to nearby towns like Stilo or Locri.
Day 12: Relax or Explore Nearby Towns
On your second-to-last day in Tropea, you can choose to relax and soak up the sun on one of the town’s beautiful beaches or explore nearby destinations like Capo Vaticano. This picturesque promontory offers stunning coastal views, hiking trails, and the opportunity to visit charming fishing villages like Santa Maria di Ricàdi. Alternatively, you can revisit your favorite spots in Tropea or simply wander through the town, savoring your final moments in this enchanting corner of Italy.
Day 13: Departure Day
Sadly, it’s time to bid farewell to Tropea and the beautiful Calabrian region. Before your departure, make sure to pick up some local souvenirs, like ceramics, olive oil, or Calabrian chili peppers, to take a piece of this incredible destination back home with you. Safe travels, and we hope you’ve created unforgettable memories during your winter adventure in Tropea!
General Travel Tips for Tropea, Italy
- Renting a car is highly recommended to explore the region and reach remote areas with ease.
- Many attractions, restaurants, and shops may have reduced hours or be closed on Sundays and during the winter months, so plan accordingly.
- Pack layers and warm clothing, as the winter temperatures in Calabria can be quite cool, especially in the evenings.
- Don’t miss out on trying local specialties like nduja (spicy pork spread), lagane e ciciri (pasta with chickpeas), and pitta ‘nchiusa (stuffed pizza).
- Be prepared for a more relaxed pace of life and embrace the laid-back atmosphere of this charming region.
I hope this itinerary has inspired you to explore the authentic beauty of Tropea and the Calabrian region during the winter season. Remember, the key to a truly memorable trip is to immerse yourself in the local culture, savor the delicious cuisine, and embrace the slower pace of life. Buon viaggio!