Ciao, travelers! I’m Rileigh, the owner of Travel Mellow, and I’m thrilled to share with you an authentic Italian experience in the stunning region of Calabria. Having lived in Italy for two years, I’ve gained a deep appreciation for the country’s rich culture, delectable cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes. This 9-day itinerary is designed to immerse you in the local way of life, avoiding tourist traps and providing you with a truly memorable journey.
Day 1: Exploring the Charming Town of Tropea
Kick off your Italian adventure by exploring the picturesque town of Tropea, your starting point. Wander through the historic center, admiring the charming narrow streets and colorful buildings. Visit the impressive Norman Cathedral and stroll along the lively Corso Vittorio Emanuele, the main street lined with shops and cafés. For lunch, I recommend La Vignetta, a cozy trattoria serving delicious local specialties like nduja (spicy spreadable sausage) and peperoncini ripieni (stuffed peppers).
Day 2: Relaxing on Tropea’s Beaches
Today, soak up the sun and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Tropea’s famous beaches. Tropea Beach and Rotonda Beach are two of the most popular spots, offering stunning views of the iconic cliffs and the Aeolian Islands in the distance. Pack a picnic lunch or grab a bite at one of the beachside cafés. In the evening, stroll along the promenade and watch the sunset over the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Day 3: Day Trip to Pizzo
Venture out to the charming town of Pizzo, known for its picturesque seaside setting and delicious tartufo (a decadent ice cream treat). Visit the Church of Piedigrotta, a unique church built into the rocky cliffs, and explore the quaint streets lined with artisan shops and cafés. For dinner, indulge in fresh seafood at La Cantina di Baffo, a local favorite.
Day 4: Hiking the Sentiero dei Monaci Trail
Lace up your hiking boots and embark on the Sentiero dei Monaci (Monks’ Trail), a scenic coastal path offering breathtaking views of the Calabrian coastline. The trail takes you through lush Mediterranean vegetation, past ancient monasteries, and along dramatic cliffs overlooking the turquoise waters below. Pack a picnic lunch and plenty of water for this moderate hike.
Day 5: Exploring Ricadi and the Grotta Azzurra
Today, visit the nearby town of Ricadi and explore the stunning Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto), a sea cave accessible only by boat. Marvel at the vibrant blue hues created by the sunlight reflecting off the water. After your boat tour, stroll through Ricadi’s charming streets and enjoy a leisurely lunch at La Piazzetta, savoring traditional Calabrian dishes like pasta al forno (baked pasta) and frittole (fried dough balls).
Day 6: Cooking Class and Calabrian Cuisine
Immerse yourself in the rich culinary traditions of Calabria by participating in a hands-on cooking class. Learn how to prepare authentic local dishes like pasta alla Norma (pasta with eggplant and ricotta salata) and peperoni cruschi (fried peppers). After your class, enjoy the fruits of your labor with a delicious meal accompanied by local wines.
Day 7: Day Trip to Reggio Calabria
Embark on a day trip to the vibrant city of Reggio Calabria, known for its rich history and cultural attractions. Visit the National Archaeological Museum, which houses an impressive collection of ancient Greek and Roman artifacts, including the famous Riace Bronzes. Stroll through the city’s historic center and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local trattoria, savoring regional specialties like frittole and pitta ‘nchiusa (stuffed pizza).
Day 8: Exploring the Town of Scilla
Spend the day in the charming town of Scilla, known for its picturesque fishing village, Chianalea. Wander through the narrow streets and admire the colorful houses perched on the cliffs overlooking the sea. Visit the Castello dei Ruffo (Ruffo Castle) for stunning panoramic views and learn about the town’s rich history. In the evening, enjoy a seafood dinner at one of the local restaurants while watching the sunset over the Strait of Messina.
Day 9: Free Day or Revisit Favorite Spots
On your final day, you can choose to revisit your favorite spots in Tropea or simply relax on the beach, soaking up the last rays of Calabrian sunshine. If you have time, consider exploring the nearby towns or indulging in some last-minute shopping for local souvenirs and delicacies like Tropea’s famous red onions or liquirizia (licorice).
General Travel Tips for Tropea, Italy
- Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the region and accessing remote beaches and hiking trails.
- Many attractions and restaurants may have reduced hours or be closed during the off-season, so it’s best to check ahead of time.
- Pack comfortable walking shoes and sun protection for outdoor activities and beach days.
- Don’t miss out on trying the local specialties like nduja, peperoncini ripieni, and tartufo.
I hope this itinerary has inspired you to experience the authentic beauty and rich culture of Calabria. Remember, the best way to truly immerse yourself in a destination is to embrace the local way of life, try new things, and create lasting memories. Buon viaggio!