The following article lists important Calabria destinations, including some of the key ancestral towns and villages that many people journey to when exploring their genealogy.
It can be tricky to find English-language information about many places in Calabria, so if you have any questions or have a particular town to feature on our list, please get in touch.
The following Calabria travel guide will be updated with more destinations in time. If you want to visit Calabria and make contact with the land of your ancestors, please consider joining us on a Small Group Heritage Tour in Italy.
We’ll begin our list with some of Calabria’s cities. If you’re looking for a small town or village, scroll down the page.
Reggio Calabria is famous for its waterfront promenade, one of the most beautiful in Italy, and for being the largest and oldest city in Calabria. The National Archaeological Museum is home to the world-famous Riace Bronzes (Bronzi di Riace), two full-size Greek bronze statues of warriors, discovered in the sea near Riace, Calabria in 1972 — it’s a must-visit for any culture vultures traveling around Calabria.
Located on Calabria’s beautiful Ionian coast, Crotone is history-rich and was originally founded in 710 BC as a Greek colony. The city’s historical roots are visible in its impressive archaeological sites, such as the medieval Castle of Charles V and the nearby Temple of Hera.
In addition to its beaches, the city is also home to peaceful green spaces.
About an hour and a half north of Catanzaro, Cosenza is a modern educational center with a great cultural scene.It is known for its blend of ancient and modern influences. With a history dating back to the pre-Roman era, it houses architectural marvels such as the 11th-century Cosenza Cathedral (known as the Duomo) and the imposing Swabian Castle, reflecting its rich cultural heritage.
Catanzaro is Cherrye’s adopted hometown and it is referred to as the City of Three “Vs” in honor of San Vitaliano, the Patron Saint of Catanzaro, velvet, for the smooth silk and skilled craftsmen in the area, and vento – for the refreshing coastal breeze that flows through the town.
Vibo Valentia is much more than its stunning coastline. The city’s ancient origins are marked by a Norman Castle perched up on the hills overlooking the sea while its old town charms visitors with lively piazzas and delicious cuisine.
We’ll continue adding to this list, growing it to include all of the fascinating destinations our Heritage Tours in Italy have taken us to. If you’d like to see a town or village added, please get in touch.
In the heart of the Aspromonte mountains, the charming village of Delianuova is nestled amidst ancient olive groves and lush forests of chestnut and beech trees. Established in 1878 through the amalgamation of Paracorio and Pedavoli, the town carries echoes of its Greek roots. It is believed that Paracorio originated from the ancient Greek city of Delia which fell to ruins following a Saracen invasion in the ninth century. Today, this village captures the essence of rural Italian life, offering serene landscapes and traditional products.
This village in the province of Catanzaro is one of our most-requested ancestral towns. It might be known for its historical churches and as a strategic base for Garibaldi’s fighters, but our team loves to visit because of the homemade sausage and delicious mushrooms that can be found throughout the area. The town, perched on the slopes of the eastern slope of Monte Reventino, charms visitors with its sweeping vistas of rolling hills, olive groves, and vineyards.
Marano Marchesato, a small town in the province of Cosenza, is everything you imagine a small Calabrian town to be with its tranquil atmosphere and rustic charm. Steeped in tradition, Marano Marchesato invites you to wander through its narrow streets, visit centuries-old churches like the Church of Maria SS. del Carmine, and mingle with the friendly locals.
Founded by the abbot Joachim of Fiore, San Giovanni in Fiore hosts the impressive Florense Abbey. This town is deeply rooted in religious history and medieval culture, evident in its architecture and local festivals. There is a unique plaque in the town that pays homage to the tragic Monongah, West Virginia mining disaster where 34 immigrants from San Giovanni in Fiore perished.
Sat idyllically on a hilltop, Sellia is a medieval village characterized by its narrow streets and stone houses. In recent years, it has gained attention for innovative initiatives aimed at revitalizing the community. These include adventure parks and cultural events that blend the village’s historical charm with modern attractions.
Adjacent to the city of Cosenza, Rende is known for its winning blend of historical and modern elements. The old town features well-preserved medieval architecture, while the more contemporary area is home to the University of Calabria, contributing to a vibrant cultural and academic scene. Museums, galleries, and theaters enhance its appeal as a cultural hub.
Dominated by the ruins of a Norman castle, Cleto is a picturesque village with steep streets and ancient stone buildings. The town offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hosts an annual cultural festival that celebrates arts and music.
Recognized for its well-preserved medieval architecture and rich Greek heritage, Bova invites visitors to explore its narrow cobblestone streets and ancient churches. Guests should visit the Co-cathedral of the Madonna dell’Isodia, a 9th-century Norman church. And railway enthusiasts should look out for the preserved FS 740 locomotive on their way into the town.
With a historic center of traditional stone houses and quaint alleys, San Fili provides a serene atmosphere for guests. Tucked in the hills near Cosenza, the town is renowned for local festivals that highlight regional crafts and culinary specialties (of which there are many!).
Situated between the Ionian Sea and picturesque undulating hills, Santa Caterina dell’Ionio boasts an utterly fascinating history shaped by Greek, Roman, and Byzantine influences. The town is divided into two areas: the coastal Marina and the historic hilltop village featuring charming medieval architecture so typical of southern Italy.
Located in the Serre Calabresi mountains, Torre di Ruggiero is an interesting village celebrated for its religious heritage, particularly the Sanctuary of Maria Santissima delle Grazie, a significant pilgrimage site. The lush landscapes surrounding the village offer opportunities for nature walks.
Another charming destination, Laureana di Borrello possesses historic buildings and churches and is surrounded by leafy countryside. Located in the province of Reggio Calabria, the town is ideal for nature walks and offers a chance to experience local agricultural traditions.
This coastal town in the province of Reggio Calabria is primarily known for its ferry connections to Sicily. However, it also offers stunning views across the Strait of Messina and a lively port atmosphere that adds to its charm. Guests with heritage in Villa San Giovanni have been surprised by its size – it isn’t the “small” village they were expecting.
With its archaeological sites dating back to the Roman era, Gioiosa Ionica is an interesting destination for history enthusiasts. The town boasts a lively cultural scene, especially during its annual festivals which are a great time for those with ancestry in the area to visit.
Located in the lower part of La Sila in the province of Catanzaro, Petronà is one of the first heritage towns we visited when we started our company in 2007. The town is emblematic of the tranquil Calabrian lifestyle and is surrounded by lush greenery.
Located in the picturesque Sila Mountains, Acri is a small town with a long history, which stretches back to the Bronze Age. Cultural sites worth visiting include the MACA Acri Contemporary Art Museum in the Palazzo Sanseverino-Falcone, the Museum of Rural Civilization in the Padula Palace, and the beautiful San Domenico church.
Vibo Valentia is the capital of the province of Vibo Valentia and is an agricultural, commercial, and tourist center. Originally a significant ancient Greek colony named Hipponion, it later evolved into the Roman colony of Valentia. So, as you can probably imagine, it boasts a wealth of archaeological sites including remnants of Roman baths and a Norman castle. And, if that weren’t enough, the city’s elevated position provides stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Polistena is defined by its Baroque architecture, which includes impressive churches and palaces. This vibrant town features a lively center with bustling markets and cafes that reflect the dynamic spirit of the community. Look out for the apotropaic mark (a protective magic symbol) on the Palazzo Avati — a curious insight into the area’s medieval folk beliefs.
Cinquefrondi offers scenic views and a mild climate, situated between the Tyrrhenian and Ionian seas. The town’s historic center includes charming squares and historic buildings, serving as a gateway to nearby natural attractions such as hiking trails and rivers.
Aieta, located in the mountains near the Tyrrhenian coast, is renowned for its Renaissance architecture, particularly the Palazzo Rinascimentale, a grand palace that showcases the village’s historical significance. Its elevated position provides stunning views.
The delightfully named Isca sullo Ionio, that sits on the splendid Ionian Coast, has ancient Greek origins. Originally established closer to sea level, the town’s medieval inhabitants decided to move the village to its current hilltop location in the 9th century; this was to offer better protection from sea raiders who were operating along the Calabrian coast. Nearby Isca Marina is a present-day tourist village situated on the site of the original town.
Located at the narrowest point of Calabria where just 30 kilometers separate the Ionian and Tyrrhenian seas. The town possesses one of the oldest historical centers in Calabria and is famous for its long history of silk production.
In August, the village hosts the Festival Jazz & Vento, a festival that has featured an array of notable guests, such as the world-renowned composer Ludovico Einaudi.
Soveria Mannelli sits at the foot of the Reventino mounts and is known for its rich woodland surroundings, making it a nature-lover’s dream. But it is so much more, with its historical textile mills, this village provides a unique window into Calabria’s industrial past, making it a worthwhile stop for those studying family history in the region.
Cotronei is situated on the north-western side of the Sila Piccola plateau surrounded by natural landscape and close to one of Calabria’s best ski resorts, Lorica.
Interestingly, Cotronei was the hometown of Aerosmith singer Steven Tyler’s grandfather – an indication of the town’s links to the United States through emigration.
Remember, with My Bella Vita, you can take a Small Group Heritage Tour in Calabria to explore your family history.
Situated along the Tyrrhenian coast, Falerna is well-known for its stunning beaches and views of the sea. Many inhabitants of Falerna emigrated to western Pennsylvania in the United States, with some recently returning to their hometown upon retirement. Older residents often speak a unique dialect known as Falernese.
Amantea is a historic seaside town on Calabria’s Tyrrhenian coast, known for its dramatic cliffside views, and is home to several notable historical sites. It’s castle, known as “la rocca”, was initially built by the Byzantines and then later fortified by the Arabs and features a Norman-Hohenstaufen cylindrical tower. It has a turbulent history, including sieges in 1269 by Charles of Anjou and near-destruction during the French siege of 1806-1807, and is now an abandoned public structure. The town also boasts the Palazzo delle Clarisse, a 17th-century palace originally a convent for the Poor Clares and now a venue for cultural events and a restaurant.
San Nicola da Crissa, on the slopes of Monte Cucco in the Calabrian Serre, is a lovely hill town situated approximately 500 meters above sea level within the province of Vibo Valentia. Its origins are intricately linked with the legendary city of Crissa, thought to have been established by the Greeks, likely originating from Locri Epizephiri, around the 7th century BC. San Nicola da Crissa is renowned for its distinctive “Suriaca russa janca”, a locally cultivated bean prized for its versatility as they are equally suited for simple, rustic dishes as well as for more elaborate culinary creations.
Now part of the city of Lamezia Terme, Nicastro has a rich history that is evident in its Norman castle ruins and the impressive Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul. The historic center features narrow streets, traditional buildings, and vibrant markets, which help it retain a uniquely medieval charm.
Lamezia Terme was formed by the union of Nicastro, Sambiase, and Sant’Eufemia Lamezia. It is a dynamic city known for its thermal baths and archaeological sites. The city presents a mix of historical attractions, including the Norman-Swabian Castle and the Diocesan Museum, alongside modern amenities.
San Pietro in Amantea, a small village near Amantea, offers visitors a tranquil escape with its picturesque landscapes. This village boasts a quieter setting with less tourist traffic, ideal for experiencing authentic Calabrian village life.
Located in the heart of the Pollino National Park area, Verbicaro is a town steeped in history, renowned for its wine production and traditional religious festivals. The surrounding natural landscape invites visitors to enjoy hiking and discover the rich diversity of flora and fauna.
San Ferdinando possesses a deep-rooted connection to the sea, with a fishing industry stretching back millennia. The waterfront promenade is a popular spot for leisurely strolls, offering stunning sea views and access to delightful seafood restaurants.
In Caulonia, history and natural beauty intertwine with a medieval old town that overlooks the shimmering Ionian Sea. Visitors can wander through ancient fortifications or head to the marina for sun-kissed beaches. The town is home to several historic churches, with the Chiesa del Santo Rosario being particularly striking.
San Nicola del Alto, a small hilltop village in the province of Crotone, is renowned for its Arbëreshë cultural heritage, preserving the unique traditions and language of its Albanian ancestors who settled here in the 15th century.
San Sostene combines coastal and mountainous landscapes, offering striking views of the Ionian Sea. The village is known for its production of olive oil and the cultivation of chestnuts. As with just about any small town in Calabria, this is a great place to sample local produce and specialty dishes.
In 1783, the Calabrian village of Castelmonardo was completely destroyed by an earthquake. When the local inhabitants began to rebuild, they renamed their town Filadelfia (Greek for ‘brotherly love’), inspired by the United States which had just won its independence. Today, the town is admired for its restored architecture, long history of textile weaving, and vibrant summer festivals celebrating local produce.
Mammola is a delightful village where art, tradition, and gastronomy come together, famous for its signature dish, stocco (stockfish). Its narrow streets are embellished with murals and sculptures, leading to artisan workshops and authentic eateries. The town also has an interesting art museum (Parco museo Santa Barbara) and many historic palazzi.
Grotteria is a town steeped in history, showcasing a captivating historic center filled with ancient churches and palaces. History enthusiasts can visit the medieval castle ruins and ponder over the town’s mysterious name, which some believe comes from gold mining that was carried out here in ancient times.
Badolato is a remarkable blend of medieval charm and coastal relaxation. This hilltop village captivates visitors with its labyrinthine narrow streets and centuries-old architecture, while the marina area features pristine beaches. The main sights are the ruins of the perimeter walls of the Ravaschieri castle and the town’s 16th-century churches.
On a hill overlooking the fertile Lametian plain is the town of Maida, a historic destination celebrated for its medieval castle ruins and its enchanting old town, complete with narrow alleys and stone houses. The area is also significant for the Battle of Maida (1806), a noteworthy event during the Napoleonic Wars.
Fabrizia, found in the Serre Calabresi mountains, is the highest town in the province of Vibo Valentia, perched at an altitude of approximately 1000 meters above sea level. The town was established in 1591 and is surrounded by pristine mountains adorned with majestic trees. It’s a gateway to exploring the rich biodiversity of the region and is the only town in the Calabrian Serre to have a view of the Ionian Sea.
Civita is a hill town village in the Pollino National Park, which is notable for its Albanian heritage which can still be heard spoken by the locals. In addition to the unique heritage of this town, it also offers a dramatic landscape, including the Raganello Gorges. The village is a hub for hikers and those interested in exploring rugged terrains and ancient customs. It is easy to see why this is is one of I Borghi più Belli d’Italia (“The most beautiful villages of Italy”).
Santa Caterina Albanese, another Arbëreshë village, retains a distinct Albanian identity through language, customs, and festivals. This village is a living museum of Albania’s cultural impact in Italy, enriched by picturesque landscapes and traditional architecture.
