Tropea, the pearl of Tyrrhenian sea

This article about stunning Tropea will introduce this magnificent southern Italian village and resort, known as the crown jewel of Calabrian tourism. More importantly, it was named “Most beautiful village in Italy” for 2021.

Why should you visit Tropea?

It is a municipality in Vibo Valentia, in Calabria, Italy. Furthermore, it is a seaside resort with magnificent sandy beaches, located on the Gulf of Saint Euphemia (Calabria).

Firstly, you will find spectacular white sand beaches with the Caribbean blue sea. Secondly, you will admire the charming medieval old town, set on the cliffs above the sea, which makes a spectacular scene, and you will get to taste the most exquisite local cuisine possible.

A few short facts about Tropea

Tropea is famous for its spectacular cliffside position and beautiful transparent sea.

Secondly, the town, nicknamed ‘the pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea,’ has also won the annual award for most beautiful Italian “borgo” (historic village) for its “ideal combination of sea, sun, art, culture, architecture, gastronomy and hospitality.”

Thirdly, it is the main center on Calabria’s Coast of the Gods (Costa dei dei) and is famous for its spectacular position on a Cliffside, which offers stunning views of the coast from many of its ancient alleys.

Once you stroll down the ancient alleys, you will find some precious architectural gems, such as the noble palaces dating back to the 12th century. They are perched on the sheer cliff, overlooking the spectacular sandy beach below.

Furthermore, the symbol of the Tropea is a large rock where the 11th-century Sanctuary of “Santa Maria dell Isola” stands. More importantly. The sanctuary’s verdant garden offers a breathtaking view of the entire coast and Aeolian islands (Stromboli, for instance).

Tip: According to our experiences, not many people there speak English, so be sure to learn a few essential words in Italian.

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How to arrive in Tropea

The nearest airport to Tropea is Lamezia Terme, and there are direct flights from several UK airports and other European countries. You can travel the 60 kilometers to the center of town by rental car, taxi (expensive), or train (cheap). A rental car is worthwhile to reach the most beautiful corners of Calabria. We are going to cover all this and more in a separate article.

How to move around in Tropea

Tropea is a small village, so there should be no problem exploring it on foot. However, if your accommodation is in its surroundings, there are two main possibilities since the public transport is not so developed outside the “Ferragosta” (August). So, you have two options. Take a train to visit Tropea. This option is the cheapest. You can always buy a ticket at the train station or on Omnio, Treninline, or similar apps.

However, if you reside in the neighboring hills around the village, we strongly recommend renting a car.

Insider tip: If you want to hire a rental car, you don’t need to rent it in advance since the prices over there are much lower than on the web.

Firstly, you will have to taste the famous Tropea onion. Many meals are prepared with it. Secondly, and perhaps most importantly, you will likely enjoy the sea views from Tropea cliffs.

What to do and see in Tropea

As the “Pearl of Calabria,” Tropea offers a stunning blend of a clifftop historic town, pristine beaches, and exceptional local cuisine. The iconic Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell’Isola stands as a dramatic centerpiece. At the same time, the surrounding region provides endless opportunities for day trips.

Things to do and see in Tropea

Explore the historic center (Centro Storico). Wander the ancient, narrow streets to find charming piazzas, balconies with flowers, and tucked-away trattorias. Stroll down Corso Vittorio Emmanuele, the main pedestrianized street, to experience local life, browse shops, and stop at cafes.
Visit the Norman Cathedral (Cattedrale di Maria Santissima di Romania). In this 12th-century church, two unexploded World War II bombs are displayed near the entrance.
Take in the panoramic coastal views from the Affaccio Raf Vallone lookout at the end of the main corso.
Visit the Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell’Isola. Climb the steps to the sanctuary, Tropea’s most famous landmark, perched on a rock formation just off the beach.
Explore the serene gardens and enjoy spectacular views of the town, coastline, and, on a clear day, the Stromboli volcano.
Take your most iconic photos of Tropea from the Piazza del Cannone, a viewpoint overlooking the sanctuary and the sea.
Relax on Tropea’s beaches. Rotonda Beach and Mare Piccolo Beach are the main beaches, featuring white sand and obvious, turquoise water. Enjoy a mix of free public areas and private lidos, which offer sunbeds and umbrellas for a fee. Access the beaches from the historic center via steep steps or drive down toward the port side of town.

What to eat in Tropea?

Did you think we forgot about you, gourmets? If anything, Calabria is an excellent opportunity for all food lovers.

This area is known for its unique cuisine. The most famous is linked to the sweet red onion of Tropea, the gastronomical symbol of the region. You can also check the Elicoidali pasta recipe with Tropea onions and make some for yourself at home.

In addition, there are plenty of other local specialties, like pasta and the famous Tartufo ice cream.

Insider Tip: We advise you to go to a local restaurant and try the best food possible in the most pleasant environment. But make sure to avoid the main tourist streets, because the best restaurants are always hidden in the back.

The Best Time To Visit Tropea, Italy

The best time to visit Tropea, Italy, is from May to September for a beach holiday. June and September are better for fewer crowds and lower prices. Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) are suitable for outdoor activities without the summer heat.

Tropea gets very busy in July and August with Italian families and day-trippers. September, going into mid-October, is a great time to avoid crowds. Late May and June are also good, but the temperatures may not be warm enough for the beach at that time.

In peak summer, temperatures can reach 35°. So, it’s best to start your day early, take afternoon breaks, find shade, and eat later in the evening. Visiting off-peak (before May and after October) gives a different feel, but many businesses may be closed.

Where to stay?

To find where to stay in Tropea, use booking sites like Tripadvisor, Booking.com, Expedia, or KAYAK. Popular accommodations include the luxury Hotel Rocca Della Sena, the boutique Hotel Villa Antica Tropea, budget-friendly La Suite Tropea, and the resort-style Sentido Michelizia Tropea Resort.

For cheap stays, avoid August, as prices are higher. Check customer reviews before booking and consider looking at nearby neighborhoods like Santa Domenica, Vulcano, and Riaci. Other budget-friendly options include Hotel Umberto and Porta sul Mare.

Tips for Finding Budget Deals:

Travel during the off-season (outside June-August) for lower prices.
Use aggregator sites to compare prices.
Consider staying at chains like B&B Hotels or Ibis Styles for basic amenities.
Look for accommodations that include breakfast for added savings.

Best Day Trips from Tropea

Some of the most inspiring day trips from Tropea lead you to the breathtaking cliffs and idyllic beaches of Capo Vaticano and the charming fishing village of Scilla.

For an exhilarating adventure, embark on a boat trip to the Aeolian Islands and witness the majesty of Stromboli, an active volcano. Explore the main islands: Stromboli, where nature’s power manifests, Lipari, the vibrant largest island with its bustling port and picturesque old town, and Panarea, renowned for its stylish atmosphere. More importantly, numerous tour operators in Tropea offer full-day excursions, and the “Stromboli by Night” experience is particularly captivating, allowing you to witness the volcano’s eruptions illuminated by the night sky.

Capo Vaticano, Apromonte National Park, Scilla, Stromboli, and many more are a few of the must-visit places when you stay in Tropea.

Capo Vaticano boasts a stunning coastline just south of Tropea, revealing wild cliffs, hidden coves, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. So, relax on beautiful beaches like Praia di Fuoco, accessible mainly by boat, and enjoy the awe-inspiring views from the Belvedere di Capo Vaticano Lookout. Additionally, embrace the wonders of the “Coast of the Gods” through local tours offering snorkeling and swimming stops, where you can discover hidden grottos and pristine beaches.

Don’t miss exploring the coastal town of Pizzo, celebrated for its enchanting castles and delicious tartufo gelato. Experience a private boat tour along the Costa degli Dei for an unforgettable glimpse of the region’s unique coastline. Stroll through medieval streets, visit the 15th-century Castello Murat, and treat yourself to the treasured tartufo di Pizzo, a decadent chocolate-filled gelato dessert.

Next on our list is Scilla. It is often called the “Venice of the South,” and enchants with a picturesque fishing village and a castle perched on a rocky cliff. Discover the Chianalea district, where houses embrace the water’s edge, and wander narrow alleys to find restaurants serving local delicacies like swordfish. Legend whispers that Scilla is the home of the mythical monster Scylla from Homer’s Odyssey.

How about exploring some nature? Zambrone, a serene beach haven just a 10-minute drive or train ride north of Tropea, invites you to hike down to Spiaggia Paradiso del Sub (Marinella Beach), a lovely cove adorned with clear waters and striking rock formations. For a change of scenery, venture into Aspromonte National Park, where lush forests, hiking trails, and stunning waterfalls, such as the Maesano Waterfalls, await. Ascend to the highest peak, Montalto, and bask in the cooler mountain temperatures.

The conclusion of this blog post

So, there are plenty more exciting things to discover about stunning Tropea and its beautiful surroundings. But this time we have focused only on the most famous ones.

If you have ever been to Tropea, share your impressions in the comments below. So, let the discussion begin!