📓 Scilla and Tropea 📖 📸 🎥 📎

Safety/cleaning

★★★★

★★★

★★★★

★★★

★★★★★

Welcome/€

Attractions

Daytime Life

Nightlife

Evaluation of Scilla

Safety/cleaning

★★★★

★★★★

★★★

★★★★

★★★★★

Welcome/€

Attractions

Daytime Life

Nightlife

Evaluation of Tropea

I sincerely believe that to truly capture the soul of Calabria, it is essential to experience both the quiet charm of Scilla and the vibrant energy of Tropea These two destinations, each with its own well defined identity, have the power to surprise and enchant anyone who visits.

Scilla is a village that can be reached very easily by regional trains departing from both Villa San Giovanni and from Reggio Calabria. Once you step off the train you will find yourself literally a few steps from the beautiful beach of Scilla and its promenade. The sand is pale and the sea is clear and sparkling, and the beach is frequented by both locals and tourists. Life here flows at a relaxed pace, between swims, friendly conversations, and refreshing breaks at the many beach clubs along the coast, where you can always enjoy typical local dishes at very affordable prices, such as the famous swordfish sandwich.

But Scilla is not about the sea. I highly recommend dedicating a few hours to visiting Ruffo Castle, which dominates the village from the top of a promontory and offers a spectacular view of the Strait of Messina , especially at sunset, when the light turns warm and golden.

In the evening nothing is more pleasant than wandering through the narrow alleys of the town where cozy restaurants and small local craft shops create an authentic and informal atmosphere. It is the perfect setting for a romantic dinner or simply for savoring the unhurried rhythm od Calabrian life. That said, Scilla is not a destination for nightlife seekers. The village remains primarily a place for relaxation, good food and tranquility, ideal for those looking for a rejuvenating escape far from the chaos.

Tropea presents itself as a larger and livelier town than Scilla, more touristy and therefore slightly less affordable, yet equally fascinating and full of attractions. The village is spread across two levels:  on one side, the evocative promenade with its tourist harbor and one of Calabria's most famous beaches, known for its dazzling white sand and turquoise waters ( though the beach itself is quite small) ; on the other side, the historic center, which can be reached either by car or on foot. Be prepared to climb quite a few stairs, but it is absolutely worth the effort.

Walking through the alleys of the historic center of Tropea is a unique experience. You will find typical restaurants, charming hotels stepped in history, and shops selling local products, not to mention the many scenic viewpoints offering breathtaking panoramas of the coast and the iconic church of Santa Maria dell' Isola.

In the evening, especially during the summer months, Tropea truly comes alive. Bars and pubs host live music or outdoor DJ sets, transforming squares and streets into lively meeting points for both young people and families who want to enjoy a drink, dance or simply spend a few hours together. The local food specialities are also unmissable: from chili peppers to 'nduja, from spicy salami to cheeses, perfect souvenirs to take home so you can keep savoring the flavors of Calabria even after your trip.

One last aspect that I want to highlight concerns the warm hospitality of the Calabrian people. In my experience, they have always been incredibly kind, welcoming and helpful, with only a few exceptions. Overall, a stay in this land remains a genuinely pleasant and authentic experience.

If you like Calabria, I invite you to read the article "Calabria: Tour between beaches and spas".

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