Slung along chalky cliffs and fringed by white, powder-sand beaches, Tropea is a Calabrian gem that is a favourite of Italian sea-and-sun seekers. Join them and you’ll find a coastal town with unique charms: narrow streets and sprawling piazzas, irresistible coastal views, and gorgeous beaches- not to mention its own gastronomic groove. Here, the unique Tropean red onion reigns supreme, with an iconic sweet taste flavouring local seafood and pasta dishes, so cherished that it even makes an appearance in the gelateria of the town.
Beyond the Byzantine walls and family-run trattorias, Tropea also offers coastal exploits that are the envy of better-known Italian coastlines. The beaches are some of Italy’s favourite, and offshore excursions reveal beautiful rock formations and hidden grottos, with underwater landscapes perfect for snorkelling or scuba diving. Wind down for sunset and aperitivo overlooking the postcard icon of the town, the monastery of Santa Maria dell'Isola. There isn’t a more perfect picture of Italian coastal life than here.
There’s a reason this coastline is called the ‘Coast of the Gods’. It’s not just the myths, it’s the sheer beauty of the place. Tropea is blessed with 2.5 miles of soft sands, with remarkably clear waters - they’ve long been a calling card for Italian holidayers. Don’t miss the chance to explore the grottos underneath Santa Maria dell'Isola, nor a boat trip to Grotta Azzurra, which is only accessible by sea.
Tropea is synonymous with onions. Cipolle Rosse di Tropea, IGP designated, is a markedly sweet onion that seemingly flourishes in the sandy soil of the town. You’ll see it hanging in markets, chopped into all manner of local dishes, and for the epicurious, made into gelato. Dip into Tropea’s food markets and trattorias to try it, alongside wonderfully fresh seafood, local ‘Nduja and more.
Tropea is a surprising cultural hub for the region. You’ll find artisans and craftspeople in the streets of the old town, selling all manner of handmade wares. Time it right and you could also throw yourself into one of Tropea’s many festivals or events, whether it’s the dramatic I Tri Da’ Cruci, where Tropeans celebrate victory over Turk and Saracen raiders by exploding a ship, the procession of the Madonna, which happens twice a year, or the Tropea Blues Festival.
Tropea has a long history. Though much of its older buildings fell in earthquakes and wars, there’s still glimpses of old Tropea to uncover. Most prominent is the Norman Cathedral. Its ancient walls house two peculiarities: first is a pair of unexploded WWII bombs, second is the town’s beloved icon - the 14th century Madonna of Romania. She is credited for rescuing the town from numerous earthquakes, and the detonation of the aforementioned bombs.
Head for Affaccio del Corso for Tropea’s best and most popular viewpoint. It goes without saying that sunset is the perfect time to grab your spot and watch golden hour waltz away on the horizon. With the gorgeous waters and sands in the foreground, the famed promontory of Santa Maria dell'Isola in the middle, and the endless shimmering waves folding into the distance, it’s a scene to make the heart flutter. Come prepared with a gelato for a multi-sensory experience that is as Italian as it gets.
Modern and creative, this is a gourmet approach to the rich Calabrian larder. Set within an old monastery, get set for a triumph of Tropean dining.
Just along the coast is this artful osteria. There’s an artisanal approach to hyper local dishes - reservation is a must.
Another old town gem that specialises in Calabrian dining and a thrilling selection of fresh seafood. Delicious.
Along Italy’s northwestern coast is Liguria, famed for its Riviera. This is the glitzy starlet of the country’s coastline, where dramatic cliffs and irresistible fishing villages have long been a draw for stylish travellers. Though the likes of Cinque Terre are well-travelled, there are still hidden gems to uncover, to beat the tourist trappings. Similarly, there’s a clutch of small towns and villages along the coastline that boast similar beauty, oft overlooked for the more famous five villages. Discover these destinations here, for an authentic experience of Liguria.
Read guideFrom bonafide classics like the Amalfi Coast and Naples, to lesser-known gems that should not be missed, discover your guide to the Bay of Naples and the Amalfi Coast. Even in the more popular destinations there’s myriad places you need to explore, the kind of places where locals go, where real Italian experiences await.
Read guideAt the heel of Italy is this gorgeous coastal region, famed for sandy beaches, remarkable sea grottoes, and beautiful historic towns. Sink into Puglian charms, with the best places to eat, lesser-known coastal picks, and all the insights you need to have the most authentic getaway in this southern corner of Italy.
Read guideNew BIRRA MORETTI
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