Introduction
While popular international destinations like Capri, Sicily, and Cinque Terre often dominate conversations about Italy, the vast Italian coastline is dotted with countless hidden gems. An immediate stand-out—and a quick search will prove it—is the stunning town of Tropea.
Located in the region of Calabria, positioned perfectly on the "toe" of the Italian boot, Tropea is a destination rich in history and breathtaking views. Its roots date back to ancient times, with captivating local stories suggesting its founding by Hercules himself after one of his famous labours.
Accessibility: Getting to Tropea
- If you are coming by car, then google maps is your best friend. There are several parking lots at sea level, but it is worth checking online about rules and prices of parking there.
- If you are coming by airplane, then the closest one airport is Lamezia Terme International, around 65km away. From here you can rent a car, or continue your trip via train. There are several trains departing daily from Lamezia to Tropea.
- If you are combining your trip with a short visit to Naples (see relevant post), then you can reach Tropea by train. The connection requires changing train halfway, and the total duration is about 5 hours. You don't necessarily need to book a ticket in advance, though just to be on the safe side, I suggest that you buy your ticket the day before or so. You can check for tickets and the timetable in the official site of Trenitalia.
The beaches
Tropea provides with some amazing options in front of the town for jumping into the sea. The quick options are practically three:
- Spiaggia della rotonda (or, Le Roccette Mare)
- Spiaggia mare grande
- Spiaggia della Contura
While these central spots are stunning, many other gorgeous beaches are worth visiting not far from Tropea, such as Oasi Beach and Torre Marino. For these slightly more distant locations, renting a car is highly recommended, as the intense southern Italian sun and heat do not make long walks enjoyable.
Local Tip: If you visit during the absolute peak period (around August 15th), plan to arrive at the beaches very early in the morning to secure a spot. The centrally located beaches fill up incredibly fast!
The town
Tropea is a truly charming old town that manages its tourism very well. You will find a pleasant mix of quality restaurants, lively bars, cafes, and local shops.
Walking the town is a genuine pleasure. The streets are relatively narrow, offering welcome shade from the sun. The architecture exudes that pleasant Italian vibe, with small, charming squares adding to the overall atmosphere. You can expect to find many spots for coffee, a cold drink, and a particularly cute area of bars near the cliff edge, perfect for evening aperitivo.
A key detail to note: the amazing cliffside views come at the price of stairs! There are two main staircases to reach the beach area: one leading near the large parking lot by the iconic Church of Santa Maria dell'Isola (Santuario della Madonna dell'Isola), and one leading down to the port.
Footwear Note: The characteristic "stone pavement" (often called sanpietrini or cobblestone) that many Italian towns use is prevalent here, so choose your footwear wisely for comfortable walking!
Price-wise, be aware that Tropea can be on the higher end compared to other standard Italian destinations, so it is always smart to check the menu prices before committing to a restauran
Additional activities
While soaking up the sun on the incredible Tropea beaches is a primary activity, the area also offers some great options for exploration and adventure. My top recommendations include:
The Daily Cruise to the Aeolian Islands: A fantastic day trip to volcanic islands like Stromboli or Vulcano. Tickets can be purchased at the port or from selling points in the town center.
Scuba Diving: There is a reputable scuba center located near the port for those wanting to explore the clear Tyrrhenian waters.
Visit Scilla: This nearby, equally picturesque fishing village is easily accessible by train for a wonderful half-day trip.
If you prefer to stay in town, dedicate a morning or evening to climbing the steps up to the Santuario della Madonna dell'Isola (Church dell'Isola). The view from this religious landmark is absolutely spectacular!
Food and drinks: Tropea's Culinary delights!
When it comes to dining in Tropea, the options are abundant. As a popular tourist spot, however, planning ahead and checking reviews are essential to avoid tourist traps.
You will constantly see and hear about two local specialties: 'Nduja (a spreadable, spicy salami) and the famous Red Onion of Tropea ( Cipolla Rossa di Tropea). I strongly encourage you to try both! Start slow—perhaps in appetizers—until you familiarize yourself with the taste, especially the spice level of the 'Nduja.
Here are a few trusted places where I had a great experience:
Livasì Food & Store - Excellent spot for trying dishes featuring local 'Nduja.
Porta Vaticana - Serves very well-made, authentic pizza.
La Lamia - Hands down my favorite overall restaurant in the town.
Finally, you must try the iconic local dessert: the Tartufo di Pizzo. This decadent treat is a hazelnut ice cream shaped into a hemisphere, featuring a molten dark chocolate heart, all dusted with unsweetened cocoa powder and sugar. It is an absolute must-try!
Outro: Why Tropea should be your next Italian trip
If you plan to visit Tropea (I suggest avoiding the extreme peak popularity around August 15th), consider using it as a starting point to explore the wider Calabria region. Calabria has so much more to offer—from quiet coastal villages and mountain towns to incredible, homemade-style food everywhere you go. It is less saturated with international tourists than the north, offering a more genuine view of local Italian life.
Just remember to brush up on a few basic Italian phrases before you go, and you are good to go!
