Regio Calabria

Reggio Calabria, Italy:
The City of Bronzes and Breathtaking Views

A Brief History and Tourist Overview of Reggio Calabria

Reggio Calabria, located at the "toe" of Italy's boot, is a city steeped in history and blessed with natural beauty. Founded by the Greeks in the 8th century BC, it has been shaped by various cultures over the centuries, including the Romans, Byzantines, and Normans. Today, Reggio Calabria boasts a unique blend of ancient ruins, elegant architecture, and stunning coastal scenery.

Reasons to Choose Reggio Calabria for Your Next Vacation

• Ancient Treasures:Marvel at the world-famous Riace Bronzes, two magnificent Greek statues discovered in the sea near Reggio Calabria.
  

  Riace Bronzes
• Stunning Lungomare:Stroll along the Lungomare Falcomatà, a beautiful promenade lined with palm trees and offering breathtaking views of the Strait of Messina and Sicily.
  

  Lungomare Falcomatà
• Charming Old Town:Explore the historic center with its narrow streets, elegant squares, and impressive Aragonese Castle.
  

  Aragonese Castle Reggio Calabria
• Delicious Cuisine: Savor Calabrian specialties like swordfish, 'nduja (spicy spreadable salami), and bergamot-flavored treats.
• Gateway to Sicily: Take a short ferry ride to Messina, Sicily, and discover another fascinating Italian region.

1. Transportation Options

• Reggio Calabria Airport (REG): The city's airport with connections to major Italian cities.
• Trains: Reggio Calabria Centrale station offers connections to other cities in Calabria and major Italian destinations.
• Buses: A local bus network connects the city center and surrounding areas.
• Ferries: Regular ferries operate between Reggio Calabria and Messina, Sicily.
• Taxis: Taxis are available, but can be expensive for longer distances.

2. Accommodation

• Luxury Hotels:Grand Hotel Excelsior, Hotel Medinblu
  

  Grand Hotel Excelsior
• Mid-Range Hotels:Hotel Eubea, Albanuova Hotel
  

  Hotel Eubea
• Budget-Friendly Hotels:Hotel Continental, B&B Pellicano Guest House
  

  Hotel Continental

3. Top Tourist Attractions

• National Museum of Magna Græcia: Home to the Riace Bronzes and other archaeological treasures.
• Lungomare Falcomatà: A scenic promenade with stunning views of the Strait of Messina.
• Aragonese Castle: A medieval fortress with a rich history.
• Duomo di Reggio Calabria: The city's cathedral, rebuilt after an earthquake.
• Botanical Garden: A peaceful oasis with exotic plants and flowers.
• Museo San Paolo: A museum dedicated to religious art and artifacts.

4. Day Trip Options

• Scilla:A charming fishing village with a medieval castle and a beautiful beach.
  

  Scilla
• Gerace:A medieval hilltop town with well-preserved architecture.
  

  Gerace
• Aspromonte National Park:Explore the rugged mountains and forests of this national park.
  

  Aspromonte National Park
• Taormina (Sicily): Take a ferry to Sicily and visit this picturesque town with a Greek theater and stunning views.

5. Best Times to Visit

• Spring (April-June) and Autumn (September-October): Pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
• Summer (July-August): Hot and sunny, ideal for beach days, but also the busiest time.

6. Holidays in Reggio Calabria

• Festa della Madonna della Consolazione: A religious festival in September with processions and fireworks.
• Liberation Day (April 25): A national holiday commemorating the end of World War II.

7. Useful Tips

• Learn a few Italian phrases: While English is spoken in tourist areas, knowing some basic Italian will be appreciated.
• Try the local cuisine: Reggio Calabria offers a unique blend of flavors, with fresh seafood, spicy sausages, and bergamot-infused dishes.
• Pack for warm weather: Reggio Calabria enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers.
• Be prepared for earthquakes: The region is prone to seismic activity, so familiarize yourself with safety procedures.