Fancy discovering an idyllic Italian city that somehow manages to fly below the radar in 2025?
While the likes of Florence and Venice continue to attract the crowds, a savvy few are slipping off to this Mediterranean marvel.
Reggio Calabria sits neatly on the toe of Italy, sun-drenched and suspiciously crowd-free.
Antonina Dattola - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
While the rest of the country gears up for busy summer seasons, this city keeps its cool with local life continuing relatively undisturbed.
And figures show that although it's becoming more popular with visitors, it's still a quiet spot by Italy's standards.
In 2024, Reggio Calabria Airport handled around 624k passengers.
Next to Rome Fiumicino's 49.2 million and Milan Malpensa's 28.7 million, Reggio Calabria seems less of a transport hub and more of a well-kept secret with a runway.
Good to know: The official name of the city is Reggio di Calabria and the region it's in is Calabria.
The city's name is commonly shortened to Reggio Calabria, especially in English and in the context of travel.
But if you want to roll like a local, you might call it 'Reggio'.
What Makes Reggio Calabria So Special?
Reggio Calabria is authentically southern Italy. Passionate, laid-back and blissfully unconcerned with impressing you.
That said, it will impress you regardless.
By MarcoCrupi - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Facing Sicily across the Strait of Messina, the city was built on Greek foundations and Byzantine influences.
Expect ancient statues, proper beaches and produce so fresh that it was likely caught or picked that morning.
You'll also find those million-pound sea views without the Amalfi Coast prices.
Things to Do in Reggio Calabria - Italy's Underrated Gem
If this low-key region is on your travel radar, you'll want to dive right in and experience it to the fullest.
Whether you're a culture-seeker, a food fanatic or in the mood for a salty breeze and a sunbathe, here are some of the best things to do in Reggio Calabria.
See the Riace Bronzes at the National Archaeological Museum
iStock Photo / GrahamMoore999
The Riace Bronzes are the impossibly well-preserved Greek warriors discovered in 1972 by an Italian chemist, Stefano Mariottini.
Standing nearly two metres tall with anatomical detail that would impress your personal trainer, these 2,500-year-old specimens are worth the trip alone.
Wander the Lungomare Falcomatà
By Jacopo Werther, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Dubbed the most beautiful kilometre in Italy, this palm-lined promenade offers sea views of Sicily and Mount Etna.
Grab a gelato from Gelateria Cesare, find a bench and enjoy your surroundings.
Explore the Aragonese Castle
Own work, Public Domain, Link
The Aragonese Castle offers panoramic views and a quieter historic site than most big cities.
It's also a gift to Instagrammers with its dramatic angles and sea backdrop.
Visit the Bergamot Museum
Adobe Free Stock / francescosgura
If you've ever tasted Earl Grey tea, you've sampled bergamot. And Reggio Calabria is the global capital of it.
The Bergamot Museum is quirky, fragrant and surprisingly fun. Leave with a new appreciation for fancy perfume ingredients.
Catch Sunset Views from Chianalea
Adobe Free Stock / jovannig
Chianalea is a tiny village clinging to the coast north of Reggio.
Think stone houses built into the sea and fishing boats bobbing like they've been staged for a postcard. Go for sunset, stay for dinner.
Sample Swordfish Rolls at a Local Trattoria
Involtini di pesce spada, i.e., swordfish rolls stuffed with breadcrumbs, pecorino, olives and capers, are a Calabrian classic that packs more flavour than their dainty size lets on.
Grilled until lightly crisp on the outside and meltingly tender within, these bite-sized beauties are best eaten seaside, with a splash of lemon and a glass of local white wine.
You won't stop at one - and nor should you. This is coastal Italy, after all. Portions are generous, calories don’t count, and second helpings are just good manners.
Hike to Monte Sant'Elia for Breathtaking Views
By Davide Mangano - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
This moderate hike delivers coastal panoramas and mountain freshness. Spot Sicily from the summit and smugly point out everywhere you've been that day.
Reggio Calabria Beaches Worth a Detour
Punta Pellaro
Just 10km south of the city, Punta Pellaro is a kitesurfing hotspot. Whether you're in the water or on a sunbed, the show in the sky is worth the journey. Pebbles underfoot, but glass-clear water.
Gallico Marina
Salvatore Migliari, CC BY 3.0, Link
North of Reggio, this low-key beach is where locals go for early morning swims and afternoon relaxation. Expect sand-meets-pebbles and a calm, easy pace.
Cannitello
Salvatore Migliari, CC BY 3.0, Link
A small cove beach with chilled-out vibes and no velvet rope in sight. After a swim, wander inland for seafood straight off the boat at family-run trattorias.
Why You Need an eSIM for Italy When Visiting Reggio Calabria
Reggio Calabria might be off the beaten path, but you'll still want to stay connected.
Get your eSIM for Italy from Airalo. Download and install before you go and activate when you arrive to stay in control of your data and how much you spend.
That means goodbye SIM cards, slow airport Wi-Fi and sky-high roaming bills on your idyllic trip.
FAQs About Reggio Calabria
1. Where is Reggio Calabria located?
Reggio Calabria is in southern Italy, at the toe of the boot, facing Sicily across the Strait of Messina.
2. How do I get to Reggio Calabria?
You can fly into Reggio Calabria Airport or nearby Lamezia Terme, then take a train or hire a car along the coast.
3. What is Reggio Calabria famous for?
It's known for the Riace Bronzes, bergamot production, stunning sea views and being delightfully free of tourist crowds.
4. Can you swim in Reggio Calabria?
Yes! The city has multiple beaches, including Punta Pellaro, Gallico Marina and Cannitello, perfect for sea lovers.
5. Do I need mobile data in Reggio Calabria?
Absolutely. Get an Airalo eSIM for Italy to stay connected without roaming charges.
