Tropea, a small seaside town in the southern Italian region of Calabria, is an idyllic coastal escape.
Tropea embodies the best of Italian coastal life
Dramatic cliffs meet the azure waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea on the Calabrian coast and, perched high above this stunning Southern Italian coastline, the little town of Tropea offers a blend of natural beauty, history, and the laid-back rhythm of Italian coastal life. Calabria, with its 485 miles of coastline and two seas, the Tyrrhenian and Ionian, is a region of contrasts, and Tropea is its crown jewel. 
Lamezia Terme’s airport is just an hour away
Tropea is accessible by train or car, with the nearest major airport in Lamezia Terme just an hour away. The old historic center is a tangle of cobbled streets, ancient buildings, and panoramic views of the coastline. At its heart stands the Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell’Isola, an iconic monastery built on a rocky promontory. The sanctuary, surrounded by lush gardens, offers views that seem to stretch to infinity, with the sparkling sea and the distant Aeolian Islands as its backdrop. Tropea’s beaches – the Marina dell’Isola and Spiaggia della Rotonda are two of the most popular - have soft white sands and crystalline waters that are framed by rugged cliffs. 
Local seafood, onions and spicy salami
Tropea reflects the best of the Calabria region which has a rich landscape with three mountain ranges and several national parks, hiking trails through pristine forests, waterfalls, and ancient villages. The region is also known for its bold, rustic cuisine, and Tropea’s signature red onions, which are sweet and mild, are a staple in dishes ranging from salads to savory jams. Another local favourite is ‘Nduja, a spicy, spreadable pork salami flavored with Calabrian chili. Local seafood, fresh from the Tyrrhenian Sea, features prominently on menus, and should be accompanied by the simple but charming local wines.
Day trips to nearby islands and to a volcano
Exciting day excursions include the Capo Vaticano cape with its stunning beaches that are perfect for snorkeling, diving, and hiking. Boat tours explore hidden coves, grottos, the nearby Aeolian Islands and Stromboli, which has black sand beaches and impressive lava flows from its active volcano known as the “Lighthouse of the Mediterranean.”
