Discover Calabria: Tropea, Vibo Valentia
Tropea is one of those places that take your breath away the moment you see it. It’s the perfect combination of gorgeous emerald-toned seas, impressive rocky cliffs and a charming old town that will have you in full-on wanderlust mode!
Tropea, in the province of Vibo Valentia, is one of Calabria’s top summer destinations. The town, perched on the sandstone cliffs, overlooking the mesmerizing waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea on the “Costa degli Dei” (Coast of the Gods).
No one can seem to pinpoint the origins of this magical place. Some believe it has mythical ties – and let’s be honest, can you blame them? It is said that Tropea was once known as Portercole and was founded by the great Hercules.
Regardless of its origin, Tropea caught the attention of many people throughout the ages. Not only for its incredible natural beauty but also for its undeniably advantageous vantage point. Today, Tropea is a peaceful haven drawing in visitors from all over the world.
What to See
Historic Centre
One of the things I enjoy most when visiting Italian towns and cities is wandering the old towns. There is nothing I enjoy more than getting “lost” in the narrow streets and alleyways of these charming centres.
Wandering the old town of Tropea, you will discover beautiful angles and stunning palazzi dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Tropea is a tourist destination and so you will find ordinary souvenir shops. But there are also quaint artisan shops that are worth checking out.
It’s so easy to lose all concept of time as you walk around the cobblestone streets of this lovely old town. Throughout the old town, there are small squares home to lovely restaurants, cafes and gelato shops. A perfect excuse to people-watch while enjoying a delicious meal or a refreshing drink.
Cathedral of Saint Mary of Romania
This 12th-century Romanesque cathedral, dedicated to the Holy Maria of Romania, is in the historic centre. This building immediately grabbed my attention because of its odd location. It almost seems “incomplete” and seemingly “interrupted” by the Diocesan museum attached to it.
I didn’t go inside the church but I have seen some photos and the interior looks similar to the Duomo in Cosenza. I would like to check it out the next time I find myself in Tropea. If you look at the exterior walls of the cathedral, you can see the Norman-style characteristics, which I absolutely love!
Santa Maria Dell’Isola
One of the most common images that comes to mind when someone mentions Tropea is the Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell’ Isola. This marvelous church, built on an “island”, was once completely detached from the mainland.
Climb the steps up to the church and admire the remarkable views of the coast and the town. The Sanctuary itself is very humble and simplistic. When I visited this sanctuary, I was quite surprised. It was not what I’d expect based on its appearance from the outside.
Beaches
The seaside in Tropea is a dream for beach lovers! The emerald green waters are crystal clear, inviting you to take a dip. Around the rocky sandstone that Santa Maria Dell’Isola sits upon are various grottos and marine life for those eager to explore. Although the beaches can be a bit crazy during the summer months, if you have a chance to go in June or September, it’s quite a treat! And if you can, stay for the sunset – it’s unreal!
What to Eat
Seafood
As you could probably imagine, the specialty here is seafood. You will find many restaurants offering dishes featuring the freshest catch of the day. But, be sure to give surici fritti a try if you see them on the menu. They are small fish, typically found in this area, that are breaded and fried.
Cipolla Rossa
This red onion, hailing from Tropea, is used throughout Italy. It is used in risotto and/or pasta dishes as well as salads. You may also find it served on crostini as part of a typical pre-dinner starter.
‘Nduja
If you aren’t familiar with Calabrian cuisine, then you might not know what ‘nduja is. It is essentially a spicy sausage that is soft and spreadable. It is used in many different ways and has different levels of spiciness. Today ‘nduja is produced all over Calabria but it originated in the province of Vibo Valentia. So, if you find yourself in Tropea, then it’s definitely worth tasting the local ‘nduja. You can also purchase some to take home as a souvenir!
Come along with me to Tropea and see why it was named one of Italy’s Most Beautiful Hamlets in 2021.
Have you ever been to Tropea? Let me know your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
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Comments are closed.
JoNell
August 14, 2020 at 9:01 pmLoved your article. I visited Tropea 3 years ago. My (recently deceased) husband has a lot of family in Cosenza, so they took us for a day trip. I swore to return when I could stay longer. I need to know about transportation if you could. Can I hire transportation to/from LaMezzia airport? (I think that was the name of it). Can I get from the city to the beach on foot, or is a car needed? I’m actually thinking of attaching the visit to the end of a tour. Thank you! Ciao
LuLu
August 21, 2020 at 4:55 pmHi JoNell, thanks so much for your comment. I’m so sorry about your husband’s passing 🙁 When you ask about transportation, do you mean to and from Cosenza? There are airport transport services that you can hire to get to Cosenza or you can also catch a bus (depending on flight times arrival times). If you choose to stay at a hotel in Tropea, there is a good chance they can provide a transfer for you (at a fee). Tropea is right at the seaside so if you are staying in Tropea, you just walk down the steps from the town to the beach. If you are staying in Cosenza, there is a train that goes to Tropea and the station isn’t far from the beach (about 20-minute walk). If you have any other questions, feel free to send me an email and I’ll do my best to help you out! 🙂
Sonia Seivwright
January 21, 2020 at 10:18 pmI really like this post. The city looks beautiful. I’d be scared to live there though, with the houses sitting on top of the rocks. I’m scared of heights by the way
LuLu
January 24, 2020 at 7:56 amThanks for stopping in, Sonia! The views from those houses have to be AMAZING! But it’s probably not ideal if you have a fear of heights! They have some nice beachfront homes on the ground though 🙂
Luna S
January 20, 2020 at 1:28 pmStunning village, those buildings up on the rocks like that are gorgeous.
Britt
January 20, 2020 at 2:09 amI’ve never been there before, but your pictures have me totally hooked. It’s the perfect combination of stunning architecture and beautiful views – what’s not to love? Thank you for sharing!
LuLu
January 21, 2020 at 7:54 amThanks, Britt for your comment! Tropea is an enchanting town and in the summer the waters are so crystal clear! A great place to visit if you wanted to explore Calabria! 🙂
Lindsay Brown
January 20, 2020 at 1:22 amYour first photo in this article of the cliff DID take my breath away! I agree that walking around beautiful old cities like this is an amazing thing! By the sounds of it I could wander around for days here!
LuLu
January 21, 2020 at 7:54 amWandering the old towns of places I visit is one of my favorite things to do! Tropea has a lovely old town with some really great views all over!
Melanie williams
January 18, 2020 at 10:41 pmWow all your piccys are just so lovely. this looks like an amazing place to visit with so much to see and do x
LuLu
January 19, 2020 at 8:42 amThank you so much, Melanie! It’s easy to take lovely pictures when the place is so beautiful 😛 Tropea is a lovely place and very tourist-friendly! It’s a great starting point for anyone who is interested in exploring this region!
Kelly Martin
January 18, 2020 at 5:48 amWow, Tropea looks so beautiful! I love the coastline with the huge cliffs and amazing architecture. I’d love to travel there one day.
LuLu
January 18, 2020 at 7:30 amI highly recommend it to travelers wanting to explore Calabria!
Yasinta
January 17, 2020 at 8:50 pmLooks like an interesting place. I’ve always wanted to visit an old cathedral. Hope to make it to Tropea someday.
LuLu
January 18, 2020 at 7:31 amIt really is a lovely place to visit, and the waters are crystal clear! I hope to visit the cathedral the next time I’m there – I’ve been told it’s really beautiful inside!
Megan Kerry
January 17, 2020 at 8:37 pmOh my god! The image of the winding street right along the beach in Tropea with the soaring cliff and buildings above it is stunning! What a beautiful travel destination! I hope I get to go one day!
LuLu
January 18, 2020 at 7:26 amIt really is a wonderful seaside town with incredible views and gorgeous beaches.
Scott DeNicola
January 17, 2020 at 4:50 pmThose homes up on the cliffs give me “agida”! They remind me of California but much better-looking architecture. My grandfather would always tell me stories of the narrow streets in Italy and his hometown as they were built way before cars so bicycles were your only means of transportation (or scooters) THat church up on the hill is stunning! You are making a great case for me to pack up and move to Calabria and Tropea!
LuLu
January 17, 2020 at 7:34 pmHahaha Thanks, Scott! It’s such a pleasure for me to share Calabria with the world. When people think of Italy they don’t tend to think of anything further south that the Amalfi Coast and Sicily. Calabria has so much to offer but there isn’t a lot of information out there! I’m so pleased you are enjoying my posts on this region! 🙂
Ann Pape
January 17, 2020 at 3:44 pmWow, I did a study abroad in Italy as a student but never made it to Tropea. I guess I will just have to make another trip and visit this beautiful town.
LuLu
January 17, 2020 at 7:32 pmTropea is a great place to visit, although I’d recommend visiting in June or September. The weather is good and you can still swim! 🙂 July and August is high season and the small town gets super busy!
Cristina
September 30, 2019 at 12:43 amWow, so beautiful! I must get to Calabria. I thought I would be going to a conference there next year, but it unexpectedly got changed to Torino. I have not been there either, so that is ok. i’ll get to Calabria some day! Ciao, Cristina
LuLu
October 3, 2019 at 8:38 pmCristina, You need to come visit!!! Hit me up when you do!
Cristina
October 4, 2019 at 11:46 pmCerto!
Kristie Prada
September 27, 2019 at 9:51 amWow this is stunning Lulu! I’ve heard of Tropea but never realised how beautiful it was. The cliffs are quite breathtaking aren’t they! Thank you for sharing another little gem with us!
LuLu
September 28, 2019 at 9:15 pmIt’s a wonderful place! Even though it’s more touristy than other places, you can’t help but be in awe of those views!
Lucy and Kelly
September 27, 2019 at 4:56 amThis looks stunning. We’ve never been but really do want to travel around Italy more!! 🙂
Lucy and Kelly #dolcevitabloggers
theblossomtwins.com
LuLu
September 28, 2019 at 9:13 pmThanks for your comment! 🙂 There is so much of Italy I want to see too! I’ll keep your list growing…..hahaha
Image Earth Travel
September 22, 2019 at 7:37 pmEnjoyed the read of gorgeous Tropea. Can’t wait to visit again…
LuLu
September 25, 2019 at 7:20 amThanks so much, glad you liked it!
Sarah
September 20, 2019 at 12:26 amWow! Such a beautiful location!!
LuLu
September 25, 2019 at 7:19 amGrazie mille for your comment! It’s a must-see when in Calabria, even though it can be touristy in high season, it’s a place that will take your breath away!