Calabrisella Mia

I’ve been living in Calabria for quite some time now, which means I’ve had the chance to visit many seaside towns. When I first moved to Italy, Amantea was one of the very first seaside towns in Calabria I visited. Living in the city of Cosenza has its perks, one of them being that you are perfectly located about 40 minutes from the Tyrrhenian Sea and 40 minutes from the mountains. That means having the best of both worlds within easy reach.

Over the years, this coastal town in Calabria has held the spot as my go-to escape when I need a dose of sun, sand, and saltwater. Amantea is close by and accessible by train, making it a great way to spend the day at the beach. There have been many times when I would pack my beach bag, hop on the train, and within an hour, I would be sitting under a beach umbrella at one of my favorite beach clubs, Lido Mediterraneo, and letting the sound of the waves melt away any ounce of stress or heavy thoughts I might have. This charming Calabrian seaside town has everything you need for a perfect day, whether you want to relax on the beach, explore historic streets, or enjoy some of the region’s delicious food.

Things to See and Do in Amantea, Calabria

Relaxing on the Beach in Amantea

When you want to spend the day at the beach, you have one thing in mind…relaxation! Amantea is a simple train ride from Cosenza, where I live.  I can hop on a direct train, and once I’ve arrived at my destination, I’m literally steps away from my favorite lido (beach club) in Amantea, Lido Mediterraneo.  What’s great about this lido is that it’s near the main strip and just a short walk from the station, making it so convenient. With comfortable sun loungers, umbrellas, and the crystal-clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, it is the ideal spot to swim, read, or simply enjoy the laid-back beach atmosphere that Calabria is known for.

Take a Stroll Along the Lungomare

The seafront promenade is always one of my favourite places to wander, especially in the early evening. You will find lots of people out enjoying the traditional passeggiata with a nice sea breeze and the distant sounds of waves crashing on the shore. And if you can, stick around for the sunset.  There is something so magical about watching the sky turn golden over the Calabrian coastline, and if you happen to have a gelato in hand, even better!

Explore the Historic Centre of Amantea

If you have the time, or can tear yourself away from the seaside, why not head up to the old town? It’s perched on a hill with stunning views over the coast. Here you’ll find narrow cobblestone streets and little piazzas…the perfect combination for a slow wander. Walk along Via Nazionale or Corso Umberto I and admire the beautiful views, old noble residences, and small cafés.  You can also check out the peaceful Chiesa di San Bernardino da Siena. This 15th-century church is a lovely place to pause and soak in a bit of local history before continuing your walk through the heart of Amantea or making your way back down to the seaside.

A Quick Visit to the Grotta di Amantea

Not far from the historic centre of this seaside town in Calabria, there is a small natural grotto that is worth a quick stop if you enjoy adding a touch of nature to your sightseeing. It may not be a big attraction, but it gives you a different view of this seaside town and makes for a nice break during your visit.

Where to Eat in Amantea, Calabria

Bar Sicoli

Whether you are craving a creamy gelato or something sweet from their pastry selection, Bar Sicoli is a local favourite in Amantea. Located in the upper part of Amantea, in the more historic part of the town, it is the kind of place where one visit easily turns into a regular stop. If you want to try something typical, try a delicious bocconotto (pronounced boh-koh-NO-tee). They are traditional short-crust pastries with a soft, chocolate-and-almond centre.

Bar Caruso

Located in the lower part of Amantea on the main strip, Bar Caruso is perfect for both a mid-afternoon gelato and an early evening aperitivo. Grab a seat outside, order a spritz and enjoy the lively atmosphere as you watch Amantea’s daily life unfold around you.  This is a great place to stop before or after a bit of shopping on Via Margherita.

Amantea is one of those seaside towns in Calabria that never loses its charm and always brightens my spirits. Whether you visit for a few hours or a full day, its beaches, historic streets, and delicious treats make it a seaside destination worth adding to your itinerary.