Reggio Calabria is a recent discovery. Until the early 1990s it seemed impossible to associate the word “holiday” with the name of this city. Too much famous for crime and degradation shouted from the rooftops, few brave people went down to see the changes… which actually existed. And they were amazing! Today Reggio is an elegant city, with an airy seafront embellished with gardens and Art Nouveau villas, with services, restored monuments, museums and cultural events that have nothing to envy of those of larger cities in the north. You have to go to Reggio Calabria to discover a truly unique pearl. Here are some ideas on how to do it.
When to go
Reggio Calabria is one of those few places in the world where it is possible to go… always. The climate is pleasant for eight months of the year and even in the heat of summer, when temperatures rise to their maximum, the presence of beaches and mountains in its immediate surroundings makes the stay pleasant. We recommend enjoying Reggio in spring, when the colors are enhanced by the new light of the season and walks are easier thanks to the still cool sea breezes.
How to get to Reggio Calabria
Reggio Calabria enjoys the proximity of a super functional port and an airport (Reggio Calabria Airport – REG) which allow you to arrive in the city from all over the Mediterranean and the world. The city’s railway station is an important passage and sorting station for trains arriving from the north, the center and the east and also welcomes those disembarking from Sicily. By car the most convenient and direct route is the A2 Salerno-Reggio Calabria motorway which connects Reggio directly to the other major national arteries (A3 and A1).
How to move through Reggio Calabria
Beyond the historic quarter which can be easily explored on foot, the ideal means of transport for moving within Reggio Calabria is the city bus. The municipal company provides the service throughout the territory and on average it is a decent connection service, even if there is no shortage of delays. However, tourists can take advantage of special buses designed especially for them and to introduce them to the city.
What to see
In order to admire all the beauty in Reggio Calabria, just take a long, relaxing walk along the almost 2 km of Lungomare Falcomatà seafront. On one side, the panorama of the strait, with Sicily in front of you (sometimes you can even spot Mt Etna!), the beaches, the buildings of the modern and ancient bathing establishments… On the other side, centuries-old trees, patrician villas, shops, restaurants. The sidewalks are very wide and also invite you to play sports, skate and bike.
Crossing the street and moving towards the center, you shall admire buildings rebuilt after the 1908 earthquake, plus some faithfully reproduced ancient monuments rebuilt piece by piece.
There are: the beautiful neo-Gothic cathedral, the buildings of the town hall, of the province palace, Theatre Cilea, Palace Barbera. There is the moving belt that takes you up the hill without any effort. There are castles too, Castello Aragonese above all and, in the hinterland, Motta Sant’Aniceto and Castello Calanna. There are the statues of Riace Bronze Heroes in the very interesting Archaeological Museum.
Don’t miss one or more excursions to the Aspromonte National Park. If, however, you want to enjoy the sea, you are spoiled for choice among many wonderful beaches.