This Destination Is a Less-visited Gem in Italy-Here's How a Pro Travel Advisor Would Plan an Itinerary

"Calabria, tucked between the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas, is Italy's best-kept secret. It's a land of dramatic coastlines, ancient ruins, hilltop villages, and untouched natural beauty. And as one of the few less-traveled paths left in Italy, Calabria makes for a deeply immersive cultural journey, best taken over the course of five or seven days. Here are a few of the best towns to visit when traveling to Calabria."

"Begin your stay in the town of Tropea. One of the best places to stay is Villa Paola, a former 16th Century convent surrounded by a Mediterranean garden that overlooks the white beaches and rocky cliffs of the Costa degli Dei (Coast of the Gods). Foodies will enjoy the signature delights of the region, like Tropea onions, spicy nduja sausage spread, and the classic frozen Tartufo, made with layers of mouthwatering gelato."

Calabria sits between the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas, offering dramatic coastlines, ancient ruins, hilltop villages, and natural parks ideal for five- to seven-day trips. Tropea provides sea-view lodging at Villa Paola and regional specialties such as Tropea onions, nduja, and frozen Tartufo. Day trips from Tropea include the fishing village of Scilla and Reggio Calabria, home to the Bronzes of Riace and cafes along Lungomare Falcomatà with Cirò wine. Nature options include Aspromonte, Sila, and Pollino national parks. The northeastern stretch around Crotone and Isola Capo Rizzuto features Praia Art Resort, pristine Ionian beaches, and historic sites like Le Castella and Santa Severina.

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