Reggio Calabria

Reggio Calabria is a beautiful town located on the tip of the boot and overlooking the Strait of Messina. Thanks to its millennial history, this city offers art, culture and one of the most gorgeous coastlines in Italy.

On Ferryhopper you will find useful information on must-see places, beaches, local delicacies and ferries from Reggio Calabria. Take a look at our travel tips and start planning an unforgettable vacation in Southern Italy.

Keep scrolling to learn more:

• Reggio Calabria ferry port
• Vacation in Reggio Calabria

A glimpse of the historic center of Reggio Calabria from the Aragonese castle

Reggio Calabria ferry port

Considered one of the region's major seaports, the port of Reggio Calabria serves connections to Sicily and the Aeolian archipelago.

Within the port area, there is a hydrofoil pier, a dock for passenger and cargo ships, and a tourist dock reserved for leisure. Around the port you will find bars, restaurants, hotels, rentals, and private parking lots.

The port of Reggio Calabria is just over 1 km from the National Archaeological Museum and nearly 3 km from the historic center, easily reachable by foot.

On the other hand, the distance between the port and the airport of Reggio is 12 km. They are connected by several bus lines.

Ferries from Reggio Calabria: schedules and tickets

From Reggio Calabria, you can take the ferry to the Sicilian port of Messina, as well as some of the Aeolian islands (Lipari, Salina, Vulcano, Stromboli and Panarea).

The ferry company serving the routes is Liberty Lines with connections available most of the year.

The price for a single ticket from Reggio Calabria to Sicily starts from €4 but can go as high as €40 depending on the port of arrival. As for Reggio Calabria - Aeolian Islands tickets, the cost is around €27-46.

Keep in mind that on hydrofoils from Reggio Calabria, you cannot bring along motor vehicles, but you can travel safely with your pet.

Here is some more info about available routes from the port of Reggio Calabria:

• Reggio Calabria to Messina ferry: the route Reggio Calabria - Messina is active all year round, with departures almost every hour and crossings of only 35 minutes.
• Reggio Calabria to Lipari ferry: the Reggio Calabria - Lipari connections are available all year round, with 1-3 departures a day depending on the season. The crossing takes less than 2 hours.
• Reggio Calabria to Salina ferry: the route Reggio Calabria - Salina runs all year round with connections to the island's 2 ports. There are up to 3 departures per day, and the trip lasts between 2.5 hours on average.
• Reggio Calabria to Vulcano ferry: the route Reggio Calabria - Vulcano is served 5-7 days a week, depending on the season. The crossings take about 1.5 hours to reach the island.
• Reggio Calabria - Stromboli ferry: hydrofoils to Stromboli from Reggio Calabria operate from June to September with 1 trip per day. The connection requires a change and a 30-minute wait at the port of Lipari, and the journey lasts a total of 3 hours and 45 minutes.
• Reggio Calabria - Panarea ferry: hydrofoils to Panarea from Reggio Calabria operate from June to September with 1 trip per day. The connection includes a change and a 30-minute wait at the port of Lipari, with the journey lasting a total of 3 hours and 10 minutes.

Tip: you can travel to Sicily also from the Calabrian ports of Villa San Giovanni and Vibo Valentia.

The port of Reggio Calabria

Where is the ferry port in Reggio Calabria?

The ferry port in Reggio Calabria is situated close to the city center and mainly operates ferry connections to Messina and the Aeolian archipelago. The port area offers a wide range of services, including restaurants, bars, private parking, car rentals, and a gas station.

Also, the Aragonese Castle and the central square, Piazza Italia (some of the city's most popular sightseeing) are just a short distance from the port.

How to get to Reggio Calabria port?

You can easily reach the port of Reggio Calabria by car, taxi, train, bus or on foot. If you're driving to the city of Reggio Calabria the road to the port is well-signposted so you can easily find it.

Moreover, the port is only a 7-minute drive from the main train station and about 11 minutes from the terminal bus station.

Vacation in Reggio Calabria

If you are in the mood for a low-cost vacation in Italy by the sea, Reggio Calabria is a great choice for you!

A trip of a few days between Calabria and Sicily is the perfect occasion to relax, discover wonderful places and taste the excellent local cuisine.

In Reggio Calabria, you can visit the historic center, stroll along Italy's most famous promenade and take the unique opportunity to explore its surroundings. In addition, thanks to the warm climate and the many local attractions, you can plan a vacation here at any time of the year.

How to get to Reggio Calabria?

You can easily reach Reggio Calabria from all over the Italian peninsula by car, train, ferry or plane.

People traveling from Northern Italy will have to take the A2 highway (Autostrada del Mediterraneo), while those arriving from the south should follow the SS106 highway (Statale Jonica). The Reggio Calabria train station is also connected with most Italian cities.

If you are in Sicily, you can get to Reggio Calabria in no time by taking the ferry from Messina. The same goes for those departing from the Aeolian Islands of Lipari, Salina and Vulcano, connected to Reggio Calabria year-round.

Finally, the city of Reggio Calabria also has an airport located 8 km from the center. Another airport relatively close to Reggio Calabria and served by international flights is the one in Lamezia Terme, at about 130 km away.

The beautiful “Lungomare Falcomatà”, the stunning promenade in Reggio Calabria

What to do in Reggio Calabria

Reggio Calabria offers so many things to do and see during all seasons of the year! The city is full of cultural sights such as churches, museums and art galleries, not to talk about the amazing beaches.

The city beach and its promenade are a source of pride for the people of Reggio Calabria, who love enjoying long walks by the sea. With a little bit of luck (especially during summer), you will also be able to experience the Fata Morgana phenomenon, an optical illusion that makes Calabria and Sicily look like one united piece of land.

During your visit to Reggio Calabria, you should also travel to other nearby coastal areas and explore the hinterland, with its villages in which time stands still.

Keep on reading to discover the best activities in Reggio Calabria!

Beaches in Reggio Calabria

One of the main reasons travelers choose Reggio Calabria as their holiday destination is undoubtedly its sea and the many resorts on the Ionian and Tyrrhenian coasts. Most of the beaches are free, but you will also find equipped ones with facilities.

Ferryhopper has selected the 6 best beaches in and around Reggio Calabria that you shouldn’t miss during your trip:

1. The city beach: Located north of the historic center of Reggio Calabria, it is the city's busiest beach. It directly overlooks the Strait of Messina, has clean waters and is lined with several bathing establishments. If you keep walking toward the south, you can reach the picturesque waterfront.
2. Punta Pellaro beach: Located 14 km from Reggio Calabria, this is a long stretch of free beach, popular among windsurfers and kitesurfers, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and its strong winds. From here it is even possible to admire Mount Etna in all its imposing beauty.
3. Scilla beach: Big and spacious, this beach is located under the extraordinary scenery of Ruffo di Scilla Castle, about 20 km from Reggio Calabria. Part of the beach is free, but there are also private establishments and small restaurants. It has crystal-clear waters and offers enchanting views of Sicily.
4. Melito Porto Salvo beach: Located in the homonymous town and 25 km from Reggio Calabria, it is a very wide and picturesque stretch of coastline. The beach features fine sand, clean water and sandy seabeds. If you like snorkeling, note that the wreck of the steamship Torino, used for the Expedition of the Thousand, lies in this area.
5. Bagnara Calabra beach: Located about 30 km from Reggio, this is a long stretch of free beach located at the foot of Mount Cocuzzo. It has coarse sand mixed with gravel and a deep blue sea. In summer it is very popular, especially for its seafront full of bars and restaurants.
6. Janculla Cove: Considered among the most beautiful beaches in Calabria, it is located in the Palmi area and is a half-hour drive from Reggio Calabria. The beach is small, with white sand and surrounded by cliffs. You can easily reach it by sea with organized excursions or by land through a very challenging hiking route.

The dreamy waters of Cala Janculla, near Reggio Calabria

What to do in Reggio Calabria

A trip to Reggio Calabria is a perfect combination of nature, history, and traditions. In addition to the beautiful beaches and landscapes, you will have the opportunity to visit churches, museums and many historic landmarks.

The highlights of the city include:

• The Lungomare Falcomatà, considered one of the most beautiful promenades in Italy
• Corso Garibaldi, in the heart of the historic center
• The Arena of the Strait, a theater by the seaside that hosts many events and performances
• Rabarama's sculptures and the neo-Gothic building of the Villa Genovese Zerbi
• The Aragonese castle, one of the symbols of the city
• The Palace of Culture "Pasquino Crupi," to admire works by Mattia Preti, De Chirico and Dalí
• The National Archaeological Museum, to admire the famous Riace Bronzes
• The National Bergamot Museum, to discover the secrets of Calabria's most famous citrus fruit
• The permanent installation of Edoardo Tresoldi's 46 columns, placed on the seafront
• The Cilea Theater, which hosts inside the beautiful Civic Art Gallery
• The Church of the Ottimati, with its iconic red dome
• The Cathedral of Reggio Calabria, famous for its Gothic facade

The imposing Cathedral of Reggio Calabria

Nightlife in Reggio Calabria

Reggio Calabria is a lot of fun, all year round and all day round!

There is a wide range of options for nightlife activities, like bars, restaurants, and clubs. During summer the action moves to the city's coastline! The most popular venues are those overlooking the seafront, which are very popular for aperitivo at sunset.

Another popular spot is Corso Vittorio Emanuele III and the area of the historic center, at the intersection of Via Zecca, Via Zaleuco, and Via Giulia. If you want to move away from Reggio Calabria for a night, a good choice would be the quaint village of Chianalea, 23 km from Reggio.

Food in Reggio Calabria

Calabrian gastronomy has roots in old traditions and is based on simple and tasty ingredients. Reggio Calabria and its province are renowned for their land and sea delicacies. From the homemade appetizers to the desserts, and finishing it all with a good local liquor.

Don't leave Reggio Calabria without trying the following:

• Pork fritters
• The stocco alla mammolese (stock fish cooked with tomato sauce, potatoes, olives, capers, and chili)
• The local pecorino cheese
• The cuddhuraci (typical Easter sweets)
• The stomatico reggino (cookie flavored with cinnamon and cloves)
• The bergamot granita
• Kordax, the bitter of Reggio Calabria

Tip: The Gelateria Cesare, located on the seafront, has been awarded multiple times and is considered one of the best in Italy. Don't miss it!

Enjoy a delicious gelato while strolling along the promenade of Reggio Calabria

Villages and cities to visit near Reggio Calabria

The area surrounding Reggio Calabria houses many places that we recommend you visit if you decide to stay for a longer time in the city.

A few kilometers from Reggio Calabria you can find the picturesque town of Scilla along with the tiny fishing village of Chianalea. Here you can visit the beautiful Ruffo di Calabria Castle, get lost among quaint little alleys or enjoy the traditional swordfish sandwich.

Other beautiful day trips from Reggio Calabria could include the Aspromonte National Park, a visit to the scenic castle of San Niceto or a trip to the mysterious village of Pentadattilo, shrouded in myths and legends.

Keep in mind that these areas are also perfect for an Italian getaway during for winter holidays.

Tips

Here are 3 tips and info to help you plan a smooth trip to Reggio Calabria:

1. Buses connecting Reggio and its surroundings do not reach all destinations. If you want to explore the wilder hinterland, it is advised to do so by car.
2. Are you an astronomy lover? Visit the Pythagoras Planetarium in Reggio Calabria, a nice and relatively unknown sight that could be an interesting activity to do with children.
3. In September, Reggio Calabria celebrates the city's most important event, the Feast of Our Lady of Reconciliation. A very typical religious procession is organized for the occasion, which is followed by dances, fireworks and the opportunity to taste many local products at various food stands.

Useful information about Reggio Calabria

Reggio Calabria is a rather small city, but because of its tourist attractivity, it offers all basic services.

If you want to stay a few days in Reggio Calabria, you can choose accommodation in the historic center, the waterfront, or the areas around the city. You will find lots of hotels, B&Bs, and apartments to rent.

The center of Reggio Calabria can be easily explored on foot. Here you will find most of the city’s attractions. In addition, the town beach is very close to the historic center and is ideal for a dip at any time.

In summer, Reggio and its province come alive with various events and festivals. Among the most famous are the Palio di Ribusa in Stilo, the Parade of Giants in Palmi and the swordfish festival in Bagnara Calabra.

Important phone numbers for your stay in Reggio Calabria

Here are some useful contacts to keep within reach during your trip to Reggio Calabria:

• Port Authority: +390965650090
• Hospital Riuniti Reggio Calabria: +390965397111
• Medical Guard (North Reggio): +390965347052
• Medical Guard (South Reggio): +390965347432
• Municipal police: +39096553991
• Municipality of Reggio Calabria: +3909653622111
• Reggio Calabria Tourism Office: +3909653622570
• European emergency number: 112

Transportation in Reggio Calabria

The province of Reggio is very large, but if we talk about the city itself, it is quite easy to get around on foot and enjoy the beauty of the region's capital.

If you arrive in Reggio Calabria by car, keep in mind that not all areas have free parking and you will most likely have to park on paid parking, marked with blue stripes. The historic center is about 10 minutes from both the promenade and the bustling Corso Garibaldi. Everything is easily accessible, including museums and archaeological attractions.

On the Reggio Calabria lungomare, you can also rent bicycles or rickshaws to make the walk even more fun.

If you are interested in getting around in the suburbs, however, you can rely on suburban bus lines. Almost all buses move along the coast and some move inland. Thanks to the ATAM App, it is possible to access all public transportation info and also track buses in real-time.

Reggio Calabria's Arena of the Straits, a theater facing the sea

Book your ferry tickets to Reggio Calabria online

On Ferryhopper you can book your ferry tickets online to/from Reggio Calabria at the best price, without hidden fees. Find all available routes on our Map of ferries, compare different crossings and companies, and plan your next adventure to Southern Italy easily and quickly!