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There are great many things to do in Italy, and so are in Vibo Valentia.
Nestled in the heart of Calabria, Vibo Valentia is a hidden gem bursting with cultural and natural treasures waiting to be explored.
From wandering through ancient villages to savoring local cuisine, each experience is a journey into the soul of Southern Italy.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Vibo Valentia:
1. Capo Vaticano Beach
Capo Vaticano is a beautiful beach destination located in the province of Vibo Valentia, Calabria.
What to see or do: Spend your days lounging on the stunning sandy beaches and swimming in the clear turquoise waters. Take a boat tour to explore the surrounding coves and cliffs or hike along the scenic trails.
Don’t miss: Do not miss the breathtaking sunset views from the lighthouse perched high on the cliffs overlooking the sea.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Capo Vaticano is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny.
2. Pizzo Calabro
A charming seaside town located in the province of Vibo Valentia in Calabria, Italy.
What to see or do: Discover the historic center filled with charming shops and restaurants, enjoy breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea from Murat Castle, stroll along the picturesque Marina with colorful fishing boats, and indulge in delicious gelato at the famous Tartufo di Pizzo.
Don’t miss: The stunning Spiaggia di Pizzo beach with crystal-clear waters and pristine sand, and a visit to the Chiesetta di Piedigrotta, a unique church carved into the tuff rock caves.
Insider travel tips: Don’t forget to try the local specialty, Fileja con Nduja, a spicy sausage-based pasta dish. Also, Pizzo is known for its Tartufo ice cream, so make sure to try it at least once (or twice!
). Visit in August to experience the famous Pizzo Calabro Blues Festival.
And if you’re looking for a unique souvenir, pick up a hand-painted ceramic whistle, a traditional Pizzo craft.
3. Tropea Beach
Tropea Beach is a stunning Mediterranean beach located in the charming coastal town of Tropea, in the province of Vibo Valentia, Italy.
What to see or do: Relax on the sandy beach and refresh yourself in the crystal-clear waters. Try water sports such as swimming, snorkeling, diving, and windsurfing, all of which are popular activities at Tropea Beach.
You can also explore the nearby town and its interesting historical sites.
Don’t miss: Be sure not to miss the breathtaking view of the the coastline from the nearby clifftop.
Look out from the Belvedere viewpoint, where you can see the beautiful coastline and the amazing clear waters of the sea.
Insider travel tips: Book a hotel in advance since the beach can be crowded during the summer months. If you want a quieter experience, visit in the shoulder seasons or early in the morning.
Be aware that Tropea Beach is accessible via steps and trails, so pack accordingly and wear comfortable shoes.
4. Norman Castle of Squillace
Norman Castle of Squillace is an ancient fortress located in the town of Squillace, Vibo Valentia in Calabria, Italy. It is a well-preserved fortress that dates back to the Norman era.
What to see or do: Visitors can tour the castle and marvel at its impressive architecture. From the top of the castle, visitors can enjoy a stunning view of the surrounding landscape.
The castle also has a museum that displays various historical artifacts.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to explore the underground dungeons that were once used to hold prisoners. The narrow corridors and small cells are a haunting reminder of the castle’s past.
Insider travel tips:
5. Santa Maria dell’Isola
A picturesque church perched on a rocky cliff overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea in the town of Tropea, Calabria, Italy.
What to see or do: Take in the stunning views of the sea and the coastline, explore the charming church and its intricate design, and appreciate the beautiful stained glass windows.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking sunset over the sea, which can be enjoyed from the terrace in front of the church.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes to climb up the stairs leading to the church and bring a camera to capture the stunning views.
It can get quite crowded during peak tourist season, so try to visit early in the morning or in the late afternoon for a more peaceful experience.
6. Murat Castle
Murat Castle is a historic fortress located in Vibo Valentia, Calabria, Italy. It was built on the top of a hill in the 11th century and then reconstructed during the 15th century.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s ramparts, towers, and gardens while enjoying the stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the surrounding countryside.
The castle also houses a small museum with exhibits on the history of Vibo Valentia and the local area.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a stroll through the gardens and take in the panoramic views from the observation deck. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the castle’s tower, which offers a unique perspective on the surrounding area.
Insider travel tips: The castle can be reached by car, and there is ample parking available.
It can also be a bit of a hike to reach the top of the hill, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some uneven terrain.
Finally, be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the castle can get quite hot and there is little shade available.
7. Museum of the Sea
The Museum of the Sea is dedicated to showcasing the rich maritime heritage of Vibo Valentia, a coastal town in southern Italy.
What to see or do: Explore the various exhibits that detail the area’s history of fishing, boating, and naval activities. See traditional fishing tools, ancient maps, and artifacts from past shipwrecks.
Learn about the importance of the sea to the region’s economy, culture, and environment.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is a replica of an ancient Mediterranean boat, the Tartana. This wooden vessel dates back to the 19th century and was used for both fishing and transportation.
The intricate craftsmanship of the Tartana and its ornate decorations make it a must-see exhibit.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the Museum of the Sea during the summer months to combine your trip with a relaxing beach vacation.
8. Fortifications of Serra San Bruno
The Fortifications of Serra San Bruno are a series of defensive structures built during the Bourbon rule in Calabria, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the remnants of the fortifications spread across the town of Serra San Bruno, including walls, bastions, and towers.
The main attraction is the Castello San Bruno, a fortress that now serves as a museum of local history and culture.
Don’t miss: The view from the top of Castello San Bruno offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the town and surrounding mountains.
Visitors can also take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Serra San Bruno and enjoy the local cuisine and wine.
Insider travel tips: – Visit in the summer when the town comes alive with festivals and events.
9. Vibo Valentia Cathedral
A beautiful Baroque-style cathedral located in the city of Vibo Valentia in Southern Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the intricate details of the cathedral’s exterior, including its stunning facade and bell tower. Step inside to see the grand altar, ornate decorations, and beautiful ceiling frescoes.
Don’t miss: The cathedral’s treasury, which houses a collection of valuable religious objects, including precious metals, ancient textiles, and medieval manuscripts.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit during one of the cathedral’s religious festivals to experience the vibrant atmosphere and cultural traditions of the region.
Be sure to dress modestly when visiting the cathedral, as it is a place of worship.
10. Mount Poro
Mount Poro is a majestic mountain rising to 1,214 meters in height situated in the province of Vibo Valentia, Italy.
What to see or do: Mount Poro is an ideal destination for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. The panoramic views from the summit are breathtaking and are worth the strenuous trek to the top.
The mountain is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including wild orchids, oak trees, and several species of birds.
Don’t miss: The stunning views of the Aeolian Islands, Stromboli, and the Calabrian coast from the summit of Mount Poro are simply unparalleled.
So, make sure to bring your camera and capture the breathtaking views.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Mount Poro is during the spring, summer, and fall seasons when the weather is relatively cooler, and the vegetation is lush.
11. San Giovanni in Fiore Abbey
San Giovanni in Fiore Abbey is a historic monastery located in the town of San Giovanni in Fiore, Vibo Valentia, in Southern Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the abbey’s impressive architecture, including its Gothic-style façade and the frescoes and sculptures that adorn its interior. The cloister, in particular, is a must-see with its beautiful columns and arches.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the tomb of the abbey’s founder, Joachim of Fiore, a famous theologian and mystic who lived in the 12th century.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit the abbey early in the morning when it’s less crowded. Also, be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the abbey has many stairs and uneven surfaces.
12. Calabria National Park
Calabria National Park is a protected area located in the province of Vibo Valentia, in the southern Italian region of Calabria.
What to see or do: Explore the stunning natural beauty of the park through various hiking trails or by taking a guided tour. Visitors can also enjoy camping, birdwatching, fishing, mountain biking, and skiing in the winter months.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the charming medieval village of Pizzo Calabro, located near the park. This picturesque town is famous for its delicious gelato, known as “Tartufo di Pizzo.
Insider travel tips: Pack comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for hiking and exploring the outdoors. Take advantage of the various guided tours offered in the park to learn more about its history and natural beauty.
Don’t forget to try the local cuisine, which includes fresh seafood and delicious Calabrian specialties such as nduja, a type of spicy spreadable sausage.
13. Nicotera Marina Beach
A beautiful sandy beach located in the town of Nicotera Marina, in the Calabria region of southern Italy.
What to see or do: Relax on the golden sands, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, and soak up the stunning views of the surrounding coastline.
The beach is also equipped with various facilities including showers, changing rooms, and sun loungers.
Don’t miss: Catch the mesmerizing sunset over the sea, which is nothing short of magic.
Insider travel tips: The beach can get quite crowded during the peak summer months, so it’s best to arrive early to secure a good spot.
Also, don’t forget to bring some cash as there are no ATMs nearby.
14. Museum of Contemporary Art “Antonio Ligabue”
What to see or do: Admire a vast collection of Ligabue’s artworks including paintings, drawings, and sculptures.
Don’t miss: Ligabue’s famous painting, “Tigers Attacking an Ox” showcased at the museum.
Insider travel tips: Check the opening hours before visiting as they may vary depending on the season.
15. Riaci Beach
A stunning beach located in the province of Vibo Valentia, Italy.
What to see or do: Relax on the golden sand, take a swim in the crystal clear waters, or go snorkeling to explore the marine life.
Don’t miss: Admire the breathtaking view of the turquoise sea from the hilltop overlooking the beach.
Insider travel tips: Bring your own snacks and drinks as there are no restaurants or shops nearby. Also, be prepared to walk down a steep incline to reach the beach.