Tropea
Tropea, Italy
The ultimate travel guide
Why explore Tropea?
Tropea is an impressive seaside town on Calabria‘s west coast, with iconic houses built into the clifftop and wide vistas over the turquoise ocean. It’s the most well-known holiday destination in Calabria, southern Italy. Famous for its charming historic centre, spectacular beaches, and prized Tropea red onions, it’s no surprise that the town is described as the jewel in the crown of Calabria.
And although the town has gained more exposure in recent years, it remains relatively unknown on the international tourist trail. With just as much charm as the famous Positano or the Cinque Terre, we say to book your Italian vacation here now before that changes!
Discover Tropea's historic centre
Tropea boasts the kind of sea views that will make you stop and stare. As you approach the town from the north, many pull up the car and do just that. And the town is a beauty. The biggest disagreement you’ll have of your holiday here is when deciding on which spot offers the most spectacular views.
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The viewpoint at the end of the main Corso Vittorio Emanuele (within the historic centre) offers a framed window over the ocean. The shadow of the town’s buildings project down onto the beach, and a full 180-degree view of the blue sea makes you want to dive over the railings. Sunsets from the Piazza del Cannone and looking over the sea to Stromboli volcano, cannot be beaten. Or for views of the town itself, and to marvel at the centuries-old buildings that seem to grow out of the cliff face, climb the steps to Santa Maria dell’Isola and look back from the top of the rock.
Spending a few evenings in Tropea is a must in any itinerary. We love the town even more as it comes to life at night. Perch on church steps in tiny piazzas with a cocktail in hand, sample the freshest local produce at the town’s many restaurants, and pick up an ice cream during your evening passeggiata (evening stroll). La dolce vita indeed.
Tropea's Best Attractions
Things to do in Tropea
During your time in the town, explore its historic centre and discover the best beaches of the region. From boat trips to the best cocktail bars, discover our guide for the best things to do in Tropea here.
Santa Maria dell'Isola
Set on the rocky 'island' in front of Tropea, the sanctuary of Santa Maria dell'Isola must be on everyone's itinerary. Climb the steps to the church for the best views of the town and the turquoise Tyrrhenian.
Tropea Red Onions
The town of Tropea is famous for its sweet red onion - a unique variety that can be found in many dishes across the region. Discover the story behind the cipolla rossa di Tropea that you'll see strung along every street.
Best Beaches Near Tropea
Tropea is famous for its spectacular beach - arguably the best beach in Calabria. But it's not the only option in the region. Discover our guide to the Coast of the Gods' most beautiful beaches here.
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Tropea Gallery
Tropea Travel Tips
What is Tropea known for?
Tropea is known for having one of the best beaches in Italy – and probably even the Mediterranean. That iconic view of the historic clifftop town above the white soft sand beach is unparalleled, and it’s the vista which is helping to finally gain Tropea the international attention that it deserves.
Tropea’s name is also famous in culinary circles because of its red onion – known even abroad as a red onion variety produced only in this region. They have a unique sweetness to their flavour, and bring a unique flavour to many local dishes.
In 2021, Tropea won the award of Borgo dei Borghi 2021, which is an annual award gifted to Italian historic villages with particular beauty. It was noted for its “heady combination of sea, sun, art, culture, architecture, gastronomy and hospitality.”
Where is Tropea in Italy?
Tropea is located in the region of Calabria, which is in southern Italy and often referred to as the ‘toe’ of the heeled boot when you look at Italy on a map.
Calabria is a region that many international tourists have never heard of, and is the least visited Italian region. But it is gaining popularity as a holiday destination, and Tropea is the most famous destination in the whole region.
More specifically, Tropea is in the province of Vibo Valentia.
It is situated on the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea, along the coastline named as the Coast of the Gods (Costa degli Dei), for its spectacular beaches and sparkling sea.
When is the best time to visit Tropea?
The best time to visit Tropea if you’re looking for sun, sea and beach time is from June to early September, with average high temperatures in August at 27 °C.
The weather in Tropea is fairly mild all year round – with average lows in February at 8°C.
The town centre does get busy in late July and August, as the area is a popular one for Italian visitors who flock to its beaches. So, if you’re looking for a quieter escape we would usually recommend June and September. However, there is something extremely enchanting about the extreme hustle and bustle on a summer’s evening, when the streets come alive with people, music and performance. Just be aware and plan ahead to book your restaurant reservations!
It is worth noting that the town’s main trade is as a tourist destination, so the population and facilities outside of the tourist months are much reduced. Businesses and excursions will often only open during the main tourist season, so you’ll experience a very different atmosphere.
How do you get to Tropea in Italy?
Flying to Tropea, Italy
Tropea’s closest airport is Lamezia Terme Airport (SUF) – which is also located within the province of Vibo Valentia. It is an hour’s drive from the airport to Tropea (approximately 37 miles).
Flying to Tropea from the USA is quite simple from most major airports. It is usually best to transfer in Rome or Milan to reach Lamezia Terme airport.
Flying to Tropea from London, you can choose direct flights with Ryanair from London Stanstead to Lamezia Terme airport.
Reaching Tropea from Lamezia Terme airport
To drive from the airport to Tropea, take the route via the SS522 along the coast. The journey is about 60km and is a very scenic drive.
If you’re planning on exploring the coastline and local area whilst you’re staying in Tropea, we would recommend hiring your own car to get out and about. Public transport is not extensive. However, particularly during the summer months, it can be difficult to park within Tropea’s town centre, so you may have to be prepared to walk from your parking spot to reach your accommodation.
Alternatively, if you are planning on staying within Tropea’s town itself and happy not travelling far, you can get by for a few days in the town without your own car. Instead reach Tropea town from Lamezia airport by private taxi, or train. Rome2Rio is a useful trip planner tool to research transport options.
Taking the train to Tropea, Italy
With Tropea train station a short walk uphill from the main historic centre, it’s possible to also reach Tropea by train. The train station connects to Lamezia Terme and further north in Italy, as well as Reggio Calabria in the south. However, do note that Lamezia airport does not have its own station – you will have to take a shuttle bus to Lamezia Centrale. The total journey will take approximately 1 hour 10 mins to 1 hour 30, and cost roughly 6 euros.
If you wanted to use Tropea train station to explore during your vacation, the small coastal train track which runs along the whole Costa degli Dei is great for day trips or to reach the charming nearby town of Pizzo.
Buying train tickets is simple – there is a ticket machine at Tropea train station for local journeys. You can also buy tickets for local or longer journeys online. Trenitalia site is a good resource for train journey planning and tickets. If you utilise a paper ticket, don’t forget to stamp and validate once you get on the train.
Tropia Italy or Tropea Italy: How do you pronounce it?
The name of the town of Tropea is one that most visitors pronounce incorrectly. The local Italian pronunciation is said as “tro-‘pay’-ah”, whereas many foreigners will read as “tro-‘pee’-ah”. Don’t forget to also practice your rolled ‘r’ with your tongue, and you’ll be speaking like a local in no time!
Andiamo a Tropea…
