5 Things You May Not Know About Visiting Calabria

Calabria, the southernmost region of Italy, may be lesser-known than regions up north, but that's not to say that visiting Calabria isn't the best idea you've ever had!

Here are a few things you need to know before visiting Calabria.

1. You Need a Car

Unlike other parts of Italy, Calabria doesn't have an extensive network of trains, particularly to reach the mountain towns. So you're best off renting a car.

Keep in mind, however, if you're visiting in the summer, car rental prices can skyrocket. And with limited inventory at the two major airports (Lamezia Terme and Reggio Calabria), you'd do well to book your car rental far in advance.

It was recently announced that Uber has arrived in Calabria, so you may be able to hire a car to drive you where you need to go if your needs are minimal.

2. The Seas are the Most Beautiful in Italy

Okay, we may be biased, but both the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas surprise most people when they visit, because they haven't heard about these crystal-clear, super-clean waters.

Come between June and October, and the weather will be warm enough for you to take a dip.

3. We've Got Sea AND Mountains

But Calabria isn't just a pretty beach face. It's also filled with mountains, with the two primary mountain ranges being Sila and Aspromonte. You can ascend into foresty mountains just minutes from the sea, which makes it the best of both worlds.

4. Calabria Used to Be Ancient Greece

As far back as the eighth century AD, the region known now as Calabria was part of Magna Grecia. It was an important part of Greece, and even today, you can find Greek ruins layered over by Roman ruins.

5. Nobody's More Welcoming Than the Calabrese

There's a stereotype that people are less friendly up north and more friendly down south. We have to agree, at least about the latter! No matter who you meet in Calabria, they'll be curious about you and ask lots of questions. And if you need anything, they'll be quick to help. From offering a cup of coffee to telling you where you absolutely must stop next while visiting Calabria, the Calabrese want nothing more than to show you a good time!