15 Best Things to Do in Scalea, Calabria, Italy

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If you're planning a trip to Calabria, Italy, I hope you'll add Scalea to your list! This seaside town on the Tyrrhenian coast has a little bit of everything I love about southern Italy: beautiful beaches, a historic old town, a tower from the 1500s overlooking the sea, excellent food, and those moments when you find yourself stopping just to take a picture of the most incredible sunset you've ever seen!

Scalea is part of the Riviera dei Cedri, along Calabria's northern Tyrrhenian coast. It's known for its long stretch of coastline, historic hilltop center, and views of the sea and surrounding mountains. And while it attracts plenty of Italian and European vacationers, I think it deserves more attention from American travelers exploring Italy beyond the usual Italy destinations.

I may be a little biased because I have a small apartment here, but Scalea has become a special place for me. It's somewhere I can enjoy a morning by the sea, wander through the old town, stop for gelato in the piazza, spend an evening taking a relaxing passeggiata, and finishing the evening devouring pizza at a lido on the beach.

Whether you're visiting for a few days, planning a longer stay in Calabria, or looking for a seaside town to use as a home base, here are 15 things to see and do in Scalea.

1. Explore the Centro Storico (Historic Old Town)

If there's one place I would tell you not to skip in Scalea, it's the Centro Storico (pictured above). The old town sits on the hillside above the newer part of the city, and exploring it is an experience in itself. You'll find narrow lanes, stone staircases, old doorways, little squares, churches, and buildings that have stood here for generations.

Part of the fun is simply wandering. Take your time, look up at the balconies, notice the little details around the doorways, and see where the streets lead you. Be sure to bring your camera, because you'll come across some lovely views of the coastline as you make your way through the old town.

One thing to keep in mind: Scalea's centro storico has plenty of steps and uneven surfaces. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially if you plan to explore the higher parts of the historic center.

My suggestion? Go early in the morning before it gets too hot, or head up later in the afternoon when you can enjoy the atmosphere without the midday sun and get a glimpse of those breathtaking Calabrian sunsets.

Check out my YouTube video of Scalea's historic center here.

Scalea is named after the stairs that climb through the centro storico

View looking down at Piazza Maggiore de Palma and Ristorante Tarì at the base of Scalea's centro storico

You'll find laundry drying and plants & flowers throughout the centro storico

Discover lovely doors, windows & balconies throughout the centro storico

My favorite stairway in the centro storico of Scalea

2. Visit the Ruins of the Norman Castle

Keep walking uphill through the historic center and you'll reach the ruins of Scalea's Norman Castle, known as the Castello Normanno.

The castle dates back to the medieval period and sits above the town, in a position that makes it easy to understand why this was once an important defensive location.

Today, the ruins are a reminder of Scalea's long history, but the views are a big part of the appeal, too. From up here, you can look out over the rooftops, the Tyrrhenian Sea, and the surrounding landscape.

I love places like this because they give you a different perspective on a town. From the beach, you see one side of Scalea. From above, you begin to understand how the historic settlement fits into the landscape.

Wear good shoes and be prepared for some climbing. Access to the ruins and the condition of the paths can vary.

The Norman Ruins at the top of Scalea's historic center

More gorgeous views from the Norman Ruins in Scalea

3. See Torre Talao, Scalea's Iconic Landmark

You can't really visit Scalea without seeing Torre Talao. Even if you try to miss it, you'll still see it standing proudly on the beach.

This historic coastal tower is one of the town's most recognizable landmarks. Built in the 16th century as part of the town's defense system, it once stood on a rocky islet surrounded by the sea. Changes to the coastline eventually left it connected to the mainland.

It's a fascinating piece of local history, and its location makes it an easy stop while exploring the seafront.

Even if you aren't particularly interested in military architecture, it's worth seeing the tower up close and taking a few photos. It looks especially striking with the sea nearby and the surrounding coastline as a backdrop.

If you'd like to go inside, check the current opening arrangements before visiting, as access is managed and may depend on staffing or the season. You will need have good walking shoes. There is no elevator.

Local guides may be available on-site to share more about the tower's history, the surrounding landscape, and the Neolithic cave at its base. Guided visits may require a small admission fee or a donation.

I also recommend taking a walk around the nearby seafront while you're there. You can combine the tower views with a beach visit or a leisurely stroll rather than making it a separate trip.

The signature landmark of Scalea: Torre Talao

Viewpoint from Torre Talao

Incredible view of the centro storico from Torre Talao

4. Spend Time on Scalea's Beaches

Let's be honest: one of the biggest reasons to visit Scalea is the sea! The town has a long coastline with sandy and pebbly stretches, areas with beach facilities, and sections where you can simply find a spot to relax and enjoy the water.

During the summer, the beaches become a major part of daily life. You'll see families spending the day together, friends meeting for a swim, and visitors settling in for hours of sunshine.

Depending on where you go, you can choose a private beach club, known as a lido, where you can rent an umbrella and sunbeds, or look for a public beach area.

July and August are particularly busy, when Italian families and holidaymakers come to the coast. If you prefer a little more breathing room, consider late spring or September, when conditions can still be lovely but the summer crowds may have eased.

I absolutely love having a spritz and aperitivo at one of my favorite lidos and then taking a walk on the beach. There are multiple lidos to choose from and several stay open all year round (at the restaurant/bar portion but not the lounge chairs).

Some of my all-time favorites: Lido Azzurro Naty, Lido da Pietro, Lido Il Mago di Oz, Lido Il Marinero-Pizzeria

Rent a lounger & umbrella at one of Scalea's lidos

My FAVORITE spritz: A Cedro Spritz at Lido Azzurro Naty

5. Spend a Day at Scogliera dell'Ajnella

One of my favorite spots to check out in Scalea is Scogliera dell'Ajnella, where you'll find a beautiful area of free beach just below the Grand Hotel de Rose.

This part of the coastline has a different feel from the longer stretches of beach in town, with rocky formations rising out of the clear water. On a sunny summer day, you'll often see kids swimming out toward the rocks and jumping into the sea. It's a fun, lively spot that gives you a taste of summer along the Calabrian coast.

The free beach is first come, first served, so if you're visiting during the busy summer months, it's a good idea to arrive early to find your spot. You can bring your own beach chair, blanket, and umbrella, making it an easy and budget-friendly way to spend the day by the water.

And don't forget your snorkeling mask if you enjoy looking beneath the surface. The clear water and rocky coastline make this a lovely place to explore when sea conditions are calm.

Just keep in mind that the rocks can be slippery, and swimming around them requires care. Watch the sea conditions, be mindful of other swimmers, and never assume the water is deep enough to jump safely. Even when you see other people jumping, underwater rocks and changing depths can make it dangerous.

A view of the free beach and the rocks of Scogliera dell'Ajnella

Just look at those sea colors!

Scogliera dell'Ajnella in Scalea at sunset

6. Browse Scalea's Monday Market

If you're in Scalea on a Monday, make time to visit the local market! It's a great way to experience a little everyday life in Calabria and see what local vendors have to offer.

The market is located near the corner of Via Fiume Lao and Via Carmelo Giordanelli, where you'll find stalls selling a variety of goods. Depending on the vendors and the season, you can browse clothing, shoes, bags, household items, accessories, fresh fruit, vegetables, cheeses, cured meats, flowers, and other bargains.

I always enjoy visiting markets when I'm in Italy. You never know what you'll come across, and it's fun to take your time wandering between the stalls to see what's available. You might find something useful for your trip, a little something to bring home, or simply enjoy seeing a different side of local life.

My advice is to go in the morning when the market is typically at its liveliest. Bring some cash, wear comfortable shoes, and give yourself time to browse. If you're visiting during the busy summer season, expect more people out shopping.

The Monday market is also an easy activity to fit into your Scalea itinerary. You can spend part of the morning browsing the stalls and then head off to explore the historic center, grab a coffee, or enjoy the beach for the rest of the day.

It's not a grand tourist attraction, but that's part of the appeal. Sometimes the best way to get a feel for a place is to do the same simple things the locals do.

One of my favorite places to buy fresh fruit, vegetables & cheese: The Monday Market in Scalea

7. Visit the Sanctuary of Madonna del Lauro

For a glimpse into Scalea's religious and cultural heritage, visit the Santuario della Madonna del Lauro.

Even if you're not religious, places like this are worth visiting because they offer a little more insight into the town beyond its beaches and summer atmosphere.

Take a moment to appreciate the building and its surroundings. One of my favorite things to do in Italy is visit local churches. I enjoy the architecture, history, artwork, and peacefulness of Italian churches.

If you enjoy discovering the stories behind the places you visit, this is a worthwhile stop to add to your itinerary.

Check out my YouTube video of the Madonna Festival outside of the Madonna del Lauro and the beautiful luminarie & the nearby Piazza Gregorio Caloprese.

Santuario della Madonna del Lauro

The lovely interior of Santuario della Madonna del Lauro

Luminarie displays for the Madonna Festival on Via Lauro

8. Step Inside Scalea's Historic Churches

Scalea's old town is home to several historic churches, and they're worth seeking out as you explore the narrow streets. Two to look for are the Church of San Nicola in Plateis and Santa Maria d'Episcopio.

These buildings reflect the town's long religious history. Inside, you may find historic artwork, decorative details, and features that are easy to miss if you only admire the buildings from outside.

I always think it's worth making room for places like these when visiting Italy. They aren't necessarily the biggest attractions on a tourist itinerary, but they can tell you so much about a community and its traditions.

Churches may have limited opening hours, particularly outside services or during quieter periods, so don't be surprised if you find one closed. If there's a particular church you want to see inside, check locally first.

Chiesa Madre di Santa Maria d'Episcopio (Photo courtesy of the Comune di Scalea)

9. Look for Torre Cimalonga and Its Archaeological History

Here's another historic stop to look for in the Centro Storico: Torre Cimalonga. This cylindrical tower was once part of Scalea's medieval defensive system, guarding one of the entrances to the old town.

Over the centuries, the structure served different purposes, including use as a prison. It has also housed a small archaeological museum featuring finds from the area's past.

If you enjoy history, look for the tower as you wander through the historic center. Check current opening arrangements if you want to visit the museum, since access may vary.

Torre Cimalonga

10. Enjoy an Italian Passeggiata

If you want to experience a little of the Italian lifestyle, make time for the passeggiata (fully explained here).

This is the traditional evening stroll, when people head out to walk, socialize, see friends, and enjoy the atmosphere of their town.

In Scalea, you can join in by taking a walk along the seafront or through the pedestrian areas when people begin coming out for the evening.

You'll see couples, families, groups of friends, and people of all ages enjoying a simple part of daily life. Depending on the season, the streets may be lively with shops, cafés, and places to stop for a drink or a gelato.

There's no need to turn it into an organized activity. Put on comfortable shoes, head out after the heat of the day, and see where the evening takes you.

This is one of those little things I love about Italy. Sometimes just walking around town is the experience, and you don't need a landmark or fancy restaurant.

And don't forget to stop for gelato along the way! I love wandering around Piazza Gregorio Caloprese.

My favorite spot for a passeggiata: Piazza Gregorio Caloprese (about a 10-minute walk from my apartment)

11. Try the Local Food, Seafood, and Gelato/Pastries

No visit to Calabria would be complete without enjoying the food, and Scalea is a great place to experience authentic Calabrese cuisine.

Being on the coast, you'll find restaurants where seafood dominates the menu. Depending on the restaurant and the season, look for dishes featuring fresh fish, mussels, clams, and other seafood.

You can also look for Calabrian specialties. The region is known for bold flavors, local olive oil, peperoncino, cured meats, and traditional pasta dishes. If you see a local pasta or a regional specialty on the menu that you haven't tried before, this is a good opportunity to order something new.

One local classic is the Spaghetti alla Scaleota ~ with anchovies and toasted breadcrumbs. I'm not a fan of anchovies, so I've never tried it, but I hear it's delicious.

And, of course, there's pizza. Some of my favorite pizza in Calabria includes spicy 'nduja.

For a more casual stop, find a café or gelateria and enjoy a coffee, a pastry, or a scoop of gelato. You don't have to sit down for a long meal every time you want to experience Italian food.

One of my favorite things about being in Italy is how easily these little food stops become part of the day. A quick coffee turns an hour with a good book, a gelato becomes an excuse to take another walk, and dinner becomes something that can last well into the night.

Here are some of my favorites places in Scalea:

Pizza

• Pizzeria Vesuvio

• Ohimá Pizzeria

• Pizzeria C'era Una Volta

• Dagostì Pizzeria

• Lido El Marinero Pizzeria

Pasta

• Lido Azzurro Naty

• Vularie Siciliane

• Farmhouse La Rondinella

• Antica Trattoria A' Taverna

• Trattoria Il Gallo Bianco

• Pizzeria La Piazzetta

Meat

• Al Mattatoio

• Farmhouse La Rondinella

• La Braceria di Nina ed Egidio

• Golden Beef

• PuroBurger

Seafood

• Lido Azzurro Naty

• Ristorante L'Ancora

• La Vecchia Fattoria Ristorante Pizzeria

• PaVá Soul Restaurant

• Ristorante Pizzeria Stabilimento Balneare Nausicaa

Gelato/Pasteries

• Bar Pasticceria Gelateria Daniela

• Mary Loù

• Pasticceria de Rosa

• Green Ice Gelateria Artigianale

• Dolce Amaro

• Il Gelato di Possidente Giuseppe

• A' Sfugliatella di Marcello

• Jeni's Bakery & Caffè

Fusilli Calabresi at Lido Azzurro Naty

Pizzeria Vesuvio

Cannolo from Vularie Siciliane

Bar Pasticceria Gelateria Daniela

12. Take a Boat Trip Along the Riviera dei Cedri

If you have time for something beyond walking around town and relaxing on the beach, consider taking a boat trip along the Riviera dei Cedri.

This stretch of Calabria's Tyrrhenian coast has absolutely beautiful scenery, rocky bluffs, caves and coves, and stretches of coastline that are especially impressive when viewed from the water.

Boat excursions are generally seasonal, and routes depend on the operator, weather, and sea conditions. Book with a reputable local operator, confirm the departure point, and check exactly what's included before you pay.

If you're visiting during summer, it's worth looking into trips in advance, especially if you have a particular date in mind.

And if you have a little more time in the area, you can also explore nearby San Nicola Arcella and the famous Arcomagno sea arch. These are outside Scalea itself, but they're wonderful additions to a northern Calabria itinerary.

Check out my You tube video of a Scalea Boat Tour.

The incredibly clear water of the Riviera dei Cedri

Me (April) on a boat tour with Tortuga Gite Escursioni in Barca and one of the several caves you'll discover in the background

13. Go Rafting or Explore the River Lao

If you're looking for something a little different from beach days and wandering through historic streets, consider taking a trip to the River Lao.

The Lao River flows through the Pollino area of Calabria, carving its way through a beautiful landscape of mountains, forest, and rocky ravines before reaching the Tyrrhenian Sea near Scalea. It's especially popular with people who enjoy outdoor adventures.

One of the biggest draws is white-water rafting. Depending on the season and water conditions, local operators offer rafting excursions that take you through parts of the river surrounded by the natural scenery of the Lao Valley.

You don't have to be an experienced rafter to look into a guided trip. Some excursions are designed for beginners, although age requirements, swimming ability, and other safety conditions vary by operator. If rafting isn't your thing, you can still explore the surrounding area and enjoy the gorgeous scenery.

I love that you can be enjoying the beach in Scalea and, not too far away, find yourself surrounded by a completely different landscape. It's one of the things that makes this part of Calabria so interesting.

Lao River

14. Explore Pollino National Park

If you have a little extra time in Scalea, I'd encourage you to explore the surrounding mountains, too.

Parco Nazionale del Pollino, or Pollino National Park, stretches across Calabria and Basilicata. It's Italy's largest national park and offers a completely different side of southern Italy from the beaches along the Riviera dei Cedri.

Here you'll find mountain scenery, forests, valleys, rocky peaks, and picturesque villages. The park is particularly famous for its ancient Bosnian pines, some of which have survived for centuries in the high-altitude landscape.

There are plenty of ways to experience the area, depending on how adventurous you want to be. You could choose a scenic drive, visit one of the villages around the park, go hiking on a marked trail, camp overnight, or book a guided outdoor excursion.

If you're planning a summer visit, the mountains can also offer a welcome change from the coastal heat. Just check the weather, trail conditions, and any local access restrictions before heading out.

It's easy to focus on Calabria's coastline when planning a trip, but places like Pollino are a good reminder that there's so much more to discover inland too.

Pollino National Park

15. Take a Traditional Italian Pasta-Making Class

One of my favorite ways to experience Italy is through its food, and if you'd like to bring home more than photographs from your trip, why not learn how to make fresh pasta yourself?

Calabria has a rich tradition of homemade pasta, with recipes and techniques passed down through generations. One of the region's best-known shapes is fileja, a type of handmade pasta often formed around a thin stick. You'll also come across fusilli al ferretto, another traditional pasta shape made using a slender rod.

A pasta-making class gives you the chance to get your hands "dirty" and learn how these traditional dishes are actually made. And it's not just about the food. Sharing a meal and learning from local people can give you a more personal glimpse into everyday life in Calabria.

And don't be surprised if you leave with a new appreciation for just how much time and care goes into making a plate of homemade pasta!

There are numerous different Calabrian cultural experiences you can choose from with Vera Italia.

Check out my YouTube video of our Calabria pasta-making experience and you can read about it in detail here.

Our handmade fusilli we learned to make using a traditional ferretto through Vera Italia

The finished product: Homemade Fusilli Calabresi with a fresh tomato, onion & basil sauce

When Is the Best Time to Visit Scalea?

The best time to visit depends on what you want to do.

June through September is the main season for beach days, swimming, outdoor dining, and enjoying the livelier summer atmosphere. July and August are the busiest months.

May and early June can be lovely for walking through the old town and exploring the surrounding area before the height of summer. Sea temperatures may still be cool, depending on the year, but I swam in the sea at the end of May, and it was wonderful.

September is worth considering if you want a seaside visit without quite as much of the peak-season chaos. The weather and sea remain warm, and you can pop over to Diamante for the annual Peperoncino Festival.

Scalea and the Riviera dei Cedri are worth visiting all year round. Even winter will bring Christmas lights and festivals, but with colder temperatures.

How Many Days Do You Need in Scalea?

You can see several of Scalea's main sights in a day, especially if you focus on the historic center, Torre Talao, the waterfront, and a meal by the sea. But if you can spare two or three days, I think you'll have a much better experience.

One day could be devoted to exploring the old town and its historic landmarks, followed by an evening stroll and dinner. Another could be spent at the beach, with time for a long lunch at a lido, and even a boat ride.

If you have a third day or longer, you could take a pasta-making class or book another Calabrian cultural experience. You could also hop on the train or take a drive to one of the many incredible neighboring towns (Diamante, San Nicola Arcella, Santa Domenica Talao, etc.).

Where to Stay in Scalea

When it comes to finding somewhere to stay in Scalea, you have a few options, depending on your budget and the kind of vacation you're planning. You can book a hotel right by the sea, choose a smaller B&B, or rent an apartment where you have more space and the freedom to cook some of your own meals.

Since I have an apartment in Scalea myself, I can definitely see the appeal of having your own place, especially if you're planning to stay for a week or longer. But if you're visiting for just a few nights, a hotel or B&B can be a convenient option.

Here are a few places worth looking into as you plan your trip:

Grand Hotel De Rose

If you'd like a hotel close to the sea, Grand Hotel De Rose is one to consider. The hotel has a swimming pool, a private beach area, breakfast (plus a restaurant with gorgeous views), and rooms with balconies, some offering views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and beach.

B&B Torre Talao

For something smaller and more personal, take a look at B&B Torre Talao. It's located on Corso Mediterraneo, close to the beach and within walking distance of central Scalea.

Hotel Talao

Another option to look into is Hotel Talao, a seaside hotel in a convenient location for enjoying the beach and exploring town. It has a private beach and a restaurant.

Rent an Airbnb or Holiday Apartment

If you prefer having your own space, Scalea has plenty of holiday apartments to explore on Airbnb and other rental platforms.

This can be a particularly good choice for families, groups, or anyone planning a longer stay. Having a kitchen means you can pick up fresh produce at the market, make breakfast at home, or prepare a simple Italian dinner after a day out.

You can find apartments near the beach, in residential areas, and around the historic center. Some offer balconies, sea views, washing machines, and parking, although amenities vary from one property to another.

A few things I'd check before booking:

• Location: Is it close to the beach, the old town, or the places you want to visit?

• Air conditioning: This is worth confirming if you're visiting in July or August.

• Parking: Ask whether parking is included and whether it's private or on the street.

• Stairs and accessibility: Some properties, especially in older buildings, may involve several flights of stairs.

• Reviews: Read recent guest reviews and look for comments about cleanliness, communication, and the accuracy of the listing.

When I was in the process of buying and renovating my apartment, I stayed at an Airbnb twice. It had several flights of stairs to climb, but it had an incredible view and was within walking distance of the train station, city center, and about two miles from the beach. I would definitely stay there again, and the host was very nice and attentive. Here is that listing.

View of Scalea & Torre Talao

Typical sunset in Scalea

One of the caves on the boat tour

View from the Grand Hotel de Rose

Is Scalea Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. I mean, I did buy an apartment there, so I'm partial to it. But if you're looking for a seaside destination that offers more than just a beach, then you should check it out for yourself.

Scalea has a historic center full of character, a beautiful stretch of coastline, fascinating landmarks, incredible local food, and welcoming locals. There are plenty of shops and restaurants that stay open all year.

I love that Scalea gives you a chance to enjoy the things that make Italy so appealing while also offering a glimpse into life in Calabria. After all, Calabria is charming and delightful. It's quiet and chaotic. It's old, and it's new, but most importantly, Calabria is sincere, authentic, and full of heart.

So, if you're planning a trip to southern Italy, don't overlook Scalea. Give it a few days, explore at your own pace, and see what you discover. You might just find yourself buying your own little piece of Italian paradise and staying for a while!

View from my apartment in Scalea

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