Things To Do
in Cittanova
Cittanova is a charming town located in the Calabria region of southern Italy. It is known for its beautiful countryside surroundings, including rolling hills and vineyards. The town has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with traces of various civilizations visible in its architecture and landmarks.
Cittanova also offers a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and a taste of authentic Italian culture.
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Arrivederci" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $3.50
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic center of Cittanova, strolling through charming streets. Don’t forget to take photos of the beautiful architecture.
Enjoy a traditional Calabrian lunch at a local trattoria. After lunch, visit the nearby vineyards for a wine-tasting experience.
Relax at a local café, sipping on gelato as the sun sets. Wind down by exploring the evening markets if available.
Visit the local museum to learn about the history of Cittanova. Take your time to view art exhibits and cultural artifacts.
Head to a historic church like Chiesa Madre and soak in its stunning architecture. Spend some time reflecting in the nearby gardens.
End your day by joining a guided evening walk through the town. This is a great way to see the monuments lit up at night.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal views and proximity to beaches.
- Rich historical and cultural heritage.
- Mild Mediterranean climate.
- Friendly local community and welcoming atmosphere.
- Delicious local cuisine with fresh seafood.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Public transport options may be limited.
- Higher reliance on tourism can affect local economy.
- Infrastructure may not be as developed as larger cities.
- Hot summers may be uncomfortable for some residents.
Best Activities in Cittanova
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of Aspromonte National Park, offering various trails suited for all levels of hikers.
Relax on the beautiful sandy beaches of Gioia Tauro, just a short drive from Cittanova, where you can sunbathe and swim in crystal-clear waters.
Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the coastal roads, taking in breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the surrounding countryside.
Take a guided tour of local olive groves to learn about the olive oil production process and enjoy tastings of fresh, local oils.
Experience the rich flavors of Calabrian wines by participating in wine tasting tours at local vineyards, paired with traditional cuisine.
Visit the ancient ruins of Oppido Mamertina, an archaeological site near Cittanova, showcasing the region's historical significance.
Join in the vibrant local festivals that take place throughout the year, featuring traditional music, dance, and culinary delights unique to Calabria.
Experience fishing activities organized by local guides, where you can try your hand at catching some of the local species in the sea.
Tours
Uncover the best of Cittanova with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Cittanova
Visit one of these nice places.
A vibrant square that offers stunning views of historic buildings and lively street scenes, perfect for capturing the essence of Cittanova.
The ancient Roman aqueduct provides a unique backdrop for photographs, showcasing the engineering marvel amid the picturesque landscape.
This beautiful church features stunning architecture and intricate designs, making it an ideal location for both interior and exterior photography.
The parks located on the hills surrounding Cittanova offer breathtaking panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside, perfect for nature photography.
The remains of this historic castle offer fantastic views of the area and make for a great spot to take photos of the landscape and town below.
This charming street is lined with historic buildings and shops, providing countless opportunities for vibrant street photography.
Food in Cittanova
Cittanova Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spreadable salami made with pork, Calabrian chili peppers, and a variety of spices. It's often enjoyed on bread or used to flavor pasta dishes. Recommended to try at 'Antica Macelleria Andronaco'.
Must-Try!
Salted codfish prepared in various ways, such as stewed with tomatoes and potatoes. 'Ristorante Lo Scoglio' is known for serving a delectable Baccalà dish.
A type of hand-rolled pasta served with a rich ragu sauce. 'Trattoria del Contadino' is a popular spot to savor this traditional Calabrian pasta.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Cittanova better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This covered market is a vibrant hub of activity, offering a wide array of fresh produce, local cheeses, cured meats, and artisanal goods. It's a great place to sample street food like arancini (rice balls) and panelle (chickpea fritters).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Cittanova, it is customary to greet people with a friendly 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good evening) depending on the time of day. A firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time.
When dining in Cittanova, wait for the host to invite you to start eating. It is also polite to keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows). Try to finish everything on your plate as it is considered a compliment to the chef.
It is important to dress nicely in Cittanova, especially when attending social events or dining out. Smart casual attire is generally accepted, and wearing overly casual clothes may be viewed as disrespectful.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Cittanova with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Cittanova
Ensure a smooth experience
In Cittanova, as in much of Italy, tipping is not obligatory but is appreciated. It is common to round up the bill in cafes and restaurants or leave small change as a sign of goodwill. In more formal dining settings, leaving a tip of about 5-10% is considered generous. Some restaurants may include a 'coperto' charge, which covers service and bread, reducing the need for additional tipping.
Payments in Cittanova can be made using cash, credit, and debit cards. However, cash is still widely used, especially in smaller establishments or markets. Many restaurants and shops prefer electronic payments, but it is advisable to carry some cash as smaller vendors may not accept cards. It is also common for businesses to have a minimum charge for card payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Cittanova.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a fantastic time to visit Cittanova. The weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The landscape is lush and vibrant, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the countryside. Visitors can enjoy local festivals celebrating the blooming nature and traditional cuisine.
Summer (June to August) brings warm to hot temperatures, typically between 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). It is a busy tourist season, especially in July and August. Expect lively events, beach activities, and local fairs. However, it can be quite crowded, and accommodations may be more expensive.
Autumn (September to November) provides comfortable temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F), making it a great time for sightseeing and enjoying the harvest season. Wine festivals occur during this time, and the fall colors and cooler weather create a picturesque setting.
Winter (December to February) sees cooler temperatures, typically from 0°C to 15°C (32°F to 59°F). While it’s less crowded, some attractions may have limited hours. Visitors can enjoy a quieter atmosphere and the festive decorations during the holiday season. January and February can also offer opportunities for skiing in nearby mountainous areas.
Cittanova at Night
Hiking in Cittanova
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast natural park offering a range of hiking trails with stunning views, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna.
A scenic trail in the Aspromonte region known for its impressive rock formations and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
A beautiful hiking area featuring trails that lead to picturesque mountain landscapes and is ideal for both winter and summer hikes.
This area features a network of trails that showcase the natural beauty of the Aspromonte mountains and is popular among hikers seeking tranquility.
While not an extensive hiking area, it offers stunning coastal walks with breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and charming seaside villages.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Cittanova through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Cittanova by plane.
The closest airport to Cittanova, located approximately 30 km away. It serves domestic flights and some international routes.
Located about 70 km from Cittanova, this is the region's main airport, offering a wider range of international flights.
Though smaller and less common for international flights, Catanzaro Airport is situated around 75 km from Cittanova.
Approximately 130 km away in Sicily, this is one of the busiest airports in southern Italy, connecting numerous international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents in Cittanova, typically of Italian ethnicity.
Includes groups from various countries, particularly from North Africa and Eastern Europe.
Significant portion of the population consists of senior citizens, reflecting an aging demographic.
Includes children and young adults, often representing the younger generation.
The Soul of Cittanova
Discover the essence of Cittanova through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Cittanova, with a strong local team that engages the community.
Basketball enjoys popularity among the youth, with several local teams and a vibrant community of fans.
Volleyball is a common sport played in schools and recreational leagues, promoting teamwork and fitness.
Athletics, including running and track events, is popular in local schools and during community sports days.
Cycling is a favored activity in the scenic surroundings of Cittanova, attracting both locals and tourists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cittanova.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Calabrian cuisine is meat-centric, many restaurants in Cittanova offer delicious vegetarian dishes, such as eggplant parmigiana and grilled vegetables.
Several eateries provide plant-based options like fresh salads, bruschetta, and pasta with tomato-based sauces.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can look forward to gluten-free pasta dishes and risottos, as well as indulgent flourless desserts like ricotta cake.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Cittanova with these cultural adventures.
