Things To Do
in Melito di Porto Salvo

Melito di Porto Salvo is a charming coastal town located in the Calabria region of southern Italy. Known for its beautiful beaches and rich historical heritage, it offers visitors a glimpse into authentic Italian life. The town is characterized by its warm, welcoming atmosphere and stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

With a blend of culture, gastronomy, and outdoor activities, Melito di Porto Salvo is an ideal destination for those looking to explore the Italian coastline.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market, Mercato di Melito, to experience the vibrant atmosphere and taste some fresh produce.

afternoon
:

Visit the Church of San Giovanni Battista, an architectural gem with beautiful frescoes, followed by a leisurely stroll along the beach.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at Ristorante Da Giovanni, known for its seafood specialties, and then take a sunset walk along the promenade.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Hike the nearby Aspromonte National Park trails to witness breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity.

afternoon
:

Return to town for a relaxing afternoon at Lido Bacco, where you can sunbathe or swim in the warm Mediterranean waters.

evening
:

Dine at Trattoria Al Mare, savoring traditional Calabrian dishes, followed by drinks at a local bar to experience the nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza$8
🍷Glass of Local Wine$5
Coffee$2
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15
🏨Hotel Night$60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals
  • Delicious local cuisine with fresh seafood
  • Limited public transport options
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season
  • Fewer attractions compared to larger cities
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Per favore" - Please
  • "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
  • "Mi scusi" - Excuse me

Places to Visit in Melito di Porto Salvo

Visit one of these nice places.

Piazza del Popolo

The heart of Melito, this lively square is perfect for capturing the local culture and architecture.

Lido Bacco

A picturesque beach with stunning sunsets, ideal for capturing the beauty of the Calabrian coast.

Church of San Giovanni Battista

This historic church features beautiful frescoes and intricate architecture, making it a great subject for photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Melito di Porto Salvo

Melito di Porto Salvo boasts a delightful culinary scene that showcases the flavors of Calabria, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and local produce.

Melito di Porto Salvo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Spaghetti alle Vongole

A classic Italian dish featuring spaghetti tossed with fresh clams, garlic, and olive oil.

Must-Try!

Sardella

A spicy fish spread made from baby sardines, traditionally served on bread.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercato di Melito

A bustling market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies every Tuesday and Friday.

Climate Guide

Weather

Melito di Porto Salvo enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures typically range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). Rainfall is more common from October to March, while the summer months are generally dry and sunny.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a kiss on both cheeks is common when greeting locals.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before eating, and keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows).

Dress Code

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and casual wear is acceptable in most other places.

Safety Guide

Safety

Melito di Porto Salvo is considered a safe destination for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's always wise to be vigilant in crowded areas and safeguard personal belongings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Melito di Porto Salvo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 5-10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but having cash on hand for small purchases is advisable.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the town.

Summer

Expect warm weather perfect for beach activities, but also larger crowds in tourist areas.

Autumn

A lovely time to visit with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, ideal for enjoying local festivals.

Winter

Milder than northern Italy, winter offers a quieter experience with occasional festivities and local traditions.

Nightlife Guide

Melito di Porto Salvo at Night

The nightlife in Melito di Porto Salvo is vibrant yet laid-back, with numerous bars and cafes lining the waterfront. Locals enjoy socializing over drinks, particularly during the summer months when outdoor seating becomes popular. Live music events and summer festivals enhance the atmosphere, making it a great place for both relaxation and entertainment after sunset.

Hiking in Melito di Porto Salvo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentiero del Brigante

A scenic trail that takes hikers through lush landscapes and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and sea.

Monte Stella Trail

This challenging hike leads to the summit of Monte Stella, providing panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian coast and the Aspromonte National Park.

Airports

How to reach Melito di Porto Salvo by plane.

Reggio Calabria Airport (REG)

Located about 30 km from Melito, Reggio Calabria Airport offers domestic and limited international flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Melito di Porto Salvo is quite walkable, with most attractions located within a short distance of each other. The flat terrain and pedestrian-friendly streets make it easy to explore on foot. However, visitors should be cautious of traffic in some areas and be aware of limited sidewalks in certain locations.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Melito's population consists of locals, primarily of Italian descent, who maintain traditional customs and lifestyles.

Tourists

During the summer, the town sees an influx of tourists from both Italy and abroad, drawn to its beaches and cultural experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is extremely popular in the region, with local teams representing Melito in various leagues.

Basketball

Basketball also enjoys popularity, with local clubs and community support for youth teams.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Melito di Porto Salvo is generally light, but can become congested during peak tourist season. Public transportation is limited, so renting a car or using taxis is recommended for visiting nearby areas. Bicycles and scooters are popular among locals for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Melito di Porto Salvo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check for meat broths in sauces.

Gluten-Free Options

Some places may provide gluten-free pasta, but it’s best to inquire ahead due to limited availability.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Melito di Porto Salvo are accessible, with local clinics and a hospital nearby. Emergency services are available, and pharmacies can be found throughout the town. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide