Scalea
,Scalea is a charming seaside town located in the Calabria region of southern Italy. It is known for its scenic coastline with crystal-clear waters and picturesque beaches. The town is characterized by its colorful buildings perched on cliffs overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Scalea offers a mix of modern amenities and historic charm, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking a relaxing beach getaway.
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Scusa" - Excuse me
- "Arrivederci" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Scalea Beach Bliss
morning
:Start your day with a relaxing stroll along Scalea's beautiful beaches. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze and take in the stunning coastal views.
afternoon
:Grab a lunch of fresh seafood at a seaside restaurant. Afterward, unwind on the sandy beach or take a dip in the refreshing water.
evening
:Head to a local gelateria for a sweet treat as the sun sets. Explore the charming streets of Scalea, filled with shops and cafes.
Historical Explorations
morning
:Visit the Castello Normanno, a historic castle that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Learn about the fascinating history that shaped Scalea.
afternoon
:Explore the old town with its narrow streets and quaint architecture. Stop for lunch in a local trattoria to taste traditional Calabrian dishes.
evening
:Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the town. Take an evening stroll to appreciate the illuminated historical center.
Highlights
Good
- Stunning coastline with beautiful beaches
- Rich history and charming old town architecture
- Laid-back atmosphere and less touristy compared to other Italian destinations
- Delicious regional cuisine, particularly seafood
- Access to stunning natural parks and hiking trails
- Affordable cost of living and travel compared to larger Italian cities
Bad
- Limited public transportation options
- Fewer amenities and services compared to larger urban areas
- Can be quieter and less lively, particularly in off-peak seasons
- Language barrier for non-Italians might be more pronounced
- Some areas may require a car to explore fully
- Occasional extreme heat in summer months
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in Pollino National Park
Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna of Pollino National Park, which offers trails for all skill levels.
Beach Activities
Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and a variety of water sports at the beautiful beaches of Scalea, like Marinella and Spiaggia di Scalea.
Cycling Along the Coast
Take a scenic bike ride along the coastline, enjoying breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the surrounding mountains.
Kayaking and Canoeing
Rent a kayak or canoe to explore the coast and nearby coves, perfect for a more intimate experience with the sea.
Visiting the Historical Village of Scalea
Stroll through the charming streets of Scalea, visiting historical landmarks and enjoying local cuisine at outdoor cafés.
Surfing and Windsurfing
Take advantage of the coastal winds and waves with surfing and windsurfing lessons available during the summer months.
Scuba Diving
Discover the underwater beauty of the Tyrrhenian Sea with scuba diving excursions that cater to both beginners and experienced divers.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Scalea with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Torre Talao
This historic tower offers panoramic views of the coastline and the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect spot for photography.
Piazza Cavour
The main square in Scalea is surrounded by beautiful architecture and provides a lively atmosphere, ideal for capturing the essence of local life.
Beach Promenade
The scenic seaside promenade is ideal for sunset photography, with stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the distant horizon.
Old Town (Centro Storico)
The narrow streets and charming buildings of Scalea's old town offer a picturesque backdrop, perfect for capturing the historic essence of the area.
Parco Archeologico di Laos
This archaeological park showcases ancient ruins with a stunning natural backdrop, providing unique photo opportunities for history and nature lovers.
Spiaggia di Scalea
Golden sandy beaches with crystal clear waters provide a beautiful setting for beach photography and capturing summer vibes.
Sentiero dei Fiumi
This hiking trail offers breathtaking views of the valleys and rivers of Scalea, making it a great location for nature photographers.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Spaghetti alle Cozze
This dish features spaghetti with fresh mussels, garlic, parsley, and a touch of local olive oil, marrying the flavors of the sea with the essence of Calabrian culinary expertise. Try it at Ristorante La Lampara.
Must-Try!
Pasta e Ceci
A hearty pasta and chickpea soup cooked with herbs and served with a drizzle of local olive oil. This comforting dish can be savored at Trattoria Da Nanni.
Swordfish Involtini
Thinly sliced swordfish rolled with breadcrumbs, pine nuts, and raisins, then gently cooked to perfection. You can relish this dish at Ristorante Pizzeria Belvedere.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Scalea better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Mercato Ortofrutticolo di Scalea
This vibrant market is a treasure trove of fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and local artisanal products. It's an ideal place to explore the bounty of Calabrian ingredients and indulge in some tasty street food like arancini, frittelle, and panelle.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings
In Scalea, it's common to greet people with a warm 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good evening). A friendly handshake or cheek-kissing among acquaintances is also a typical greeting gesture.
Dining Etiquette
When dining in Scalea, it's respectful to wait for the host to invite you to start eating. Keep your hands above the table but avoid resting your elbows on it. Additionally, it is polite to say 'Buon Appetito' before eating.
Dress Code
Italians generally dress well, especially in urban areas. In Scalea, casual but neat attire is appreciated. When visiting churches or religious sites, ensure to wear more conservative clothing, covering shoulders and knees.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Scalea with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Scalea, Italy, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service. It is common to leave small change in restaurants or round up the bill. In bars, tipping a few coins is also typical when ordering drinks.
Payment
Payment in Scalea can be made using cash or credit/debit cards. Many establishments accept cards, but it is advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller shops or markets. Contactless payments are increasingly popular.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Scalea.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring in Scalea is mild and pleasant, typically from March to May. Temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This season is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the coastline, as the crowds are still low and flowers are in bloom.
Summer
Summer, from June to August, is hot and sunny, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). This is the peak tourist season, so expect lively beach scenes and numerous events. It’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying local festivals.
Autumn
Autumn runs from September to November and features a gradual cooling down, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). This is a great time to visit as the summer crowds diminish but the weather is still warm, making it suitable for sightseeing and enjoying local cuisine.
Winter
Winter, from December to February, is mild, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). Although it's the least popular time for tourists, it offers a peaceful atmosphere and opportunities to experience local traditions and festivals without large crowds.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Sentiero del Tracciolino
A scenic trail that offers stunning views of the coast and the surrounding mountains. This relatively easy hike is popular among locals and tourists alike.
Parco Nazionale del Pollino
This national park features extensive hiking trails through diverse landscapes, including forests, mountains, and rivers. Perfect for both novice and experienced hikers.
Sentiero del Mare
A coastal trail that allows hikers to enjoy both the sea and the beautiful beaches, connecting various points along the coastline of Scalea.
Monte Sirino
A more challenging hike that leads to the summit of Monte Sirino, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area and the opportunity to explore the rich flora and fauna.
Grotta del Romito
A short hike that takes you to the historic and archaeological site of Grotta del Romito. The trail itself is surrounded by lush nature, leading to fascinating ancient remains.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Scalea through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Scalea by plane.
Naples International Airport (NAP)
The nearest major airport to Scalea, located approximately 150 km south-west.
Lamezia Terme International Airport (SUF)
Located about 90 km south of Scalea, this airport serves various international destinations.
Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI)
Located roughly 250 km north-east, this airport offers a number of international flights.
Palermo Airport (PMO)
Situated about 350 km west of Scalea, it serves international destinations primarily in Europe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Italian Nationals
The primary demographic group in Scalea, primarily Italian citizens living in the town.
Senior Citizens
A significant proportion of the population consists of elderly residents, often retirees.
Young Families
Families with children, contributing to local schools and community activities.
Tourists
Seasonal influx of both domestic and international tourists, especially during summer months.
Foreign Residents
Includes expatriates and immigrants from various countries, contributing to the local culture.
The Soul of Scalea
Discover the essence of Scalea through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football is one of the most popular sports in Scalea, with local teams participating in regional leagues and a strong community support.
Beach Volleyball
Given Scalea's coastal location, beach volleyball is a favored activity, especially during the summer months when tourists and locals alike enjoy playing on the beaches.
Tennis
Tennis is popular in Scalea, with several courts available for both casual play and organized tournaments.
Cycling
Cycling is a favored pastime, with scenic routes along the coast and through the surrounding hills attracting both residents and visitors.
Water Sports
Scalea's beaches provide opportunities for various water sports, including windsurfing, kayaking, and snorkeling, making them popular among both locals and tourists.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Most restaurants offer vegetarian options like Caponata (Sicilian eggplant dish) and Risotto with seasonal vegetables. For vegan choices, look for classics like Pasta al Pomodoro or ask for customized vegan versions of local specialties.
Gluten-Free Dining
While gluten-free awareness is growing in Scalea, it's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly. Look for naturally gluten-free dishes like grilled fish, salads, and risotto. Several restaurants also offer gluten-free pasta options upon request.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Scalea with these cultural adventures.
