Free walking tours in Reggio Calabria and what to see

Must-sees

Reggio Calabria is at the toe of the Italian boot, facing Messina across the strait. The big visit is the National Archaeological Museum, in a building designed by Marcello Piacentini, which displays the Riace Bronzes, two Greek statues from the 5th century BC found in the sea in 1972. The museum traces the region's history from prehistory to Roman times, with a strong focus on Magna Graecia.

Afterwards go down to the Lungomare Falcomatà, with views of the strait and, on clear days, of Etna, which D'Annunzio called the most beautiful kilometre in Italy. Along the promenade you will see a stretch of 4th-century BC Greek walls, remains of Roman baths and the Arena dello Stretto. In the centre, rebuilt after the 1908 earthquake with streets parallel to the sea, are the Duomo and the Aragonese castle, of Byzantine origin, and in the municipal theatre an art gallery with two panels by Antonello da Messina.

Free tours and guided visits

Reggio has no regular free tours. On Civitatis you will find a guided city tour that includes the Archaeological Museum, useful for understanding the Bronzes and the rest of the collections in context. The seafront and the centre are easy to enjoy on your own.

How long to spend

A day covers the museum, which deserves at least two or three hours, the seafront and the centre. With two days you can add a trip to Scilla and its fishing quarter of Chianalea, or cross the strait by ferry to Messina. The city is also a convenient base for exploring southern Calabria.

Where to stay

The best area is the centre, between Corso Garibaldi and the seafront, because everything is within walking distance: museum, restaurants and station. Places to stay with views over the strait are on the promenade itself. If you want the beach and calm, the coastal districts to the south, such as Pellaro, are quieter, and Scilla, to the north, is a charming alternative.