There’s a spot three hours from Reggio Calabria that most tourists have never heard of — but once you go, you’ll wonder why anyone bothers with the usual postcard places.
It’s called Crotone, and if you love golden beaches, ancient history, delicious food, and paying less than €3 for a beer by the sea… this might be your dream destination.
Crotone is one of those places you almost want to keep a secret. Sitting quietly on Italy’s southern Ionian coast, this little-known city has all the beauty of southern Italy — without the chaos or the crowds.
Most people think “Naples” or “Bari” when they plan a trip down south. But here’s the truth: Crotone has everything those cities offer, plus one major advantage…
You’ll spend hundreds less, and in return, you’ll get beaches that feel private, ruins that aren’t fenced off and swarming with selfie sticks, and seafood that tastes like it was just pulled from the ocean — because it was.
Let’s talk beach life.
If your idea of a perfect vacation is warm sand, turquoise water, and not having to elbow your way to a sun lounger… you’re going to fall in love.
Crotone's coast is sprinkled with spectacular beaches like Le Castella, Marinella, and the postcard-worthy Playa di Crotone.
The water here? Crystal clear. The sand? Fine and golden. The crowds? Not a problem.
And if you’re into diving, boating, or snorkeling, the Capo Colonna Marine Reserve is a wonderland. You'll find colorful fish, secret coves, and even underwater ruins from the ancient Greek world.
Yeah — actual ruins beneath the sea.
Now imagine this.
You’ve spent the day exploring ancient temples. The sun is setting over the harbor. You’re seated at a seaside bar, cold beer in hand — and it cost you less than a croissant at the airport.
That’s not hype. That’s Crotone.
Pints here go for €3 in local bars and trattorias — and that’s when they’re not running specials.
Prefer wine? Calabrian reds are bold and fruity. You’ll pay less than €5 a glass at most places — often served with a side of local olives or crispy taralli.
And don’t get me started on the food. From grilled swordfish to Nduja pizza, every bite tastes like someone’s nonna made it with love and fire.
Here’s where it gets magical.
Crotone is ancient. Like, 9th-century-cathedral-and-Greek-temples ancient.
Wander through the Old Town — its narrow streets wind through centuries-old homes, little piazzas, and open-air cafés where time moves slower.
You’ll find the Crotone Cathedral, a mix of Byzantine and Baroque styles, standing like a time machine in the middle of modern life.
And just a short ride away, the Capo Colonna archaeological park is where you can stand next to the last column of the Temple of Hera Lacinia, looking out at the sea like a scene from a dream.
Locals still celebrate their roots with events like the Feast of the Madonna of Capo Colonna — a procession so beautiful it brings tears, even if you don’t speak a word of Italian.
On Tripadvisor, one visitor wrote:
“Indescribable place. Almost every year I visit and always bring people who have never seen our Calabrian beauties. It is always a discovery.”
Another said:
“Quiet area but breathtaking. Definitely worth a visit.”
That’s the thing about Crotone.
It doesn’t scream for attention. It whispers. And the people who hear it — they don’t forget.
So now the question is… why haven’t you been yet?
Whether you want a peaceful escape, a base to explore southern Italy, or just a better view to sip your espresso — Crotone delivers.
Fewer tourists
Better food
€3 pints
Ruins without the rope barriers
And prices that feel like 2012
Save this post. Send it to your group chat. Book it before your friends catch on.
This might be the last quiet gem on Italy’s coast — and it’s calling your name.
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