Piazza Italia
A grand piazza in Reggio Calabria offering stunning views of the Strait of Messina and a gateway to one of Italy's most beautiful seafronts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Piazza Italia
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A grand piazza in Reggio Calabria offering stunning views of the Strait of Messina and a gateway to one of Italy's most beautiful seafronts.
"The Lungomare of Reggio Calabria is one of the most beautiful in Italy, a place to walk and admire the Strait of Messina."
📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the panoramic views of Sicily and Mount Etna from the seafront promenade. :iphone:
🚶♀️ Stroll the Lungomare
Enjoy a leisurely walk along one of Italy's most beautiful seafronts. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Piazza Italia's Grandeur
The heart of Reggio Calabria, a stunning public square offering breathtaking views of the Strait of Messina.
Lungomare di Reggio Calabria
Adjacent to Piazza Italia
One of Italy's most beautiful seafront promenades, perfect for a leisurely stroll with views of Sicily and Mount Etna.
Strait of Messina Views
Gaze across the narrow strait separating Calabria from Sicily, a truly captivating natural spectacle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Piazza Italia
Navigating Reggio Calabria
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the panoramic views of Sicily and Mount Etna from the seafront promenade. :iphone:
🚶♀️ Stroll the Lungomare
Enjoy a leisurely walk along one of Italy's most beautiful seafronts. :athletic_shoe:
🍦 Try Local Gelato
Stop by the Green Kiosk for delicious gelato with a view. :ice_cream:
🗣️ Learn a Few Words
Locals appreciate attempts to speak Italian or even Calabrese dialect. :speech_balloon:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the panoramic views of Sicily and Mount Etna from the seafront promenade. :iphone:
🚶♀️ Stroll the Lungomare
Enjoy a leisurely walk along one of Italy's most beautiful seafronts. :athletic_shoe:
🍦 Try Local Gelato
Stop by the Green Kiosk for delicious gelato with a view. :ice_cream:
🗣️ Learn a Few Words
Locals appreciate attempts to speak Italian or even Calabrese dialect. :speech_balloon:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Piazza Italia is celebrated for its stunning location overlooking the Strait of Messina and its beautiful, expansive promenade. Visitors love the relaxed atmosphere, the scenic views, and the opportunity to experience authentic Calabrian life. Some find parking challenging and wish for more shade during hot summer months.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Piazza Italia is centrally located in Reggio Calabria. If arriving by train, the Reggio Calabria Centrale station is a short walk away. Taxis and local buses are also readily available to reach the piazza and its surrounding areas.
Parking can be challenging in the city center, especially during peak times. It's advisable to use public transport or consider parking slightly further out and walking. Some street parking is available, but it's often metered.
Yes, Reggio Calabria has a bus network that serves the city center, including areas near Piazza Italia. Check local bus routes for the most convenient options.
The closest point between Reggio Calabria and Sicily is approximately 3.14 km across the Strait of Messina.
As of now, there is no bridge connecting Reggio Calabria to Sicily, though it has been a topic of discussion. Travel between the two is typically by ferry.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Piazza Italia is a public square, so there is no entrance fee to visit. You can freely explore the piazza and enjoy its atmosphere.
As an open public space, Piazza Italia is accessible at all hours. However, surrounding shops and cafes will have their own operating times.
While there might not be specific tours for just Piazza Italia, guided tours of Reggio Calabria often include this central piazza and the Lungomare.
No, for Piazza Italia itself, no advance booking is required. If you plan to visit museums or specific attractions nearby, it's always a good idea to check their individual booking policies.
The best way to experience Piazza Italia is to wander through it, enjoy the sea breeze, and take in the views. Combine it with a walk along the Lungomare for a complete experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire piazza offers great photo opportunities, especially with the Strait of Messina as a backdrop. The Lungomare promenade also provides stunning coastal shots.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the bright sun can also create dramatic contrasts.
Drone regulations can be strict in urban areas. It's essential to check local aviation laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone over Piazza Italia or Reggio Calabria.
A versatile camera, whether a smartphone or a dedicated camera, is ideal. Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the expanse of the piazza and the sea.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require special permissions. Always be mindful of private property and individuals.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the area around Piazza Italia and along the Lungomare offers numerous restaurants and cafes serving local Calabrian cuisine and seafood.
Don't miss 'nduja (spicy spreadable sausage), swordfish (pesce spada), and local pasta dishes. Gelato is also a must-try, especially from the Green Kiosk.
Absolutely! You can find pizzerias offering traditional Italian pizza. Interestingly, there's even a service offering pizza on trains traveling through the region.
Yes, the piazza and its immediate surroundings host several cafes and bars where you can enjoy a coffee, aperitivo, or a light snack.
Lunch is typically served between 1 PM and 3 PM, and dinner from 8 PM onwards. Many places may close between lunch and dinner.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the strongest sun. Pack sunscreen, hats, and comfortable shoes for everyone. The relatively flat terrain makes it easy for strollers, and the sea views provide constant entertainment. Many cafes offer kid-friendly options, making it easy to grab a snack or a light meal.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Don't hesitate to strike up conversations with locals or fellow travelers. Trying local food at trattorias or cafes is a great way to experience the culture. The city offers a more authentic Italian experience away from the major tourist hubs, making it ideal for those seeking genuine connections.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different angles to capture the scale of the piazza and the beauty of the sea. Look for details in the architecture and candid moments of daily life. Remember to check local regulations if you plan to use a drone for aerial shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Lungomare
This vibrant walkway is more than just a scenic route; it's a place where the city's life unfolds. You'll find people jogging, families strolling, and couples enjoying the sunset. The proximity to Piazza Italia makes it easy to combine a visit to the main square with a relaxing walk along the sea. The views are particularly stunning on clear days, offering a direct line of sight to Mount Etna in Sicily.
Many travelers highlight the Lungomare as a major draw for Reggio Calabria, appreciating its beauty and the sense of tranquility it offers. It's a perfect spot to unwind and soak in the Mediterranean atmosphere. The sea breeze and the sound of the waves add to the overall charm, making it a memorable part of any visit.
Understanding Reggio Calabria's Dialect
Learning a few basic words or phrases can go a long way in connecting with locals. While not strictly necessary for navigating the city, it's a gesture that is often appreciated. Many locals are friendly and willing to help visitors, even if there's a language barrier. The dialect adds a layer of cultural authenticity to the city, making it feel more intimate and less like a typical tourist destination.
When exploring Piazza Italia and its surroundings, you might overhear conversations in this melodic dialect. It's a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of Calabria. While the focus for many visitors is on the sights and food, engaging with the local language, even just a little, can offer a deeper appreciation for the region's identity.
The Strait of Messina: A Natural Wonder
From Piazza Italia and the Lungomare, you can see the Sicilian coastline clearly, and on a good day, the majestic Mount Etna looms in the distance. The distance between the two landmasses is surprisingly short, only about 3.14 kilometers at its narrowest point. This proximity has fostered a unique relationship between the two regions, influencing culture, trade, and even local dialects.
While there's no bridge currently connecting the two sides, the idea has been a long-standing topic of discussion. For now, travel across the strait is primarily by ferry, a journey that offers its own scenic views. The Strait of Messina is a constant reminder of the dynamic geography of Southern Italy and a captivating sight for any visitor.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit