Calabria: Tyrrhenian Coast

This route follows the Tyrrhenian coast of Calabria from Pizzo and the Costa degli Dei to Scilla and Villa San Giovanni, the sea link to Sicily. The SS 18 is the main road on this side of Calabria.

Region: Calabria (Vibo Valentia, Reggio Calabria)
Start / end: Pizzo to Scilla / Villa San Giovanni
Suggested time: 3 days or more
Best season: Late spring to early autumn

What should you know before visiting Calabria: Tyrrhenian Coast?

Tolls and vignettes for a car: about €6 (Italy).

According to the national tourism portal, the Costa degli Dei in the province of Vibo Valentia has stages from Pizzo via Briatico, Zambrone, Tropea and Ricadi to Nicotera. Tropea and Capo Vaticano are the best known.
Some beaches are reached only on foot: Paradiso del Sub near Zambrone lies below a rock staircase with a descent of about 100 m. The beach is free and has no facilities.
Overnighting on the road is allowed under Article 185 of the Italian road code only with conditions: on the wheels, no awning or stabilisers, no discharges. Municipalities can issue bans.

The drive

The route starts in Pizzo, with the Murat Castle and the church of Piedigrotta carved into the rock. It continues through Briatico and Zambrone to Tropea, with its Norman cathedral and the sanctuary of Santa Maria dell'Isola on a promontory above the sea, then to Ricadi (Capo Vaticano) and Nicotera. Further south the SS 18 passes Rosarno, Gioia Tauro, Palmi and Bagnara Calabra to Scilla and Villa San Giovanni. Detours include Lake Angitola, Serra San Bruno and Zungri.

Planning

The SS 18 runs through Calabria from the Basilicata border to Reggio Calabria and serves many towns on the Tyrrhenian side. Near Falerna it crosses the A2 motorway, which is an option for the approach. A tourism-portal itinerary starting at Tropea covers three days, with detours to Pizzo, Serra San Bruno and Zungri. Villa San Giovanni is the main sea link between Calabria and Sicily; check timetables and vehicle rules, including for motorhomes, with the ferry operators.

Camping

In Italy motorhomes are treated like other vehicles when parking. Free overnight stays are allowed only without stabilisers or awning and without discharges, and never where a ban is signed. Municipalities can restrict parking in peak season. Municipal areas generally allow about 48 to 72 hours; longer stays are usually left to campsites. On private land only on designated areas. Ask the municipality beforehand.

FAQs

Can I stay overnight in a motorhome outside campsites?

On the road only under the rules of Article 185: on the wheels, no awning or stabilisers, no discharges. Municipalities can ban it in season. Watch for signs and ask the municipality beforehand.

Which stretch is the Costa degli Dei?

According to the tourism portal, it is the part of the province of Vibo Valentia with the stages Pizzo, Briatico, Zambrone, Tropea, Ricadi and Nicotera. The Monte Poro massif forms the backdrop.

How do I reach Paradiso del Sub?

At Zambrone a rock-cut staircase with a descent of about 100 m leads to the beach. It is free and has no facilities. Bring your own water and shade, and wear sturdy shoes.

Where do I cross to Sicily?

Villa San Giovanni, near the southern end of the SS 18, is the main sea link between Calabria and Sicily. Check current timetables and conditions for motorhomes with the ferry companies.

How much are the tolls on Calabria: Tyrrhenian Coast?

Tolls and vignettes for a car: about €6 (Italy). Estimate with typical rates; motorhomes pay more, and vehicles over 3.5 t often pay by distance.