The view of Tropea from the sea is simply spectacular: behind a stretch of white sand, vertically rising rock faces seem to melt into the walls of the old palazzi.

The views of the turquoise blue sea and the pilgrimage church of Santa Maria dell'Isola, Tropea's landmark, from the completely intact Old Town are close to picture-postcard perfect.

The wide sandy beaches to both sides of the Isola are within easy walking distance, swimming in the clean, crystal clear waters of the sea is a delight.

It really comes as no surprise that Tropea is a popular holiday destination! 

Visible from afar, the pilgrimage church of Santa Maria dell’Isola sits on top of an isolated sandstone rock outside the town.

Up to the time the Normans arrived, Greek-Orthodox Basilian monks lived as hermits on the former island. The island and the church finally passed into the ownership of the Benedictines and they are still part of the diocese of Montecassino today.  

Santa Maria's present-day, nobly structured façade dates back only to the beginning of the 20th century; its medieval structures had been gradually destroyed by wars. The upper floors house a small museum; the roof terrace offers access of a lovingly designed garden, from where you have got a fantastic view.

The heart of the Old Town beats at Piazza Ercole. Sedile Port’Ercole, the former seat of the nobility, is where, today, you find the committed members of Pro Loco, who provide and hand out information.  

Following Corso Vittorio Emanuele, you arrive at a breathtaking belvedere. When strolling through the alleys branching off to either side of the Corso, you pass noble palaces and proud upper class townhouses.  

Tropea has got many interesting churches, but the 12th/13th century cathedral is surely the most impressive. A Gothic portal opens into the austere pier basilica, which thanks to comprehensive works of restoration has 'regained' its medieval structure, its interior completely stripped of Baroque elements.

Restaurant Le Volpi e L’Uva, Via Garibaldi, 11: local specialties in homelike atmosphere; with open kitchen

Restaurant Porta Vaticana, Via Regina Margherita: fish, meat and pizza – anything your heart desires in good quality and for agreeable prices

Restaurant Osteria del Pescatore, Via del Monte: the place to go if you love fish dishes

August 15th: colorful sea procession to the pilgrimage church

September 9th: festival of the town’s patron saint Madonna di Romania