Reggio Calabria is a city that offers more than just beautiful sea views and warm climate. It’s a place where history, art, and local culture come together in a way that makes exploring on a guided tour particularly rewarding. Whether you’re captivated by the legendary Riace Bronzes or eager to stroll along Italy’s most beautiful kilometer, Reggio Calabria’s tours deliver authentic experiences that go beyond the typical sightseeing. We especially love the city tour with tasting because it combines ancient treasures with local flavors in a compact, engaging format.
Our picks for the best Reggio Calabria tours include a variety of options suited to different interests and schedules. From a short, in-depth city walk to a full-day exploration of the Grecanic villages, each offers a unique way to connect with this vibrant region. If you’re after history, art, or regional culture, these tours will give you a solid taste of what makes Reggio Calabria special. Let’s take a closer look at each.
1. Reggio Calabria: city tour and Riace Bronzes Museum with tasting
At number 1 on our list, this 3-hour guided tour offers a perfect introduction to Reggio Calabria’s highlights. Starting at the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Reggio Calabria, you’ll see the iconic Riace Bronzes, renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship and the stories they tell about ancient Greece. The museum’s guided tour (about 80 minutes) is a highlight, giving you context and insight into these masterpieces.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of art, history, and local flavors. After exploring the bronze sculptures, you’ll enjoy a reputable food tasting session (20 minutes) that introduces you to traditional Calabrian cuisine. The walk along the “most beautiful kilometer in Italy” lets you see both ancient and modern art, before ending with a visit to the Reggio Calabria Cathedral.
This tour is ideal if you want a quick yet immersive experience that combines major attractions with authentic tastes. It’s highly rated (5/5 from 3 reviews), and travelers love its blend of cultural insight and convivial flavors. The guided nature helps you appreciate the city’s ancient roots while sampling local delicacies.
Bottom line: A compact, well-balanced tour perfect for first-time visitors eager to see the highlights and enjoy regional cuisine in just three hours.
2. R. Calabria: National Archaeological Museum & Audio Guide
For those who prefer a flexible, budget-friendly option, this entry ticket to the National Archaeological Museum of Reggio Calabria provides a comprehensive look at the city’s most important archaeological treasures. Priced at just $19 per person, it’s a great way to spend a day immersed in ancient history at your own pace.
Inside the museum, you’ll find the majestic Riace Bronzes, along with relics from the Hellenistic Necropoli. The extensive lapidary features ancient inscriptions, and the museum offers a window into Calabria’s Greek past. The setting also provides stunning views of the Strait of Messina, making it worth a visit regardless of your focus on art or history.
While this is a self-guided experience, many visitors supplement their visit with an audio guide—which can be rented or downloaded—making it easier to focus on the exhibits that interest you most. This option suits travelers who prefer independent exploration or have limited time but want a rich, cultural experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for history buffs or budget travelers wanting a deep dive into Calabria’s archaeological past without a fixed schedule.
3. Tour of the Grecanica area from Reggio Calabria: Bova and Pentedattilo
If you’re looking for a more adventurous, culturally immersive day, this 4.5-hour tour takes you into the heart of the Grecanic region—the land of the Greek-speaking Calabrians. Starting from Reggio Calabria’s Lido, the journey heads east to Bova, a charming town known as the capital of the Greeks of Calabria. Here, a guided tour (40 minutes) offers a glimpse into the Grecanic culture and language, which remains a living legacy of the ancient Greek colonists.
Next, you’ll taste local products (20 minutes), including regional snacks and a bergamot-based tasting, which highlights Calabria’s famous citrus. The tour then moves to Pentedattilo, a striking ghost village perched on a rocky outcrop. The guided tour (40 minutes) reveals the village’s fascinating history and its unique shape resembling five fingers.
This experience is ideal for travelers who want to combine cultural discovery with scenic views of the Aspromonte mountains and the Jasmine Coast. The tour costs around $65 per person and offers a unique perspective on Calabria’s Greek heritage and rural charm.
Bottom line: Best suited for curious travelers eager to explore authentic villages, sample local products, and learn about Calabria’s Greek roots in a half-day adventure.
How to Choose Your Perfect Reggio Calabria Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interests, and available time. If you’re short on time but want a well-rounded experience, the city tour with tasting is a good pick. For a deeper historical dive, the museum entry allows self-paced exploration with minimal expense. If you crave a cultural and scenic day outside the city, the Grecanic villages tour offers a distinctive experience.
Think about whether you prefer guided walks, museum visits, or exploring villages independently. Booking early is recommended, especially in high season, to secure your spot and avoid missing out on these enriching experiences.
Final Thoughts
Reggio Calabria offers a variety of tours that highlight its archaeological treasures, artistic highlights, and unique regional culture. For those interested in ancient Greek artifacts, the museum tour or the city tour with tasting will satisfy your curiosity. If you’re more into regional culture and rural scenery, the Grecanic village trip is an excellent choice. Budget travelers will appreciate the self-guided museum visit, while those seeking a more immersive experience should go for the guided city tour.
No matter which tour you choose, booking in advance and planning around your interests will ensure a memorable visit. These experiences reveal the true character of Reggio Calabria—an inviting blend of history, flavor, and scenic beauty waiting to be explored.
