No matter how many strangers gather at Rome’s iconic Colosseum, you’ll feel more like a gladiator fighting off the crowds than who Russell Crowe actually portrayed.
Italy is a busy place; there’s just no denying it.
While Summer 2024 has come to end, that doesn’t mean tourism season has skipped a beat.
As world-renowned as Italy may be, it might feel like a “white lie” to say there are Italian getaways to skip the crowds.
Well, National Geographic believes this to be true, revealing 8 of Italy’s best escapes for pure bliss along stunning coastlines.
This gorgeous seaside town you likely have never heard of was just named the top beach destination to avoid Italy’s crowds this fall.
Scilla: Nat Geo’s Favorite Crowd-Free “Spiaggia“ Paradise
Do people really enjoy themselves amongst hordes of tourists packing into the same beaches?
Obviously so, or it wouldn’t happen. On the contrary, isn’t there just something intangibly more splendid when discovering hidden gems?
That’s the case for Scilla, a no-name, small coastal treasure perched along Calabria’s long stretch of picture-perfect shores.
While AI has assisted us all in solving basic day-to-day issues, the age-old question of “Does size matter?” is still one of life’s biggest mysteries, so don’t let pint-sized Scilla fool you – it packs a punch!
The scenery is truly immaculate from it’s vivid blue waters to lush hillsides where picturesque pale houses sit atop the cityscape along with the unmissable medieval fortress, Castello Ruffo.
You won’t be daydreaming of Rome, Florence, or the frustrating bureaucracy of Venice. Your serene spiaggia is right here in Scilla, a place you didn’t know you belong.
Named after a mythological Greek sea monster (Scylla), it’s long overdue for a new claim to fame – Italy’s top beach getaway to unwind in peace.
The ‘Violet Coast’ Is Brimming With Beautiful Beaches
This region is known as the ‘Violet Coast’ for its vibrant violet blooms, particularly in spring.
But don’t let the calendar dictate your perception of Scilla’s splendor.
Fall may not be the season for snapping flower photos, but it’s always the season for sun, sand, and relaxation under the sun or enjoying the breeze shielded by a parasol.
Plus, is gelato on the beach ever a bad idea? Negative. Ample beachside vendors have got you covered.
In the words of National Geographic, the only thing missing is ‘traffic and crowds’. That in itself is an easy sell, right?
There are numerous beaches (or spiaggias) to choose from in and around Scilla, but the most popular has got to be Spiaggia Di Scilla, a stretch of beach boasting epic views of glistening blue waters and lined with phenomenal eateries.
Perhaps best of all, water conditions are typically warm enough for a nice swim until late fall.
Tip: Check out Hotel Palazzo Krataiis for a great stay. Centrally located overlooking the vast sea, this revamped boutique hotel from the 1700s receives hundreds of rave reviews!
Charming Streets & Incredible Cuisine
There’s no better way to bide time than endless beach days, but make sure to save room for dessert both literally and figuratively by exploring the delightful town’s cobbled streets, narrow walkways, and indulging in local cuisine.
There’s far more to see than stunning landscape and the tide rolling in at your feet. Exploring the town is a must, and it goes beyond taking a tour of Castello Ruffo.
In fact, Nat Geo recommends Piazza San Rocco Belvedere for the best views of the city despite the historic fortress being located on a scenic seaside cliff.
Whether fueling up for your explorations or capping off a day well spent, Scilla has got your back whether it’s a freshly brewed cappuccino at one of many sidewalk cafes or a traditional Calabrian dish like locally sourced Swordfish.
Of course, it wouldn’t be an Italian getaway without wining and dining with pizza and pasta.
Here you’ll find some extra spice, Calabrian chiles (a Bobby Flay favorite), to level up the flavor in such menu staples as Spaghetti alla Diavola.
Tip: For a ‘home-cooked’ meal, check out Scilla’s top-rated restaurant on TripAdvisor, Street Good.
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