Travelers departing from the United States and Canada begin their overnight flight to southern Italy today, arriving in Catania, Italy the following day.

Upon arrival at Catania International Airport, you will be met and transferred by private driver to your seaside hotel. After time to settle in and relax, we will gather this evening for a festive welcome dinner featuring local cuisine and local wines—the perfect way to begin our Italian adventure together. Overnight in Giardini Naxos

Today our adventure truly begins as we journey toward Calabria, one of Italy's most fascinating yet least-visited regions. Before leaving Sicily, we'll enjoy one final sweet local specialty before boarding the ferry across the narrow Strait of Messina to mainland Italy—the toe of Italy's famous boot. Long separated by rugged mountains and limited transportation routes, Calabria has remained wonderfully authentic, preserving traditions, recipes, and ways of life that have disappeared elsewhere. Its relative isolation has become one of its greatest treasures, rewarding visitors with genuine hospitality and unforgettable cultural experiences.

After arriving in Reggio Calabria, we'll visit the city's renowned National Archaeological Museum, home to the spectacular Riace Bronzes. Discovered on the seabed near Riace in 1972, these remarkably preserved fifth-century BC Greek warrior statues are considered among the greatest masterpieces of ancient bronze sculpture in the world.

We'll then settle into our centrally located hotel, our home for the next three nights, allowing us time to experience the city at a relaxed pace. This evening we'll enjoy dinner together featuring the flavors of Calabria. Overnight in Reggio Calabria

Today promises to be one of the most memorable experiences of our journey.

Leaving the city behind, we'll venture into the Calabrian countryside where Mario's local friends and family connections open doors rarely available to visitors. Here we'll experience the warmth and generosity that define southern Italian hospitality as we're welcomed not as tourists, but as honored guests.

Throughout the day we'll share regional specialties, discover local traditions, hear family stories, and gain a deeper appreciation for what it truly means to be Calabrian. This heartfelt gathering offers an authentic glimpse into everyday life and the strong sense of community that continues to define the region.

We'll return to Reggio Calabria in the late afternoon, leaving the evening free to stroll the beautiful waterfront promenade or enjoy dinner at your leisure. Overnight in Reggio Calabria

Today we travel north to the enchanting fishing village of Scilla, one of Calabria's true coastal gems. According to Greek mythology, these waters were home to the legendary sea monster Scylla, immortalized in Homer's Odyssey.

We'll experience this spectacular coastline from the water during a relaxing boat excursion, taking in dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, crystal-clear waters, and views across the Strait of Messina toward Sicily.

After exploring Scilla's picturesque coast, charming streets, and seaside atmosphere, we'll return to Reggio Calabria where the late afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy at your own pace. Overnight in Reggio Calabria

Today we cross Calabria from the Tyrrhenian coast the Ionian side, discovering another face of this remarkably diverse region.

Our first stop is to the magnificent hilltop town of Gerace, considered one of the most beautiful medieval villages in southern Italy. Perched high above the Ionian Sea, Gerace captivates visitors with its stone streets, Norman cathedral, elegant piazzas, and sweeping views stretching across mountains, valleys, and coastline.

Afterwards, we visit the countryside to sample one of Calabria's most distinctive wines, Greco di Bianco, during a tasting and leisurely lunch at a local estate.

Late this afternoon we arrive in the celebrated seaside town of Tropea, our home for the next four nights. Overnight in Tropea

Today we discover why Calabria's western shoreline is known as the Costa degli Dei—the Coast of the Gods.

A private boat excursion introduces us to one of Italy's most spectacular coastlines, where dramatic cliffs plunge into brilliantly turquoise waters, hidden beaches and sea caves await discovery, and the volcanic Aeolian Islands rise on the distant horizon.

This afternoon we return to Tropea, often considered Calabria's most beautiful seaside town. Dramatically perched atop sandstone cliffs overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, Tropea charms visitors with its historic center, lively piazzas, flower-filled lanes, and breathtaking ocean vistas. You'll have time to continue exploring on your own. Overnight in Tropea

Enjoy a leisurely morning discovering more of Tropea. Browse artisan shops, relax at a café overlooking the sea, or enjoy the nearby beach in one of southern Italy's most beloved coastal towns.

This afternoon we travel to nearby Pizzo Calabro, a picturesque fishing town known for its medieval castle and the remarkable Chiesetta di Piedigrotta, an extraordinary cave church carved directly into the sandstone cliffs by local artists over generations.

No visit to Pizzo would be complete without sampling the town's famous Tartufo di Pizzo, the decadent gelato dessert that originated here and has become one of Calabria's signature treats. This evening we'll gather in Spilinga to celebrate Calabria's remarkable culinary traditions with a tasting of regional specialties, including the famous spicy 'nduja, local cheeses, wines, and other beloved flavors of the region. Overnight in Tropea

Our final full day together promises to be a memorable celebration of everything that makes Calabria so special. We'll journey into the countryside for a festive farewell gathering created especially for our group, where local hospitality takes center stage. Surrounded by beautiful scenery and warm company, we'll experience the traditions that have been passed down through generations—sharing regional cuisine, local wines, music, and the joyful spirit of southern Italy.

Throughout the afternoon, we'll savor many of Calabria's signature flavors, from the world-famous sweet red onions of Tropea and locally produced cheeses to handmade specialties, seasonal dishes, and other beloved regional delicacies. Whether it's the sound of traditional music, stories shared around the table, or simply lingering over one last leisurely meal together, today offers a fitting conclusion to our journey through one of Italy's most authentic regions.

This evening we return to our hotel with hearts full of wonderful memories, new friendships, and a deeper appreciation for the people and traditions that make Calabria unlike anywhere else in Italy. Overnight in Tropea

Private transfers will be offered today to Lamezia Terme Airport for return flights home or onward to other destinations. Flights can be booked for anytime today. Please keep in mind that the drive to the airport is about 1.25 hours depending on traffic.