Villa San Giovanni
Introduction
You can explore Villa San Giovanni, a port city located within the Metropolitan City of Reggio Calabria in the region of Calabria. As a vital maritime hub, it serves as an important terminal providing you with access to Sicily.
Beyond its role as a transit point, the area is recognized for its cinematic history as the setting for several police films.
Before you go
Prepare to experience the unique optical-mythological phenomenon of Fata Morgana along the Sicilian coast, where atmospheric conditions can make distant houses, cars, and people appear as if they are only a few meters away. While you explore the city, keep in mind its long history; although it was part of the Hellenistic region of Magna Grecia, much of that antiquity was lost due to repeated earthquakes, a devastating tsunami, and heavy bombing during the Second World War.
Be aware that the local landscape is also shaped by modern complexities, including an economic slump and the enduring influence of organized crime on local businesses and authority. You can find tourist information at the City Hall located next to Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II (Piazza Italia).
Getting there
You can reach the ferry port at Villa San Giovanni by boat or by train. Several ferry companies operate routes from this port to Messina, including hydrofoils that accommodate cars, fast catamarans for passengers only, and ferries specifically for vehicles. If you prefer to travel by rail, long-distance trains from major cities like Milan, Rome, and Naples stop at the Villa San Giovanni ferry port before continuing to Reggio Calabria.
Alternatively, you can fly into Aeroporto dello Stretto in Ravagnese or Lamezia Terme. From the airport in Ravagnese, buses provide transportation to both the city center and the port. If you arrive via train at Reggio Calabria Centrale, you can access the nearby bus terminal for connections to the ferry port.
Getting around
You can navigate the area using local buses operated by ATAM. These buses primarily run toward Piazza Garibaldi, located in front of Stazione Centrale.
To travel by bus, you can purchase your tickets at any local newsagent or tabaccheria.
Where to stay
You can find accommodations in the heart of the city, including options located near the river quay. Choose a small and central location to stay close to the local landmarks.
Food & drink
Savor local flavors ranging from savory snacks to traditional treats throughout the city. You can find crispellini—small balls of bread stuffed with fish and fried—at Cordon Bleu, where the atmosphere is formal despite the casual nature of the food. For a convenient pizza option near Parco Caserta, visit La Dolce Vita. If you prefer something sweet, head to Piazza Indipendenza to enjoy a gelato brioche from Gelateria Cesare, a long-standing favorite in the area.
For a refreshing drink with a view, head to the promenade at Pepy's Beach. You can relax while looking across at Sicily and listening to the waves hit the rocky beach while enjoying a beer, limoncello, bergamotto, or a cocktail.
What to see and do
Stroll along the elegant Lungomare Italo Falcomatà promenade or explore the mostly pedestrianized Corso Garibaldi, which connects several major squares including piazza Garibaldi and piazza Duomo. You can visit the modern Amphitheatre located midway along the promenade or head to the historical center to see the Castello Aragonese, a masonry shell offering views of the city. Nearby, you can find the neo-Byzantine Chiesa degli Ottimati or visit the Basilica Cattedrale di Maria Santissima Assunta in Cielo, which was rebuilt in modern Romanesque style following an earthquake.
Explore the local history and culture through these highlights:
- Museo Nazionale della Magna Grecia to see the Bronzi di Riace, two full-size bronze sculptures of bearded nude warriors.
- Santuario di Sant'Antonio, a Gothic-style basilica situated on Collina degli Angeli hill overlooking the town.
- Teatro Comunale Francesco Cilea, a neoclassical building that hosts musical and theatrical performances.
- The Basilica dell'Eremo, where the Madonna begins her annual procession during the Festa della Madonna della Consolazione.
- A trip across the Straits on a conventional car-ferry to enjoy the views from the deck.
Three days in Villa San Giovanni
Day one, you begin your journey in Villa San Giovanni. You can explore the local area and experience the atmosphere of this coastal location before preparing for further travel.
Day two, you cross the Stretto to reach the neighboring island of Sicily. You can spend your time exploring the region or traveling toward Messina to see more of the landscape.
Day three, you choose to explore the broader Calabria region. You can visit nearby locations such as Lamezia Terme or travel further inland to experience different surroundings.