Tucked away in Tucked into the rugged toe of Italy’s boot, Calabria offers one of the most off-the-beaten-track yet deeply passionate groundhopping experiences in the country.
With dramatic landscapes, fiercely loyal fanbases, and clubs steeped in regional pride, this is a weekend itinerary for the true football romantic — someone looking to experience the soul of southern Italian calcio far from the glossy stadiums of the north.
Calabria isn’t just about football.
This is a region where Byzantine churches overlook turquoise beaches, where ancient Greek ruins meet medieval castles, and where food, family, and football define daily life.
A weekend here means raw passion on the pitch and unforgettable hospitality off it.
Groundhopping options in Calabria
Serie B
- Catanzaro – Stadio Nicola Ceravolo, the oldest stadium still in use in Italy.
Serie C
- Cosenza Calcio – Stadio San Vito-Gigi Marulla in Cosenza. A historic club with intense home support.
- Lamezia Terme – A fusion club with strong ambitions and a modern, compact stadium.
- Crotone – Former Serie A side with loyal fans and a sea-swept home ground.
Serie D
- Reggina – Stadio Oreste Granillo in Reggio Calabria, overlooking Sicily.
- Vibonese – Based in Vibo Valentia, passionate local following and gritty football.
Eccellenza
- Castrovillari, San Luca, Palmese, Locri – Tiny clubs that are deeply rooted in their towns, offering a true glimpse into the heart of amateur Italian football.
Cultural things to do in and around Calabria
- Scilla and Chianalea – Stunning coastal villages that mix myth, fishing tradition, and postcard views.
- Aspromonte and Sila National Parks – Mountain escapes perfect for hiking and nature.
- Reggio Calabria – Visit the Museo Nazionale della Magna Grecia, home to the famous Riace Bronzes.
- Gerace, Stilo, and Tropea – Beautiful historic hill towns full of churches, Norman castles, and charm.
- Explore ancient Greek sites like Locri Epizefiri or the Temple of Hera Lacinia in Capo Colonna.
What to eat in Calabria
Calabrian cuisine is bold, rustic, and unapologetically spicy. Some regional must-tries:
- Nduja – A spicy, spreadable pork sausage, great on bread or pasta.
- Fileja pasta with ‘nduja or goat ragù – Local twisted pasta often paired with rich sauces.
- Licurdia – A humble yet flavorful onion and vegetable soup.
- Swordfish rolls (involtini di pesce spada) – A staple along the coasts.
- Tartufo di Pizzo – A rich, hazelnut and chocolate ice cream bomb from Pizzo.
Pair everything with local wines like Cirò Rosso or Greco di Bianco.
Flights and Access
Nearest Airports for Calabria:
- Lamezia Terme International Airport (SUF) – The main hub in the region.
- Reggio Calabria Airport (REG) – Smaller, with more limited connections.
Flights from the UK & Ireland:
Lamezia Terme is served by:
- Ryanair and easyJet from:
- London Stansted
- London Gatwick
- Manchester (seasonal)
- Dublin (seasonal)
Note: Direct flights are more common in spring–autumn.
Getting to the centre of Calabria from the airport
- From Lamezia Terme Airport, it’s about 2 km to Lamezia Terme Centrale railway station, with trains running across the region — north to Cosenza, south to Reggio Calabria.
- From Reggio Calabria Airport, buses or taxis take you to Reggio Calabria Centrale station (~15 mins).
Conclusion: Calabria – Where passion outweighs prestige
Calabria isn’t where most people begin their groundhopping adventures — and that’s exactly why it’s worth the trip.
Here, you’ll find football that still feels untouched by commercialisation, with clubs that fight for identity, survival, and pride every weekend.
Combine that with breathtaking coastlines, ancient towns, spicy cuisine, and authentic southern hospitality, and you’ve got a calcio weekend that’s raw, refreshing, and unforgettable.
For the adventurous groundhopper, Calabria is not just a detour — it’s a destination.
