Scilla and Bagnara from Reggio Calabria

Scilla and Bagnara Calabra sit on the Costa Viola, the 'violet coast' just north of Reggio Calabria, and together make one of Calabria's most scenic and easy day trips. Scilla lies about 25 km from Reggio Calabria; the regional train from Reggio Calabria Centrale reaches Scilla station in roughly 30 minutes for around €2.50 (~$2.70), and the A2 motorway covers the same distance by car. Scilla is dominated by the Castello Ruffo, a clifftop fortress on the rock that ancient myth identified with the sea monster Scylla of Homer's Odyssey, facing the whirlpool Charybdis across the strait. Below it lies Chianalea, the enchanting old fishermen's quarter where pastel houses rise straight from the water, threaded by narrow alleys and tiny bridges — often called the 'little Venice' of the south. The town beach of Marina Grande offers clear swimming beneath the castle. A sensible one-day arc: arrive mid-morning, climb to the Castello Ruffo for views over the strait to Sicily, wander Chianalea's lanes, then have a seafood lunch built around the local swordfish (pesce spada), traditionally caught here from distinctive long-prowed boats. In the afternoon, continue a few minutes north to Bagnara Calabra, known for its long beaches, the same swordfish heritage and torrone (almond nougat) shops. The Costa Viola is at its best from June to September for swimming, though spring and autumn are pleasant for sightseeing and lunch without crowds. Late afternoon light turns the sea the violet hue that gives the coast its name, ideal from Scilla's belvederes. With short, mostly gentle walking and reliable trains, this is an easy, rewarding day combining myth, a striking castle, a postcard fishing village, beaches and famous swordfish cuisine.