• Direct In Italy: +39 375 823 5314
  • Toll Free: 1-866-779-2565
Calabria Discovery Kingdom of the Sun Calabria and Deep south Italy Tour Kingdom of the Sun Calabria and Deep south Italy Tour

Private · Praia a Mare

Kingdom of the Sun: Undiscovered Calabria & Basilicata || Highlights include Maratea and the mountain-top redeemer, Praia a Mare and the Madonna Della Grotta, Diamante the city of murals. Cooking, food and wine and highlights with chef Michelangelo

8 Days Calabria · Basilicata · Calabria

The Overview

Overview

Join us for an incredible 8-day package in undiscovered Calabria! We offer a unique experience in Italy's deep south from our base in Tortora, on the border between the regions of Calabria and Basilicata.

If you are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy sun, sea, and genuine Italian culture, then this is the perfect tour for you. Daily excursions will take us to some of Calabria's most beautiful seaside towns, including Praia a Mare, Scalea, Diamante, and Tropea. You'll get to experience gorgeous seas and beautiful islands in a place where time almost seems to stand still. Slow down and embrace the southern hospitality while drinking in the beauty around you.

During this 8-night tour, guests will get to experience tantalizing wineries, enjoy a cooking course, and visit several museums that contain artifacts from Greater Greece. Calabria and Basilicata are two of Southern Italy's least well-known or understood regions, making this package the perfect opportunity to get familiar with local customs and traditions and meet with the locals. It truly is a gem! 

Duration

8 days

7 nights

Pricing

On request

Tailored to your dates and group.

Join us for an 8-day package in Calabria and explore the deep south of Italy, including the regions of Calabria and Basilicata. Our tour is centered around the charming town of Tortora, and from there, we embark on daily excursions to some of Calabria's most beautiful seaside towns, such as Praia a Mare, Scalea, Diamante, and many other remarkable places. It's a unique and unforgettable experience that you won't want to miss!

Regions
Calabria · Basilicata · Calabria
Tour Style
Private
Departs From
Praia a Mare
Meeting Point
Praia a Mare Rail Station
Included Meals
Daily breakfast · 4 dinners · 3 lunches · 2 wine tastings · 1 cooking class
Day by day

Itinerary

Follow the route as you read. The map traces each day of the journey, moving with you from place to place.

Calabria

Chapter 1 · Days 1–3

Welcome to Calabria

  Calabria is the region in Italy where many members of the team at Italy Vacation Specialists, still call home and lead guided tours and experiences for travelers from all over Italy and the world at large.   On our siste site, VisitsItaly, which is quite literally an encyclopedia about Italy, we have written about over 50 different towns and cities in the…

Explore Calabria
Day 1

Calabria, Tortora Calabria, Tortora

Arrival in either Naples or Lamezia - Private Transfer - Gala Welcome Dinner

  • Dinner
  • Wine Tasting
Arrival in either Naples or Lamezia - Private Transfer - Gala Welcome Dinner — photo 1 Arrival in either Naples or Lamezia - Private Transfer - Gala Welcome Dinner — photo 2 Arrival in either Naples or Lamezia - Private Transfer - Gala Welcome Dinner — photo 3 Arrival in either Naples or Lamezia - Private Transfer - Gala Welcome Dinner — photo 4 Arrival in either Naples or Lamezia - Private Transfer - Gala Welcome Dinner — photo 5

Today you will arrive by train to the town of Praia a Mare.  We will help you to get to Praia a Mare and send you detailed arrival instructions.  

Upon arrival at the train station we will meet you and transfer you to the Italy Education & Retreat Center  where you will have a chance to unwind pool-side, enjoy a welcome cocktail and relax poolside.

Welcome dinner at the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Where we meet Praia a Mare Rail Station
Day 2

Calabria, Praia a Mare

Morning Orientation followed by Cooking & Orientation of Tortora

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Wine Tasting
  • Cooking Class
Morning Orientation followed by Cooking & Orientation of Tortora — photo 1 Morning Orientation followed by Cooking & Orientation of Tortora — photo 2 Morning Orientation followed by Cooking & Orientation of Tortora — photo 3 Morning Orientation followed by Cooking & Orientation of Tortora — photo 4 Morning Orientation followed by Cooking & Orientation of Tortora — photo 5

Enjoy today a leisurely breakfast after a long journey to arrive here you will need it!

At 11:00 AM we begin the day's cooking instruction with chef Michelangelo born and raised in this area, his famiy has been producing many of the local ingredients served up in today's course yet found in all the local markets all over the world.

We will cook together from 11 until 1 PM... those who wish to participate can and those who do not want to join, simply enjoy a totally sublime experience pool-side, second to none in Italy.

Lunch in hotel.

Relax time.

Dinner at leisure in town or in hotel at desire.

Day 3

Calabria, Tortora Calabria, Aieta

Tortora and Aieta

  • Breakfast
Tortora and Aieta — photo 1 Tortora and Aieta — photo 2 Tortora and Aieta — photo 3 Tortora and Aieta — photo 4 Tortora and Aieta — photo 5

This morning after a buffet breakfast we will venture into the mountains to experience Tortora's historical centre and the delightful town of Aieta. We will enjoy the museum of Greater Greece and meet some of the local artisans in these areas. Overnight in Tortora.

Basilicata

Chapter 2 · Days 4–4

Welcome to Basilicata

Basilicata is a beautiful and diverse region in Southern Italy, known as the 'breadbasket' of the south considering that most of southern Italy's wheat and other grains are produced here. It is home to unique and sprawling landscapes where rolling hills covered with crops give way to some of Italy's most ancient and important cities like Matera, Melfi,…

Explore Basilicata
Day 4

Basilicata, Maratea

The coast of Maratea

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
The coast of Maratea — photo 1 The coast of Maratea — photo 2 The coast of Maratea — photo 3 The coast of Maratea — photo 4 The coast of Maratea — photo 5

This morning we will depart for the incredible coastal region of Maratea, which offers spectacular views over the Mediterranean sea. We will visit one of Italy's most picturesque coastal areas.

Calabria

Chapter 3 · Days 5–8

Welcome to Calabria

  Calabria is the region in Italy where many members of the team at Italy Vacation Specialists, still call home and lead guided tours and experiences for travelers from all over Italy and the world at large.   On our siste site, VisitsItaly, which is quite literally an encyclopedia about Italy, we have written about over 50 different towns and cities in the…

Explore Calabria
Day 5

Calabria

Diamante and Scalea

  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Diamante and Scalea — photo 1 Diamante and Scalea — photo 2 Diamante and Scalea — photo 3 Diamante and Scalea — photo 4 Diamante and Scalea — photo 5

Diamante and Scalea are two towns along the Cedri Riviera which are absolutely beautiful.  Diamante is known as the city of murals and is colourful testament to creativity in Calabria and well worth a visit.  It is also home to the ruins at Cirella which were a part of the Magna Grecia legacy i.e. the expansion of Greater Greece.

Scalea has a beautful historic town and offers great beaches, wonderful cafe's and great shopping.

Tonight we will dine in Scalea and then return to Tortora for overnight at Italy Education & Retreat Center

Day 6

Calabria, Altomonte

Altamonte and the Calabrian Hill Towns

  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Altamonte and the Calabrian Hill Towns — photo 1 Altamonte and the Calabrian Hill Towns — photo 2 Altamonte and the Calabrian Hill Towns — photo 3 Altamonte and the Calabrian Hill Towns — photo 4 Altamonte and the Calabrian Hill Towns — photo 5

This morning we will depart through the Lago Negro valley for the beautiful town of Altomonte which offers spectacular views over the Calabrian countryside.  

Altomonte is home to a beautiful castle and a fantastic museum as well as the Hotel Barbieri which is known throughout Calabria for its culinary delights.  Here, we will have lunch and enjoy a tour of Altomonte and experience the local traditions of the town. 

Day 7

Calabria, Tortora Calabria, Praia a Mare

Cooking Class at Hotel La Loggia and Time for Shopping in Praia a Mare

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Cooking Class at Hotel La Loggia and Time for Shopping in Praia a Mare — photo 1 Cooking Class at Hotel La Loggia and Time for Shopping in Praia a Mare — photo 2 Cooking Class at Hotel La Loggia and Time for Shopping in Praia a Mare — photo 3 Cooking Class at Hotel La Loggia and Time for Shopping in Praia a Mare — photo 4 Cooking Class at Hotel La Loggia and Time for Shopping in Praia a Mare — photo 5

This morning will be a leisurely time to enjoy the pool at the hotel and take a walk through the organic farm land which surrounds hotel La Loggia. 

At noon we will begin to prepare a typical Calabrese style lunch with an expert English-speaking chef who knows the local cooking traditions.  

After a delicious lunch there will be an opportunity for those interested to return to Praia a Mare to enjoy the beaches, shopping and/or a nice walk along the Lungo Mare (Sea-Wall). 

Dinner at Leisure either in Praia a Mare or at the hotel. 

Return to Tortora in the late evening.

Overnight at Italy Education & Retreat Center

Day 8

Calabria, Praia a Mare

Time to Say Arrivaderci Calabria!

  • Breakfast
Time to Say Arrivaderci Calabria! — photo 1 Time to Say Arrivaderci Calabria! — photo 2 Time to Say Arrivaderci Calabria! — photo 3 Time to Say Arrivaderci Calabria! — photo 4 Time to Say Arrivaderci Calabria! — photo 5

This morning our services will conclude in Praia a Mare where will transfer you back to the train station.  We will help you to organize your train travel today to either Lamezia, Naples, Rome and so forth.  The trains in Italy are easy to use and we will be happy to help you in any way that we can with this portion of your journey when you register for this tour.  We can also assist you and your traveling companions with any other portion of your journey in Italy.

The details

Inclusions & Exclusions

What's Included

  • 4 star hotels in great locations
  • Air-conditioned coach
  • All entrance fees to sites and museums
  • Breakfast and dinner daily
  • Complementary Bottle of Wine
  • Cooking class
  • Daily Buffet Breakfast
  • Detailed explanation of sites
  • Dinners where indicated with wine included
  • English speaking professional tour guide
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • Road Tolls
  • Service Charges and Taxes
  • Sightseeing tours as indicated in the itinerary
  • Transportation in luxury vehicle

What's Not Included

  • Food and beverages not mentioned in the program
  • Gratuities of any type
  • International fights
  • Optional excursions during your tour
  • Personal Expenses or Extras at hotels
  • Travel Insurance
Your rooms

Where You'll Stay

Hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with a property of similar standard.

Hotel La Loggia

Hotel La Loggia

Calabria, Tortora

Hotel La Loggia "the Lodge" is by far one of the most beautiful and contemporary hotels in the Calabria region. It offers visitors unparalleled views...

Discover Property
In their words

Traveler Reviews

Emily and David Davison Travelled with us

My husband and I just took a two week trip to Italy that was planned for us by Eleanor Kinchin-Smith. It was a fantastic trip and we could not have been more thrilled. We worked together with Ele to let her know about our interests and our style of travel. She planned the perfect trip with excellent private guides at all of our sites, professional drivers and lovely hotels. We arrived in Italy with all of our train and ferry reservations made by Ele, with tickets in hand. She was in touch with us daily throughout our trip to make sure that things were going smoothly. She was able to make a few changes to our itinerary as needed. We look forward to working with Ele again on our next trip and have put her in touch with another family member to help plan their trip as well.

Ron and Deb Crosby Travelled with us

Dear Guiseppe and Jesse,

We just returned from our most wonderful vacation to Italy and wanted to first thank you for putting together such a wonderful trip, and second to provide some feedback for the future.

Hotels

1. Hotel Sovestro in San Gimignano was wonderful. The staff were very friendly and helpful and made the first portion of our journey very stress free. They made us feel like we were part of their family. I would recommend it to anyone and would specifically ask for it if we were to make a return visit.

2. Hotel La Baia in Monterosso was nice and it's location was very good especially for us older folks humping luggage from/to the train station.

3. Hotel Lucchesi in Florence- what can I say expect FANTASTIC. The rooftop view at sunset is well worth it. Again very friendly and helpful staff. Would recommend it to everyone.

Wine Tour

Money well spent. We had a great time overall. The driver Mario was OUTSTANDING. He had lots of local knowledge as well as about winemaking. USE HIM AGAIN!!!

The various wineries we visited on tour:

Altesino- fantastic and they were not cheap on their pouring. Great experience.

Azienda Agricola Patrizia Cencion Sloaria- Again a great tour by one of the owner's daughters. We felt like we were the only thing on their mind although there were other customers there. A great way to complete the day.

Again we had a fantastic time and are very appreciative of everything you booked for us. We wish you continued success and if our travels should bring us back to Italy, we know who to call.

Leon and Michele Travelled with us

The trip was great we appreciate all the hard work you and your team invested to make our experience a once in a lifetime trip. We appreciate all the attention to the details in particular Giuseppe spending the time and the focus with us on the road and as we were exploring your great country.

Bob & Sandy Travelled with us

Jesse & Giuseppe,

Sandy and I have been looking through my slides of our trip to Southern Italy. We had such a good time with you and Giuseppe that we wanted to let you know again. You were the best guides ever.

Where you are

Location

Italy Praia a Mare

Praia a Mare and beyond

8 days through Italy, with every stop chosen by the people who live here.

Where we meet

Praia a Mare Rail Station

Where it starts

Praia a Mare

Nearby Experiences

Calabria and the Cedri Riviera Mini-Stay including Cooking Class, Wine Tour and Full Day Tour to the Coast of Maratea
Calabria and the Cedri Riviera Mini-Stay including Cooking Class, Wine Tour and Full Day Tour to the Coast of Maratea
Basilicata: Luxury Tour of Undiscovered Italy
Basilicata: Luxury Tour of Undiscovered Italy
Taormina Private Half Day Walking Experience
Taormina Private Half Day Walking Experience
Kingdom of the Sun Escorted Tour of Italy's Deep South including Puglia, Basilicata and Calabria Departing Spring 2026: May 23, June 6 Fall 2026: Sept 12, Oct 10
Kingdom of the Sun Escorted Tour of Italy's Deep South including Puglia, Basilicata and Calabria Departing Spring 2026: May 23, June 6 Fall 2026: Sept 12, Oct 10
The Heel and Toe of Italy : Puglia, Calabria and Basilicata
The Heel and Toe of Italy : Puglia, Calabria and Basilicata
Experience a New Paradise South of the Amalfi Coast: Cilento, Mountain Monasteries, Blue Grottoes, the Coast of Maratea and Dino Island
Experience a New Paradise South of the Amalfi Coast: Cilento, Mountain Monasteries, Blue Grottoes, the Coast of Maratea and Dino Island
Explore the Hidden Gems of Puglia, Basilicata and Calabria
Explore the Hidden Gems of Puglia, Basilicata and Calabria
Private Tour of Dino Island and Arcomagno Cave Grotto
Private Tour of Dino Island and Arcomagno Cave Grotto
Hidden Villages of Calabria & Basilicata with Local Guides
Hidden Villages of Calabria & Basilicata with Local Guides
Calabria and the Cedri Riviera Fully Private Escorted Experience including Cooking and Exclusive Dino Island Boat Experience with Local Hosts
Calabria and the Cedri Riviera Fully Private Escorted Experience including Cooking and Exclusive Dino Island Boat Experience with Local Hosts
Good to know

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a private tour, or will we join a group?

Private. You travel with your own guide and driver, and the only people on the itinerary are the ones you bring with you. Nothing is shared with strangers, and the pace of each day is yours to set.

Can the itinerary be changed to suit us?

Yes. What you see here is a starting point, not a fixed departure. Tell us how long you have, what you love and what you would rather skip, and we will reshape it around you. A slower morning, an extra night somewhere you fell for, a different region entirely.

How do we start planning?

Send us a note using the form on this page, or call us on 1-866-779-2565. A travel specialist replies within one business day, usually with a few questions of their own. There is no cost and no obligation in asking.

Are the hotels shown the ones we will stay in?

Usually, yes. Hotels are subject to availability, and if one is full on your dates we will replace it with a property of a similar standard and tell you before you book. Never a surprise on arrival.

When should we book?

The earlier the better, particularly for travel between May and September, when the best small hotels and the guides worth having are taken first. That said, we have put together beautiful trips at short notice, so ask and we will tell you honestly what is still possible for your dates.

Plan your journey

Start the Conversation

Quick Enquiry

Our travel specialists reply within one business day.

Handpicked

Our Featured Properties

From the journal

Our Recent Blog

Visiting Rome During a Heat Wave? Read This Before You Go Latest

Visiting Rome During a Heat Wave? Read This Before You Go

Read article
Visit the journal
Keep exploring

Explore More of Italy

Curated Italy journeys and travel inspirations.

Weddings & Honeymoons Custom Group Tours Family Vacations Guaranteed Departure Small Group Tours Health & Wellness Retreats
Cinque Terre, Italy

Ready to plan your journey?

Connect directly with a member of our team for expert guidance and fully customized travel across Italy and the Mediterranean.

Start Planning Your Trip

8 days · Pricing on request

1-866-779-2565 Enquire Now
Direct In Italy: +39 375 823 5314 Toll Free: 1-866-779-2565
Home About Italy About Us Travel Agents Contact Us Book Consultation Trip Planning Customizable Tour