Calabria is a favorite summer holiday destination for Italians. While they may stick mostly to the beaches, there are often charming, seaside villages to explore, guarding historic buildings and picturesque alleys, best enjoyed in the late afternoon in the sunset light, after some fun hours at the beach.  Here are three Calabrian seaside villages to visit. 

Amantea

Amantea’s historic center overlooks the sea from the top of a rocky hill, itself overlooked by the remains of an imposing castle that used to dominate the entire valley. The castle, built by the Byzantines, can only be reached on foot, with a rather challenging walk, but worth the effort for the magnificent view you get when on top.