Tucked away on Italy’s sun-drenched southern coast lies a postcard-perfect seaside town that is quietly stealing the spotlight from the country’s biggest tourist hotspots. While crowds fight for space in cities like Milan and Rome, with prices soaring as a result, this lesser-known destination offers a far cheaper and calmer alternative for those craving that “la dolce vita” experience.

With dramatic clifftop views, crystal-clear waters that give those on Sardinia a run for their money and a historic old town that feels untouched by mass tourism, this seaside city is fast becoming one of Italy’s best-kept secrets for travellers in the know. Often called the “Pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea,” Tropea is found in Calabria, the southernmost region at the “toe” of Italy’s boot, on the stunning Costa degli Dei, or the “Coast of the Gods”.

Tropea is arguably best known for its crown jewel, the iconic medieval monastery of the Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell’Isola. Perched on a rocky promontory jutting out into the sea, you can climb the stone steps for a small fee to see its picturesque gardens and panoramic views of the coast and the turquoise blue sea below.

At the end of Tropea’s narrow streets, such as Corso Vittorio Emanuele, the town suddenly opens up to stone balconies (“affacci”) that hang over the cliffs, offering incredible views of the beach below. Speaking of beaches, the Spiaggia della Rotonda is the city’s most famous beach, boasting fine white sand and iconic views of the monastery. Easily accessible by stairs from the historic centre, it offers both free and paid sections with sunbeds, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Once you’ve had your fill of Vitamin D, visitors can get lost in the maze of 17th-century palazzos in the Centro Storico, the historic centre of Tropea. Look for the Norman Cathedral, which houses two unexploded World War Two bombs that locals believe were a miracle from the town’s patron saint, the Madonna of Romania. 

Tropea is also a foodie’s paradise. You cannot visit the “Jewel of Calabria” without noticing the Cipolla Rossa di Tropea (Red Onion). They are so sweet that you can eat them raw, and you’ll find them in everything from pasta to red onion gelato.

For those looking to explore the wider region, you can take a boat tour to the Aeolian Islands, including the active volcano, Stromboli, or drive 20 minutes south to Capo Vaticano for some of the best hidden coves in Italy.

As if this were not motivation enough to visit, on average, a traveller in Tropea will spend 35% to 50% less per day than they would in Paris or Milan. While a boutique hotel in Milan or Paris could cost between £140 and £220, here you can secure a deal for as little as £65. Meanwhile, a three-course meal with wine in Rome may cost you up to £95, whereas in Tropea, it could be as little as £30, for something equally, if not more delicious, and definitely more authentic. 

As more and more begin to discover Tropea, the peak summer months are now very busy, particularly with Italian holidaymakers. As a result, it is best to visit during the shoulder seasons, ideally in May, June, or September. Fly into Lamezia Terme (SUF). According to Skyscanner, return direct flights are available from airports including Stansted (STN) with Ryanair in February for just £35. From there, it is a roughly one-hour train ride or a 50-minute drive to Tropea.

Those who have taken the time to visit Tropea have shared their praises on TripAdvisor, with one writing about the monastery: “It is the main attraction of Tropea that one should not miss, although to visit it you have to ascend a steep staircase that seems to have no end. Above all, it is worth it for the incredible views that are offered from there, both the coast and Tropea. The interior is extremely sober and invites recollection.”