Originally known as Catanzaro Marina, the coastal district of Catanzaro Lido is the tourist heart of the city. Life here revolves around the waterfront. Don a bathing suit and spend your day soaking up the sun out on the strip of golden sand.
Extending for about 3 miles (5 kilometers) along the Ionian coast, this waterfront area is popular among sunbathers and swimmers. Find a spot on the sand at Lido delle Sirene and stretch out and enjoy the sensation of the sun’s warming rays. If it gets too hot, cool down by paddling in the shallow waters. Bring along sunscreen or a sun umbrella for protection from the rays.
Catanzaro Lido is a popular area among vacationers and is typically abuzz with activity during summer months. Stroll along the Via Lungomare Stefano Pugliese and watch local residents and tourists passing by. In the area, find bars, restaurants and cafés with fresh seafood, and ice-cream parlors serving scoops of delicious gelato.
To get a better sense of life in Catanzaro Lido, wander around the neighborhood on foot. Look for the Santa Maria Di Porto Salvo, a small church where locals worship. Also of note is Torre Tonnina, a tower fashioned from the restored chimney of an old factory. At night, the tower is illuminated and looks particularly picturesque. Pay your respects to those who lost their lives at sea at L’Ancora monument, which features a large bronze anchor.
Fly to Lamezia Terme International airport and drive east over the Italian peninsula just over 30 minutes to reach the city. Find Catanzaro Lido southeast of the city center along the Ionian coastline. Many hotels and restaurants are located in this district and are within easy walking distance of the beach. If you are staying farther away, ride the train here, disembarking at Catanzaro Lido station.
