The heart of the Mediterranean, the Mediterranean of the heart: Calabria, where Italy begins.

The Calabria Food Fest 2027 is a traveling experience through the places that gave Italy its name. The "first" Italy, for the Greek settlers, was precisely Calabria, the place where continental Italy begins, even geographically, emerging from the waters of the Mediterranean.

A series of tours revolves around food, the first cultural act of Mediterranean Europe, food, told by mythology millennia ago and today still a protagonist in daily life.

Calabria, Food, Fest: territory, food and wine, and celebration are the three elements that compose tailor-made travel itineraries for small groups with exclusive experiences, creating memories made of flavors, sensations, and smells intimately linked to local communities and the Calabrian cultural landscape.

A path that culminates in one of the most suggestive examples of Calabria's fortified heritage, the Castle of Squillace, which for two evenings hosts — exclusively for CFF guests — the festival events. On Sunday, there will be a Calabrese-style aperitif, featuring a concert of traditional and contemporary Mediterranean music, ceramics seminars, and tastings of oil, bread, and wine. On Monday, there will be a gala dinner featuring premium local chefs, excellent products, and live classical music.

The Calabria Food Fest reinterprets monumental heritage: ancient ruins come alive with contemporary life, overturning their ancient function of defense to open up to hospitality—bulwarks of an innovative, convivial use open to the world. No longer postcards, but liveliness, between the castle, the tower, and the village square.

Sensations and feelings are sparked by traditional music played by young musicians, by dynamic visits to oil mills, dairies, wineries, and businesses linked to excellent food, by exclusive paths in cultural sites—among archaeological sites and literary itineraries—alternated with moments of relaxation among white beaches, solitary bays, and cliffs.

A journey of discovery in the slow rhythm of the most Mediterranean and authentic Italy, sheltered from overcrowding, in the warm embrace of local communities.

A gentle and sustainable path, in harmony with the flow of the seasons, and suitable for each season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is this tour for?
For the bold taste-seekers, the curious wanderers, the travelers who would rather follow the scent of fresh bread down a hidden alley than queue for the same postcard snapshot as everyone else. This journey is for those who want to savor Calabria as it really is—raw, rich, and full of flavors and stories you’d never stumble upon alone.

Who is this tour not for?
If your dream of Italy is gondolas and glossy resorts, this may not be your perfect fit. Calabria isn’t Venice—it’s wilder, earthier, and far less polished. Think of it less as a curated postcard, more as a safari of the senses: a feast for those hungry to taste and see Italy through the eyes (and kitchens!) of its locals.

I have an allergy or dietary restriction—can I still join?
Of course! Tell us what you need and we’ll do everything in our power to keep your plate full of joy (and safe for you).

How much walking will there be?
Expect to stroll, not to trek. Italy’s towns and villages were made for wandering—cobblestones, narrow lanes, piazzas where cars dare not go. You won’t be scaling mountains, but you’ll earn your gelato with a few leisurely blocks here and there.

Will my cell phone work in Italy?
Yes! Most travelers simply use an international plan from their carrier, but if you’d like to live like a local, Italian SIM cards are easy to grab once you arrive.

I’d like to stay longer in Italy—can you help?
Absolutely! Our partner, Sognare Insieme Viaggi (which means “Dream Together Travel”), is a wizard at extending adventures. Whether you want a Tuscan villa escape, a few days in Rome, or something entirely your own, she’ll weave it into your journey.

Can you help me book transportation?
Yes again! From flights to trains to ferries, our travel partner can make it seamless. You just tell us where you want to go—we’ll help you get there.

Will the itinerary ever change?
We aim to keep things as planned, but Italy loves a little spontaneity. A vineyard lunch may become a vineyard dinner, or a tasting may be swapped with a seaside stroll. These small shifts are always in service of making your experience even better. The heart of the journey remains unchanged.

Can I do laundry during the trip?
Yes—clean clothes, no problem! In Rome, Tropea, and Soverato you’ll have access to laundry services or laundromats nearby. So feel free to pack light—you’ll have plenty of chances to freshen up.

Can I bring food home from Italy?
You’ll want to! Most travelers end up stuffing an extra suitcase with olive oil, cheese, wine, or biscotti. Just be sure to check your country’s import rules before boarding your flight—Italy will tempt you with treasures you’ll ache to carry home.