Things To Do
in Acri
Acri is a hilltop town in Calabria, offering sweeping views over the Crati valley and a well-preserved historic center. Its compact lanes, centuries-old churches, and a castle ruin evoke a sense of timeless southern Italy. Visitors can wander stone stairways, sample hearty Calabrian dishes, and watch the sunset over olive groves and distant sea glimpses.
The town serves as a peaceful base for exploring the surrounding countryside and nearby historic sites.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the charming cobblestone streets of Acri's historic center, where ancient architecture meets vibrant local life. Visit the stunning Church of Santa Maria della Misericordia, admiring its intricate frescoes and captivating altarpiece. As the morning sun rises, enjoy a freshly brewed espresso at a local café while observing the locals going about their daily routines.
In the afternoon, delve deeper into Acri's history at the Museo Civico, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the region. Afterward, take a leisurely walk to the scenic viewpoint at the Belvedere, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the distant coastline. Stop for lunch at a traditional trattoria, savoring local delicacies such as 'soppressata' and homemade pasta.
As the sun sets, return to the historic center to experience Acri's vibrant evening atmosphere. Enjoy dinner at a family-owned ristorante, where you can indulge in regional dishes paired with local wines. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets, soaking in the enchanting ambiance of this ancient town.
Begin your day with a visit to local artisans, where you can watch skilled craftsmen at work, from pottery to textile weaving. Engage with the artists, learning about their techniques and the history behind their crafts, enriching your understanding of Acri’s cultural heritage. Don’t forget to purchase a unique handmade souvenir as a memento of your experience.
After a morning filled with creativity, head to a nearby workshop for a hands-on art class, where you can try your hand at traditional crafts under the guidance of a local artisan. This interactive experience will allow you to appreciate the skill involved in creating beautiful pieces. Enjoy a light lunch at a café nearby, sampling local cheeses and cured meats.
In the evening, attend a local art exhibition or cultural event, often held in the town square, showcasing the talents of Acri's artists and musicians. Savor a delightful dinner at a local pizzeria, where you can enjoy wood-fired pizzas topped with fresh, local ingredients. As the night unfolds, join the locals for a glass of limoncello at a nearby bar, soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee or pastry | $2-4 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (1.5L) | $1-2 |
| 🚌Local transit ride | $1-3 |
| 🏨Hotel room (per night) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Historic hill town charm with scenic views
- Genuine Calabrian cuisine and hospitality
- Relaxed pace of life and safe environment
- Compact center makes it easy to explore on foot
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options beyond cafes and bars
- Fewer English-speaking services in some spots
- Smaller transportation network compared to bigger cities
- "Ciao" - Hello/Goodbye
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Mi può consigliare un ristorante?" - Can you recommend a restaurant?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Vorrei un caffè, per favore." - I would like a coffee, please.
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Arrivederci" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Acri
Visit one of these nice places.
Ancient fortress ruins offering panoramic Crati valley views, especially golden hour photography.
Stone arcades, stairways, and traditional balconies ideal for street photography.
Impressive church facade and quiet lanes with textured stone walls.
Wide views over olive groves, distant sea hints, and patchwork fields.
Food in Acri
Acri Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spicy, spreadable Calabrian sausage made from pork and hot peppers; perfect on bread or melted into pasta.
Must-Try!
A comforting pasta and chickpeas dish, often finished with olive oil and pecorino.
Hand-rolled Calabria pasta with tomato sauce and local sheep’s cheese.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market where you can find fresh produce, cheese, bread, and local specialties.
Casual bites such as fried dough, pizza al taglio, and simple panini in the town squares.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A cordial greeting with a polite 'buongiorno' or 'buonasera' is customary; handshake common in formal settings.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; speak softly and remove hats where appropriate.
Lunch is typically a social affair; meals are leisurely; wait for others to start eating if in a group.
Safety
Tipping in Acri
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not mandatory; service charges are uncommon in small eateries; leave small change for good service in cafes.
Cash is widely accepted; major credit cards are accepted in larger restaurants and shops; some smaller spots may take only cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with cooling evenings; carry water and wear sun protection; many activities take place in the mornings and late afternoons.
Milder temperatures, seasonal harvests, and fewer crowds; great time for food markets and countryside walks.
Mild to cool with occasional rain; some attractions open at limited hours; cozy trattorias are ideal for evenings.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming countryside; perfect for outdoor walks and photography.
Acri at Night
Hiking in Acri
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A bit farther away, offering rugged trails, deep gorges, and biodiversity; ideal for a day trip from Acri.
Nearby peak with forested slopes and panoramic valley views suitable for day hikes.
Low-to-mid elevation forest trails around the Calabria Sila, offering seasonal wildflowers and scenic overlooks.
Airports
How to reach Acri by plane.
Major gateway to Calabria; about 1.5–2 hours by car from Acri with regular domestic and some international flights.
Regional airport serving southern Calabria; farther to Acri, typically a 2.5–3 hour drive.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many generations live in Acri, contributing to a strong family-oriented culture.
Acri has a sizable older demographic common to rural Italian towns.
The economy traditionally revolves around agriculture and small businesses; some residents commute to larger towns.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local clubs play in regional leagues and communities passionately support teams.
Community and school teams; courts and local leagues can be found in nearby towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Acri.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy fresh vegetables, pasta with tomato sauce, legumes, and roasted peppers; ask for olive oil-based dishes and avoid nduja.