Cosenza is an ancient hilltop city with a passion for history, culture and cuisine. Centuries-old stone buildings line the streets and alleys of the Old Town. Instead of tourist traps, you’ll find antique stores, family-run trattorias and fascinating museums and galleries.
Things to do in Cosenza
Unlock spectacular views over the city from Cosenza Castle. Founded by the Saracens and completed by the Normans, the castle features soaring stone walls. Explore the ruins at your own pace or hire a guide to learn more about the unique history of the castle.
Narrow streets, alleys and staircases crisscross the Old Town, also known as Centro Storico. Cosenza Cathedral soars over the enclave and has been beautifully rebuilt over the centuries. Don’t miss the Byzantine-style Madonna on show in the chapel.
Learn about the city’s ancient past at Museo dei Brettii e degli Enotri. The archaeological museum is located in a restored Augustinian convent and showcases treasures from the Hellenistic, Roman and Bronze Age eras.
See a stunning collection of Renaissance and Baroque works at Galleria Nazionale. The gallery is housed in an elegant, pastel-pink building and covers centuries of Calabrian art. Admire masterpieces by luminaries like Luca Giordano and Francesco Fracanzano, as well as contemporary works.
Dine at local trattorias and try authentic cuisine from Calabria. Flavours are primarily Italian, though you’ll also see hunts of Spanish, French and Arabic. Ingredients like spicy “nduja” sausage, “guanciale” cured pork and “provola” cheese will tantalise your palate. Bakeries will tempt you with treats like “torrone” nougat and “mostaccioli” gingerbread.
Getting around Cosenza
Cosenza is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The city is in Calabria, a 1.5-hour drive from Catanzaro. Rental cars offer the freedom to visit Cosenza and explore Calabria at your own pace. Lamezia Terme International Airport is a one-hour drive away.