- Crotone was originally founded as the Achaean Greek colony of Kroton in 710 BCE.
- The city was home to the legendary Olympic athlete Milo of Crotone, who was a champion wrestler for several consecutive games.
- Pythagoras chose Crotone to settle and teach because of the city's reputation for healthy living and intellectual pursuit.
- During the Magna Graecia period, the city was renowned for its medical school, which rivaled that of the Greek city-states.
- The modern city is built directly over the ruins of the ancient Greek acropolis, leading to frequent historical discoveries during infrastructure projects.
About Crotone
Crotone is a historic port city on the Ionian coast of Calabria, famously associated with the philosopher Pythagoras who established his school here in the 6th century BCE. The city's intellectual legacy is preserved at the Museo e Giardini di Pitagora and the sprawling Giardino di Pitagora, which celebrate its ancient prominence. Visitors can experience the local maritime atmosphere by walking the Passeggiata Lungomare di Crotone or exploring the architectural heritage found within the Church of Saint Dominic. This site serves as a vital gateway to the Capo Colonna archaeological area, bridging its Greek foundations with modern Calabrian urban life.
Highlights of Crotone
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Natural attractions
This seafront promenade offers direct views of the Ionian Sea and connects the harbor to the city's main leisure area.
Museums
This facility features interactive exhibits dedicated to the mathematical and philosophical contributions of Pythagoras.
Temples
This historic temple holds significant religious art and architectural features reflective of the city's ecclesiastical history.
Parks
This large park provides green space and thematic installations focused on the scientific legacy of the Pythagorean school.
Temples
An important religious site, this church showcases regional decorative styles common to the older districts of Crotone.
Venues
This venue hosts local performing arts and cultural productions within an intimate, community-focused setting.
Top things to do in Crotone
The 83 highest-rated places in Crotone, ranked by travellers.
1
Historical places
Castello di Le Castella is a 16th-century fortress situated on a small, tide-dependent island connected to the mainland...
2
Historical places
3
Natural attractions
4
Museums
5
Temples
6
Temples
7
Temples
8
Venues
9
Parks
10
Temples
11
Historical places
12
Temples
13
Temples
14
Temples
15
Temples
16
Beaches and ponds
17
Amusement parks
18
Venues
19
Temples
20
Temples
21
Temples
22
Historical places
23
Temples
24
Temples
25
Temples
26
Temples
27
Historical places
28
Temples
29
Places of interest
30
Venues
Explore by category
Jump straight to what you're into.
Crotone on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Crotone
May to June or September to October, when the climate is warm but avoids the extreme heat and peak crowds of July and August.
2-3 days, allowing enough time to explore the historic center, local museums, and the nearby Capo Colonna ruins.
The city center is largely walkable, though a car is recommended for visiting the broader archaeological zones and coastal areas.
Stay near the city center or the Lungomare area to balance access to historic sites and proximity to the coastline.
Generally budget to mid-range compared to major tourist hubs in northern Italy.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 83 curated attractions in and around Crotone, ranked by traveller ratings.
Castello di Le Castella is the highest-rated place to visit in Crotone right now.
The largest category is temples, with 37 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Rome, Milan, Galatina.
Explore more of Italy
Other cities ranked by number of curated places.
