San Nicola Arcella reaches the Il Borgo dei Borghi final: what to see

San Nicola Arcella in the Il Borgo dei Borghi final

San Nicola Arcella, a coastal gem on the Tyrrhenian Sea in Calabria, has reached the final stage of the national programme dedicated to Italy's most picturesque villages. The village stands out for its stone-paved historic centre, dramatic cliffs over the sea and unique natural formations that attract visitors and landscape enthusiasts.

What to see in San Nicola Arcella

• The Casaletto: the old town core with stone alleys and covered passages that create a distinctive urban geometry.
• Arcomagno: a natural limestone arch that shelters a small beach and a grotto; a much-photographed landmark.
• Crawford Tower: the tower named after writer Francis Marion Crawford, part of local heritage.
• Eolian Islands viewpoints: panoramic spots offering views of the archipelago and the coastline.
• Sentiero Sapiente and historic palaces: walking routes and noble residences such as the Palazzo dei Principi Lanza that tell the area's story.

The final and how to watch

The programme's concluding episode is broadcast on Rai 3: the show reviews the competing villages and announces the annual winner. Public online votes are combined with the assessments of three expert jurors who provide archaeological, exploratory and art-historical perspectives. These experts work alongside the programme's presenter to guide viewers through the final.

Why this exposure matters

Competing on a national stage brings media attention and tangible opportunities for local development: tourist promotion, increased visitors, and potential projects for conserving architectural and natural heritage. San Nicola Arcella, already recognised among Italy's treasured villages, can use this platform to tell its story and attract visitors interested in authentic villages and coastal scenery.

Other villages in the competition

• Arenzano (Liguria)
• Baselga di Piné (Trentino-Alto Adige)
• Battaglia Terme (Veneto)
• Canossa (Emilia-Romagna)
• Castellaro Lagusello (Lombardy)
• Châtillon (Aosta Valley)
• Cingoli (Marche)
• Guardialfiera (Molise)
• Lucignano (Tuscany)
• Margherita di Savoia (Apulia)
• Nemi (Lazio)
• Passignano sul Trasimeno (Umbria)
• Realmonte (Sicily)
• Sadali (Sardinia)
• San Fele (Basilicata)
• Spilimbergo (Friuli-Venezia Giulia)
• Villalago (Abruzzo)
• Villar San Costanzo (Piedmont)
• Zungoli (Campania)

Practical tip: check local opening times and seasonal services before planning a visit, as access to some sites may vary throughout the year.