A recent Sunday Times travel survey found the Italian resort of Tropea in Calabria to be this year's number one beach holiday destination. With it's white sandy beaches surrounded by spectacular cliffs and mazy cobbled streets, this unspoilt town will surely see tourist numbers swell this year and these newcomers won't be disappointed

Tropea is transformed in the summer months with bars spilling into the streets as party goers come from all over Europe to enjoy the atmosphere. Almost all of the coastal towns in Calabria are very busy during peak season, which is July, August and early September.

Outside of the peak summer period you can enjoy the delights of this area without the crowds and yet still have very warm weather as this part of Italy has almost 300 days of sunshine during the year.

There are dozens of restaurants, coffee shops and ice cream bars to choose from and all extremely good value for money. Typical price of a large pizza or pasta meal is around five euros and a small beer will set you back around 2 euros