Avellino Travel Guide

Plan the perfect vacation to Avellino, Southern Italy with this comprehensive guide featuring the best places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Avellino

Avellino is a beautiful city located in the Campania region of Southern Italy. The city has a rich cultural and religious history and is filled with museums, historical attractions, natural wonders, hiking trails, and breathtaking views. The city is surrounded by the gorgeous Apennine Mountains, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Avellino is also known for its delicious cuisine, world-famous wines, and warm hospitality that make it an ideal destination for foodies.

List of Places to Visit in Avellino

There are plenty of attractions and places to visit in Avellino that cater to all kinds of interests. Whether you are a history buff or an adventure lover or simply looking for a fun day out, Avellino has something for everyone. Here are the top attractions to visit in Avellino:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Avellino is a treasure trove of historical and cultural sites that offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region. Here are some of the must-visit museums and historical places in Avellino:

Museo Irpino

Museo Irpino is a museum that showcases the history and cultural heritage of Avellino. The museum features an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits that include coins, pottery, weapons, and religious objects. The highlight of the museum is the collection of ancient Roman statues and the famous Tomb of the Caudini.

San Francesco

San Francesco is a beautiful church that dates back to the 13th century. The church is known for its stunning facade, bell tower, and intricate frescoes that depict the life of St. Francis of Assisi. The church is also home to a museum that displays various religious artifacts.

Castello di Lombardia

Castello di Lombardia is an imposing medieval castle that overlooks the city of Avellino. The castle dates back to the 11th century and was once a strategic fortress. Visitors can explore the castle and enjoy the breathtaking views of the city from the castle walls.

Natural Attractions of Avellino: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you love the great outdoors, Avellino has plenty of natural attractions that will leave you speechless. Here are some of the best natural attractions in Avellino:

Montevergine

Montevergine is a beautiful mountain that stands tall overlooking the city of Avellino. The mountain features a beautiful monastery that dates back to the 12th century. Visitors can hike to the summit of the mountain and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Lake Laceno

Lake Laceno is a beautiful lake that is located on the slopes of the Mount Terminio. The lake is surrounded by picturesque forests and is a popular spot for hiking, fishing, and picnicking. Visitors can also enjoy a boat ride across the lake or rent a mountain bike and hit the nearby trails.

Mount Terminio

Mount Terminio is a majestic mountain that offers some of the best hiking trails in the region. Visitors can explore the various trails that wind through the breathtaking landscapes of forests, meadows, and streams.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Avellino

Avellino is a paradise for hikers and bikers who love to explore new trails and enjoy the great outdoors. Here are some of the best hiking and biking trails in Avellino:

Alta Via dei Briganti

Alta Via dei Briganti is a challenging hiking trail that winds through the Apennine Mountains. The trail is filled with stunning landscapes, rugged peaks, and quaint villages. The trail is suitable for experienced hikers and is best tackled in the summer months.

Fiumarella-Sant’Angelo

Fiumarella-Sant’Angelo is a scenic biking trail that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The trail winds through the lush forests, streams, and meadows of the Apennine Mountains.

Best Things to Do in Avellino: Activities and Tours

Avellino offers a variety of fun activities and tours that cater to all kinds of interests. Here are some of the best things to do in Avellino:

Wine Tour

Avellino is known for its world-famous wines, and a wine tour is the perfect way to discover the region’s wine-making traditions. Visitors can join a vineyard tour, sample local wines, and learn about the winemaking process.

Cooking Class

Avellino is also known for its delicious cuisine, and a cooking class is an excellent way to learn how to cook authentic Italian dishes. Visitors can join a cooking class and learn how to prepare traditional dishes like fresh pasta, pizza, and seafood dishes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Avellino

A week-long itinerary is perfect for discovering the best of what Avellino has to offer. Here’s a week-long itinerary for Avellino:

Day 1: Visit Castello di Lombardia and enjoy the views of Avellino.

Day 2: Explore the Montevergine Monastery and hike the trails of Mount Terminio.

Day 3: Visit Museo Irpino and learn about the history and culture of Avellino.

Day 4: Take a wine tour and explore Avellino’s best vineyards.

Day 5: Enjoy a cooking class and learn how to prepare delicious Italian dishes.

Day 6: Visit Lake Laceno and enjoy a picnic or bike ride.

Day 7: Relax and enjoy the local food and drink scene in Avellino.

Food and Drink Scene of Avellino

Avellino is a foodie’s paradise, and the city boasts a fantastic food and drink scene that will impress even the most discerning culinary enthusiasts. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages of Avellino:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Risotto with Porcini: A delicious dish made with fresh porcini mushrooms and rice cooked in a rich broth.

  • Fried Pizza: A popular street food in Avellino, fried pizza is made with pizza dough that is fried and then topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and other toppings.

  • Caciocavallo Podolico: A delicious cheese made with the milk of Podolico cows that are native to the region. The cheese is firm and pungent, making it a perfect accompaniment to wine.

Local Beverages

  • Aglianico del Vulture: A world-famous red wine made from the Aglianico grape that is grown in the region.

  • Limoncello: A lemon-flavored liqueur made from locally grown lemons.

  • Espressino: A local coffee drink that is made with espresso, milk, and cocoa powder.

Where to Stay in Avellino: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Avellino has plenty of accommodation options that cater to all kinds of travelers. Here are some of the best places to stay in Avellino:

Hotel De La Ville

Hotel De La Ville is a luxurious hotel in the heart of Avellino. The hotel boasts elegant rooms, gourmet cuisine, and a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city.

B&B Villa Sara

B&B Villa Sara is a charming bed and breakfast that offers comfortable rooms with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The bed and breakfast also features a lovely garden and a terrace where visitors can relax and enjoy the views.

Hostel Il Castello

Hostel Il Castello is a budget-friendly option for travelers who want to explore Avellino without breaking the bank. The hostel features comfortable dormitory-style rooms and is located in the historic center of Avellino.

What to Buy in Avellino: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Avellino has plenty of souvenirs and local products that make perfect gifts for friends and family back home. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home from Avellino:

Handmade Ceramics

Avellino is known for its handmade ceramics, and visitors can find beautiful pottery in various styles and designs.

Limoncello

Limoncello is a popular local drink that makes a fantastic souvenir. Visitors can buy bottles of limoncello from local shops.

Cheeses and Wines

Avellino has an excellent selection of cheeses and wines that make fantastic gifts for foodies. Visitors can buy local cheeses like Caciocavallo Podolico and wines like Aglianico del Vulture from local shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Avellino

Avellino has a rich cultural heritage that is deeply rooted in religious traditions and ancient customs. The locals are warm and hospitable and take pride in their regional identity. Here are some of the local customs and traditions of Avellino:

Religious Festivals

Avellino is home to several religious festivals, and the locals celebrate these festivals with great enthusiasm and fervor. The Feast of the Assumption, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, and the Feast of the Patron Saint of Avellino are some of the popular religious festivals in the city.

Food and Wine Festivals

Avellino is also home to several food and wine festivals that celebrate the local cuisine and winemaking traditions. The Wine Festival and the Chestnut Festival are some of the popular food and wine festivals in the region.

Best Time to Visit Avellino

The best time to visit Avellino is from April to June and from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller, making it an ideal time to explore the city. The summer months of July and August can be hot and crowded, so it’s best to avoid visiting during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Avellino

Here are some of the do’s and don’ts of visiting Avellino:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine, including the famous Limoncello liqueur and the wines of the region.

  • Visit the local museums and historical attractions to learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage.

  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially during festivals and religious celebrations.

Don’t:

  • Overlook the breathtaking natural landscapes and outdoor activities that Avellino has to offer.

  • Forget to bring comfortable shoes for hiking and biking.

  • Be loud and disruptive in public places.

Safety and Health

Visitors to Avellino should be aware of the safety and health risks in the region. Here are some safety and health tips for visitors:

Safety in Avellino

Avellino is a safe city, but visitors should be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas. It’s also advisable to avoid walking alone at night in secluded areas.

Health in Avellino

Visitors to Avellino should ensure they have an adequate supply of any prescription medications they need while traveling. It’s also advisable to drink bottled water to avoid potential stomach problems.

Getting to Avellino: Transportation Options and Logistics

Avellino is well-connected to the rest of Italy, and visitors can easily reach the city by plane, train, or bus. Here are the best transportation options for getting to Avellino:

Airports Near Avellino

The closest airport to Avellino is Naples International Airport, which is located approximately 70 kilometers away from the city.

Bus Stations Near Avellino

Avellino has a bus station that offers connections to several cities in Italy, including Naples, Rome, and Florence.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car and drive to Avellino, which is a great way to explore the surrounding countryside and visit nearby towns and villages.

How to Get Around in Avellino

Avellino is a small city that can be easily explored on foot. Visitors can also use local buses and taxis to get around the city.

Where to Go Next from Avellino: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Avellino is a great base for exploring nearby destinations and going on excursions. Here are some of the best nearby destinations and excursions from Avellino:

Naples

Naples is a vibrant city that is known for its stunning architecture, world-famous pizzas, and vibrant street life. Visitors can explore the historic center of Naples, visit the Archaeological Museum, and enjoy the local food and drink scene.

Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is a stunning stretch of coastline that is known for its beautiful beaches, picturesque towns, and stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Visitors can take a day trip to the Amalfi Coast and visit the town of Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello.

Conclusion

Avellino is a beautiful city that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, adventure, and delicious cuisine. From the breathtaking views of the Apennine Mountains to the world-famous wines and traditional dishes, Avellino has something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring the museums and historical attractions or enjoying the scenic beauty of the outdoors, Avellino is a great destination for an unforgettable vacation.