Salerno (province) Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Salerno Province, Italy with this comprehensive travel guide featuring travel tips, recommended places to visit, accommodation options, food and drink scene, and more.


Introduction to Salerno Province

Located in the region of Campania, in southern Italy, Salerno Province offers an authentic taste of Italian culture, rich history, diverse landscapes, and stunning coastlines. It is a perfect destination for those seeking adventure, outdoor activities, cultural immersion, and relaxation, all in one place.

With charming villages and towns, hidden beaches, breathtaking views of the sea and mountains, picturesque hiking routes, and a delicious gastronomic scene, Salerno Province has something to offer for every type of traveler.

In this guide, we will take you through all the must-visit places in Salerno Province, including its cultural and natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Salerno Province

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Salerno Cathedral: A beautiful cathedral located in the heart of Salerno city. It is built in Romanesque style and houses the tomb of Pope Gregory VII.

  • Paestum Archaeological Site: One of the best-preserved ancient Greek ruins in Italy, Paestum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring well-preserved temples, ancient walls, and a museum.

  • Capaccio Paestum National Archaeological Museum: A museum located next to the Paestum site, featuring a remarkable collection of ancient artifacts, including vases, sculptures, and architectural fragments.

  • Arechi Castle: A medieval castle located on top of a hill above Salerno city, offering magnificent views of the city and the sea.

Natural Attractions of Salerno Province: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Amalfi Coast: One of the most beautiful coastlines in Italy, featuring charming towns, hidden beaches, and breathtaking views of the sea and mountains.

  • Cilento National Park: A vast natural reserve featuring diverse landscapes, including forests, mountains, rivers, and waterfalls, and offering various outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and kayaking.

  • Mount Vesuvius: A volcano located near Naples, known for its legendary eruption in 79 AD that buried the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum.

  • The Path of the Gods: A popular hiking route along the Amalfi Coast, offering magnificent views of the sea and the mountains and passing through picturesque villages.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Salerno Province

Salerno Province offers several hiking and biking routes for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Here are some of the best:

  • Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods): A spectacular hiking route along the Amalfi Coast, offering breathtaking views of the sea and the mountains.

  • Valle delle Ferriere (Ironworkers Valley): A beautiful hiking trail passing through a lush forest, waterfalls, and ancient ironworks.

  • Cilento Cycle Path: A biking route connecting different villages and towns in the Cilento area, showcasing the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region.

  • Corno alle Scale: A challenging hiking route in the Cilento National Park, featuring the highest peak in the region and offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Best Things to Do in Salerno Province: Activities and Tours

Salerno Province offers a wide range of activities and tours for visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some of the best:

  • Boat tour along the Amalfi Coast: A relaxing and scenic way to explore the beauty of the coast and its charming towns.

  • Tasting tour of local food and wine: A delicious way to discover the authentic flavors of the region, including mozzarella cheese, olive oil, limoncello, and Aglianico wine.

  • Visit to the Cilento National Park: A great way to experience the wild beauty of the area and its fauna and flora, including rare species such as the golden eagle and the Apennine wolf.

  • Cooking class of local dishes: A fun and educational way to learn how to prepare some of the region’s most famous dishes, such as spaghetti alle vongole and eggplant parmigiana.

Week-Long Itinerary for Salerno Province

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Salerno Province:

Day 1: Salerno city tour, visit to the Salerno Cathedral, and walk along the Lungomare Promenade.

Day 2: Paestum day trip, including a visit to the archaeological site and the Capaccio Paestum National Archaeological Museum.

Day 3: Boat tour along the Amalfi Coast, including stops at Amalfi town, Positano, and Ravello.

Day 4: Hike along the Path of the Gods, stopping at the villages of Praiano and Nocelle.

Day 5: Visit to Cilento National Park, including a hike to the Corno alle Scale peak and a stop at the village of Castellabate.

Day 6: Tasting tour of local food and wine, including a visit to a mozzarella cheese factory and a wine cellar in the town of Avellino.

Day 7: Relaxation day, including a massage at a local spa and a visit to a beach near Salerno city.

Food and Drink Scene of Salerno Province

Salerno Province is famous for its delicious food and drink scene, showcasing the authentic flavors of the Campania region. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Spaghetti alle vongole: Spaghetti pasta with clams and garlic in a white wine sauce.

  • Melanzane alla parmigiana: Layers of fried eggplant, tomato sauce, and mozzarella cheese, baked in the oven.

  • Pizza Margherita: The classic Neapolitan pizza, topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil.

Local Beverages

  • Limoncello: A lemon liqueur made from the lemons of the Amalfi Coast, usually served as a digestif.

  • Aglianico wine: A full-bodied red wine made from the Aglianico grape variety, grown in the hills of Campania.

Where to Stay in Salerno Province: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Salerno Province offers plenty of accommodation options for every budget and taste, from luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses and hostels. Here are some of the best:

  • Hotel Raito: A luxury hotel located in Vietri sul Mare, offering stunning views of the Amalfi Coast and a spa and wellness center.

  • B&B San Lorenzo: A charming guesthouse in the heart of Salerno city, offering comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast.

  • Ostello Ave Gratia Plena: A budget hostel located in the town of Cava de’ Tirreni, offering affordable dormitory and private rooms and a shared kitchen and lounge.

What to Buy in Salerno Province: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Salerno Province offers a wide range of souvenirs and local products to bring home, including:

  • Ceramics and pottery from Vietri sul Mare: A small town on the Amalfi Coast famous for its colorful ceramics and pottery, featuring traditional patterns and designs.

  • Limoncello liqueur from Sorrento: A famous lemon liqueur made from the lemons of the Sorrento area, usually served as a digestive or an aperitif.

  • Extra-virgin olive oil from Cilento: A high-quality olive oil produced in the Cilento area, known for its fruity and intense flavor.

Local Culture and Customs of Salerno Province

Salerno Province is known for its warm and welcoming culture, steeped in history and tradition. Here are some of the local customs and traditions to keep in mind:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, such as churches and cathedrals.

  • Always greet people with a smile and a handshake, and try to learn some basic Italian phrases.

  • Respect the environment and avoid littering or damaging natural areas.

Best Time to Visit Salerno Province

The best time to visit Salerno Province is from April to June or September to October, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. July and August can be very hot and crowded, especially along the coast. Keep in mind that some attractions and restaurants may be closed during the low season (November to March).

Do’s and Don’ts of Salerno Province

Do:

  • Try the local food and drinks, and attend a cooking class or a wine tasting session.

  • Visit the lesser-known villages and towns, such as Castellabate, Tramonti, and Cetara.

  • Learn some Italian phrases to communicate with the locals and show your appreciation for their culture.

Don’t:

  • Leave your valuables unattended, especially on crowded beaches or in tourist areas.

  • Take pictures of people or religious sites without their permission, as it may be considered disrespectful.

  • Drive on narrow and winding roads without experience or a local guide.

Safety and Health

Safety in Salerno Province

Salerno Province is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it is always wise to take some precautions, such as:

  • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in secluded areas.

  • Keep your valuables, such as passports and money, in a safe place, and only carry essential items with you.

  • Beware of pickpockets and street vendors offering counterfeit products.

Health in Salerno Province

Salerno Province has excellent healthcare facilities, including public hospitals and private clinics. However, it is always advisable to have comprehensive travel insurance and follow basic health precautions, such as:

  • Drink bottled water or boiled water, especially in rural areas.

  • Protect yourself from the sun by wearing hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

  • Carry a first-aid kit with basic medications and supplies, such as painkillers, bandages, and insect repellent.

Getting to Salerno Province: Transportation Options and Logistics

Salerno Province is easily accessible by various means of transportation, including:

Airports Near Salerno Province

  • Napoli Capodichino Airport: A major airport located in Naples, about 50 km from Salerno city. It offers international and domestic flights to various destinations.

  • Bari Palese Airport: A regional airport located in Bari, about 180 km from Salerno city. It offers domestic flights and some international connections.

Bus Stations Near Salerno Province

  • Salerno Bus Terminal: A central bus station located in Salerno city, offering connections to various cities and towns in Italy, including Naples, Rome, and Pompeii.

  • Campagna Bus Terminal: A regional bus station located in the town of Campagna, offering connections to nearby towns and villages in the Cilento area.

Other Options

  • Train: Salerno has a central train station with connections to various cities and towns in Italy, including Naples, Rome, and Florence.

  • Car rental: There are several car rental agencies in Salerno city and Naples airport, offering various models and rates.

How to Get Around in Salerno Province

Salerno Province has a well-developed transportation system, including buses, trains, and taxis. Buses are the most convenient and affordable way to get around for tourists, as they offer connections between different towns and villages, including the famous Amalfi Coast. Trains are also a good option for long-distance travel, while taxis are recommended for short and local trips.

Where to Go Next from Salerno Province: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Salerno Province is conveniently located near several other destinations in the Campania region, making it a perfect base for further exploration. Here are some of the nearby places to visit:

  • Naples: The capital city of Campania, famous for its rich history, art, and architecture, including the famous Pompeii ruins and the Mount Vesuvius volcano.

  • Sorrento: A charming town located on the Sorrentine Peninsula, known for its stunning panoramic views of the Gulf of Naples and its limoncello liqueur.

  • Capri Island: A stunning island located in the Gulf of Naples, famous for its Blue Grotto, Faraglioni rocks, and celebrity visitors.

Conclusion

Salerno Province is a hidden gem in Italy, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, historical richness, and cultural diversity. From its charming towns and villages to its breathtaking landscapes and delicious cuisine, Salerno Province is a true paradise for travelers seeking something special. Plan your trip today and experience the magic of Salerno Province for yourself!



    Amalfi Coast
    Casal Velino
    Cetara
    Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park
    Paestum
    Pisciotta