Cetara Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and more in Cetara, Italy.


Are you looking for a hidden gem in Southern Italy to explore? Look no further than Cetara, located in the Salerno province of Campania. This small fishing village is nestled on the Amalfi Coast and boasts natural beauty, a rich culture, and incredible cuisine. In this ultimate travel guide to Cetara, we’ll showcase the best things to do, where to stay and eat, and provide a week-long itinerary to help you plan the perfect trip.

Introduction to Cetara

Cetara is a secret paradise in Italy that’s not overrun by tourists. There’s a population of only 2,000 residents, yet the town has all the charm of a big Italian city. The town’s historic center is compact and easy to explore on foot. Its narrow streets are lined with colorful buildings, gelato shops, and trattorias. Cetara has preserved its ancient fishing traditions and is considered one of the last fishing villages left on the Amalfi coast. Expect to see fishermen repairing their nets and tending to their boats, while their wives are busy making anchovy sauce, the town’s specialty.

List of Places to Visit in Cetara

Cetara may seem small, but there are several hidden gems around town that are worth exploring. Here are some of the must-visit spots in Cetara.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Church of Saint Peter the Apostle
  • Church of Saint Francis
  • Torre a Mare
  • Museo Civico Cetara

Natural Attractions of Cetara: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Spiaggia di Cetara
  • Sentiero degli Dei
  • Belvedere dello Smeraldo

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cetara

If you’re looking for an adventure, hiking or biking along the Amalfi Coast is a must-do activity. Here are some of the best trails in Cetara:

  • Path of the Gods
  • Cerrito di San Salvatore
  • La Rina

Best Things to Do in Cetara: Activities and Tours

Cetara may be a small town, but there is no shortage of things to do. Here are some of the best activities:

  • Cooking class
  • Fishing tour
  • Boat tour along the Amalfi Coast

Week-Long Itinerary for Cetara

Day 1: Explore Cetara’s historic center and enjoy dinner at one of the local trattorias Day 2: Hike the Path of the Gods Day 3: Visit the Church of Saint Peter the Apostle, Church of Saint Francis, and Torre a Mare Day 4: Take a boat tour along the Amalfi Coast Day 5: Learn how to make anchovy sauce in a cooking class Day 6: Visit Museo Civico Cetara and enjoy a day at the Spiaggia di Cetara beach Day 7: Take a fishing trip and catch your own dinner

Food and Drink Scene of Cetara

No trip to Cetara is complete without indulging in the town’s delicious cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks to add to your list:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Anchovy sauce (colatura di alici)
  • Spaghetti alle vongole
  • Sfogliatella cresciuta

Local Beverages

  • Limoncello
  • Ravello wine

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

Cetara has several accommodations options ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are a few notable options:

  • Palazzo Belmonte - Luxury hotel with an outdoor pool and private beach
  • Casa Angelina - Boutique hotel with stylish rooms and sea views
  • Albergo S. Caterina - Budget-friendly hotel in the historic center

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

If you’re looking to bring home a taste of Cetara, make sure to grab some anchovy sauce (colatura di alici). There are several shops in town that sell this local specialty.

Local Culture and Customs of Cetara

When in Cetara, it’s important to respect the local culture and customs. The town is known for its fishing traditions, so it’s best to be mindful of that when interacting with locals. It’s also worth noting that the town is heavily influenced by the Catholic Church, so dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Cetara

The best time to visit Cetara is during the shoulder season from April to June, or September to November. The weather is milder during these months, and there are fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cetara

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try the anchovy sauce, it’s the town’s specialty.
  • Take a fishing trip to get a real taste of the town’s fishing heritage.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting religious sites.
  • Be loud and disruptive in public places.
  • Leave trash on the beach or in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cetara

Cetara is generally a safe town, but it’s always a good idea to take general safety precautions. Keep an eye on your valuables and avoid walking alone at night.

Health in Cetara

The healthcare system in Italy is considered one of the best in the world. Visitors can seek medical attention at local clinics and hospitals, but it’s important to ensure that you have travel health insurance.

Getting to Cetara: Transportation Options and Logistics

Cetara is a small town, and getting there can be a bit challenging, but it’s worth the effort. Here are the best ways to get there:

Airports Near Cetara

The nearest airports to Cetara are Naples International Airport (NAP) or Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO). From there, you will need to travel by train to Salerno, and then take a bus or taxi to Cetara.

Bus Stations Near Cetara

The local bus station in Cetara is located near Via Roma.

Other Options

You can also rent a car or hire a driver to take you to Cetara.

How to Get Around in Cetara

Cetara is a small town, and most places are easily accessible on foot. It’s also possible to rent a car or scooter to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Cetara: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Cetara is located on the Amalfi Coast, offering plenty of opportunities for nearby destinations and excursions. Some options include:

  • Amalfi
  • Ravello
  • Positano

Conclusion

Cetara is a small town with a big heart that’s sure to win you over. With its rich culture, incredible food, and natural beauty, it’s definitely worth adding to your Italian itinerary. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures or simply soaking up the laid-back Italian lifestyle, Cetara has something for everyone.

The picturesque view of town from the water The picturesque view of town from the water