Salerno, a vibrant and historically rich seaport, graces the southeastern edge of Italy’s famed Amalfi Coast. While the Amalfi Coast is often associated with glamorous resorts and jet-setting crowds, Salerno presents a compelling alternative: a destination that offers a more tranquil, yet equally captivating experience. Here, travelers can delve into ancient history, bask on sun-kissed beaches, explore verdant nature parks, and savor the authentic flavors of southern Italian cuisine. This article delves into the top 12 things to do in Salerno, offering a glimpse into the diverse attractions that await.
Salerno’s story is one woven from the threads of numerous civilizations. Etruscans, Romans, Lombards, Normans, Arabs, French, and even Saracen pirates have all left their mark on this coastal city. The city also bore witness to hardships, enduring a devastating plague and a series of earthquakes in the 17th and 20th centuries. A pivotal moment in its modern history occurred during World War II when it was heavily bombed, serving as the landing site for the Allied invasion of Italy in 1943. Today, Salerno has risen from those ashes to become a thriving, modern metropolis that proudly displays its ancient origins, offering a plethora of engaging experiences for visitors to enjoy over several days.
Let’s embark on a journey through the top 12 things to do in Salerno, a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty.
1. Visit the Salerno Duomo (Cathedral)
The Duomo di Salerno, also known as the Salerno Cathedral, stands as a testament to the city’s enduring faith and architectural prowess. Originally constructed in the 11th century, this magnificent structure has undergone several rebuilds and renovations throughout its history. In the 1930s, a meticulous restoration brought it back to its Neapolitan Baroque and Rococo splendor. The Duomo is a sight to behold, with its imposing facade and intricate details.
Notable highlights include the Byzantine bronze door, a masterpiece of artistry that welcomes visitors with its intricate panels. The 12th-century bell tower, a soaring campanile, adds to the Duomo’s majestic presence. The atrium, adorned with columns sourced from the nearby ruins of Paestum, creates a captivating sense of history and continuity. Perhaps the most significant feature is the tomb that houses the relics of St. Matthew, the patron saint of Salerno, dating back to around 954 AD. The Duomo is located in Piazza Alfano I, 84125 Salerno SA, Italy. You can contact them at +39 089 231387.
2. Marvel at the Ruins of Paestum
A short journey south of Salerno lies Paestum, one of the most significant ancient Greek sites in southern Italy and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998. This archaeological park transports visitors back in time to a thriving Greek colony. The site is dominated by three remarkably well-preserved temples: the Temple of Hera I (6th century BCE), also known as the Basilica; the Temple of Neptune (5th century BCE), the largest and most impressive of the three; and the Temple of Ceres/Athena (circa 6th-century BCE), which showcases a blend of Doric and Ionic architectural styles.
Wandering amongst these colossal structures, one can almost hear the echoes of ancient rituals and the bustle of daily life. The adjoining National Archaeological Museum of Paestum provides further insight into the city’s history and culture, displaying an extensive collection of artifacts that tell the story of Paestum and its mystical cults and rituals. Paestum is located at Via Magna Graecia, 919, 84047 Capaccio Paestum SA, Italy and can be contacted at +39 0828 811023. The ruins are typically open from 8:30 a.m. until an hour before sunset.
3. Get a Bird’s Eye View From Arechi Castle
Perched nearly 985 feet above sea level, the Castello di Arechi offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Gulf of Salerno. The castle’s origins are shrouded in some debate, with some believing parts of it were constructed in the late Roman period or the 6th century. Regardless of its exact age, the castle’s strategic location and impressive fortifications are undeniable.
Visitors can explore the castle’s ramparts, towers, and courtyards, immersing themselves in its medieval atmosphere. The Medieval Museum within the castle displays ceramics, glass pottery, and other artifacts discovered during the castle’s restoration in the 1970s and 80s, providing a glimpse into the lives of those who once inhabited this imposing fortress. Castello di Arechi is located at Località Croce, 84125 Salerno SA, Italy. You can call them at +39 089 296 4015. The castle is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday.
4. Museo Archeologico Provinciale di Salerno
For history enthusiasts, the Museo Archeologico Provinciale di Salerno is a must-visit. This museum houses an extensive collection of archaeological finds unearthed in and around the province of Salerno, spanning from the prehistoric period through the late Roman era.
One of the museum’s prized possessions is the bronze head of Apollo, a remarkable artifact dating back to the 1st century, discovered in the Gulf of Salerno in 1930. The museum also hosts children’s workshops and special events, making it an engaging destination for visitors of all ages. The museum is located at Via S. Benedetto, 28, 84122 Salerno SA, Italy and can be contacted at +39 089 231135.
5. Hike in Parco Naturale Diecimare
Escape the urban landscape and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Parco Naturale Diecimare. This 444-hectare ecological park offers four well-maintained hiking trails, each providing a unique perspective on the region’s diverse flora and fauna.
The trails include: Sentiero Natura (nature trail), Sentiero del Falco (falcon trail); Sentiero del Bosco (woods trail), and Sentiero dei due Golfi (trail of the two gulfs), from which you can see both the gulfs of Salerno and Naples. Managed by WWF Italia, the park also features didactic areas with information about the region’s flora and fauna. Parco Naturale Diecimare is located at Località Breccelle, 84013 Cava de’ Tirreni SA, Italy.
6. Stroll the Promenade Trieste
The Lungomare Trieste, or Promenade Trieste, offers a delightful opportunity for a leisurely evening walk. This tree-lined pedestrian path stretches for one kilometer along Salerno’s picturesque seafront, from the city’s historic center to Piazza della Concordia, adjacent to the harbor.
As you stroll along the promenade, you’ll pass through piazzas adorned with statues and fountains, enjoying stunning views of the Gulf of Salerno. In the spring, the promenade comes alive with flea markets, fairs, and traditional puppet shows, adding to its vibrant atmosphere.
7. Relax on a Nearby Beach
Salerno’s coastal location makes it an ideal base for exploring the beautiful beaches of the Amalfi Coast. Several charming, smallish beaches are easily accessible by public bus, offering a perfect day trip from the city.
La Baia, one of the few sandy beaches on the Amalfi Coast, stretches for 400 meters. La Crespella is a quieter option, featuring a 16th-century tower. For breathtaking views, head to I Due Fratelli (the Two Brothers) beach, located at the marina of Vietri sul Mare, which overlooks two striking rock formations jutting out of the sea.
8. Visit the Salerno School of Medicine
Step back in time and explore the Scuola Medica Salernitana, a medieval medical school that was once the most important source of medical knowledge in Western Europe. Today, the museum utilizes the latest audio-visual technologies to provide visitors with a fascinating and informative tour.
Located in the restored Church of San Gregorio in the old city center, the museum offers a glimpse into the history of medicine and the groundbreaking contributions of the Salerno School. The museum is located at Chiesa di San Gregorio, Via Mercanti, 74, 84121 Salerno SA, Italy and can be contacted at +39 089 257 6126.
9. Buy Majolica Pottery at Vietri sul Mare
A short bus ride from Salerno will bring you to Vietri sul Mare, a pretty little fishing village famed for its handmade majolica ceramics. Artisans in Vietri have been producing these vibrant pieces in greens, blues, and yellows since Roman times.
Their handiwork is evident throughout the village, most notably adorning the dome and bell tower of the church of San Giovanni Battista. Learn more about the history of pottery making by visiting the Ceramics Museum, then pick up a unique souvenir at Ceramica Artistica Solimene Vincenzo or Sol’Art Ceramiche.
10. Pet a Water Buffalo at Tenuta Vannulo
Indulge in the culinary delights of the Campania region with a visit to Tenuta Vannulo, a water buffalo farm located near Paestum. This is your opportunity to witness the production of mozzarella di bufala, a soft, velvety fresh mozzarella cheese that is highly revered in the area.
Take a tour of the farm, meet the water buffalo, and sample the farm’s delicious products, including chocolate, yogurt, and gelato, all made from buffalo milk. Tenuta Vannulo is located at Via Galileo Galilei, 101, 84047 Capaccio Paestum SA, Italy and can be contacted at +39 0828 727894.
11. Sample Salerno’s Gourmet Treats
No visit to Salerno is complete without indulging in the region’s culinary specialties. Taste local delicacies like colatura di alici, a flavorful fish sauce made with anchovies. Pick up salted tuna or mackerel preserved in a jar to take home as a souvenir.
On a hot day, cool down with a refreshing lemon granita (shaved ice and sugared lemon juice). If you’re in the mood for something sweet, try chocolate-covered citrus peels, a flaky babà pastry, or a nut-filled praline.
12. Take a Day Trip to Amalfi
Just a 30-minute ferry ride from Salerno lies Amalfi, one of the most iconic destinations on the Amalfi Coast. While you could easily spend the day soaking up the sun on the beach, there are plenty of other attractions to explore.
Visit the Museo Diocesano di Amalfi, an art museum housed inside a 9th-century basilica. Tour the Museo della Carta (Paper Museum), which offers insight into the ancient production of "bambagina." For a truly memorable experience, book a table at Sensei Restaurant for a multi-course dinner featuring some of the best seafood you’ll ever taste.
Salerno truly offers something for every traveler, blending history, culture, and natural beauty into a unique and unforgettable experience. These top 12 things to do in Salerno are just a starting point for discovering all that this vibrant city has to offer.
