Things To Do
in Salerno
Salerno is a historic coastal city in Campania where medieval lanes meet the Tyrrhenian Sea, crowned by hilltop views and a lively waterfront. It serves as a gateway to the Amalfi Coast and Cilento region, offering a compact historic center, a vibrant market scene, and easy day trips by train or car. The city blends ancient architecture with modern cafés and seafood chatter along the promenade, creating a welcoming, layered atmosphere.
Visitors are drawn to its seafood bounty, scenic viewpoints, and convenient access to nearby wonders along the coast and inland hills.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying a fresh cornetto and a rich espresso. Afterward, stroll through the cobbled streets of Salerno’s historic center, taking in the stunning architecture of the medieval buildings. Don't miss the picturesque Salerno Cathedral, where you can admire its intricate façade and beautiful interior.
Spend your afternoon wandering through the charming alleyways filled with artisan shops and local boutiques. Stop by the Minerva's Garden, a serene oasis filled with Mediterranean plants and historical significance, perfect for a relaxing stroll. For lunch, savor traditional dishes at a trattoria, where homemade pasta and local wines steal the show.
As the sun sets, head to the Lungomare, Salerno's beautiful seaside promenade, for a picturesque view of the coastline. Choose one of the many waterfront restaurants for dinner, enjoying fresh seafood delicacies while listening to the gentle waves. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the promenade, soaking in the vibrant nightlife and the lively atmosphere.
Set off early for a day trip to the ancient ruins of Pompeii, just a short train ride from Salerno. Explore the well-preserved streets, frescoes, and buildings that tell the tragic story of a city frozen in time by volcanic ash. Be sure to visit the Forum and the amphitheater for a deeper understanding of Roman life.
After lunch at a nearby café, continue your journey to Herculaneum, another remarkable archaeological site that offers a quieter alternative to Pompeii. Walk among the ancient houses and marvel at the unique preservation of wooden artifacts and mosaics. The contrast in the scale of the sites gives you a rich perspective on life in ancient times.
Return to Salerno in the evening and treat yourself to a gelato as you stroll around the city. Find a cozy restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in local Campanian specialties like gnocchi alla Sorrentina. Conclude your day with a visit to a local bar for a limoncello, a refreshing way to end your exploration.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚆One-way public transport ticket | $1-2 |
| 🏨Hotel room (mid-range, per night) | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery and historic architecture
- Excellent seafood and Campanian cuisine
- Compact city center that's easy to explore on foot
- The city can feel touristy in peak season
- Some attractions require a short drive or day trip
- Public transport to some sights can be slower than in bigger cities
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dove si trova... ?" - Where is... ?
- "Il conto, per favore" - The check, please
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Vorrei un bicchiere d’acqua" - I would like a glass of water
- "Posso avere una dieta vegetariana?" - Can I have a vegetarian diet?
Places to Visit in Salerno
Visit one of these nice places.
A Lombard-Gothic masterpiece with a grand staircase and impressive façade; best captured in morning light.
Long seaside promenade with palms and sea views, ideal for sunset shots over the Gulf.
Hilltop fortress offering sweeping panoramic views of the city and coastline.
Winding staircases, quaint squares, and medieval walls perfect for candid street photography.
Food in Salerno
Salerno Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Campanian seafood pasta featuring fresh shellfish in a light tomato or white-wine sauce.
Must-Try!
Hearty chickpea pasta often prepared with olive oil, garlic, and rosemary — a comforting Campanian staple.
White fish simmered in a garlicky tomato broth with parsley and olive oil.
A mixed fried seafood platter, crispy and perfect with lemon.
Creamy buffalo mozzarella often enjoyed with fresh tomatoes or as part of a Caprese-style dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant daily market with fresh produce, seafood, cheeses, bread, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Local stalls offering olives, cheeses, bread, and regional specialties.
Cuoppo di mare (fried seafood cone), fried pizza dough snacks, and fresh pastries from local bakers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Buongiorno' or 'Buonasera'; use formal 'Lei' in most settings.
Dress modestly in churches; avoid loud behavior and remove hats.
Keep noise to a minimum at night and avoid blocking sidewalks with deliveries.
Safety
Tipping in Salerno
Ensure a smooth experience
In Italy, a service charge is often included; if not, you can round up or leave 5-10% for good service.
Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; some smaller places may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures and blooming streets; ideal for outdoor dining and day trips.
Hot, sunny days; beach life, boat trips, and outdoor events; use sunscreen and stay hydrated.
Milder weather with fewer crowds; great for hiking and market visits.
Cool temperatures with possible rain; city lights create a cozy atmosphere and museums are less crowded.
Salerno at Night
Hiking in Salerno
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Campania’s highest peak in the Cilento area; challenging day hike with panoramic views.
Network of trails through forests, valleys, and coastal paths.
Rugged ridges and caves offering scenic hikes near the interior of the park.
Airports
How to reach Salerno by plane.
Major gateway to Campania; about 60–70 km from Salerno; easy rail or road transfer.
Large international hub; about 2.5–3.5 hours by fast train to Salerno with a transfer.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longtime families and people who work in Salerno and nearby towns.
Seasonal visitors exploring the city, Cilento coast, and Amalfi region.
University students and workers traveling to Naples and beyond.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region loves football; Salernitana is the local club with strong fan support.
Coastal location makes sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding popular in summer.
Coastal and hillside routes attract road cyclists and enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Salerno.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetarian pasta dishes with tomato and olive oil, grilled vegetables, or cheese-based plates; many restaurants can adapt to dietary needs when asked.