Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Salerno, Italy

Salerno is frequently overlooked due to its proximity to the more renowned city of Naples, yet it stands as a remarkable and picturesque destination worth visiting. As the capital of its province, Salerno is located in the Gulf of Salerno, part of the Tyrrhenian Sea, and has a current population of around 133,000 inhabitants. The city’s patron saint, Matthew, is highly regarded and is celebrated across its various religious sites.

During the Middle Ages, Salerno thrived under the Lombard Dukes, establishing a reputation as a prominent center for medical education and scholarship, exemplified by its prestigious Medical School. In the aftermath of World War II, Salerno also became the focal point of invasions during Operation Avalanche and subsequently experienced a significant boost in population and economic growth.

As a tourist destination, Salerno takes advantage of its proximity to the breathtaking Amalfi Coast while also showcasing its distinctive architecture, vibrant gardens, and sunlit promenade. Key attractions such as Salerno Cathedral and the Forte La Carnale boast rich historical significance and artistic value, while the historic old town center presents ample opportunities for exploration and enjoyment in this coastal area.

1. Salerno Cathedral

More commonly referred to as the Duomo, Salerno Cathedral is the city’s principal and historic church, having been established in the 11th century.

This sacred structure, dedicated to Saint Matthew, exhibits Romanesque architectural style, featuring a stunning facade adorned with elegant arches and a triangular pediment.

Moreover, a 56-meter high bell tower, situated at the rear, showcases an ornate dome embellished with intricate artwork influenced by Arabic and Norman styles.

Inside the cathedral, visitors can find a wealth of religious artifacts honoring Saint Matthew, along with captivating decorations and artwork; notably, the crypt is believed to house the saint’s remains.

2. Trieste Lungomare

Salerno boasts a stunning coastal location, featuring a beautifully maintained promenade known as the Trieste Lungomare.

Commencing at Piazza della Libertà, the promenade extends approximately 1 kilometer to the Porto Turistico.

This delightful public walkway includes numerous shaded seating areas beneath palm trees.

Moreover, at various intervals along the promenade, you will encounter several Piazzas adorned with fountains and statues.

In the evenings or under the sun, the Lungomare serves as an idyllic backdrop for a leisurely stroll following a day filled with sightseeing.

3. Villa Comunale di Salerno

Located in the heart of the historic old town and close to the harbor, the Villa Comunale di Salerno is a beautifully landscaped garden ideal for relaxation, featuring intriguing sculptures and monuments.

Established in the 19th century, this garden was once the site of the town hall before it was transformed into this vibrant public space.

An array of exotic trees provides shade, supplemented by a small pond that hosts various species of fish.

Additionally, several charming statues are present, including Giovanni Nicotera, Carlo Piscane, and Clemente Mauro, all significant figures in Italian history.

The park occasionally hosts events, but primarily serves as a serene retreat within Salerno.

4. Giardino della Minerva

Minerva’s Garden, situated within the historic center of Salerno, combines beautiful botanical gardens with a public park.

A central pathway meanders through the garden, featuring an elegant series of white arches overhead.

Each of the garden’s terraces is distinct, housing diverse flora, including various herbs and plants.

One can discover over 200 different varieties of plants within these themed terraces, making it a splendid destination for nature enthusiasts.

5. Salerno Harbour

Near the expansive Piazza della Libertà, Salerno Harbour buzzes with activity, providing an excellent place to observe the bustling port’s daily functions.

As you walk along Via Porto, you can immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of numerous fishing, sailing, and commercial vessels docked at the piers.

Further along, by the Maritime Station and Molo Manfredi Porto di Salerno, a lengthy pier presents a stunning view of the city’s silhouette against the backdrop of the sea.

The eastern side of Salerno also features a beautiful Tourist Harbour, complete with a variety of tour boats offering excursions to the Amalfi Coast.

6. Visit Amalfi

The Amalfi Coast is celebrated as one of Italy’s most scenic coastal locales.

Amalfi itself is a quaint commune nestled amidst towering cliffs, situated approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes west of Salerno.

For those seeking a lively day trip, Amalfi offers numerous historical sites, including the Duomo di Amalfi, the Shrine of Saint Andrew, and the Chiostro del Paradiso.

In addition to its rich history, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the sea and the colorful buildings that nestle along the cliffs.

7. Villa Rufolo

Ravello is another charming town located along the Amalfi Coast, perched on cliffs between Salerno and Amalfi.

This picturesque town features an array of delightful buildings complemented by historical landmarks, including the Ravello Duomo and the Palazzo Avino.

The primary attraction in Ravello is Villa Rufolo, which dates back to the 1200s and showcases remarkable architecture.

This villa boasts an open terrace that presents stunning views of the Amalfi Coast, allowing visitors to gaze upon other hillside towns and across the Tyrrhenian Sea.

8. Forte La Carnale

Salerno’s rich history includes the significant role played by Forte La Carnale in the city’s defense over many years.

Constructed in the 16th century, this fortress served as a crucial line of defense against raids from the Saracens.

Perched atop a natural hill, the fort offers magnificent views of the city and the Amalfi Coast.

Today, visitors can explore a selection of exhibitions and cultural displays that depict the structure’s history and that of Salerno.

Moreover, an on-site restaurant provides delightful meals for guests.

9. Castello di Arechi

Dominating the city at an elevation of 300 meters, Arechi Castle commands over the Gulf of Salerno and was erected during Medieval times.

This grand structure is traditionally linked to Longobardo Arechi II and was intended as an additional defensive measure for the area surrounding Salerno.

Much of the original castle remains intact, although certain sections have been restored; it also houses a museum containing diverse exhibitions and artifacts unearthed from the site and its vicinity.

In addition to the museum, visitors are treated to unparalleled views of Salerno and the expanse of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

10. Parco del Mercatello

Recognized as one of the largest urban parks in Italy, the Parco del Mercatello is located in the eastern outskirts of Salerno.

Inaugurated in 1998, the park links three principal districts of Salerno (Mariconda, Mercatello & the European Quarter) and offers a relaxing space for both locals and visitors.

Within the park, you will find charming ponds surrounded by colorful flowers, an area dedicated to Mediterranean plant life, and an orchard thriving with citrus and lime trees.

Furthermore, cultural performances frequently take place within this vibrant park.

11. Take a Walking Tour of the Historic Town Centre

Salerno’s historic town center is rich with captivating buildings, religious structures, and narrow, charming streets.

To truly immerse yourself in the local culture and lifestyle, a stroll through the Rione Duomo district is highly recommended.

Situated in the western part of Salerno, Rione Duomo features significant buildings, including the Villa Comunale, the Duomo, and the Provincial Archaeological Museum.

Begin your journey at the Piazza della Libertà and wander into the district, exploring the many narrow lanes.

The architecture is exquisite, and the atmosphere is vibrant.

12. Paestum

This region of Italy is filled with ancient ruins and remarkable Greek and Roman cities that have remained undisturbed for centuries.

An exemplary site is the ruins of the city of Paestum, located about 40 minutes east of Salerno along the coast, originally founded in 600 BC as a major Greek settlement.

The site is characterized by three ancient temples that remain in remarkably good condition despite their age: the First and Second Temples of Hera and the Temple of Athena, all bearing similarities to the Parthenon in Greece with many original columns and pediments still standing.

In addition to the temples, a well-curated museum showcases numerous artifacts and historical findings from the site.

13. Provincial Archaeological Museum

Among the various museums in Salerno, the Provincial Archaeological Museum stands out as particularly intriguing and informative.

This museum, established in 1928, is located within an historic building in close proximity to the Duomo and Lungomare, containing an extensive collection of artifacts from the Salerno region.

Exhibits include Roman burial remains, a bronze bust of Apollo, gold coins, pottery, ceramics, weaponry, and domestic items dating back to the Roman era.

Each exhibit is complemented by multimedia presentations and interactive components, enriching the visitor experience and providing detailed insights into the displayed items.

14. Enjoy a Traditional Meal at Ristorante Cicirinella

Regarded as one of the finest dining establishments in Salerno, Cicirinella is celebrated for its quality offerings and welcoming ambiance.

Situated in the historic old town on Via Antonio Genovesi, this restaurant is merely a brief stroll from the Cathedral and Provincial Museum.

Highly recommended by locals, Cicirinella serves a diverse array of traditional Italian cuisine that is prepared with care; it’s a departure from high-end dining, focusing instead on authentic home-cooked meals that are rich in flavor.

In addition, the pricing is quite reasonable, and guests will be attended by a friendly and committed staff known for their passion for service.

15. Enjoy a Drink at the Black Roses Bar

While Salerno does not boast an extensive nightlife scene, the Black Roses Irish Pub stands out as a lively venue known for its warm atmosphere and excellent selection of ales, wines, and spirits.

Located along the SR88 route near Forte La Carnale, this pub features inviting decor, friendly staff, and a menu of meals for those looking to dine as well.

The drink selection is superb, complemented by reasonable prices; the Black Roses Bar is truly an ideal spot for enjoying evening beverages in Salerno.