Salerno is not just a city to look at: it is a city to live, with the sea close at hand, the hills behind and a historic centre full of life. In this article we do not list monuments, but the experiences we loved most and recommend to you, so you can feel a little like a local even for just a few days.
Strolling along the seafront at sunset
The first thing we do every time we arrive is take a long walk along the Lungomare Trieste. It is a tree-lined promenade running along the gulf, with palm trees, benches and a view that opens out towards the Amalfi Coast on one side and the Sele plain on the other.
The best moment is sunset, when the light turns warm and the city takes to the streets. An ice cream in hand, the sound of the sea and no hurry: for us it is the simplest way to understand Salerno's rhythm. Continuing towards the port you will come across Zaha Hadid's Maritime Terminal, worth a stop for its soft lines.
Climbing to the castle and looking at the gulf from above
If you like walking, we suggest climbing up to Arechi Castle, at about 300 metres above sea level. The view over the gulf rewards every effort: on clear days you can make out the coast towards Vietri sul Mare and, in the distance, the outline of the Cilento. Those who would rather spare their legs can take public transport and then enjoy the walk down to the centre. For the history of the castle read Arechi Castle.
Getting lost in the alleys and tasting the city
Another experience we love is wandering aimlessly through the historic centre, between Via dei Mercanti, the flights of steps and the little squares. Here you stop to look at a façade, discover an open church, hear dialect spoken from the windows.
Along the way it is easy to be tempted by local specialities: from the sfogliatella Santa Rosa, born on the Amalfi Coast, to buffalo mozzarella from the plain. We do not point you to specific places, but we leave you our guides: What to eat in Salerno and Typical dishes of Salerno.
For a relaxing break, climb up to the Minerva Garden, the old garden of simples linked to the Scuola Medica Salernitana: among the terraces, the scents of medicinal herbs and the view over the rooftops, time seems to slow down.
A swim in town and a boat trip
In summer, a stone's throw from the centre, there is the small Santa Teresa beach, handy for a quick swim between visits. If you want the most beautiful sea, the province has something for every taste: we have gathered our favourites in The most beautiful beaches in the province of Salerno.
In the warmer months sea connections to the Amalfi Coast also leave from the port. Arriving in Amalfi by sea, looking at the villages clinging to the rock, is an experience we recommend at least once: you will find ideas for the day in Amalfi: what to do and what to see.
Experiencing the festivals and traditions
If you can, plan your trip for one of the times when the city is most heartfelt. Every year, on 21 September, Salerno celebrates its patron saint San Matteo with the procession that crosses the centre: it is a much-loved festival, which we describe in our article on San Matteo and the procession of the paranze.
In winter, on the other hand, the city lights up with Luci d'Artista, the light installations that every year transform streets, squares and gardens during the Christmas season. Walking among the lights in the evening is a pleasant experience for those travelling with children too: read Luci d'Artista in Salerno and Having fun with kids in Salerno.
How to get there and when to go
Salerno is easy to reach by train, thanks to the Naples–Reggio Calabria line, and by car on the A2 del Mediterraneo motorway. In town it is best to get around on foot. Choose summer for the sea, spring and autumn for walking, and the Christmas season for the lights. For sea connections, museums and visits, check timetables and tickets on the official websites before you set off.
In the surroundings
Our general guide is Salerno and its surroundings. If you want a ready-made programme read Visiting Salerno in 3 days, while for the unmissable stops in the province there is 5 must-see places in the province of Salerno. Finally, to learn more about the city's customs, look out for our article on traditions in Salerno.
