It’s widely know that Italy is a country full of history, culture, amazing food and stunning sights. In fact, there are so many amazing places to visit, that some of the lesser known cities can be some of the best. Think less crowds, better value for money and the chance to experience a different side to the country.
Located in Campania, Southern Italy, Salerno is a city often overlooked in favour of nearby Naples. It doesn’t have a huge reputation as a tourist hotspot, and before visiting I didn’t really know much about the area. I’m thankful for that now because the first trip along the seafront afforded the surprise of absolutely breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast. Stunning in the day, stunning as the sun sets, it is just…stunning.
The pathway along the waterfront runs for quite a way. It’s a lovely walk with the sea on one side, mountains in the background and pretty gardens on the other side. Pieces of artwork are dotted along the walk, and there’s even a small beach area close to one of the harbours.
Once you step away from the seafront and into the maze of side streets in the old town, the colourful buildings keep you company as you attempt to find your way.
Salerno Churches
It wouldn’t be an Italian city if there weren’t a number of churches and cathedrals to explore. Salerno Cathedral sits in the heart of the old town, and dates back to around 1080. It has withstood a great deal since that time, and while not as impressive from the outside as some others, don’t forget we should never judge a book by its cover. Or, you know, a church by its exterior. The courtyard outside is pretty and modest, which only gives the inside a bigger wow factor.
Day Trips From Salerno
One of the biggest perks of Salerno is the location. For those wanting to visit the Amalfi Coast and Pompeii, Naples is often the choice to use as a base and explore from there. But the quieter city of Salerno is an excellent alternative, with Amalfi, Positano and Pompeii all among the places within easy reach for a day trip.
From Salerno to Pompeii is an easy train ride, taking less than 30 minutes to get to the ruins of Pompeii. You can easily spend a few hours wandering the old site, and it’s a perfect day trip from Salerno.
To explore the Amalfi Coast from Salerno, head to the harbour and jump on the ferry. Depending on the ferry, it can stop at several different towns, allowing you to jump on and off as you wish. Make sure you do all your internet research before you head off though, getting a signal in some of the hillside towns can be tricky!
While Salerno itself doesn’t have the huge tourist checklist of sights that some of the larger cities do, it is still well worth a visit. You could easily fill a long weekend here, with a couple of days to explore the city itself and a couple of days to venture out and visit Pompeii or the Amalfi Coast.
Why stay in Salerno instead of Naples?
Safety as a solo female traveller is always at the front of my mind, and I had heard the Naples has a reputation for not being the safest place. Not wanting to test it for myself, I booked to stay in nearby Salerno instead. With just excellent travel links to rival Naples, plus reasonably priced accommodation, it felt like the sensible option and I’m so glad I did!
If I went again, I’d still pick Salerno as I fell in love with the city, and met some of the kindest and most helpful people there. Plus, the fact that everything is so beautiful helps!
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