Things to do in  Salerno

This busy cruise port is a main gateway to the nearby Amalfi Coast, but Salerno’s well-preserved old town, 11th-century cathedral, and imposing Arechi Castle are popular attractions for travelers passing through. The area is also famous for its traditional ceramic production, pristine beaches, and small but excellent archaeological museum.

Though it lacks the postcard-perfect charm of the Amalfi Coast, Salerno has an atmospheric old town hidden behind its modern port. The cobblestone streets are lined with pocket-sized shops and restaurants catering more to locals than tourists, and the cathedral is one of the most spectacular medieval churches in Italy.

Yes it does. Home to a large university and one of southern Italy’s major transport hubs, Salerno is packed with lively clubs and bars that cater to students and travelers with live music and DJ sets. The city’s lavish 19th-century opera house hosts classical music, theater, and dance performances.

Yes, with its array of affordable hotels and frequent bus and ferry routes to and from the Amalfi Coast, Salerno is an excellent base for visiting Amalfi—especially if you’re traveling on a budget. You can reach Amalfi by sea in about 30 minutes, or by land in about an hour.

One day is enough to wander Salerno’s compact old town and take a trip to nearby Paestum to admire the ancient Greek temples and sample buffalo mozzarella. If you’re using Salerno as a base to explore the Amalfi Coast, you’ll need at least three days.

Most travelers blow past Salerno on their way to the Amalfi Coast, but this storied city has an old town that is worth exploring. Its medieval cathedral is a Norman gem; the historic center has an authentic, untouristed feel; and there are plenty of old-school eateries for traditional local food.