Salerno Mini Guide
Why Salerno?
Salerno is a great base for exploring the celebrated Amalfi Coast. Not only do you have access to the wonderful scenery but Salerno itself is worth investigation. Considered to have the best preserved old town in this part of
Italy, there are many beautiful historic buildings worth visiting.
The city has been around for thousands of years but it grew to prominence in Roman times with the building of a fort here. Later, in Lombard times the city grew into a city state, powerful in the region, and only fell from grace with the Saracen attacks of the new millennium. Today, Salerno is proud of its history and promotes it widely through tourism.
How can I get There?
There are no direct flights from the
UK. The best idea would be to get a flight into
Fiumicino or
Malpensa and join a connecting flight from there to Salerno Airport. At the airport, hire a car and head off for the city and the beautiful coastline.
What Mustn’t I Miss There?
The Duomo of Salerno is very important to Christians as it holds the tomb of one of Christ’s apostles, the gospel writer, St Matthew. There’s plenty of information in the cathedral to explain how the saint came to be buried there.
What can I do Whilst I’m There?
Take an evening stroll along the Lungomare, the most beautiful promenade in Europe and lined with palm trees, many of them rare specimens. Alternatively, hire a yacht with or without skipper and sail the azure seas around the coast. Finally, the main reason for going there; hire a car and drive the spectacular Amalfi Coast.
What do the Locals eat?
Salerno is famous for its pizza but also for the large ravioli called ‘polpo’ which have chicken and offal in them with the pasta flavoured with rose water. Not to everyone’s taste but very popular.
Arriving at Salerno Airport brings you right into the heart of the Amalfi Coast. Hire a car at the airport and head for your hotel in the city which has three distinct parts, the old medieval town, the 19th century district and modern Salerno.
Each has their own attractions but it is the old town that draws the most tourists. Considered to be the best preserved on this coast, it boasts several buildings of note including the 12th century Duomo. If you get a chance to, visit the massive Castello di Arechi with its commanding views over the city.