Things to Do in Salerno, Italy: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

This stop is the Minerva Garden, the Botanical Garden of the Salerno Medical School. From the historic center, it takes about eight minutes on foot or by bus on lines 1 and 26 to the De Renzi 62 stop.In the Minerva Garden, established in the Middle Ages for educational purposes, you can find herbs, medicinal plants, spices and organic farming projects. Visit this Botanical Garden for a truly unique experience in nature and enjoy herbal beverages brewed in the tea shop. If you want to stop for a short break, here are our tips on what to eat in Salerno, the typical dishes.

The Minerva Garden is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9.30 am to 7.30 pm. The cost of the full ticket is €3, reduced admission for eligible categories is €1,50. Admission is free for school groups of all orders and grades.

The Salerno Municipal Villa, known locally as Villa Comunale di Salerno, is one of the most picturesque spots in the city, serving as a peaceful retreat right in the heart of Salerno. This lush park, beautifully landscaped with a variety of plants and trees, provides a serene backdrop for a leisurely stroll or a quiet afternoon. The villa is adorned with classical statues, charming fountains, and well-maintained flower beds that bloom spectacularly in spring and summer. It also features a children’s play area, making it a family-friendly destination. The park’s central location, just opposite the Gulf of Salerno, offers visitors stunning seaside views, enhancing the relaxing atmosphere. The Villa Comunale is not only a beloved green space for locals but also a delightful discovery for tourists exploring Salerno.

The Salerno School of Medicine, historically known as the Schola Medica Salernitana, holds the distinction of being the first medical school in the world, establishing the foundations of modern medical education in the Middle Ages. Founded in the 9th century in Salerno, this institution was a beacon of medical knowledge and innovation during a time when scientific advancements were scarce in Europe. The school was unique in that it was the first to formally integrate women into its faculty, with figures like Trotula de Ruggiero emerging as pioneers in women’s health. The curriculum combined Greek, Roman, Arabic, and Jewish medical traditions, creating a comprehensive approach to health and healing that was ahead of its time. Although the original school has long since ceased operations, its legacy continues to influence the medical field. Today, the historical significance of the Salerno School of Medicine is celebrated in Salerno and recognized globally for its contributions to medical science and education.

The Archaeological Museum of Salerno, located in the historical center of the city, is a treasure trove of artifacts that chronicle the rich history of the region. Housed in the beautiful Church of San Benedetto, the museum showcases a wide range of exhibits from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages. Visitors can explore collections that include ancient Roman and Greek artifacts, medieval ceramics, and rare coins, providing a deep dive into the cultural and historical landscape of Salerno and its surroundings. The museum’s highlights include intricate mosaics and sculptures that offer a glimpse into the artistic and everyday life of the ancient inhabitants of the area. The Archaeological Museum of Salerno is an essential stop for history buffs and anyone interested in understanding the historical layers that make up this vibrant Italian city.

 The Lungomare Trieste (Promenade)

The tenth leg of your trip offers a leisurely 2 km walk along the Lungomare Trieste, Salerno’s seafront promenade, enjoying the beautiful view of the Gulf of Salerno surrounded by mountains. The promenade connects the Port of Salerno to the beach of Santa Teresa, which is the most popular destination for the local townspeople as it is closer to downtown. For a romantic dinner, I recommend the section of our guide on Salerno’s seafront restaurants.

While strolling, you can admire towering palm trees, historic palazzi, the beautiful sea of the Amalfi Coast, well-tended flower beds, and stepped alleyways and passages that take you directly to Salerno’s most beautiful beaches. We also recommend our itinerary among the dream beaches of Positano and our guide to Vietri Sul Mare, with its fabled beaches and distinctive ceramics.

Out-of-town trips to Salerno

Salerno, with its strategic location on Italy’s southern coast, serves as an ideal base for exploring the broader region through various trips from Salerno. Visitors can easily embark on out-of-town excursions to iconic destinations such as the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, both of which are steeped in history and offer a peek into Roman life before the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius. The Amalfi Coast, renowned for its dramatic coastline and picturesque villages like Positano and Ravello, is another must-see, just a short drive away. For nature lovers, the Cilento National Park offers stunning landscapes and outdoor activities in a less touristy setting. These excursions not only enhance the Salerno experience but also showcase the rich cultural and natural beauty of the Campania region.

The Ruins of Paestum

The Ruins of Paestum, located just a short drive south of Salerno, are among the most impressive archaeological sites in Italy. This ancient Greek colony, originally known as Poseidonia, was founded around 600 BC and later became part of the Roman Empire. Today, it stands as a testament to the grandeur of ancient Greek architecture and city planning. The site is famed for its three massive Doric temples, which are remarkably well-preserved and offer a glimpse into the religious life of the ancients. The Temple of Hera, the Temple of Neptune, and the Basilica are the highlights, with the Temple of Neptune often cited as one of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world. Additionally, the on-site museum displays a fascinating collection of artifacts, including the famous Tomb of the Diver, a rare example of Greek painting from this period. The ruins of Paestum not only provide a deep dive into ancient history but also offer a picturesque setting amid the rolling countryside of Campania, making it a compelling day trip for those visiting Salerno.

Diecimare Natural Park

Parco Naturale Diecimare, situated near Salerno in the Campania region of Italy, offers a splendid escape into nature. This regional park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, featuring lush landscapes that range from dense woodlands to tranquil streams. It’s an excellent spot for hiking, with well-marked trails that meander through the scenic terrain, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The park is also a popular destination for bird watching, as it is home to a diverse array of bird species. Picnicking areas are available, making it a perfect location for a family day out or a peaceful retreat away from the city bustle. Whether you’re looking to explore the natural beauty on foot, enjoy a leisurely picnic, or simply relax in the serene environment, Parco Naturale Diecimare provides a refreshing outdoor experience close to Salerno.

Vietri sul Mare and its Majolica

Vietri sul Mare is a picturesque coastal town located at the eastern end of the Amalfi Coast, just a few kilometers from Salerno. It is renowned worldwide for its majolica, a type of brightly colored ceramic pottery. This traditional craft has been the heartbeat of Vietri sul Mare for centuries, dating back to the 15th century. The town’s artisans continue to produce these distinctive, hand-painted ceramics, which are characterized by vibrant designs and intricate patterns inspired by the natural surroundings and marine life of the region.

Visitors to Vietri sul Mare can explore numerous workshops and boutiques that showcase a wide array of majolica products, from decorative tiles and plates to more functional items like vases and tableware. The craftsmanship is so integral to the town’s identity that the streets themselves are adorned with ceramic murals, making a walk through Vietri sul Mare a truly colorful experience. The town also hosts a museum dedicated to its ceramic heritage, providing insights into the historical and artistic significance of this beautiful art form. 

Certosa di Padula

The Certosa di Padula, also known as the Charterhouse of Padula, is a stunning historical monument located in the small town of Padula in the Campania region of Italy. Established in 1306 by Tommaso di San Severino, this Carthusian monastery is one of the largest monasteries in Italy and is renowned for its majestic architecture and significant cultural heritage. The Certosa is noted for its grandiose Baroque style, which is evident in its expansive courtyards, ornate church, and the hundreds of rooms that make up the complex, including the largest cloister in the world.

One of the most remarkable features of the Certosa di Padula is its spiral staircase, a masterpiece of architectural design. The monastery also houses an impressive library with a vast collection of manuscripts and books, reflecting its historical role as a center of learning and spiritual study. Visitors can explore the museum within the monastery, which displays a variety of artifacts that illustrate the daily life of monks over the centuries.

The Certosa di Padula was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998, recognized for its extraordinary cultural value and its beautifully preserved state that offers a glimpse into the monastic life of the past. Visiting this monumental site provides a profound insight into the religious and artistic traditions of Italy, making it a must-see for those exploring the cultural landscapes of Campania.

How to reach Salerno by train 

By high-speed train, Italo takes you to Salerno, with its beaches and beautiful promenade. If you are looking forward to a balmy summer weekend, buy your ticket and head for Salerno with one of our many trains serving the route. Daily trains serve Salerno from Bologna, Florence, Milan, Naples, Reggio Emilia, Rome and Turin. Did you know that it’s only a two-hour trip from the capital? Remember to always access your reserved area to take advantage of the Plus Offers, rates dedicated only to subscribers. If you haven’t already done so, you can sign up for the Italo Più Loyalty Program for free, get 5% off your first trip right away, and collect points with your trips to claim free award tickets.

From Rome To Salerno

Traveling from Rome to Salerno is quite straightforward, with several convenient options available.

The fastest and most convenient way to travel from Rome to Salerno is by train. Italo operates many high-speed trains that can take you from Rome’s Termini Station to Salerno in about 2 hours. There are also regional trains that are less expensive but take longer, approximately 3 to 4 hours. Tickets can be purchased online, through the Italo website, or at the station.

From Naples To Salerno

Traveling from Naples to Salerno is quite easy given the close proximity of the two cities. 

By Train is the most convenient and fastest way to travel between Naples and Salerno. Italo operates frequent regional and high-speed trains that can get you to Salerno in about 50 minutes, depending on the service chosen. Trains leave from Napoli Centrale station and arrive at Salerno station. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially for high-speed trains, although you can also purchase tickets at the station.

From Sorrento To Salerno

Traveling from Sorrento to Salerno involves a bit of a journey, as the two cities are on opposite sides of the Sorrentine Peninsula. 

Travel from and for Sorrento with Italo High-speed train

Here are the main options to consider:

• By Public Transport (Train and Bus): One of the most common ways to travel from Sorrento to Salerno is by using a combination of train and bus. First, take the Circumvesuviana train from Sorrento to Napoli Piazza Garibaldi (Naples Central Station). This leg of the trip takes about an hour. From there, you can switch to the Trenitalia trains or Italo trains that head to Salerno. This part of the journey takes about 40 to 60 minutes depending on the train service.
• By Direct Bus: During the tourist season, there are direct bus services between Sorrento and Salerno, which can be more convenient as they eliminate the need to change in Naples. The travel time is typically around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. This can be a scenic route as the bus travels along the Amalfi Coast.
• By Car: Driving from Sorrento to Salerno offers a scenic and flexible travel option, as you can enjoy the stunning Amalfi Coast at your own pace. The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and the specific route taken. The coastal road is beautiful but can be narrow and winding, especially during high tourist season.
• By Ferry (Seasonal): A seasonal ferry service may also be available, connecting Sorrento directly to Salerno. This option is not only scenic but also avoids the often congested roads of the Amalfi Coast. The ferry journey can take around 1.5 to 2 hours and offers a unique perspective of the coastline.