Salerno, Paestum, and Amalfi are the three main cultural cities located in the Gulf of Salerno area. Salerno is the largest city in the Gulf of Salerno and serves as the capital of the Salerno province. It is known for its historic city center, picturesque waterfront, and a long history dating back to ancient times. The city is also famous for its medical school, Salerno Medical School, which was one of the earliest and most important centers of medical learning in medieval Europe. Paestum is a small town in the Gulf of Salerno known for its well-preserved ancient Greek temples. These temples, dating back to the 6th and 5th centuries BCE, are among the best-preserved Greek ruins in Italy and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Paestum is a popular destination for tourists interested in archaeology and ancient history. Amalfi is a charming coastal town and a popular tourist destination on the Amalfi Coast, which is part of the Gulf of Salerno. It is known for its stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, its historic center with narrow streets and colorful buildings, and the beautiful Amalfi Cathedral. Amalfi, along with other towns on the Amalfi Coast, is famous for its scenic beauty and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The region
The subregion
Provincia di Salerno.
The cities
Salerno Paestum and Amalfi are three of the most valuable cities in the Provincia di Salerno. They are all located in the Gulf of Salerno. The Gulf of Salerno area is not only rich in history and culture but also offers breathtaking natural landscapes along the Mediterranean coast, making it a desirable destination for travelers exploring the southern regions of Italy.
Understand
The history of the Gulf of Salerno, with Salerno, Paestum, and Amalfi as significant points of interest, is a tale of ancient civilizations, maritime trade, and cultural influences. Here's an overview of the historical significance of these cities and their contributions to the region's history:
- Salerno has ancient origins, dating back to Roman times when it was known as "Salernum". It played a crucial role as a Roman port city and later as a significant Byzantine stronghold. Salerno gained prominence during the Middle Ages when it became a center of learning and scholarship. The Salerno Medical School, founded in the 9th century, was one of the earliest and most influential medical institutions in Europe. In the 11th century, the Normans established their rule in southern Italy, and Salerno was an important part of their kingdom.
- Paestum, originally known as "Poseidonia", was founded by Greek colonists around 600 BCE. The city was dedicated to the god Poseidon (Neptune in Roman mythology) and thrived as a Greek colony. The Romans conquered Paestum in the 3rd century BCE, and it became known as "Paestum." The well-preserved Greek temples, including the Temple of Hera and the Temple of Neptune, stand as a testament to this ancient history.
- The Maritime Republic of Amalfi rose to prominence in the Middle Ages as one of the four major maritime republics in Italy, alongside Venice, Genoa, and Pisa. It played a pivotal role in Mediterranean trade and navigation. During its maritime republic era, Amalfi was a hub for trade with the Byzantine Empire, North Africa, and the Middle East. This trade brought wealth and cultural influences to the region.
These three main cities, along with other coastal towns in the Gulf of Salerno, collectively contributed to the history and cultural richness of the area. Their roles in trade, scholarship, and governance left lasting imprints on the region, making the Gulf of Salerno a historically significant and culturally diverse part of southern Italy. Today, their historical legacies continue to attract tourists and scholars interested in exploring the history and heritage of this beautiful coastal region.
Touristic interest for Salerno Paestum Amalfi
In the general framework of Italy[1] [2][3]and Campania[4], the statistics[5] for Salerno Paestum Amalfi are impressive, with tourism contributing significantly to their economies. In fact, these three cities have collectively welcomed millions of visitors annually, making them pivotal players in the global tourism industry. Salerno[6], with its rich historical heritage and the allure of the Gulf of Salerno, has been a magnet for tourists seeking a blend of culture and coastal beauty. Paestum[7], renowned for its remarkably preserved Greek temples, has drawn history enthusiasts from all corners of the globe. Amalfi[8], situated along the stunning Amalfi Coast, has charmed travelers with its idyllic streets, Mediterranean vistas, and cultural treasures.
Get in
To get to Salerno, starting point of the tour, you can follow these general travel directions, but keep in mind that transportation options and routes may change, so it's a good idea to check current schedules and availability.
- By Air, the closest major airport to Salerno is Naples International Airport (Aeroporto di Napoli-Capodichino), which is approximately 55 kilometers (34 miles) away from Salerno. From the Airport to Salerno you can take a train from Naples Airport (Napoli Centrale station) to Salerno. The journey takes around 30-40 minutes. Taxis are available at the airport, but they can be more expensive than taking public transportation.
- If you are already in Italy, you can take a train to Salerno. Salerno is well-connected by train, with regular services from major Italian cities like Rome, Naples, and Milan.
- By Bus, several long-distance bus companies operate services to Salerno from various Italian cities. You can check schedules and book tickets in advance with companies like FlixBus, Marino, and others.
- If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and take the A3 motorway (Autostrada A3) from Naples if you are coming from the north, or from other cities in southern Italy.
- Salerno has a port, and you can take ferries from other coastal towns in Italy, such as Amalfi, Positano, and Sorrento. These ferries offer scenic views of the Amalfi Coast.
Please note that travel options may vary depending on your starting location and the time of year. Be sure to check the most up-to-date schedules and transportation options before planning your trip to Salerno.
Do
Salerno Paestum Amalfi is a 3-day itinerary showcasing the very best of Gulf of Salerno. Over the course of the tour, you will experience the rich history and culture of this stunning area.
- Day 1 includes a walking tour of Salerno highlighting landmarks like the cathedral;
- Day 2 transports guests to the archaeological wonders of Paestum for a guided visit of the temples and Museum;
- On the final day, a scenic ferry ride transports guests to the jewel of Amalfi for a guided tour of its cathedral before sailing back to Salerno.
Salerno's historic center
Salerno's historic center is a microcosm of the Gulf of Salerno rich history, dating back two millennia. The tight warren of medieval alleys and stepped lanes spiral up the steep hillside, remaining much as they were over 500 years ago. Tiny piazzas burst with flowers and stunning views out over the Gulf. You'll find Norman palaces, Roman and Byzantine ruins, and Gothic cathedrals all within a few minutes' walk. The elaborate marble Duomo, built by the Normans, stands above the city. Arches, clocks and wrought-iron balconies adorn the buildings, giving the narrow lanes an Old World charm. As you wander, imagine generations of residents living their daily lives within these same walls, testimony to the enduring allure of the region. Salerno's historic center captures the beauty, tradition and simplicity that make the Gulf of Salerno so special.
Paestum's UNESCO World Heritage site
Paestum's UNESCO World Heritage site features the best-preserved ancient Greek temples outside of Greece. Founded by Greek colonists in the 6th century BC, Paestum flourished for centuries under Greek and later Roman rule. Its three stunning Doric temples date from BC 500 to BC 450 and remain in excellent condition today. The Temple of Hera, also known as Basilica, is Paestum's oldest temple and the largest of the three. Dedicated to Hera, goddess of women and marriage, it shows the transition from older to classical Doric style. The Temple of Neptune is Paestum's middle temple. Dedicated to the god of the sea Neptune, it is made of large limestone blocks in perfect classical Doric style with 34 columns still standing. The Temple of Ceres is Paestum's smallest temple, dedicated to the goddess of agriculture Ceres. It too has 34 surviving columns featuring extraordinary bas-reliefs about daily life in Magna Graecia. Paestum's other ruins include city walls, a meeting hall called the Heroon, and several tombs, all indicating a large and prosperous ancient Greek colony. UNESCO recognizes Paestum as an "exceptional testimony to the civilization of Magna Graecia", with temples and ruins illustrating the peak of ancient Greek civilization in Southern Italy between the 6th and 4th centuries BC. Their well-preserved state makes Paestum a unique treasure and open-air museum of classical architecture and culture.
Amalfi's UNESCO World Heritage site
Amalfi's UNESCO World Heritage status recognizes its unique combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage and architectural gems. Perched dramatically on a steep slope rising from the Tyrrhenian Sea, Amalfi is a medieval town built into cliffs made of white limestone. Its maze of narrow streets and stone steps lead to buildings dating from the 8th to 14th centuries. Amalfi's 13th century Cathedral of St. Andrew is a shining example of Arab-Norman architecture. Built atop 60 steps, it rises in five tiers with colored marble and striking interiors. The cloister's stairway and beautiful columned arcade also date to the 12th and 13th centuries. The Paper Museum illustrates Amalfi's historic role as a center of papermaking from the 13th to 16th centuries. Amalfi's multicultural contacts led to the introduction and refinement of papermaking techniques from the Arabs. UNESCO recognized Amalfi for its role as a maritime republic that blended architectural styles and traditions due to trade and cultural exchange. Its papermaking and navigation innovations boosted knowledge exchange in the Mediterranean. Today Amalfi continues to preserve its historic buildings and artworks that offer a unique glimpse into a bygone era of prosperity and cultural influence.
Buy
Salerno, Paestum, and Amalfi, like many towns and cities in Italy, offer a variety of items for visitors to purchase. Exploring local markets, boutiques, and artisan shops is a great way to discover the unique products and flavors of the Salerno, Paestum, and Amalfi regions while enjoying the local culture. Here are some things you can buy in these three locations:
Salerno
- Limoncello: The Amalfi Coast, including Salerno, is famous for its limoncello, a lemon liqueur. You can buy bottles of this refreshing drink as souvenirs.
- Ceramics: Italy is renowned for its ceramic craftsmanship, and Salerno offers beautiful ceramic dishes, tiles, and pottery for sale.
- Local Food Products: You can purchase local food specialties like olive oil, pasta, and various regional cheeses at local markets.
- Fashion and Souvenirs: Salerno has many shops and boutiques where you can buy clothing, accessories, and souvenirs like postcards and trinkets.
Paestum
- Mozzarella di Bufala: Paestum is known for its production of Mozzarella di Bufala, a delicious buffalo milk mozzarella cheese. You can buy it fresh from local markets.
- Archaeological Replicas: As Paestum is home to well-preserved ancient Greek temples, you can find replicas of ancient artifacts and sculptures in souvenir shops.
Amalfi
- Amalfi Paper: Amalfi is famous for its traditional papermaking. You can purchase handmade paper products, including notebooks, stationery, and art prints.
- Fashion and Jewelry: Amalfi has boutiques where you can shop for Italian fashion, jewelry, and accessories.
- Artisanal Products: Look for artisanal products like handmade soaps, perfumes, and scented candles produced using local fragrances.
- Seafood and Local Delicacies: If you enjoy Italian cuisine, consider buying local seafood, pasta, and sauces to take home.
Eat
Salerno, Paestum, and Amalfi offer a delightful range of traditional Italian and regional dishes, many of which are influenced by the fresh seafood from the Mediterranean and the fertile land of Campania. Here are some of the delicious foods you can enjoy in these three locations:
Salerno
- Pizza: As with much of Italy, Salerno serves delicious pizza, often featuring local ingredients and fresh mozzarella.
- Sfogliatella: A pastry filled with ricotta cheese and flavored with citrus, a popular local dessert.
- Spaghetti alle Vongole: A pasta dish made with spaghetti and fresh clams in a garlic and white wine sauce.
- Seafood: Being a coastal city, Salerno offers a variety of seafood dishes such as grilled fish, seafood risotto, and calamari.
Paestum
- Mozzarella di Bufala: Fresh buffalo mozzarella cheese is a local specialty. You can enjoy it in caprese salads or on its own.
- Ancient Greek-Inspired Dishes: Some restaurants in Paestum offer dishes inspired by ancient Greek recipes, giving you a taste of the region's rich history.
Amalfi
- Lemon-Based Dishes: Amalfi is famous for its lemons, so you'll find lemon-infused dishes and desserts like lemon risotto, lemon sorbet, and lemon liqueurs like limoncello.
- Seafood: Like Salerno, Amalfi offers a wide array of seafood dishes, including grilled fish, seafood pasta, and seafood stews.
- Scialatielli: A type of homemade pasta often served with seafood and a creamy tomato sauce.
- Concerto di Dolci: A dessert sampler featuring a variety of traditional Italian sweets, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
- Cannoli: A Sicilian pastry filled with sweet ricotta cheese, often garnished with candied fruit or chocolate chips.
These are just a few examples of the delicious culinary offerings you can savor in Salerno, Paestum, and Amalfi. Be sure to explore local restaurants and trattorias to experience the full range of flavors that the region has to offer.
Drink
The Salerno, Paestum, and Amalfi regions, all located in the Campania region of southern Italy, are known for producing a variety of local wines. Here are some of the notable local wines you can enjoy in these areas:
Salerno
- Taurasi: While Taurasi is not produced directly in Salerno but in the Avellino province, it's still widely available in the Salerno area. Taurasi is often considered the "Barolo of the South" and is made from the Aglianico grape variety. It's a robust and complex red wine known for its aging potential and flavors of dark fruits, spices, and earthiness.
- Fiano di Avellino: As mentioned earlier, Fiano di Avellino is a renowned white wine from the Campania region. It has a crisp and floral character with notes of pear, apricot, and almond. Salerno is a great place to enjoy this refreshing white wine.
Paestum
- Aglianico: Aglianico is grown in the Paestum region, and wines made from this grape are often bold and full-bodied, with flavors of dark cherries, blackberries, and spices.
- Greco di Tufo: Like Fiano, Greco di Tufo is another popular white wine from Campania. It's characterized by bright acidity and mineral notes, making it a great choice to pair with seafood dishes.
- Paestum Rosso: Some local wineries in the Paestum area produce their own red and white wines under the "Paestum" designation. These wines often showcase the unique terroir of the region, with characteristics influenced by the Mediterranean climate and volcanic soils.
Amalfi
- Costa d'Amalfi DOC: The Amalfi Coast, including the town of Amalfi, produces wines under the Costa d'Amalfi DOC designation. These wines include both reds and whites, often made from local grape varieties. You can find wines that capture the coastal terroir and pair well with the region's cuisine.
- Limoncello: While not a wine, Limoncello is a famous lemon liqueur made from the large and flavorful lemons grown in the Amalfi region. It's a popular local digestif and a must-try when visiting.
- Local Liqueurs: Amalfi is also known for producing other fruit-based liqueurs and herbal digestifs, often homemade by local producers.
When visiting these areas, take the opportunity to explore local wineries, wine shops, and restaurants to sample these wines and learn more about the unique winemaking traditions of each region. Enjoying local wines is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the flavors and culture of the Salerno, Paestum, and Amalfi region.
Sleep
Salerno, Paestum, and Amalfi offer a range of accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets. Here are some options for lodging in each of these areas:
Salerno
- Hotels: Salerno has a variety of hotels, ranging from budget-friendly options to upscale hotels with seafront views. Some popular areas to stay include the historic city center and the waterfront.
- Bed and Breakfasts (B&Bs): You can find charming B&Bs in the city center, often in historic buildings, offering a more intimate and personalized experience.
- Vacation Rentals: Apartments and vacation homes are available for rent, which can be a great choice for families or those seeking more space and privacy.
Paestum
- Hotels: Paestum offers several hotels, many of which are within proximity to the archaeological site and the beach. Some hotels have views of the ancient Greek temples.
- Agriturismi: Consider staying at an agriturismo, which is a type of rural accommodation that allows you to experience the local countryside and enjoy traditional Italian meals made with local produce.
Amalfi
- Hotels: Amalfi has a range of hotels, including boutique hotels, luxury resorts, and more budget-friendly options. Many hotels are located near the town center or along the stunning coastline.
- Guesthouses and Inns: You can find smaller guesthouses and inns in the heart of Amalfi, offering a cozy and authentic experience.
- Vacation Villas and Apartments: If you're traveling with a group or want more space and independence, consider renting a vacation villa or apartment with beautiful sea views.
- Hostels: While hostels are less common in Amalfi, there are a few budget-friendly options available.
When booking accommodations in any of these areas, it's advisable to make reservations in advance, especially during the peak tourist season (typically summer). Additionally, consider your preferences for proximity to the beach, historical sites, or the town center when selecting your lodging. Each of these destinations has its unique charm and attractions, so you can choose the one that best suits your travel plans and interests.
Stay safe
While Salerno, Paestum, and Amalfi are generally considered safe for tourists, it's important to exercise common-sense safety precautions, especially in crowded areas like bars and train stations. Here are some tips for staying safe and avoiding pickpockets:
- Stay Aware: Be attentive to your surroundings. Pay attention to people around you and any suspicious behavior.
- Keep Valuables Secure: Carry your important documents, money, and valuables in a secure money belt or hidden pouch. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics that might attract attention.
- Use a Crossbody Bag: If you carry a bag, use a crossbody style with a zipper. Keep it in front of you and not dangling behind.
- Secure Backpacks: If you have a backpack, wear it on both shoulders and keep an eye on it. Use lockable zippers if possible.
- Avoid Overcrowded Areas: Be cautious in crowded places like train stations, markets, and public transportation. These are prime locations for pickpocketing.
- Don't Leave Belongings Unattended**: Never leave your bags or belongings unattended, even for a moment. This includes when sitting at a cafe or restaurant.
- Use ATMs with Caution: When using ATMs, choose well-lit and secure locations. Shield your PIN entry and immediately secure your cash.
- Travel in Groups: If possible, travel with a group, especially during late hours or in less crowded areas.
- Stay Informed: Stay informed about any local safety concerns or areas to avoid. You can inquire with your hotel or local authorities for updates on safety.
- Learn Basic Phrases: It's helpful to know some basic Italian phrases or have a translation app handy in case you need assistance or directions.
While these precautions can help you stay safe, it's important to remember that these areas are generally safe for tourists. Most people in these regions are friendly and welcoming. However, it's always wise to stay vigilant and take steps to protect yourself from petty theft or other minor inconveniences that can occur in any tourist destination.
- ↑ https://www.anzam.org/wp-content/uploads/pdf-manager/315_ANZAM-2012-253.PDF
- ↑ https://www.zbw.eu/econis-archiv/bitstream/11159/555024/1/EBP085957380_0.pdf
- ↑ https://wttc.org/news-article/travel-and-tourism-sector-shows-strong-recovery-in-italy
- ↑ https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/154862543.pdf
- ↑ https://italiaindati.com/turismo-in-italia/
- ↑ https://www.sa.camcom.it/informazione-economica/archivio-studi/osservatorio-turismo
- ↑ https://www.asalerno.it/borsa-mediterranea-paestum-nel-2022-boom-del-turismo-archeologico-in-italia-e-in-campania/
- ↑ https://distrettocostadamalfi.it/presentati-a-salerno-i-dati-sul-turismo-in-costa-damalfi/#:~:text=La%20Costa%20d'Amalfi%20%C3%A8,allo%200.1%25%20viaggio%20di%20lavoro.