Salerno travel guide

Experts in travel to Europe
We have years of experience and local knowledge
24/7 customer support
Reach us any time of the day in just a few seconds

Introduction to Salerno

Home to a variety of natural beauty and architecture, a unique historical background, and a culture as rich as its population, Salerno is truly one of the main highlights of Italy.

Travelers looking to experience the best of Italy often choose to stay in Salerno. Easily accessible from Salerno / Pontecagnano Airport, Salerno is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Italy.

History of Salerno

Nestled in the picturesque Campania region, Salerno has a rich and diverse history dating back to its founding by the Romans in the 2nd century BC.

The city truly flourished during the Middle Ages as the seat of the world's first medical university, the Schola Medica Salernitana, garnering Salerno the nickname 'the Hippocratic City'.

In the 11th century, it became the capital of the Lombard Principality of Salerno, playing a central role in the fight against the Saracens.

Salerno's strategic location on the Tyrrhenian Sea made it a coveted territory, leading to various conquests over the centuries by Normans, Swabians, and Aragonese.

It also played a significant role during World War II, serving as the landing spot for the Allied forces in 1943, known as the Salerno landings.

Today, Salerno's rich history is reflected in its stunning architecture, from its well-preserved medieval aqueduct to the majestic Salerno Cathedral. A visit to this city offers a fascinating journey through the annals of Italian history.

Local culture and customs in Salerno

Salerno, a vibrant city in Italy's Campania region, is steeped in rich cultural traditions and customs. The locals, known as Salernitani, are renowned for their warm hospitality, and it's customary to greet with a friendly 'Ciao' or a handshake. The city is deeply religious, with Catholicism playing a key role in the community's lifestyle. Many local festivals, such as San Matteo's Feast in September, are religious in nature and attract many visitors with their vibrant processions and traditional music.

Salerno's culinary culture is also a significant part of its identity, with the Mediterranean diet originating from this region. Don't be surprised if your meal takes longer than expected; in Salerno, dining is a leisurely affair, often extending over several hours. The city also has a strong arts culture, with many local artisans specializing in ceramics and woodworking. Lastly, remember that Italians value 'la bella figura' (the good image) highly. So, dressing appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites, is an important aspect to bear in mind.

Currency information for travelers in Salerno

The official currency of Salerno, like the rest of Italy, is the Euro (€). ATMs, known as Bancomats, are widely available throughout the city and are generally the most economical way to exchange your home currency. They accept a wide range of international bank cards. Credit cards, especially Visa and MasterCard, are widely accepted in Salerno. However, some small shops, cafes, or market stalls may only accept cash, so it's advisable to always carry a small amount of cash with you.

Keep in mind that tipping is less common in Italy than in other countries, usually rounding up the bill to the nearest euro is sufficient. Budget travelers should expect to spend around 50-70€ per day on modest accommodation, meals, and sightseeing, while mid-range to luxury travelers should budget for 100-200€ per day. Always check your bank for fees related to foreign transactions or ATM withdrawals before your trip.

Best time to visit Salerno

The best time to explore Salerno, Italy, is typically during the late spring to early fall, from April through October. During these months, the weather is mostly sunny and warm, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The busiest tourist months are July and August, so if you prefer to avoid larger crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of April-June or September-October. These times also offer more temperate weather, perfect for strolling through the city's charming streets and enjoying its beautiful coastline. A notable event to consider when planning your visit is the 'Luci d'Artista,' a unique light art festival that transforms Salerno into a magical wonderland from November to January. Although this period is cooler and may require warmer clothing, the stunning light displays make it a worthwhile experience. Therefore, depending on your preferences for weather, crowd levels, and unique experiences, the best time to explore Salerno can vary.

Weather in Salerno

Salerno, an enchanting city located on the Tyrrhenian Sea in southern Italy, enjoys a Mediterranean climate. This means it experiences hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The summer months, particularly July and August, see average temperatures ranging from 24°C to 29°C (75°F to 84°F). The sea breeze often provides a welcome relief from the summer heat.

During winter, from December to February, temperatures usually stay between 8°C and 13°C (46°F to 55°F), with January being the coldest month. Rainfall is more common in the winter months, so it's wise to pack an umbrella or raincoat.

Spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures, ranging from 15°C to 23°C (59°F to 73°F), and less rainfall than winter. These seasons showcase Salerno's natural beauty, making it an ideal time to visit for those who prefer moderate weather. Regardless of the season, it's recommended to check the forecast before your trip, as weather can sometimes be unpredictable.

Local tip for visiting Salerno

A true insider tip when visiting Salerno is to explore the city's vibrant evening life in the 'Lungomare Trieste' - the city's seafront promenade. Unlike other Italian cities, Salerno comes alive at night, particularly in the summer. Here, locals and tourists alike enjoy evening strolls called 'la passeggiata', a leisurely walk along the promenade, typically after dinner, to socialize and enjoy the cool sea breeze. It's a unique cultural experience, providing an opportunity to absorb the authentic local atmosphere, meet friendly locals and enjoy late-night gelato stalls and live music. Remember, Salerno's nighttime culture is not about partying; instead, it's about relaxing, socializing and enjoying the beautiful seafront views. So, don't rush back to your hotel room after dinner - embrace the local tradition of 'la passeggiata' and become part of Salerno's enchanting night scene.

Top services in Salerno

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Salerno, Italy. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Salerno, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.

Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to Italy. Check out the best things to do in Salerno by browsing over 232 top-rated tours available to you in the hamlet. Compare the rates and services of the 5 types of places to stay and 6 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Salerno with this travel guide.

Experience the best of Salerno with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Salerno from our free 24/7 customer support.

Continue reading this Salerno travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the hamlet of Salerno!

Learn more about Italy

With destinations such as Salerno, a trip to Italy needs no further explanation. Spanning over 302,068 square kilometers, Italy is an expansive playground of discovery, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating experiences awaiting exploration. From bustling metropolises to historic towns and modern urban hubs, Italy has something to enchant every traveler.

Thus, a trip to Italy becomes essential. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant cultural experiences, Italy offers an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered. There's so much to explore and uncover in Italy.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about Italy and its offers.

What to see in Salerno

Panoramic view of small town Atrani on Amalfi Coast in province of Salerno, Campania region, Italy.

Expect an exhilarating journey through Salerno, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Salerno offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Salerno travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the hamlet so special.

Top attractions in Salerno

With its blend of traditional and modern culture, Salerno is more than just a wonderful hamlet in Italy. It's a hub for diverse experiences, boasting top attractions that range from historical landmarks to modern marvels, offering a glimpse into Italy's rich heritage and innovative spirit.

Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the hamlet, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn't miss on your trip to Salerno.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Salerno, check out our list of top attractions below.

Map of attractions

Take a closer look at the hamlet map below for the exact locations of all the top attractions in Salerno.

Things to do in Salerno

Long focus picture of Maiori port. Splendid seascape of Mediterranean seascape, Amalfi coast in the province of Salerno, Italy, Europe.

You've explored Salerno's top attractions and marked them on your map. So now, it's time to delve deeper and discover the top things to do in Salerno. These activities not only offer excitement and adventure but also provide unique insights into the city's culture and heritage. Take your experience to the next level by checking out the best sights with a knowledgeable guide, embarking on fun adventures unique to Salerno, or learning more about the hamlet's rich history and traditions.

Discover the most popular tours and experiences in the hamlet below.

Most popular experiences in Salerno

A visit to Salerno gets more exciting with memorable experiences. And the hamlet is just perfect for that, with plenty of fun activities. Guided Day Trips, Ports of Call Tours, Full-day Tours, and more are just some of the options you could explore to fully immerse yourself and make the most of your time.

In this travel guide, we've included some of the best things to do in Salerno, adding a special touch to your journey in this vibrant hamlet. Explore bustling markets, embark on scenic hikes, sample local delicacies, or immerse yourself in the rich history and heritage of Salerno. Browse this diverse array of unforgettable experiences Salerno offers and let your adventures begin!

Top tours & tickets starting in Salerno

In Salerno, travelers are spoiled for choice with a dazzling array of 23 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. But among this sea of options, one category reigns supreme: Sailing Tours.

Sailing Tours offer an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart and soul of Salerno. For example, the fantastic Private Boat Excursion to the Amalfi Coast.

Salerno also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience. Ceramic Lesson for Small Groups in Vietri sul Mare, for example, is the cheapest Historical Tour option in the hamlet. This experience costs around 17 EUR.

Elevate your upcoming Salerno adventure with unforgettable experiences by booking top-rated tours in the hamlet. Uncover the finest tours, activities, and tickets awaiting you in Salerno right below.

Find

All Experiences in Province of Salerno

See more

Search for things to do in Salerno

Discover the best things to do in Salerno. Choose from 232 fantastic tours and activities available in the hamlet.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Salerno. Click the green button to view your options and discover a variety of exciting things to do in Salerno.

What to eat in Salorno

Salerno, a picturesque city on Italy's Amalfi Coast, is a gastronomic paradise, offering a blend of traditional and innovative culinary experiences. The city's historic districts, like the bustling Via Mercanti, are some of the best places to eat in Salerno, featuring a range of trattorias serving local specialities such as 'Scialatielli ai Frutti di Mare', a fresh pasta dish with seafood, and 'Delizia al Limone', a lemon dessert typical of the region. The charming Lungomare Trieste offers a variety of fine dining options and is perfect for those seeking a high-end culinary experience. For a taste of Salerno's street food culture, visit the vibrant Mercato Centrale where stalls serve up local favourites such as 'Panzerotti', deep-fried pizza pockets. A visit to Salerno would be incomplete without sampling its local wines, particularly the Fiano di Avellino and Aglianico, both originating from the surrounding Campania region. Each dining experience in Salerno is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the city's rich culinary heritage.

Best Shopping in Salerno

The best place to go shopping in Salerno, Italy, is undoubtedly the historic city center. Via dei Mercanti and Via Roma are iconic streets filled with high-end boutiques, antique stores, and local craft shops. The Corso Vittorio Emanuele, a bustling pedestrian street, is also a shopper's paradise, offering a mix of fashion, accessories, and household items. Salerno's distinct fashion is a blend of classic Italian elegance and coastal chic, making it a fantastic place to update your wardrobe. Make sure to check out the local craftsmanship, particularly the ceramics and leather goods. The Mercato Coperto di Salerno, a vibrant indoor market, is perfect for fresh produce and local delicacies, and a must-visit for foodies. For a more modern shopping experience, head to the Maxi Shopping Center, which houses numerous international brands. Remember to carry cash as some smaller stores don't accept credit cards. Shopping hours typically run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Don't forget to pick up a bottle of limoncello or a packet of buffalo mozzarella as a delicious souvenir of your trip.

Best Free Things to Do in Salerno

Explore the best free things to do in Salerno, a captivating Italian city rich with history, culture, and picturesque landscapes. Begin your journey at the Salerno Cathedral, a stunning medieval church with crypts that house the remains of Saint Matthew. The cathedral's awe-inspiring architecture is a testament to the city's deep-rooted religious heritage. Indulge in a leisurely stroll around the Villa Comunale, a vibrant public park known for its charming botanical garden and the famous Fountain of Neptune. Head to the Old Town, a maze of narrow alleys adorned with historical buildings, where you can soak in the authentic Italian atmosphere. Visit the Promenade Trieste, a scenic seafront promenade offering breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Amalfi Coast. Don't miss the Porto di Salerno, a bustling port where you can watch the comings and goings of fishing boats and cruise liners. Lastly, enjoy the city's cultural offerings by attending one of the many free concerts or festivals held throughout the year. Experiencing the enchanting city of Salerno doesn't have to be expensive, with these free activities offering a rich and fulfilling travel experience.

Vacation packages in Salerno

City of Positano on Amalfi coast in the province of Salerno, Campania, Italy.

Booking a vacation package to Salerno means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accommodation, and a rental car to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Salerno to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing everything you need to travel comfortably, travel packages to Salerno also offer full customization. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

Continue to the next section of this complete Salerno travel guide to explore further details about the vacation options available for your trip to the hamlet.

Popular types of vacations in Salerno

The most popular way to experience Salerno is by visiting the hamlet as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in Italy. However, it is also common for travelers to go on holiday to Salerno on both shorter and longer getaways to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.

With Guide to Europe, you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in Italy, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across Italy, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Salerno, there is a vacation package for you.

Explore the popular types of travel packages to Salerno below. Click on any to delve into the details and effortlessly plan your dream getaway.

Find

All Vacations in Province of Salerno

See more

Find vacation packages in Salerno

Explore and compare vacation packages, each offering unforgettable journeys to the wonderful hamlet of Salerno. Be sure to act swiftly, as the best flights, hotels, and activities in Salerno tend to fill up quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best travel deals in Italy. Your customized holiday package to Salerno is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Salerno

International travelers can fly to Salerno by booking flights with easyJet, and Volotea, offering flights to Salerno / Pontecagnano Airport. From the arrival airport, travelers can choose from various public and private transfer options to Salerno.

For those seeking the best flight ticket deals to Salerno, knowing the cheapest travel times and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we provide this information to help you discover the cheapest and most popular flights to Salerno.

Find cheap flights to Salerno

A girl in a cowboy hat with a backpack enjoys an incredibly beautiful view of a stone bridge over the gorge Fiordo di Furore.

Booking budget-friendly flights to Salerno is a crucial part of planning your trip to the city. This section will guide you through the process, helping you find the best deals for your journey.

Booking in advance is a smart move when traveling to Salerno. Airlines release their best deals months ahead of departure, so early birds catch the lower fares. Consider flexible travel dates while planning your visit to the hamlet. Mid-week and off-peak seasons often offer more wallet-friendly options.

To help you find cheap flights to Salerno, you can use the powerful booking widget below. Enter your departure city, choose between round trip or one-way, pick your fare class, select travel dates, and specify the number of travelers. Click "Search, " and the widget will do the rest. You'll see a list of flights matching your criteria, making your trip to Salerno even more convenient.

Fine-tune your search with filters to sort by price, airline, layovers, and more. Once you've found your ideal flight, click "Book, " and you'll be redirected to the booking page to complete your reservation. Enter your payment details and receive a confirmation – it's that simple!

Remember to book ahead, stay flexible, and utilize the widget's features to make your journey to Salerno both affordable and unforgettable.

Where to stay in Salerno

Tourists on the beach, Amalfi, Province Of Salerno, Gulf Of Salerno, Tyrrhenian Sea, Campania, Italy.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a hamlet as fantastic as Salerno is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience. The best place to stay in Salerno usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodations in central Salerno offers a ton of benefits.

Staying in the heart of the hamlet allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Salerno and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Salerno planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Salerno, you'll find 5 different types of places to stay, catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Italy can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Salerno. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range and budget-friendly hotels in the hamlet, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Salerno.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Salerno in the following sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Salerno

A trip to Salerno means opportunities to relax at any of the 5 different types of places to stay in the hamlet. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Salerno provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Among all the choices available in the hamlet, Montestella is one of the top picks of travelers in Salerno. Montestella is a 4-star stay with an average rating of 2799 stars out of 5 from 4 guests. The hotel is located at Corso Vittorio Emanuele 156 and boasts many great utilities, including airport shuttle, bar, and room service.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Salerno. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

In Salerno, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose Quattro Briganti. For approximately 50 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Triple Room at this popular bed & breakfast, which also offers air conditioning, room service, and more.

Below is a list of all 5 different types of places to stay in Salerno. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Salerno

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Salerno for the unique experience they provide. Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Salerno provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Salerno are created equal, finding the best in the hamlet often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Salerno.

Raito offers the most luxurious rooms and is perfect for travelers looking for the ultimate 5-star hotel experience in Salerno. If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out Montestella, the top 4-star hotel in the hamlet. When all you need is a pleasant place to rest and sleep in between your activities in Salerno, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, Plaza, is for you.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in Salerno. Travelers are encouraged to book early, as these hotels quickly reach capacity. Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel in Salerno by clicking the cards.

Find

All Hotels in Province of Salerno

See more

Search for accommodation in Salerno

Finding the perfect stay for your visit to Salerno is made easy with our search tool. With just a few clicks, explore a range of available hotels and accommodations, complete with prices and amenities for easy comparison. Simply input your check-in and check-out dates, along with the number of guests and rooms needed. Start planning your trip to Salerno effortlessly now!

Transportation in Salerno

Salerno offers a variety of transport options for both locals and tourists. The city's public transportation is efficient and reliable, consisting of a comprehensive system of buses and trains. The CSTP and SITA buses connect the city center with the suburbs, while the Trenitalia train service provides connections to other Italian cities.

Taxis are also a convenient way to travel around Salerno. They can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. It’s always a good idea to agree on the fare before the ride to avoid any misunderstanding. Alternatively, for those who prefer to drive, there are several car rental companies operating in the city, including major international brands.

Lastly, for a unique local experience, try the 'City Sightseeing Salerno.' This hop-on, hop-off bus tour offers a different perspective of the city and includes commentary in multiple languages. Another unique option is the 'Ferry Boat,' a service that connects Salerno with the beautiful Amalfi Coast, offering an unforgettable journey through the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Car rentals in Salerno

Amalfi - seaside town in the Gulf of Salerno in the Italian province of Salerno, the heart of the Amalfi coast.

To navigate Salerno effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path. On our website, you'll discover a selection of over 6 car rental companies in Salerno, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Salerno start at 50 EUR per day or 348 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Kia Picanto. If you prefer driving a manual car, you'll find multiple options for rent in Salerno, starting at 36 EUR per day or 252 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Fiat Panda.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Salerno, Italy below.

Popular types of cars for rent in Salerno

Renting a car in Salerno is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore the hamlet at their own pace.

A wide variety of popular car rentals are available to choose from in Salerno, ensuring you find the best car for your travel plans. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Check out all the options available and book your car rental in Salerno for your upcoming adventures in Italy below.

Search for car rentals in Salerno

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful hamlet of Salerno. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Salerno, Italy, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Popular destinations to visit after Salerno

Old chapel in Santa Maria di Castellabate town. Impressive summer scene of province of Salerno in the Campania region.

The hamlet of Salerno is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Italy. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Italy has it all.

Each destination in Italy offers something unique to experience! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Italy that are as magical as the hamlet of Salerno. The most popular travel destinations in Italy are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Italy

When unsure about where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Italy. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Salerno

vacation-packages

Experience the authentic charm of Italy by expanding your travels beyond the boundaries of Salerno. Explore other destinations around Italy with a domestic flight. A domestic flight is typically a short-haul flight, with the longest duration not exceeding two hours. To find the best flights from Salerno to other amazing locations in Italy, add the required details below and select 'Search' to view the best domestic flights in Italy for your chosen dates. You can also jump to the last section of this travel guide to find the most popular domestic flights from Salerno.

Search domestic flights from Salerno

Traveling to another city or region in Italy? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Salerno to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Italy on the selected dates.

Most popular countries in Europe

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.