Top 11 Best Things To Do in Salerno, a Southern Italian Gem

Discover the 11 best things to do in Salerno, a.k.a. the best ways to experience the charm of a peaceful Southern Italian gem. From exploring the ancient Salerno cathedral and strolling along scenic promenades to finding hidden beaches, this guide covers everything you need for a memorable Salerno adventure.

Salerno is a seaport city on the southeastern edge of the ever-bustling Amalfi Coast. Its calm and peaceful vibe attracts people to this corner of the country, contrasting with the touristy feel of its neighboring cities like Positano and Amalfi. You can see this easygoing vibe shine through in the wide range of tours and activities you’ll find in Salerno. 

The best shore excursions in Salerno often include the Amalfi Coast, and exploration of underrated Italian archaeology. So, if you’ve already booked flights and picked from the top places to stay in Salerno, there is only one thing left to do. Read this list of the best things to do in Salerno. 

11. Attend a Concert at Teatro Verdi

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If you’re looking for unforgettable things to do in Salerno, attending a concert at Teatro Verdi is a must. Located in Piazza Matteo Luciani, right in the center of the city, this historic theater is the heart of Salerno’s cultural scene. Built in the late 19th century, Teatro Verdi wows visitors with its stunning architecture and elegant interiors.

The theater hosts a mix of performances, from operas to ballets, featuring both local talent and international stars. For anyone interested in the arts, Teatro Verdi is one of the top Salerno attractions. To dive deeper into Salerno’s artistic side, check out these amazing cultural tours in Salerno for a full experience.

10. Relax on Vietri sul Mare's Beaches

Spending a day at Vietri sul Mare’s beautiful beaches is among the best things to do when in Salerno. Known for having some of the largest stretches of sand along the Amalfi Coast, Vietri sul Mare is a top choice for beach lovers. 

To make the most of these beaches, plan to arrive early in the morning or visit during the low season. As one of the few sandy beaches along the coast, Vietri’s beach extends about 400 meters, providing plenty of space to relax. It's also a favorite for families, as it offers well-maintained swimming and bathing facilities. 

Ready to explore the town? Don’t miss a walking tour in Vietri sul Mare to discover its charm beyond the beach. For tips on avoiding crowds, check out this guide to the best time to visit the Amalfi Coast. 

9. Learn How To Make Vietri sul Mare Ceramics

Photo by Kārlis Dambrāns, from Flickr. No edits made.

While you’re in Vietri sul Mare, don’t miss the chance to dive into the town’s famous ceramic tradition. Though Vietri isn’t technically in Salerno, it’s accessible by car. Because of this, making ceramics is one of the top things to do in Salerno.

To reach Vietri with ease, check out car rentals in Salerno. You can choose between small car rentals or medium cars for groups of up to 5. 

Known as the ceramics hub of the Amalfi Coast, Vietri sul Mare charms visitors with its narrow winding streets, pastel-colored houses, and the centuries-old art of pottery. In fact, the town’s name translates to “glass on the sea,” a nod to its rich glassmaking and ceramics heritage dating back to the 15th century. Today, it’s a haven for artisanal craftsmanship. 

Don’t miss the chance to create your own masterpiece with a private ceramics class in Vietri sul Mare. With this class, you can learn the techniques behind Vietri’s iconic art and craft a unique souvenir to remember your Salerno trip. You can have your piece shipped to you once it’s fired and glazed.

8. Stroll Through Minerva’s Garden

Looking for underrated things to do in Salerno? Minerva’s Garden deserves a spot on your itinerary. Lesser-known but incredibly beautiful, this peaceful oasis stands out as one of the top Salerno attractions. 

Dating back to the 12th century, this enchanting spot is Europe’s first botanical garden. It was originally created by physician Matteo Silvatico to grow medicinal plants for the Salerno Medical School, which was considered the most advanced medical institution of its time. 

Today, it’s a peaceful garden where you can wander through paths lined with plants, each labeled with fascinating facts about their uses in medieval medicine.

But it’s not just the history that makes this garden special—this place has some of the best views of the Gulf of Salerno! The terraced gardens, full of colorful flowers and fresh herbs, are the perfect spot to relax and take in the scenery. 

7. Go on a Day Trip to Pompeii

While exploring the best things to do in Salerno, don’t forget that this city is also the perfect launchpad for incredible day trips. One of the most iconic destinations is Pompeii, an ancient city frozen in time after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. Walking through its well-preserved streets, you’ll get a fascinating glimpse into how people lived thousands of years ago.

Getting to Pompeii from Salerno is a breeze—just a quick 30-minute drive along the main roads. If you’re up for an adventure, check out car rentals in Salerno and hit the road to explore this bucket-list destination at your own pace. 

Prefer something guided? Join a Pompeii ruins tour with wine tasting and lunch for a mix of history and indulgence. You can also go for a Pompeii and Amalfi Coast tour to hit two birds with one stone.

6. Take a Day Trip to the Island of Capri

Another awesome day trip from Salerno is to the breathtaking island of Capri—one of the best things to do in Salerno if you’re up for a little adventure. Just a quick ferry ride away, this volcanic gem off the Amalfi Coast will leave you in awe.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy Capri if you’re coming from Salerno. Book a small-group boat tour from Salerno if you want to explore the island for a day. Enjoy snacks and refreshing drinks (like limoncello!) as you enjoy the views. 

For a more exclusive experience, choose a private small-boat tour to Capri from Salerno. With a smaller boat, you can access hidden spots and caves that larger boats can’t reach, all while enjoying snacks and refreshments on board.

Enjoy cruising around the island to see the dramatic coastline, the famous Blue Grotto, and the iconic Faraglioni rock formations. If you want to spend some time inland, explore Capri’s winding streets, visit the Piazzetta, or lounge at outdoor cafes. 

5. Savor Authentic Italian Cuisine

One of the tastiest things to do in Salerno is diving into its incredible food scene. Located in the Campania region, Salerno is the perfect place to indulge in Neapolitan pizza, known worldwide for its chewy crust, rich tomato sauce, and fresh mozzarella. 

If you’re a seafood lover, you’re in for a treat—Salerno’s restaurants are brimming with dishes made from the freshest fish straight from the nearby sea. Imagine fresh seafood pasta, spaghetti with clams, stuffed squid, and codfish in tomato sauce. 

For a more hands-on and intimate experience, try a handmade pasta workshop in Salerno and learn the secrets of crafting perfect Italian pasta from scratch. Or try a pizza-making class with wine tasting, where a local chef will guide you. Whether dining out or rolling up your sleeves in the kitchen, savoring authentic Italian cuisine in Salerno is an experience you’ll never forget.

4. Walk Around Salerno's Historical Center

Salerno’s history, shaped by the Etruscans, Romans, Lombards, and Normans, lives on in its streets, squares, and architecture. Exploring the city center is one of the best things to do in Salerno to embrace the city’s identity. It’s also where you’ll find many of the top attractions in Salerno. 

Start your adventure on Via Mercanti, the oldest street in Salerno. Once a bustling hub for merchants and traders, this busy street is now perfect for shopping and soaking up history. Along the way, you’ll spot stunning landmarks like the Salerno Cathedral, a true gem with a grand courtyard and beautiful mosaics.

Don’t miss the Medieval Aqueduct, also called the “Bridge of the Devils,” thanks to the legend that demons helped build it overnight. This impressive structure blends perfectly with the modern city and is a favorite for photos. 

Dive deeper into the city’s history and join a walking tour of Salerno. It’s the best way to uncover all the stories and hidden gems of the city straight from an expert, a local guide!

3. Explore the Crypt of the Salerno Cathedral

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While the Salerno Cathedral was already mentioned (in number 4) as part of the historic center, its stunning crypt deserves a spotlight of its own as one of the best Salerno attractions. In fact, it’s one of the coolest things to see in Salerno. The cathedral’s crypt houses the relics of St. Matthew, Salerno’s patron saint, making it a place of great historical and spiritual significance. 

The crypt is a Baroque masterpiece adorned with breathtaking frescoes and intricate details that create an enchanting atmosphere. Alongside the tomb of St. Matthew, the crypt also holds the remains of the Salerno Martyrs—Fortunatus, Gaius, Ante, and Felix—as well as relics of the Holy Confessors.

To make the most of your visit, you can join a walking tour that ends at the cathedral. This way, you’ll get to explore other top attractions in Salerno and still have plenty of time to fully enjoy the cathedral and its remarkable crypt afterward.

To visit, remember to dress appropriately—shorts, low-cut tops, and other revealing clothing aren’t permitted. Exploring the crypt of the Salerno Cathedral is more than just a visit to a historical site; it’s an opportunity to experience the place where art, legend, and faith come together, making it one of the best things to do in Salerno.

2. Sail Along the Amalfi Coast

If you’re looking for unforgettable things to do in Salerno, setting sail along the Amalfi Coast is a must. This UNESCO-listed coastline is famous for its dramatic cliffs, colorful seaside villages, and sparkling blue waters—and there’s no better way to soak it all in than from the deck of a boat.

You’ve got plenty of options to make your adventure unforgettable. Join a luxury group cruise to Amalfi Coast for a relaxing day on the water, complete with breathtaking views and plenty of photo ops. If you’re in the mood for romance, a private sunset cruise in Salerno is the perfect way to enjoy the Amalfi Coast as the sky turns golden. 

Want more freedom? Rent a boat in Salerno and explore the Amalfi Coast at your own pace, discovering hidden coves and secret beaches. The Amalfi Coast is hands down one of the most magical things to see in Salerno—an experience you’ll never forget!

1. Discover the Ancient Ruins of Paestum

When it comes to places to visit in Salerno, the ancient ruins of Paestum stand out. Just an hour south of Salerno, this incredible site is home to some of the best-preserved Greek ruins on Italy’s mainland. 

While most ancient ruins in Italy are Roman, Paestum offers something unique—and much older. The three major temples, dedicated to female goddesses, are a fascinating glimpse into ancient Greek civilization.

The site also boasts an impressive archaeological museum, showcasing treasures from the Greek and Etruscan eras. What makes Paestum even more special is its peaceful vibe—being off the beaten track, you might find yourself enjoying these magnificent temples without the crowds. 

Take your visit to the next level by joining a private tour of the ruins of Paestum, where an expert guide can provide deep insights into its history. Or explore them on a small-group tour with an archaeologist as your guide to enrich your experience with fascinating details about the site’s historical significance. 

Whether you’re a history buff or just love a good adventure, Paestum is among the most unforgettable things to see in Salerno.

How long should I spend in Salerno?

Four days is ideal for a visit to Salerno. The city itself is compact, and you can explore its main attractions, like the historic center and the Salerno Cathedral, in just a day. 

However, the city’s prime location makes it the perfect base for guided day trips from Salerno to iconic destinations like Pompeii, Capri, Positano, and more. With four days, you’ll have plenty of time to experience the city and explore the incredible surrounding areas. 

You can explore 4-day travel packages in Salerno to make your experience seamless. For example, a 4-day Salerno beach holiday is perfect for sun- and sand-seeking travelers. If hitting the road is more your thing, a 4-day Salerno road trip is a great option. 

Is Salerno the same as the Amalfi Coast?

No, Salerno is not the same as the Amalfi Coast. While Salerno is a city located at the southeastern edge of the Amalfi Coast, the Amalfi Coast refers to a stretch of picturesque coastline dotted with smaller towns like Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello. Salerno serves as a gateway to the Amalfi Coast and is a fantastic base for exploring this iconic region.

Is Salerno a walkable city?

Yes, Salerno is a very walkable city! Its compact layout makes it easy to explore on foot, whether you’re strolling through the historic center, discovering local shops along Via Mercanti, or visiting landmarks like Minerva’s Gardens. The city also offers pedestrian-friendly streets. Many of the best things to do in Salerno are within walking distance, so you can fully enjoy the city’s charm without needing a car.