As the Sorrentine peninsula curves southward toward the Cilento coast we find the Campania town of Salerno, capital of the eponymous province in Campania region, and the main town on the Amalfi Coast (or Costeria Amalfitana). Out front lie the glittering blue waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, while on the hills behind the town, the imposing Castello di Arechi dominates this glittering Mediterranean resort. It's an impeccably kept town, and a stroll along the Lungomare Trieste promenade, with its five miles of palm trees is a delight (perfect for your evening passegiata).
There is the centro storico, with the Duomo (cathedral) at its heart, and a host of historic buildings including the Teatro Verdi, the Palazzo di Citta di Salerno, the Baroque Palazzo Morese, a clutch of medieval churches, monuments and more. Salerno is far from an historic monument itself though. A thriving and growing town of 200,000 people, it boasts a wealth of contemporary architecture, and with great restaurants, bars and a thriving cafe culture there is a real buzz about the place.
And Salerno is a very green town - public gardens include the Giardino della Minerva, the Parco del Mercatello and the Villa Comunale di Salerno. Hike up the Colle Bellara (hill) and you get terrific views down the Amalfi Coast as far as the Cilento (which itself has a gorgeous and expansive national park). Near neighbours include the towns of Amalfi and Positano, while Naples is within striking distance to the north.
To the left you'll find a selection of hotels, to get you in the mood
- see also our full listings of Salerno hotels.
