The best Salerno one day itinerary for first-timers

Salerno is a beautiful coastal town in the Campania region, not far from the stunning Amalfi Coast. It has a rich history, a charming old town, and natural beauty all around. From the medieval Castello di Arechi to the peaceful Giardino della Minerva, this city is full of hidden gems and spectacular views. In this blog post, I will share the ultimate Salerno one day itinerary to help you plan a perfect day trip in this special town. This blog post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase I may get a small commission at no extra cost to you. Find out more here.

Are you looking for help with planning your trip? Check out these helpful resources:

• Flights
• Accommodation for all budgets
• Amalfi Coast sailing trip I’ve been on (take $50 off any Tryps trip with code IOANA)
• Europe train tickets
• Europe bus tickets
• Rental cars
• Activities, tours, and day trips
• eSIM for international data

The best way to visit the Amalfi Coast

Before I go into the itinerary for Salerno, I wanted to let you know what the best way is to visit the Amalfi Coast: by boat. A sailing trip is what you want!

That’s because you can visit multiple towns and their main attractions in a short amount of time.

At the same time, you can admire the spectacular views of the picturesque villages from the water, something you can’t easily do if you just visit the towns by land. 

And, most importantly, you don’t have to drag your luggage up hundreds of stairs every time you go to a new town.

I joined this group trip and it was fabulous. You can read about my experience here. And you can take $50 off with code IOANA if you decide to join any group trip organized by Tryps.

Take pictures at Acquedotto Medievale di Salerno

The Medieval Aqueduct of Salerno was built by monks from Venice, most likely to supply water to the Monastery of San Benedetto and later to the Salerno Medical School. 

It’s a beautiful stone structure with high arches, right in the middle of the city. You can walk under it and take great photos.

It’s free to visit, and a perfect short stop on your way to the cathedral or the Minerva Garden.

Fun fact: Locals also call it the “Bridge of the Devils.” Long ago, people believed it was built in one night with the help of dark powers. Some even said they heard strange voices at night!

Just a few steps away, you’ll find some incredible street art. This was a nice surprise for me since I love street art so much! 

Visit the Duomo of Salerno

In almost every Italian city, there is a main cathedral known as the “Duomo” in Italian.

The Salerno Cathedral is a beautiful church in the historic center of Salerno. It’s a great place to stop during a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets of the old town. 

It is dedicated to Saint Matthew (San Matteo).

It has a rich cultural heritage and impressive stone walls from the Middle Ages. The inside is peaceful and full of history, perfect for a quiet moment. The crypt below is especially beautiful and worth visiting. 

If you are a history buff, this is an unforgettable experience during your one-day trip to this coastal town in southern Italy.

Stroll through the historic center

After visiting the magnificent Salerno Cathedral, take a leisurely stroll through the historic center of Salerno.

The narrow streets around Piazza Duomo are full of life and charm, with beautiful old buildings from the 9th century and a rich cultural heritage. It’s so fun to get lost in these streets!

Piazza Duomo is a small but lively square right in front of the cathedral. It’s a great place to pause, admire the architecture, and watch local life unfold. The square also connects you to many of the city’s most historic alleys and shops.

As you walk, you’ll find traditional stores, craft boutiques, and cozy cafés, where you can stop for a coffee or a granita and enjoy the relaxed vibe of this popular coastal town.

This area is the perfect place to feel the authentic atmosphere of Salerno. Whether you’re here on a single-day trip or as part of an Amalfi Coast tour, the historic center is easy to explore on foot.

Its picturesque streets invite you to slow down and take in the city’s quiet beauty and local rhythm.

Buy some suvenirs

Shopping for souvenirs in Salerno is a great way to remember your visit.

Around the historic center and Piazza Duomo, you’ll find many small shops selling local crafts, handmade ceramics, and aromatic herbs.

These charming stores offer unique gifts that show the rich cultural heritage of the region.

The shops often have air conditioning, so they are a perfect place to take a cool break from the summer heat while you explore.

Whether you want to buy a small keepsake or something special from your trip, the shops here have good value and a friendly atmosphere.

It’s a perfect place to find authentic souvenirs while enjoying a relaxed stroll through the narrow streets.

Visit Giardino della Minerva

The garden was closed when I visited because of renovations. 

I was still able to take an elevator from the street level and get great views, even though I wasn’t able to walk through the gardens.

This peaceful garden is a hidden gem in Salerno. It was used by medical students in the Middle Ages to study medicinal plants and aromatic herbs.

Today it’s a quiet place full of flowers, herbs, and scenic views of the Gulf of Salerno.

Giardino della Minerva is the oldest botanical garden in Europe with an educational purpose. It was created in the 13th century by Matteo Silvatico, a doctor and teacher at the first medical school in Europe, right here in Salerno.

The garden was used to grow medicinal plants and aromatic herbs, and today it still follows that tradition.

When the garden is open, the entrance fee is just a few euros (around €3–4), and you can learn more about each plant through signs and a QR code.

There is also a small café inside, where you can sit and enjoy a herbal tea, juice, or snack with one of the best views in town.

Hopefully next time I’ll get to see it in full bloom. But even just the view from up there was totally worth it.

Have a pizza at Antica Pizzeria da Michele

If you’ve read my Naples post, you already know this name. Antica Pizzeria da Michele is one of the oldest and most famous pizza places in Naples. It became so popular that it later opened in other cities too, including Salerno.

It may not be the original location, but the pizza is still amazing. Simple, authentic, and full of flavor. A great stop if you want to enjoy a classic Margherita or Marinara in a more relaxed setting, without the long lines of Naples. 

I ordered a Margherita pizza and I loved it! I highly recommend this place, both in Salerno and in Naples.

Take a walk on Lungomare Trieste

Lungomare Trieste is the long seafront promenade in Salerno. In Italian, “lungomare” means “along the sea”. It’s the word they use for seaside walkways in many coastal towns.

You’ll find a lungomare in lots of Italian cities such as Naples, Bari, and Reggio Calabria.

The one in Salerno is called Lungomare Trieste, named after the city of Trieste in northern Italy. It’s a peaceful place for a walk, with palm trees, benches, and beautiful views of both the Gulf of Salerno and the Amalfi Coast.

It’s a great spot to take a break from the city, enjoy the sea breeze, or take better photos, especially during the summer months.

Relax at Spiaggia Santa Teresa

Spiaggia Santa Teresa is a small city beach just a few steps from the historic center of Salerno. It’s located right next to Piazza della Libertà, the maritime station, Villa Comunale, and the Lungomare Trieste promenade.

The name “Spiaggia Santa Teresa” means “Beach of Saint Teresa” in Italian. Many beaches in Italy are named after saints or nearby churches, hence its name.

This beach is public and free, and it’s a great place to take a short break by the sea, especially during the summer months. The water is calm with a gentle slope, so it’s also good for families.

You can bring your own towel, or rent sunbeds and an umbrella (around €10 for two people). There are also free showers and a small beach café nearby.

Even though it’s not a large beach, and sometimes not perfectly clean, the view of the Gulf of Salerno and the Amalfi Coast makes it a peaceful and beautiful spot to relax.

It’s easy to reach on foot from the city center, and a nice addition to a one-day trip in Salerno.

If you’re visiting on a warm day and need a quick beach escape without leaving town, this is the perfect place.

Have gelato at Nettuno

If you’re walking along the Lungomare Trieste on a warm day, don’t miss Bar Gelateria Nettuno — one of the most popular places for gelato in Salerno. It’s a local favorite and always busy, especially in the summer.

They have many flavors to choose from, including vegan options. In addition, the prices are very reasonable, around €4 for two scoops. Some of the most loved flavors are pistachio, tiramisù, and nocciotella (a mix of hazelnut and chocolate).

They also serve brioche with gelato, a Sicilian-style sweet sandwich. However, I didn’t try it this time because I wanted to save room for dinner!

I went for pistachio and nocciola, and I absolutely loved both flavors. Smooth, creamy, and full of flavor.

There isn’t much space to sit inside, but most people take their gelato and enjoy it outside by the sea. It’s the perfect sweet break during your day in Salerno.

Relax at Villa Comunale di Salerno

Villa Comunale di Salerno is a beautiful public garden located between the historic center and the seafront promenade, just a short walk from Piazza della Libertà and Lungomare Trieste.

It’s one of the best places to take a break from the sun and noise of the city, especially during the summer months.

This small but peaceful park is filled with tall palm trees, colorful flowers, and fountains, offering a cool, shady place to sit and relax.

Locals come here to read, chat with friends, or enjoy a short walk through nature. There are also benches, statues, and sometimes small exhibitions or events, depending on the time of year.

The villa is especially magical during the Christmas season, when it becomes part of Salerno’s famous “Luci d’Artista” light display. But even in summer, it’s a great escape.

It’s also close to many popular spots, like Santa Teresa Beach, the Maritime Station, and the entrance to the Giardino della Minerva, making it an easy and refreshing stop on your one-day Salerno itinerary.

If you’re looking for a quiet, green space right in the heart of the city, this is the perfect place.

Check out Piazza della Libertà and the Maritime Station

Just a short walk from the historic center, you’ll find Piazza della Libertà, one of the largest squares in southern Italy. It’s a modern, open space by the sea, perfect for a walk, photos, or just sitting and enjoying the view.

The square is especially beautiful around sunset, with a wide view of the Gulf of Salerno and the start of the Amalfi Coast.

Right next to the square is the Maritime Station (Stazione Marittima), a futuristic white building designed by famous architect Zaha Hadid.

Its unique shape makes it look like a seashell, and it’s one of the most interesting modern buildings in Salerno. Cruise ships and ferries arrive here, and during summer, you can take a boat from this port to places like Amalfi, Positano, or even Capri.

Even if you’re not taking a boat, this area is worth visiting for the sea breeze, spectacular views, and beautiful mix of old and new.

From here, it’s also easy to walk to Santa Teresa Beach, Villa Comunale, or just continue along the Lungomare Trieste promenade.

Dinner at Osteria Nonna Maria: a disappointing experience

I had dinner at Osteria Nonna Maria, but unfortunately, it was a big disappointment. The pasta was almost crunchy, which made the meal unpleasant.

I would advise you to avoid eating here, as there are many other much better places in town.

If you’re looking for a great alternative, I highly recommend Re Maurì, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Salerno. It offers refined cuisine with beautiful panoramic views of the Gulf of Salerno.

Α perfect choice for a special night out.

Additional activities if you have more than one day in Salerno

Visit Castello di Arechi

If you have some extra time in Salerno, don’t miss a visit to Castello di Arechi, a medieval fortress sitting high above the city.

It dates back to the 8th or 9th century and was expanded by Prince Arechi II, who moved the capital of the Lombard Duchy here from Benevento.

The castle was built for defensive purposes, and its position offers incredible panoramic views of Salerno, the port, and the Gulf of Salerno.

On a clear day, you can even see parts of the Amalfi Coast. It’s a great spot for anyone who enjoys photography, history, or just a quiet place with a view.

Inside the castle, there’s a small museum with medieval pottery, weapons, and other artifacts. It’s not very big, but it gives a good sense of the castle’s past. Tickets cost just a few euros, and guided tours are sometimes available.

You can reach the castle by car, bus, or even by foot, if you’re up for a bit of a climb. The walk is steep but scenic. It’s best to avoid it during the hottest part of the day.

Unfortunately, I didn’t have time to visit the castle myself. I arrived in Salerno just a few hours before I had to meet my group at the marina.

Our yacht trip along the Amalfi Coast was starting that evening, and the first day was all about meeting the skipper, getting groceries, and settling in. But if I ever return to Salerno, Castello di Arechi will definitely be at the top of my list.

Spend half a day in Vietri sul Mare

If you have a little extra time during your stay in Salerno, consider visiting Vietri sul Mare, a small town just a few minutes away and the official gateway to the Amalfi Coast.

Vietri is famous for its colorful ceramics, which you’ll see everywhere: on walls, shop signs, benches, and even church domes.

The town has a long tradition of handmade pottery. It’s the perfect place to buy unique souvenirs, like plates, mugs, or tiles painted in bright blues, yellows, and greens.

You can easily get there from Salerno by train, SITA bus, or even on foot if you’re up for a scenic walk (around 45 minutes). Once there, stroll through the narrow streets, explore the artisan shops, and enjoy a coffee in one of the cozy piazzas.

Don’t miss the Church of San Giovanni Battista with its beautiful tiled dome, and if it’s a warm day, take a walk down to Marina di Vietri, the town’s small beach.

I didn’t get the chance to visit myself this time, but it’s definitely on my list for the future. Whether you’re into art, shopping, or just want to experience another one of Campania’s charming coastal towns, Vietri sul Mare is a great place for a short escape. Full of color, tradition, and local flavor.

FAQs about Salerno

Is Salerno safe for a solo female traveler?

Yes, I found Salerno safe as a solo female traveler. As with any other popular destination, always be aware of your surroundings, especially when you’re visiting attractions with large crowds.

How to get cell phone data when visiting from abroad?

The cheapest and most convenient way to get data while visiting from abroad is to buy an eSIM. An eSIM is a digital SIM that lets you activate a data plan from a provider without having to use a physical SIM card. They are super easy to use.

I use Airalo. You can go to their website, select the country you’re traveling to, select how many GB of data you want, and how many days you want the eSIM to be active for. After you pay you will receive a confirmation email with instructions on how to activate the eSIM.

You can activate it on your phone in under 1 minute. Once the eSIM is activated you don’t have to do anything else. When you’re at your destination you will automatically get data.

What is the best time to travel to Salerno?

I visited in June. The best time to visit Salerno is from April to June or September to October. The weather is warm and sunny, but not too hot, and the city is less crowded than in the summer.

July and August are the hottest and busiest months, with lots of tourists and higher prices.

Winter (especially December) can also be nice, as Salerno is famous for its Christmas lights display called Luci d’Artista.

How can I get around Salerno?

Salerno is a small city, so it’s easy to walk around. Especially in the old town and along the sea. There are also local buses run by Busitalia that go to many places in and around the city. You can buy bus tickets at tobacco shops (tabacchi) or newsstands.

Taxis are available too, but they cost more, especially at night. If you want to visit other places like the Amalfi Coast, Capri, or Naples, you can take a train or a ferry from Salerno. Ferries are a great option in the summer.

You can also rent a car or scooter if you want more freedom, but parking in the city center can be difficult.

Do I need cash?

It’s always a good idea to carry some cash when you’re in Southern Italy. While most places accept cards, you can tip tour guides or buy souvenirs or something else from small mom-and-pop shops who don’t accept them.

Pro tip: always get cash from an ATM in the airport instead of going to an exchange place. Your bank will always have better exchange rates when taking out cash in a foreign currency from an ATM.

Do I need to tip in Salerno?

Tipping is not required, but I usually leave 1-2 euros when I eat out or go to a cafe. They highly appreciate it when you do this.

Do people speak English in Salerno?

Yes, people speak English everywhere in Salerno. I always try to speak in the local language when I travel. I usually learn a few words ahead of my trip. Every time Italians would figure out from my accent that I’m not a local they would immediately switch to English.

Do I need to book tickets for attractions in advance?

I highly recommend you book all the tickets online in advance of your trip. Salerno is a very popular destination. Most of the cruises to the Amalfi Coast start here. So it’s very likely that tickets will sell out. Especially if you visit during the summer months. Booking in advance will give you peace of mind.

What Italian words should I learn before my solo trip to Salerno?

This list is not comprehensive by any means, but it has some useful words for a trip to Italy.

• Ciao = hi / bye (informal greeting)
• Buongiorno = hello (only used during the day)
• Buona sera = good evening
• Buona notte = good night
• Grazie = thank you
• Prego = you’re welcome
• Si = yes
• No = no
• Per favore = please
• Parla Inglese? = Do you speak English?
• Mi dispiace = I don’t understand
• Posso pagare con la carta? = Can I pay by card?
• Il conto, per favore = The check (bill) please
• Dov’è il bagno? = Where’s the bathroom?

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