Salerno is a vibrant city with less tourist traffic compared to the Amalfi Coast villages, therefore Salerno is an excellent base for exploring the Amalfi Coast, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and accessibility. Unlike the more touristy Sorrento, Amalfi, and Positano, Salerno presents a vibrant city atmosphere where visitors can immerse themselves in authentic Italian life.

The city's rich historical tapestry includes stunning architecture, such as the impressive Norman cathedral, which reflects its ancient heritage, a restored medieval gardens of the famous Salerno medical school (the first in Europe as reported by old manuscripts). The winding streets of the old town are a delight to wander, revealing charming shops, local markets, and picturesque squares that invite exploration.

Discover your perfect stay in Salerno today! Explore a range of accommodations that blend comfort, charm, and stunning views of the beautiful Amalfi Coast.

Salerno's seafront is another highlight, featuring a lovely promenade adorned with palm trees and dotted with inviting cafes where you can savor delicious local cuisine. The absence of overwhelming crowds allows for a more relaxed dining experience, where you can enjoy specialties like fresh seafood and handmade pasta at reasonable prices.

Regarding the food, Salerno has all of the Amalfi Coast delights, from the famous Amalfi Coast limoncello to Neapolitan pizza and Buffalo Mozzarella, but the culinary specialities are the fresh seafood and pasta. It's really easy to find a seaside restaurant where to enjoy local delights and wines of the region, and it doesn’t cost an arm and leg, like it does in the other places.

Moreover, Salerno’s strategic location makes it an ideal starting point for day trips to nearby attractions, including the enchanting island of Capri, the breathtaking Path of the Gods hiking trail, and historic sites like Pompeii and Herculaneum. With frequent ferry and train connections, you can easily venture out to discover the stunning landscapes and rich history of the region.

For travelers seeking an authentic experience away from the hustle and bustle of more tourist-driven towns, Salerno is the perfect choice, offering both charm and convenience.

The ferries from Salerno offer regular service along the stunning Amalfi Coast, connecting you to Amalfi, Positano, and other charming villages, as well as to Capri. With a travel time of just 30 minutes to Amalfi and 1 hour and 15 minutes to Positano, it's an efficient way to explore the region. For schedules, check the Amalfi Coast ferry timetable. Note that ferry frequency increases from April to October.

One major advantage of using Salerno as your base over Sorrento is the ability to avoid heavy tourist traffic. Many visitors typically begin their day in Naples or Sorrento, taking buses south toward Amalfi and creating large crowds in the afternoon. From Salerno, you can easily hop on a ferry in the morning to enjoy breathtaking coastal views and pleasant breezes. In the late afternoon, you’ll return to Salerno while the crowds struggle to find buses heading back to Sorrento.

Salerno is also conveniently located near major destinations: Naples is only 40 minutes away by train, while Pompeii's ruins can be reached in 45 minutes. The ancient Greek temples of Paestum are just an hour away, and high-speed trains can take you to Rome in less than two hours without any transfers. Salerno's strategic location not only makes it easy to get in and out but also saves you valuable time when traveling to other Italian cities like Florence, Bologna, Milan, and Venice.

Not at all! Staying in Salerno immerses you in a vibrant Italian atmosphere, offering a more authentic experience compared to tourist-heavy spots. While it may lack the romantic beach evenings found in Amalfi or Positano, Salerno provides stunning nighttime panoramas of the Amalfi Coast. Enjoy the lively ambiance and rich local culture while still relishing breathtaking views of the sea and mountains.