If you have just 24 hours to visit Salerno, we will guide you through an itinerary that will allow you to discover the main attractions, savor the local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the culture of this charming city in southern Italy, the gateway to the Amalfi Coast.

Start your day by immersing yourself in the atmosphere of the Historic Center of Salerno, one of the city's oldest and most charming neighborhoods, characterized by narrow alleys, artisan shops, and historic monuments—a true small labyrinth of medieval streets filled with history and charm. Here you will find:

Your first stop should be the Catedral, dedicated to Saint Matthew, the patron saint of the city in Piazza Alfano I. Built in 1084, the cathedral is an example of Norman architecture with later Baroque influences. Don’t miss the crypt, a decorative masterpiece that holds the relics of the apostle Matthew. Also admire the portal, adorned with the famous "lions" that guard the main entrance. To learn more about the Cathedral of Salerno:

Continue your morning with a stroll through the Giardini della Minerva, a magnificent botanical garden dating back to the 12th century. It belonged to the family of Matteo Silvatico, a prominent physician of the Medical School of Salerno, and an expert in plants used for medicinal production. The Giardino della Minerva is believed to be the first botanical garden in Europe for the cultivation of plants for medicinal purposes. Here, you will find medicinal plants used by medieval doctors and a breathtaking view of the city and the sea.

Continuing along one of Salerno's main shopping streets, Via dei Mercanti, a charming and ancient road that traverses the entire old town, you can reach the Pinacoteca Provinciale di Salerno, located in the historic Palazzo Pinto from the 17th century, which was the noble residence of one of the most important families in Salerno. The Provincial Gallery houses a rich collection of artworks ranging from the Renaissance to the contemporary period. Admire paintings by local masters such as Andrea Sabatini and other artists from the Neapolitan school, for a journey through the history of Campanian art. The gallery is a must for art lovers who wish to discover the artistic roots of the region.

TIP: You might take advantage of the proximity to the Virtual Museum of the Medical School of Salerno for a visit.

At this point, you must be feeling hungry, so it's time to savor the typical flavors of Salerno cuisine.

• Scialatielli with seafood: If you find yourself in a restaurant along the seafront or near the historic center, try this dish of fresh pasta typical of the Amalfi Coast. The scialatielli, a thick and short pasta, is served with a selection of fresh seafood caught in the Gulf of Salerno. The aroma of the sea and the bold taste of local ingredients will make your lunch a memorable experience.

• Neapolitan pizza: In Salerno, as in Naples, pizza is serious business. Order a Margherita pizza or a Marinara at a traditional pizzeria, made with naturally leavened dough and baked in a wood-fired oven.

After lunch, continue your itinerary by exploring more historical gems in Salerno.

Perched on a hill about 300 meters above sea level, the Arechi Castle dates back to the Lombard period and offers breathtaking views of the city, the gulf, and, on clearer days, as far as the Amalfi Coast. The castle, originally a fortification, was expanded over the centuries, becoming a true defensive stronghold. Inside, visit the small museum that displays medieval artifacts, coins, and ceramics found during excavations.

FUN FACT: A tragedy by Ugo Foscolo, "Ricciarda," is set within Arechi Castle.

To reach the Arechi Castle from the Salerno train station, you have several options. Here’s a guide on how to get there:

1. By Bus (Most Economical Option)

   • Bus Line 19: from the Central Station.

   • Drop-off Stop: "Castello di Arechi"

   • Duration: About 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

2. By Taxi (Most Convenient Option) You can take a taxi directly from Salerno station to Arechi Castle.

   • Duration: About 10-15 minutes.

   • Cost: Around 15-20 euros, depending on traffic and time taken.

Not far from the historic center, you can admire the ancient Medieval Aqueduct, also known as the "Devil's Bridges." Built in the 9th century to bring water to the monasteries of San Benedetto and San Lorenzo, the aqueduct is an impressive example of medieval engineering, with its majestic arches spanning the city. Legend has it that the aqueduct was constructed by Pietro Barliario in a single night with the help of the devil, which gave it its popular name. Local superstition claims that venturing beneath the arches between sunset and dawn would lead to encounters with demons or evil spirits.

After exploring the historical attractions, indulge in some shopping along Via dei Mercanti, the oldest shopping street in the city. Here, you will find local craft shops, fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, and typical Salerno products. It's the perfect place to buy souvenirs or simply enjoy a stroll among the shop windows.

The evening in Salerno offers the opportunity to relax with a stroll and admire the modern architecture of the city.

Continue your walk to the Maritime Station, a building designed by the starchitect Zaha Hadid, distinguished by its fluid shape resembling a shell. The structure, a symbol of modernity and openness to the sea, is used for cruises and ferries and offers a unique panorama of the port and the Gulf of Salerno.

Finally, stop by the Crescent, a semicircular building complex overlooking the largest seaside square in Europe, Piazza della Libertà. Designed by architect Riccardo Bofill, this modern structure has become one of the symbols of contemporary architecture in Salerno, and at night, it is beautifully illuminated. From the Crescent area, you can admire the port and enjoy a panoramic view of the promenade and the sea, making this area one of the most fascinating in the city.

After enjoying a fresh fish dinner at a restaurant along the streets of the city center, take a pleasant final stroll along the Lungomare Trieste. The promenade is beautifully lit in the evening, creating a romantic atmosphere, perfect for ending the day with the sound of waves and the view of the sea. Here, the waterfront benches offer breathtaking views of the Gulf of Salerno and the Amalfi Coast, making it the perfect place to relax after a busy day.

Ending the day with an evening stroll along the Lungomare, visiting the Stazione Marittima and the Crescent will allow you to admire both the historical and contemporary architecture of Salerno. Even in just one day, this city will offer you an unforgettable experience, thanks to its blend of history, culture, and modernity.