Making the most of Salerno
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
The port is a fairly attractive place to berth, at the town's far western end. Downtown is a 10-minute walk away.
View the webcam.
Bring a printable map.
Salerno is a Campanian town in south-western Italy and capital of the province bearing the same name. It stands on its namesake gulf beside the Tyrrhenian Sea. Salerno is the principal town of the Costiera Amalfitana, the “Amalfi Coast” on the Tyrrhenian that includes famous Amalfi, Positano and other towns. It is best known for the Schola Medica Salernitana, the world's first University of Medicine.
Salerno Cathedral (Duomo): visit this beautiful cathedral for its medieval architecture and impressive interior.
Getting around
After berthing in Salerno, the town centre near Villa Comunale and its beautiful botanical gardens is within walking distance. Follow the attractive seafront promenade to Piazza Concordia, where you can take a ferry along the coast to Amalfi. The return fare is about 8 euros, and the views are spectacular.
Bring swimming equipment because an excellent public beach is very close to the harbour.
Some ferries depart directly from Manfredi Cruise Dock, particularly when a cruise vessel is in port. Before passing the port gates, ask at the Stella Maris Seafarer's Center for current information and tickets. This may save a long walk or bus journey to Concordia Pier.
Take the ferry to Amalfi in 35 minutes for 8 Euro one way; the journey is spectacular. Once there, walk around this lively but expensive town. The return bus to Salerno leaves beside the ferry dock, and the waterfront SITA office sells tickets for 2.20 Euro. Sit on the bus's right-hand side for one of the most spectacular rides of your life, lasting approximately 1 hour. The bus stops very near the terminal.
Food and shopping
Although the port itself is not especially attractive, conditions improve on the promenade. The Historic Old Town is also worth visiting: in recent years it has recovered from being virtually a no-go area to become one of the best-preserved historic town centres, filled with tiny passageways and hidden corners.
Money
The currency is Euro.
Staying connected
Italian is the language.
For emergencies, call 112.
Many town cafés provide Wi-Fi hotspots.
Opening Hours and
Opening hours and holidays: most Italian shops and businesses trade Monday to Saturday from around 8am to 1pm, then about 4pm to 7pm. Many close on Saturday afternoon and Monday morning, while in the south the day may start and finish an hour later. In the north, some businesses use a 9am-5pm schedule to support international dealings. Traditionally, everything apart from bars and restaurants closes on Sunday, though most towns have a pasticceria open in the morning and Sunday trading is becoming more common in large cities and visitor areas.