Car Hire Salerno - Mini guide to Salerno

Salerno, one of the most beautiful cities in the south of Italy, is situated along the inlet of the Tyrrenian Sea on the Gulf of Salerno. It is bordered by Punta Campanella, the extreme point of the Peninsula of Sorrento, and Punta Licosa, the most western point of Cilento. Cultured and refined, the old city is a web of alleyways and grand palaces.

The Cathedral, known as 'Duomo', is the pride of the city (built c.1085) and is dedicated to the patron saint St Matthew. On the right side of Duomo atrium you can see 12th century bell-tower. Also of interest is the medieval aqueduct, built in the 9th century and later reinforced by the Normans around 1000.

A delightful way to spend time is with a walk along the pleasant streets to see the elegant shops and quiet cafes. Via Dei Mercanti, the old artery of commerce, is crossed by Via Del Duomo where, situated on the right side, is the magnificent Church of St George and adjacent is the cathedral.

There is an abundance of restaurants in town, but an ideal place for a snack and a drink is down on the promenade Lungomare Trieste. Adorned with palms, it is a beautiful spot to admire the Gulf of Salerno and the Amalfi Coast.

The Amalfitan Coast, one of the most famous tourist attractions in the south of Italy, is easily accessible from Salerno. The town is fortunately located centrally to a host of resort towns and some of Europe’s finest beaches, Ravello being the most laudable.

The best way to get to Salerno is to come from Naples. The south’s main airport is Capodichino Airport, about 8kms (5mi) northeast of Naples city centre. From there you can drive south down the A40 directly to Salerno.