Last updated on April 16, 2023 by Wandering our World
Are you dreaming of exploring the enchanting coastline of southern Italy but torn between these two stunning seaside cities? Naples and Salerno both offer a tantalizing taste of Italian culture, history, and beauty. But how do you choose between them?
Naples, the birthplace of pizza, exudes a lively atmosphere and boasts an impressive collection of architectural and cultural landmarks.
Explore the UNESCO-listed historic center, the Royal Palace of Naples, and the National Archaeological Museum, and refuel at the end of the day with the world-famous Neapolitan pizza. With lively street markets and sun-kissed nearby beaches, there’s plenty to keep you entertained on your vacation.
Salerno provides a perfect blend of stunning scenery, superb beaches, and mouth-watering Mediterranean cuisine.
This town is much smaller than Naples and is known for its long stretches of pristine beaches, colorful architecture, and historic landmarks like the Salerno Cathedral and the Castello di Arechi. You can explore the charming Old Town, indulge in the fresh seafood washed down with local wine, and take day trips to explore nearby attractions like the Amalfi Coast and the ancient city of Pompeii.
Ultimately both cities are located within the Campania region of south-west Italy, and both can provide a stunning setting for your next vacation.
But that’s where we can help!
Right here we take a closer look at these two seaside cities to see which has the best beaches, culture, food, the best sights, activities and more. All so you can make the right decision!
CONTENTS:
- Which Is Best For Culture?
- Which Is Best For Day Trips?
- Which Is Better For Nightlife?
- Which Is Better For Beaches?
- Which Is Better For Families?
- Which Is Cheaper?
- Where To Stay According To Your Budget
- What Time Of Year Is Best?
- Which Is Easier To Get To?
- Which Is The Better Choice?
Which Is Best For Culture?
When it comes to culture, both Naples and Salerno have plenty to offer, with their unique attractions that cater to different interests.
Naples is a city with a rich history and a cultural heritage that spans over 2000 years.
It boasts a plethora of historical and cultural landmarks, from the grandiose Castel dell’Ovo, a seaside castle that dates back to the 12th century and offers stunning views of the Bay of Naples, to the beautiful Royal Palace of Naples, a 17th-century palace that was once home to the Bourbon kings of Naples.
Salerno, on the other hand, is renowned for its art and architecture.
The city’s histprical center is a marvel of medieval design, with its narrow streets and ancient buildings evoking a sense of the past that is hard to come by in today’s more modern cities.
The Salerno Cathedral is a stunning display of Romanesque design. The church was built in the 11th century and is dedicated to St. Matthew, the patron saint of the city. The city is also home to numerous churches and palaces that are perfect examples of medieval architecture.
Salerno is also home to many museums and galleries, including the Museo Archeologico Provinciale di Salerno, which houses a collection of artifacts from the Roman and Greek eras.
Naples is also home to numerous churches, chapels, and monasteries that are exquisite examples of Baroque and Renaissance architecture.
The Naples National Archaeological Museum, one of the most important museums of ancient art in the world, is a must-visit for history buffs. The museum houses a vast collection of ancient artifacts, including mosaics, sculptures, and frescoes from Pompeii and Herculaneum.
All in all, we would say larger Naples has more cultural offerings than Salerno and will keep anyone interested for days!
Which Is Best For Day Trips?
Naples and Salerno are a little over fifty kilometers apart, and as a result, many of the nearby attractions are equally accessible from either city.
Pompeii, for example, is an ancient city that was buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, and it is one of the most popular day trip destinations in the area.
Pompeii is equally easy to reach from either Naples or Salerno, and visitors can explore the ruins of the ancient city and learn about life in ancient times.
Another popular day trip option from both Naples and Salerno is visiting the beaches of the Amalfi Coast, including the picturesque town of Positano and the charming town of Amalfi.
With its crystal-clear waters and breath-taking views, the Amalfi Coast is famous for its beaches, which are among the most beautiful in the world. Visitors can take buses or boats to reach these towns, where they can enjoy a day of swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the charming coastal towns.
The island of Capri is also a popular day trip from either city, with frequent ferries heading to the island famed for its stunning views, famous Blue Grotto, and celebrity sightings.
Naples is known for its proximity to one of Italy’s other famous attractions, Mount Vesuvius.
Easily accessible by bus or car, Mount Vesuvius, the famous volcano that destroyed the ancient Roman city of Pompeii in 79 AD, is just a short distance from the city.
Visitors can hike to the summit and enjoy stunning views of the Bay of Naples, or continue south to Pompeii to learn about the daily lives of the people who lived there before the eruption.
Salerno offers a slightly different type of day trip experience. The nearby Cilento National Park, to the south, offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife watching amid stunning natural settings, while the town of Paestum boasts some of the best-preserved Greek temples in Italy.
For those who love to explore medieval towns, the charming town of Ravello is just a short distance away, on the way to Amalfi, and is famous for its beautiful gardens and historic buildings.
Both Naples and Salerno offer excellent transportation options for day trips.
From Naples, there are regular buses and trains that run to destinations throughout the region, while Salerno is well-connected by train to many of the nearby towns and attractions. And if you do get stuck for day trip ideas, remember you can day trip to Naples from Salerno and vice versa!
Which Is Better For Nightlife & Dining Out?
When it comes to nightlife and dining out, both Naples and Salerno have plenty to offer once the sun has set – but Naples will still likely be the better choice.
Naples is known for its vibrant bar scene, with many of the best bars located in the historic center.
From classic Italian wine bars to trendy cocktail lounges, there’s something for everyone. Many bars stay open late into the night, so you can enjoy a relaxing drink or two after dinner.
Salerno also has a great bar scene, but it’s more laid-back than Naples. You’ll find plenty of cozy bars where you can relax with a glass of wine or a cocktail, and chat with the locals.
The bars in Salerno tend to close a bit earlier than in Naples, so keep that in mind if you’re looking for a late night out.
Both Naples and Salerno are known for their delicious food, so it’s no surprise that their restaurant scenes are excellent.
Naples is famous for its pizza – it was invented in the city! – and you’ll find some of the best pizzerias in the world here. But there’s more to Neapolitan cuisine than pizza – you can also enjoy fresh seafood, pasta, and other local specialties at the city’s myriad restaurants.
Salerno’s restaurant scene is a bit more low-key than Naples, but no less delicious. The city’s restaurants serve up traditional Campanian dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. You’ll find plenty of seafood, as well as pasta, pizza, and meat dishes.
And if you’re looking for a night of dancing and partying, Naples is the place to be. The city has a thriving club scene, with something for everyone. From large, flashy clubs to small, intimate venues, you’ll find it all in Naples. The clubs tend to get going late, so be prepared for a long night.
While Naples has a more vibrant and bustling nightlife scene compared to Salerno, Salerno still offers a variety of options for those looking for a night out.
You’ll find a mix of large and small clubs, playing everything from mainstream hits to underground beats. The clubs tend to be a bit smaller than in Naples, but you can still have a great night out in Salerno.
Overall, both Naples and Salerno have great nightlife scenes, but they offer different experiences. Naples is livelier and more bustling, with a wider variety of bars and clubs. Salerno is more laid-back, with cozy bars and great restaurants.
Which Is Better For Beaches?
As coastal cities, you can rest assured that both Naples and Salerno have good beach access.
Both have beaches close to the city centers, and both have a number of other superb beaches that are only a short distance away.
So to help you decide which has the best beaches for you, here’s a quick rundown of the top ones in each destination:
The Best Beaches In Naples
Gaiola Beach is part of the Parco Sommerso Della Gaiola, a protected national marine park, and its free entry makes it a popular choice.
The park is divided into two zones: Zone A is a protected nature preserve, and Zone B is limited to 100 visitors a day.
With its popularity and limited access, you should hit the beach early to beat the crowds and take a mask and snorkel to enjoy the calm and clear waters.
Bagno Elena Beach is conveniently located in the heart of the Bay of Naples and is a great beach for families and children that offers views of Mount Vesuvius in the distance.
Located next to the historic Palazzo Donn’Anna, the center of the beach is dotted with comfortable sunbeds, while the two side beaches are ideal for families thanks to shallow, calm waters and more shade.
Rocce Verdi Beach sits at the western end of the Bay of Naples and is a great beach for those looking for some activities or to get the party started.
The green-hued rocks give the beach its name, and despite the entrance fee, the beach remains a popular choice.
Laze on the sun loungers, enjoy the clear waters, or head to the top of the cliffs, where you can dive into one of two large saltwater pools overlooking the bay.
The Best Beaches in Salerno
Maiori Beach is located about ten kilometers from the center of Salerno and covers a fairly large area with free access for all. In addition to swimming and sunbathing, you can also take part in other activities, with beach volleyball and jet skiing being popular choices.
The beach has good amenities, especially close to the resorts, with loungers and umbrellas, beach restaurants, changing rooms, showers, and toilets all on hand.
Salerno Beach boasts a central location, golden sand, and free access. The calm water and soft sand make it a great choice for families, and with beach clubs and restaurants close by, there are plenty of food options.
Beach volleyball and jet skis are also available, and during the peak season, there is a lifeguard on duty.
Lago Beach lies to the south of the city, and its soft golden sand is much less crowded than the more central beaches.
The Lido Lago Beach Club is a good place for a spot of lunch, and they have sun loungers and three swimming pools, including a kids’ pool. The beach in front of the club is well maintained, and there is parking at the club for a small fee too.
Which Is Better For Families?
Naples and Salerno offer plenty of family-friendly attractions and activities that will keep both kids and adults entertained.
In Naples, families can explore the famous Naples National Archaeological Museum, where they can see ancient artifacts and mosaics.
Another popular attraction for families is the Citta della Scienza (City of Science), a science museum with interactive exhibits that will fascinate children and adults alike.
Salerno is also a great destination for families. Kids will love exploring the Castello di Arechi, a castle that overlooks the city and provides stunning views of the Bay of Salerno.
The Museo Didattico della Scuola Medica Salernitana (Educational Museum of the Salernitan Medical School) is another family-friendly attraction, which displays medical instruments used in ancient times.
Both Naples and Salerno have parks and green spaces where families can relax and enjoy the outdoors. The Parco Virgiliano in Naples offers stunning views of the Bay of Naples, while the Giardino della Minerva in Salerno has a botanical garden with over 300 species of plants.
And from either city, you can also plan a day out at a nearby water park.
From Naples, one of the most popular is the Aquafarm Water Park, located about 30 minutes from the city. It features a range of water slides, a lazy river, and several swimming pools. There is also a small farm on site where visitors can see animals like goats, rabbits, and pigs.
From Salerno, the Magic World Water Park is located about 20 minutes away. This park features a variety of water rides and slides, including a wave pool and a giant water slide. There are also several amusement park rides and games to keep the kids entertained.
When it comes to family-friendly accommodation, both Naples and Salerno offer a range of options to suit different budgets and needs.
From hotels with kid-friendly amenities to serviced apartments and holiday homes, families are sure to find a comfortable and convenient place to stay.
Which Is Cheaper?
When planning your trip to Naples or Salerno, one of the most important factors to consider is the cost. While both cities offer a range of options for travelers on a budget, there are also plenty of opportunities to splurge and indulge in a little luxury.
When it comes to accommodation costs, both cities offer a range of options to suit different budgets.
In Naples, you can find everything from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels, while Salerno offers a mix of affordable guesthouses and high-end resorts. However overall, Naples tends to be slightly more expensive than Salerno, especially in the city center.
Food and drink prices are also relatively affordable in both Naples and Salerno, with plenty of local eateries and markets offering delicious and inexpensive options.
However, if you’re looking for fine dining or upscale bars, Naples may be the better choice. Salerno is more known for its local, authentic cuisine and rustic wine bars, while Naples has a broader range of high-end restaurants and cocktail bars.
Overall, both Naples and Salerno offer a range of options for travelers on a budget, but Naples tends to be slightly more expensive overall.
That said, with careful planning and budgeting, you can enjoy a fantastic trip to either city without breaking the bank.
Where To Stay According To Your Budget
Naples
Budget: Set in a wonderful location within walking distance of many attractions, Relais Della Porta is a great accommodation with classy furnishing and great service. It’s surprisingly affordable for a four-star hotel too. See photos and rates!
Luxury: Situated right on the sea, staying at the five-star Grand Hotel Vesuvio will bring you gorgeous views across the Gulf of Naples towards Capri and Mount Vesuvius. From the swimming pools (plural!) through to the service, it’s easy to see why this is regarded as one of Italy’s best hotels. See photos and rates!
Salerno
Budget: For beach lovers on a budget, Cas’ A Mare – Beachfront Luxury Suites are well-priced suites close to the beach with great sea views. They’re well worth checking out. See photos and rates!
Luxury: Set in the old town, Suite Prestige Salerno is a wonderful accommodation with a huge terrace offering fantastic city and sea views. There’s a reason this place is usually booked up well in advance. See photos and rates!
What Time Of Year Is Best?
Naples and Salerno are both popular year-round destinations, but the best time to visit depends on what you are planning to do and see once there.
The weather in both cities is generally mild and sunny from April to June and from September to October, making it a great time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
However, July and August can be quite hot and crowded, while the winter months from November to March can be chilly and a little wetter.
Peak tourist season in both cities is during the summer months when tourists flock to the beaches and attractions, making it more expensive and crowded.
For those looking to avoid the crowds, the best time to visit would be during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn when the weather is a little cooler, and prices for flights, accommodation, and attractions are more affordable.
If you’re interested in attending cultural events and festivals, it’s worth planning your trip around these. Naples has many events throughout the year, including the world-famous pizza festival in September, while Salerno hosts its renowned lights festival during the winter holiday season.
Which Is Easier To Get To?
Embarking on a journey to a new destination is always exciting, but figuring out the logistics can be a bit of a headache. Luckily, getting to either Naples or Salerno is a breeze, especially for those traveling from within Europe.
If you’re flying into the region, Naples-Capodichino International Airport (NAP) is the main point of entry for the area, with flights from most major European cities arriving regularly. From there, it’s just a quick ride to the city center by taxi, shuttle bus, or train.
If you’re traveling from farther afield, you can also source flights into Naples from the Middle East and a few north African cities, and there is also a direct service from New York City.
If heading to Salerno, the city’s airport, Salerno-Costa d’Amalfi Airport (QSR), also affords easy access into the city, but it is a very small airport and it is currently closed for commercial flights. It’s scheduled to reopen in 2024.
Getting to Salerno is still relatively easy, though. The distance between Naples and Salerno is pretty short, with the drive from Naples’ airport to Salerno taking under an hour.
While it may be a little easier to reach Naples, once you do reach your destination of choice, getting around either city will be nice and easy.
As major cities, Naples and Salerno both have excellent public transportation options.
Naples has a comprehensive metro system, buses, trams, and funiculars, while Salerno has a reliable bus network that connects the city with its suburbs and nearby towns. Both cities also offer plenty of taxis.
Naples vs Salerno: Which Is The Better Choice?
Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience, a beach vacation, or a night out on the town, both Naples and Salerno have something to offer.
Naples boasts a vibrant atmosphere with a plethora of historical landmarks, museums, and lively nightlife.
Meanwhile, Salerno offers a quieter and more laid-back setting, perfect for those seeking a relaxing beach vacation with family-friendly attractions.
With easy access to nearby attractions, including the infamous Mount Vesuvius and the ancient ruins of Pompeii, and convenient transportation options, both Naples and Salerno offer a unique and unforgettable travel experience.
Whether you choose to explore the vibrant streets of Naples or relax on the picturesque beaches of Salerno, you’re sure to find plenty of adventure and beauty in this charming corner of southern Italy.
