Cilento on-the-road: what to see between the coast and the inland
A land of authentic beauty, where sea, history and nature coexist in perfect harmony: Cilento is the ideal destination for those who love road trips through unspoiled landscapes and genuine flavors. From hidden coves to roads winding through timeless villages, here is the perfect itinerary to explore Cilento on-the-road, starting from Salerno.
From Salerno to the heart of Cilento
The ideal starting point is Salerno, a city with medieval charm and excellent connections to the main road networks. Before setting off, it's worth visiting the historic center, the Cathedral of San Matteo and the panoramic Arechi Castle, followed by a relaxing stroll along the Trieste seafront.
Leaving the city, the journey continues along roads crossing the Monti Picentini, passing through villages like Castel San Lorenzo and Roccadaspide perfect stops to enjoy nature, history and tastings of local wines such as Aglianico and Fiano. Further south, the Piana del Sele is well-known for its buffalo mozzarella production: a recommended stop for a delicious break in one of the many dairies in the area.
Between archaeology and natural landscapes
Paestum is one of the most fascinating cultural stops. The archaeological site preserves perfectly intact Greek temples, including those dedicated to Hera and Poseidon, along with a museum full of ancient artifacts. Ideal for those who love to combine history with breathtaking views.
Continuing inland, you’ll cross the Valle del Tanagro and the Vallo di Diano perfect destinations for nature lovers and hikers. From here, it's easy to reach the Padula Charterhouse, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest monasteries in Europe.
Towards Potenza, between history and Lucanian flavors
The itinerary can end in Potenza, in Basilicata, about two hours from Salerno. The medieval historic center, the castle, and the characteristic cobblestone streets offer a final stop full of atmosphere. To wrap up the trip with flavor, we recommend a traditional Lucanian dinner: try strascinati pasta with crunchy peppers.
Best time to go and how to get around
Spring and early autumn are the ideal seasons to visit Cilento, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Traveling by car allows you to explore even the less touristy areas at your own pace
To plan your trip, you can rely on our offices in Salerno, Naples or Potenza: the best way to start discovering Cilento with the car that best suits your needs.
