Having lived in the southern Italian region of Campania for two years, I had the chance to visit many towns both on and off the coastline. The region is often glossed over by prospective travelers in favor of northern cities like Florence, Venice, and Rome. But I don’t think any trip to the Mediterranean would be complete without spending a week — if not a few — in southern Italy. I hope you visit my favorite places (COVID permitting) and enjoy some snaps from my camera roll.
Naples
A view of Mt. Vesuvius and Naples from above the city
Naples is said to be the most misunderstood city in all of Italy. For the last century, tourists have avoided it like the plague because it’s home to the region’s mafia, the Gomorra. It’s only within the last few years that the city has seen an influx of local and international tourism.
Little did they know that they were missing out on one of the most romantic destinations in Europe. The densely populated city, located at the base of the infamous Mt. Vesuvius, is packed full of hidden treasures. Down every narrow cobblestone alleyway in the historic center is an opportunity to discover an authentic trattoria, an ancient church, or an impressive art museum.
There is just something about Naples that makes you want to come back. When I first visited on a whim in summer of 2019, I promised myself that I would return – and just a couple of months later I was back again – this time, to stay.
If you find yourself in Naples, visit Di Matteo’s to taste the locals’ favorite pizza. Here, you can also try fried pizza. It is as tantalizingly delicious as it sounds.
Salerno
A view of Salerno’s lovely Lungomare
My heart has a soft spot for Salerno, a town located right on the sea, a quick train ride from Naples. If Naples is a badass punk rock chick, Salerno is her straight-laced little sister. It’s a great place to get away from the chaos, do some shopping on Via Mercanti and take a stroll down the breathtakingly picturesque lungomare (boardwalk) while you enjoy a nice, cold aperol spritz.
Hot tip – Salerno is also a great (and slightly cheaper) place to stay if you want to tour the Amalfi Coast because it’s only 15-30 minutes away on a scooter!
Cetara
Walking through the middle of town in Cetara
Cetara is one of my favorite little beach towns on the coast. It’s not as famous as neighboring Amalfi or Maiori, but just as good for a glass of wine or a day on the beach. They are famous for their colatura di alici, which are kind of like canned sardines, but 10 times better. Makes sure to pick up a little jar to take with you and make some delicious pasta for dinner.
Matera
A view of Matera’s central historic district
I’m so glad that me and my partner decided to make the trip east to Matera. For a history buff, this town is mecca. Most of the buildings are thousands of years old and have been kept in pristine condition. It’s an ethereal experience to take a walk here at night and gaze at all the ancient structures illuminated by the soft light of the stars. You almost feel like you could have traveled back in time to Jesus’s era. Speaking of which, the movie The Passion of the Christ was actually filmed here!
Erchie
In Erchie, you can rent kayaks and explore the coastline
If you’re looking for a place to chill for a beach day on the Amalfi Coast, Erchie is our go-to spot. When I first visited, I was absolutely blown away by the beautiful views. Once you find parking on the street above, you have to climb down a hill to reach the water, which feels like descending into heaven as you walk through the Mediterranean jungle. At the bottom, you have two small beaches to choose from. At one of them, you can rent kayaks and explore the coastline. (There are some tiny, water-access only beaches to be found!) And no need to bring beer and sandwiches – there are stores and bars that have you covered at the bottom of the hill.