Best Things to Do in Vietri Sul Mare
Vietri sul Mare is a charming town located in the province of Salerno. It is the first town you can reach on the Amalfi Coast from Salerno and it is the only town on the coastline that is easy to reach since there is an exit from the A3 highway Napoli – Salerno that leads directly into town. Vietri sul Mare is known for its ceramic tradition, hosting a variety of artifacts in different colors and shapes. There are many things to do in Vietri Sul Mare on a visit there, from admiring the landmarks to visiting its stunning beaches amongst other unique things.
How to Get To Minori and Maiori
Vietri sul Mare by Train
The most efficient way to Vietri sul Mare could be by taking the train. There are train stations from Naples, Rome, and Salerno. From Naples, the route lasts about one hour and costs less than 5 euros, while it usually requires a change at Salerno. Likewise, from Rome, the route lasts a little less than two hours and a change in Salerno is required. If you want to reach Vietri sul Mare directly from Salerno, the quickest way is by train lasting only 8 minutes and tickets cost between 1 euro and 3 euros.
Vietri sul Mare by Ferry
Another way to reach this town could be by using a ferry. Many towns on the Amalfi Coast provide ferry routes and allow you to navigate between them while you can admire the view from the surroundings and enjoy the coast. The journey from Naples lasts one hour and 10 minutes approximately and the ticket is about 30 euros. Other towns last less than half an hour from Vietri sul Mare such as Minori, Maiori, Cetara, and Salerno. Note that most of the ferry companies operate during summer and if you are considering visiting the town then, it is advisable to book your ticket in advance.
Vietri sul Mare By Car
A more convenient way could be to rent a car or take a taxi, where you will be more comfortable and reach the town by admiring an equally stunning view. From Naples, you can take the Autostrada del Mediterraneo and head towards Salerno which leads you directly to the town. The whole route is toll-free, is about 50 km, and takes 40 minutes to be completed. Keep in mind that the time depends on the traffic that you might encounter as well as the season that you choose to travel.
Rent a Car Amalfi Coast
The best way to experience the Amalfi Coast is to rent your own car! Driving there has its challenges but it is a unique experience. We recommend booking well in advance using price comparison sites like rental cars if traveling in the peak summer season.
Where to park in Vietri Sul Mare
There are many options for parking in Vietri sul Mare, from public to private. A convenient choice would be to park in Piazza Matteotti which is near the center of the town right next to Corso Umberto, the main street in Vietri sul Mare’s town center. The cost there is low but the space is a bit limited, thus keep in mind to arrive early.
Parcheggio Campo Sportivo is another area where you can park. It is placed near the sports field and the train station, providing easy access to those who want to attend events or explore the town.
Alternatively, Ekós – Garage & Rent is a nice choice of parking with excellent customer service that provides secure parking for your vehicle and car rentals to explore the surroundings.
There are also some parking spots on the streets marked with blue color that allow you to park your car, but they are limited while spots marked with white color are only for the residents. You can read more about driving in Italy in our ultimate guide on driving in Italy.
Things to Do in Vietri Sul Mare
Explore the ceramic shops along Corso Umberto I
Corso Umberto is the main street of Vietri sul Mare, with various shops and workshops, including ceramic ones. A walk on this street is enough to quickly check the colorful ceramics that showcase the region’s tradition.
The ceramic history dates back to the 9th century when Etruscans used it for practical purposes while ceramic production evolved into decorative ones. Visit shops that sell colorful items such as plates, vases, tiles, and decorative objects. You can also visit a workshop and participate in creating and decorating a ceramic item with the guidance of a master.
Stroll through the picturesque streets and alleys
A perfect way to explore the town is to stroll in its charming streets and alleys, where you will find many hidden gems and buildings with wonderful architecture. Corso Umberto I is the main street of the town, located near the center, with a lot of shops that sell traditional items to locals.
Via Giuseppe Mazzini is another popular road that leads to the center of Vietri sul Mare. This street has shops and colorful residents featuring roofs with majolica tiles.
Via Nuova Marina is another option. A street that is parallel to the coast but also has colorful buildings decorated with tiled roofs and flowers on their balconies.
Relax on the beaches
On a visit to Vietri sul Mare, you cannot miss to visit its beaches. Spiaggia della Crestarella is near the center of the town, making it easily accessible. It has blue, clear waters, and the beach has sand and pebbles. You will find a beach bar offering sunbeds and umbrellas but there is also a public space where you can leave your towel for free. While you are there, you can swim and snorkel in the crystal waters but also dine in the nearby restaurants.
Another popular option is Marina di Vitri which is the main beach of the town and is easily accessible. It is a larger sandy beach with clear waters. It is mostly preferred by families and visitors who prefer more space. You will also find many cafeterias and restaurants to relax after a long day in the sun.
Visit the Church of San Giovanni Battista
The cathedral is near the center of the town at the highest point of it, having a great view of the surroundings. It was built in the 10th century and is dedicated to San Giovanni Battista. It has amazing architecture with a tiled dome in blue, green, and yellow colors that make it stand out from the rest of the town. On the inside, you will find many baroque elements that were added after many renovations. A must-see element is the marble altar that represents the Madonna del Latte and the ceiling that contains many golden details.
The church is open daily to the public. Please note to dress modestly and be quiet to maintain a peaceful vibe.
Enjoy panoramic views of the town from the Villa Comunale Park
Villa Comunale is a place with a stunning viewpoint for photography or just for admiring the view of the town, the Amalfi Coast, and the sea. The villa itself is a true gem featuring various colorful tiles and ceramic elements. You can visit the park for a walk along the paths, relax on benches, or visit the amphitheater where many events take place. There is no entrance fee to enter the park.
The best time to visit is during the afternoon when the sun sets, and the sky turns orange presenting you with magnificent scenery
Visit the Solimene Ceramics Factory
Visiting the ceramics factory in Vietri sul Mare is a must since it represents the town’s rich tradition and history. The Solimene Ceramics Factory is designed by Paolo Soleri a popular architect who represents a unique design and architecture featuring inverted canonical towers with triangular windows. The production of the ceramics takes place on the upper floors, while the items are being sold on the first floor. With a visit there, you will find various artifacts in different colors and shapes as well as the Centro Studi D’Arte Vietrese which provides the participants with courses by professional artists. You will not have to pay to enter the factory while it is open daily.
Explore the nearby town of Raito
Raito is a small village in the Vietri sul Mare, located a short distance from the town center. The village has two main roads, one at the top and one at the bottom, that are connected through stairs. While wandering in this village you will encounter many colorful buildings, small alleys, and decorative tiles that make it look like a painting.
A must-visit in Raito is the Villa Guariglia which has taken its name from its owner Raffaele Guariglia, who donated the villa to the Provincial Administration of Salerno. It houses the Museo della Ceramica Vietrese which displays various handmade products from the 17th century.
Take a boat tour along the Amalfi Coast
Marina di Vietri is the main beach of the Vietri sul Mare and has many things to do. You can begin a boat tour from there to explore other coastal towns and admire the surroundings. Boat tours operate during summer and provide the guests with private and group tours in towns such as Amalfi, Positano, Maiori, and Minori. In these tours, you will have the opportunity to swim snorkel, and explore the nearby towns since some stops are included. Please make sure to book your ticket in advance in the peak season, and bring along a snack, a hat, and sunscreen for protection from the sun.
Visit the nearby Badia di Cava abbey
Bardia di Cava (Benedictine Abbey of the Most Holy Trinity) is a monastery located in Cava de’ Tirreni which is close to Vietri sul Mare. This monastery was founded in 1011 by a monk called Saint Alferius and holds major historical significance for the town. Its design is very beautiful, featuring a mix of Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque elements. On the interior, you will find wall paintings and colorful marble. After many renovations through the years, the monastery expanded.
It is open for the public to explore and hosts events and exhibitions. It also serves as a starting point for hiking the Lattari Mountains.
Explore the Parco Archeologico di Fratte
Parco Archeologico di Fratte is a historical site in the suburbs of Salerno. It used to be the place where the Etruscans and the Romans lived. Today we see the ruins of that era that showcase the lifestyle of these people, while amongst the ruins you will encounter the place where they used to create ceramics and various tombs that probably belonged to Etruscans as well houses and roads from the Roman period. Near this place, you will find the Museo Archeologico which has artifacts that have been taken from Fratte such as ceramics, metalwork, and sculptures. Today the park is enclosed by walls and the public can explore it and no there is no entrance fee.
Take a day trip to Cetara
Cetara is another coastal town only 7 km away from Vietri sul Mare and is a place that you must see because it has a unique beauty and a rich history. Cetara has taken its name from the word cetaria which means tuna fishery, reflecting the main character of the town. The town depends mostly on fishing activities and less on tourist visits. Due to this fact, it has preserved its authenticity without being affected by other cultures.
You can reach Cetara from Vietri sul Mare by ferry or a car, while there you will find the Church of San Pietro, the Torre Vicereale, and the Church of St. Peter the Apostle. Do not forget to try the famous Colatura di Alici, a traditional local sauce. Besides that, a visit to its beaches can enhance your experience.
Visit the Santuario di Santa Maria del Bando
Santuario di Santa Maria del Bando is located above the town of Atrani and has a stunning view of the town and the sea. It was founded in 1187. You will have to climb about 750 stairs which might be challenging but worth the view. Inside it, you will find paintings and artifacts that have been there for many years.
Near the sanctuary, you will find the Masaniello Cave, which is said to be the shelter of a man called Masaniello before being killed for a revolution that he organized against the Spanish crown.
Visit the Parco Archeologico di Pontecagnano
Parco Archeologico di Pontecagnano is located in Pontecagnano Faiano, near Salerno. It contains ruins from the Etruscan and Greek times that showcase the everyday life of these people. You will find ruins of houses, workshops, and cemeteries from those times. There are many ceramics, metalwork, and Jewelry that showcase the Etruscan side, while the architecture and artifacts like vases decorated with mythological scenes reflect the Greek side.
Near this park, the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Pontecagnano is located which contains crucial artifacts and items. These items were found in the ruins such as the Tomb of the Princes. You can visit the park from Tuesday to Sunday and the entrance fee is 5 euros.
Casa Colorate
Casa Colorate is a part of the town that contains colorful houses in pastel tones. These houses have unique architecture and colors that make it a special landmark for Vietri Sul Mare. They not only serve as a tourist attraction, but they are in fact the houses where locals live. Each one of them has decorated the home with ceramics. The best time to wander in these colorful houses is early in the morning or in the afternoon when the sun sets.
Visit Cava de’ Tirreni
Above the town of Vietri sul Mare, you will find another small town called Cava de’ Tirreni. This one is a charming town that has traditional narrow alleys, piazzas, and cultural landmarks. Cava de Tirreni is only 4 km away from Vietri sul Mare and is easily accessible by train or car. When reaching the town, do not miss visiting the Abbey of La Trinità della Cava and the Church of Santa Maria dell’Olmo. Piazza Abbro located at the center of the town is the ideal place to relax and experience the local life. In the center of the piazza, you will meet the fountain of dolphins, which symbolize the sea and good fortune. Near the piazza, the public gardens of the town are located that offer a great view of the surroundings and connect you with nature.
Explore the nearby town of Maiori
Maiori is a town located about 15 km away from Vietri sul Mare and has a unique beauty. You can reach it either by car which lasts a little more than half an hour or by a ferry which is a bit quicker. There are many things to do and see in Maiori. Some of the highlights of the town that you must see are the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria a Mare and Castello di Toro Plano, both showing the rich culture and architecture of the town. Do not forgetto visit Maiori’s sandy beach and relax while when it comes to dining a must-visit is the Sal de Riso known for its delicious pastry.
Take a hike along the Sentiero degli Dei
The Path of Gods is a popular hiking trail in the region of Amalfi that provides hikers with stunning views of the Amalfi Coast, the towns, and the sea. Legend says that the path took its name because the gods created it to help Odysseus escape from the sirens.
Starting from Bomerano, a small village in Agerola, and ending in Nacelle, above Positano it is considered a challenging route. Most people prefer Bomerano as a starting point since it allows you to hike downhill. It takes about 4 hours to be completed and includes some high and low paths. By crossing this trail, you will meet Positano, Praiano, and Amalfi. If the day is clear, you will be lucky to see the Faraglioni rocks of Capri.
Of course, being in an area of Italy, you can’t miss seeing vineyards, olive groves as well as sheep and goats along the way.
Visit the Parco Nazionale del Cilento
Parco Nazionale del Cilento, Vallo di Diano e Alburni is a natural park located in the Province of Salerno that contains a rich variety of flora and fauna. The park was created in 1991, and it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998 since its unique beauty should be protected.
There are mountains, forests, and a coastline where you will meet different species but also ruins from the ancient Greek towns of Paestum and Velia, as well as the Certosa di Padula. With a visit to the park, you will have the opportunity to hike its trails, take some photos of its natural beauty, and observe the variety of wildlife that lives there.
How to Get Around Vietri Sul Mare
The easiest way to get around the town is by wandering its streets on foot, where you can see more landmarks. Alternatively, taking a bus is also a great option since the SITA bus service provides frequent itineraries between the towns of Amalfi at a low cost. Vietri sul Mare has the benefit of owning a train station near the center of it which connects it with other nearby towns.
A more convenient way could be taking a taxi or driving a rented car. Ferries are also a great option. Some routes begin from Marina di Vietri and reach nearby towns, providing a stunning view of the coast.
Day Trips from Vietri Sul Mare
By visiting these towns, you can gain an unforgettable experience by doing a variety of activities that take place in them, but also by visiting the nearby towns.
Salerno
Salerno is a small town located about 6 m away from Vietri sul Mare. It can be easily reachable by road lasting only 5 minutes. When you get to Salerno, there are some highlights you should not miss visiting. The must-visit landmarks are the Duomo di Salerno, the Arechi Castle, and Villa Comunale. Do not miss wandering in the streets of the town and visiting the Minerva Gardens, which face the golf of Salerno and host unique pants. A visit to the town could not miss a visit to the restaurants, where you can try traditional dishes.
Paestrum
Paestrum is an ancient Greek city located 37 km away from Vietri sul Mare. It can be reached by train, car, or even by taking a taxi. It is a town that holds rich history and well-preserved Greek temples with some notable ones to be the Temple of Hera, of Neptune, and the Temple of Athena, each one of them featuring great architecture. The Greeks that invented this town called it Poseidonia but later, when the Romans took control of it, they gave it the name Paestrum that we know today. Part of it contains a Roman Amphitheater where public displays were taking place while you will also encounter the Archaeological Museum which houses various artifacts from that time. Paestrum is open daily for the public to explore while the ticket fee costs 6.50 euros.
Pompeii
Pompeii is about 21 km away from Vietri sul Mare and can be reached in many ways. There is a train station near Pompeii which makes it easy to get to it while you can also choose to travel by road. Both routes take approximately one hour and provide you with great views. Pompeii is an archeological place on its own since it contains ruins from Roman times that showcase the daily life of people back then. In a short walk there, you will encounter the Forum, the center of public life, the Lupanar which is a brothel with wall paintings that have remained till today, and the Thermopolium an ancient fast-food restaurant. Most of the sites are covered with ash from the explosion of Vesuvius and offer you a quick look at the lifestyle of people back then.
Naples
Naples is the third largest city in Italy and takes about 90 minutes to reach Vietri sul Mare by road. It is worth a visit since it holds a great history that is being reflected in museums and churches but also has a vibrant life which you can find in shops, cafeterias, and restaurants. Some places you should not miss visiting are Naples Cathedral, which is known for its high altar, the National Archaeological Museum holding artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum and the Museo di Capodimonte which is a place that fascinates art lovers. Besides that, there are also sites such as the Royal Palace of Naples, which is the largest one in Italy and features stunning interior and exterior, Castel Nuovo which is a medieval castle from the 13th century as well as the Napoli Sotterranea a place that reflects the rich history of the town holding catacombs, and WWII air raid shelters beneath the city. For the relaxation part, you should wander into the town’s streets and admire its architecture and piazzas while it is also advisable to dine in famous pizzerias like Gino Sorbillo since the town is the birthplace of pizza.
Where to Eat in Vietri Sul Mare
Vietri sul Mare has many traditional plates to taste that are accompanied by a wonderful view of the sea, local wines, and pleasant personalities to serve you.
Dal Pescatore
Dal Pescatore is a highly-rated restaurant you must visit that serves mostly seafood. Its atmosphere is relaxing, and the staff is welcoming and friendly, while it gives you the option to choose between indoor and outdoor tables. A notable plate you should order is Pesce al Sale, which is fish baked in salt, cooked in a traditional method of the region.
Ristorante La Fattoria
Ristorante La Fattoria is an equally beautiful restaurant with a relaxing atmosphere that serves traditional dishes of the region. A signature plate you should try is the Gnocchi alla Sorrentina, which features homemade gnocchi baked with tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. The delicious dishes accompanied by the staff and the relaxing atmosphere will leave you with sweet memories.
Rosa dei Venti
Rosa dei Venti is another option that also serves a variety of seafood, but also traditional Italian dishes, each one of them showcasing the authentic taste and tradition that the region has. A preferable plate by many is the Spaghetti alle Vongole which is a dish made with spaghetti and fresh clams, often prepared with garlic, olive oil, and parsley.
Pizza a Portafoglio
Pizza a Portafoglio is a street food that you can find in many places around Vietri sul Mare. It is a pizza folded to resemble a wallet, making it easy to eat on the go and it is said that is delicious. Besides that, you can find plenty of street food options in Vietri from gelato which is the most common to fried seafood.
Where to stay in Vietri Sul Mare
Vietri sul Mare has a variety of accommodations. You have the choice to stay in luxurious hotels or more budget-friendly properties based on your mood and preferences.
Relais Paradiso is a luxurious hotel with a pool, a restaurant serving gourmet dishes, and spacious rooms with a stunning view.
Likewise, Hotel Raito is a great hotel with a pool, a wellness center, and rooms facing the breathtaking views of Salerno Bay.
Hotel Voce del Mare could be the ideal place for a family to stay since it also has a large pool, and a view of the sea while it also offers easy access to the beach.
B&B Vietri Centro is a more affordable option, offering a welcoming, warm atmosphere and relaxing accommodation. Equally, Hotel Vietri Coast offers spacious rooms and it is located near the beach.
Vietri Sul Mare with kids
Vietri sul Mare is a great destination for families. It is considered a safe place since it has a low crime rate. There are many activities that a family can do on a visit there. One of the best things to do as a family is to visit the Museo della Ceramica Vietrese which contains a variety of artifacts made of ceramics. There, kids can learn about the town’s traditions or even attend a course by professionals and make their own items.
A visit to the beach could also be an unforgettable experience for a family. Parents can relax while kids can swim in the clear waters and make castles in the sand.
A great experience for a family could be to take a boat tour along the Amalfi Coast. Kids will enjoy the stunning views, will have the opportunity to swim, and even explore the marine life of the Amalfi waters.
The Best Time to Vietri Sul Mare
The best time to visit Vietri sul Mare could be late Spring and Summer or early Autumn. The temperatures are convenient and assist you in doing many things easier. You can explore the area without being full of tourists and see sights without waiting in lines. The sea is warm allowing you to try water sports and the weather is also convenient for hiking. In Spring the flowers are blooming, and the landscape turns more greenery giving a feeling of hope and pushing you to explore further.
We visited Amalfi Coast in late Spring and we didn’t avoid the crowds. We don’t want to know what happens there in the Summer.
FAQ about Vietri Sul Mare
How far is Vietri sul Mare from Salerno?
Vietri sul Mare is located just 5 km away from Salerno and var be reached by many means of transportation such as train, car, bus, or even a ferry.
Is Vietri sul Mare accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes. Vietri sul Mare is accessible to people with disabilities. Many beaches are near the town center, while churches and museums also have facilities for people with disabilities to reach them. However, like most of the towns around the Amalfi Coast, Vietri sul Mare has some steep spots and stairs that might be challenging.
Can I buy ceramics in Vietri sul Mare?
Yes, Vietri sul Mare is known for its ceramic shops and workshops, where you can buy a wide variety of ceramic products. Many of them can be found easily in Corso Umberto which is the main road of the town that houses ceramic shops.
Is there a beach in Vietri sul Mare?
Yes, Vietri sul Mare has several beaches, including Spiaggia della Crestarella and Marina di Vietri, both having clear, blue waters and amenities such as umbrellas and sunbeds.
How long does it take to visit Vietri sul Mare?
Most people spend a day or two exploring the town and its surroundings, but it’s possible to visit as a day trip from nearby cities like Salerno which is only 6 km away. Means of transportation such as ferries, Sita buses, and taxis navigate between towns very often.
Is Vietri sul Mare safe for solo travelers?
Vietri sul Mare is generally a safe town where tourists and locals can navigate day and night but as with any destination, it’s always wise to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially during summer months when that is overcrowded.
Can I visit Vietri sul Mare in the winter?
Yes, Vietri sul Mare can be visited all year round, and still offer unique experiences to its visitors based on its activities, sites, and culinary heritage. However, some attractions may have reduced hours or be closed during the winter months.
Is Vietri sul Mare suitable for families with children?
Yes, Vietri sul Mare offers a variety of activities and attractions that are suitable for families with children, such as the beaches, parks, and museums where kids can be educated about the history of the town, and the culture and connect with nature.
Can I take a day trip to the Amalfi Coast from Vietri sul Mare?
Yes, Vietri sul Mare is a great base for exploring the Amalfi Coast, with ferries and buses connecting it to nearby towns like Positano and Amalfi. Especially during summer months, the ferry tours are very frequent which makes the navigation even easier.
Is it possible to visit Vietri sul Mare without a car?
Yes, Vietri sul Mare is accessible by train and bus from nearby cities, and many of the town’s attractions are within walking distance of each other while it is also connected with the other coastal towns via train, ferry, and bus.
Is Vietri sul Mare worth a visit?
Yes. Vietri sul Mare holds a rich historical and traditional heritage that is reflected in its monuments, churches, and museums you should not neglect to observe the ceramics and maybe buy one since Vietri sul Mare is the birthplace of them. Besides that, the town is very safe for every kind of visitor and provides a variety of activities that are related to nature, sea and mountains. Do not miss dining in a restaurant, usually serving seafood and traditional Italian plates, and deepen into the rich culinary heritage of the region.
What is Vietri sul Mare known for?
Vietri sul Mare is known for its ceramic shops and workshops, where you can buy a wide variety of ceramic products or even take part in some courses to make your own and learn more about its tradition.
Can you swim in Vietri sul Mare?
Vietri sul Mare is a coastal town that has several beaches, including Spiaggia della Crestarella and Marina di Vietri, both having clear, blue waters and amenities such as umbrellas and sunbeds yet a free space for those who want to relax with their own equipment.
Where can I swim in Vietri sul Mare?
People can swim in Marina di Vietri Beach which is the main of the town and is mostly preferable by families since its waters are shallow and the ground is sandy. Alternatively, there is Crestarella Beach which can be found in a small bay with a historical tower and is close to the town.
What does Vietri sul Mare mean?
The name “Vietri sul Mare” means “Vietri on the Sea” in English. The word “Vietri” is said to have originated from the Latin word “veteris,” meaning “ancient,” reflecting the town’s history of the Roman era. The addition “sul Mare” shows its coastal location along the Amalfi Coast in Italy, emphasizing its relation to the sea and its attractive waterfront setting.
Is Vietri sul Mare walkable?
Yes, Vietri sul Mare is a walkable town with many beaches close to the center as well as monuments and touristic landmarks being in a close distance. People can explore the town on foot but to enhance their experience it is best to wear comfortable shoes since many areas have stairs and steep spots.
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