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Amalfi Coast

From Positano to Ravello: With its stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque towns, the region around the popular Amalfi Coast is no longer an insider tip. Far away from expensive luxury hotels and mass tourism, however, another destination awaits in southern Italy that is not only less crowded but also at least as beautiful as its well-known competitors.

Visually, the Cilento region resembles the famous Amalfi Coast . Small seaside resorts and mountain villages can be found here, too. However, while the well-known towns of Positano , Ravello, and Amalfi regularly teem with tourists, driving up prices accordingly, Cilento is much quieter. TRAVELBOOK presents the most beautiful places the Cilento region has to offer.

Cilento – picturesque region in the south of Italy

The Cilento region is located in southern Italy in the Salerno region and stretches from Paestum in the north to the Gulf of Policastro. While the coast and the Tyrrhenian Sea stretch to the west of the region, quaint villages await in the mountainous hinterland. At the same time, the Mediterranean region offers a stunning natural landscape of crystal-clear waters, lush olive groves, and diverse cultural highlights.

For example, parts of the Cilento National Park have been declared not only a nature reserve but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In addition to idyllic beaches, nature lovers can explore Cilento on hiking trails that lead through hills, mountains, and along steep cliffs. Architecture and culture lovers can expect a multitude of winding alleys, impressive buildings, and historical monuments.

The most beautiful places in Cilento

Marina di Camerota

The former fishing village of Marina di Camerota lies on the Cilento coast, directly on the Tyrrhenian Sea and about 6 kilometers southwest of Camerota. Those who enjoy spending their holidays at the beach will find their money’s worth here. According to

” Italy.de ” lists the region’s most popular beach resorts. These include Cala Bianca, a cove surrounded by rocks with crystal-clear water and a white sandy beach, accessible only by foot or boat. The town center, with its church square, Piazza S. Domenico, a small fishing port, and medieval alleys, also offers the opportunity for extensive exploration.

Cala Bianca is a sheltered bay, so there are no major tourist facilities – and plenty of peace and quiet. Photo: Getty Images/500px Plus

Santa Maria di Castellabate

Another highlight in the Cilento region is the coastal town of Santa Maria, one of the three coastal towns in the municipality of Castellabate. In the center of Cilento’s first seaside resort, the Santa Maria pedestrian zone leads past Mediterranean alleys, small cafés, and boutiques. Furthermore, the town beach, next to the clear water, features the “Madonna” – a saint who watches over the beach and the townspeople. The popular seaside resort also served as the backdrop for the 2010 comedy film “Welcome to the South,” which features, among other things, the town’s moated castle.

Agropoli

The largest town in Cilento is Agropoli, located on the northern edge of the Cilento National Park. Similar to Amalfi, the town’s old town sits perched on a hill above the sea, offering sweeping views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. While less luxurious, it’s just as diverse as its famous rival, and Agropoli offers a typically Italian flair. In addition to impressive views, the wide beach promenade and the modern town center invite you to shop and stroll.

Capaccio and Paestum

Those looking for architectural gems on their journey through Cilento will find them in the town of Capaccio. About 35 minutes south of Salerno, very close to Agropoli, the town is best known for its archaeological site of Paestum, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These include the three Greek temples of Hera, Athena, and the Temple of Neptune, which, according to ” Lust auf Italien ,” was built in the mid-5th century BC. Other historical sites, such as an amphitheater and the town’s city walls, can also be visited. In addition to cultural diversity, Paestum’s beaches also offer the opportunity for swimming.

The Temple of Neptune is one of the best preserved temples in Paestum Photo: Getty Images

Scario

One place with little tourist activity is the fishing village of Scario in the municipality of San Giovanni a Piro. In the main piazza in the center of the village. the village simple yet impressive Church of San Giovanni Battista catches the eye. And It forms the center of the village. Although the village doesn’t offer direct swimming spots, boat tours across the crystal-clear sea are possible from the harbor. From the “Torre dello Zancale,” a former watchtower, you can also enjoy sweeping views of the sea. Scario also offers famous rock caves, including the “Grotte degli uccelli.”

Palinuro

An alternative to the famous Blue Grotto in Capri can be found in the port town of Palinuro. It’s located in the heart of the Cilento National Park. In addition to the Cape Palinuro (Capo Palinuro) jutting out into the sea, there are also various grottos. One of them is the Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra), where the water glows a mystical blue due to the reflected sunlight. The Grotta del Sangue (Blood Grotto) and the Grotta d’Argento (Silver Grotto) also impress with their magical colors. The town also offers several beaches and coves that invite you to linger for a swim.

Getting to Cilento

Those who want to travel to Cilento have several options. The quickest way is by plane via Naples Airport, from where buses connect to the region. Alternatively, you can also travel by train – also via Naples. The region can, of course, also be reach by car. The route leads from Germany via Switzerland or Austria through northern Italy to the south.

It’s as beautiful here as the Amalfi Coast – only without the crowds of tourists!