🌄 Discover Cilento National Park: Italy’s Hidden Gem!

Stretching from the Tyrrhenian coast to the foothills of the Campano-Lucano Apennines, the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park is Italy’s second-largest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Prepare for an adventure from pristine beaches and ancient ruins to mystical rivers and medieval villages! 🌊🏰🌲

A serene terrace at Marulivo Hotel in Pisciotta, Italy, with a table set for breakfast overlooking the expansive blue Mediterranean Sea. A potted cactus and lush green plants frame the view, creating a tranquil atmosphere with the sea stretching endlessly under a clear blue sky.
Breakfast with a view at Marulivo Hotel’s terrace in Pisciotta, offering a peaceful setting overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

🚗 Getting Around Cilento: Car, Bus, or Train?

By Car: Freedom to Explore 🚘

A car is your best friend in Cilento! With a car, you can cruise from hilltop villages to secluded beaches at your own pace, taking in the stunning landscapes and hidden gems along the way.

📜 Did You Know? At ExpertoItaly, we can arrange car hire to make your trip even easier.

By Bus: The Cilentobus 🚌

If you’re going car-free, the Cilentobus connects major towns and beaches throughout the region. While it’s a convenient option, be prepared for a slower pace and less frequent service.

By Train: High-Speed and Regional Connections 🚄

Cilento is well-connected by train, with both high-speed and regional options that make it accessible:

High-Speed Trains: Connect Rome and Naples to Salerno, allowing for fast, easy travel to Cilento’s main gateway.

Regional Trains: Link Salerno with places like Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, and Cilento towns such as Agropoli and Ascea.

The platform at Paestum railway station in Italy, with the sun casting a warm glow on the yellow building and benches. The railway tracks stretch into the distance, bordered by rolling hills and clear skies, creating a quiet, scenic atmosphere.
The charming Paestum railway station, a gateway to explore the historic ruins and coastal beauty of Cilento.

📜 Need Rail Tickets? ExpertoItaly can arrange rail tickets, ensuring a smooth journey from start to finish.

🏛 A Journey Through Time: UNESCO Sites & Ancient Greek Ruins

Paestum: Ancient Temples and Timeless Art 🌅🏛️

Start your journey at Paestum, where monumental Doric temples stand as silent witnesses to ancient Greek civilization. Known for their grandeur and symmetry, these temples are particularly enchanting at sunset, when golden light bathes the stone in a warm glow.

📜 Did You Know? Paestum’s ancient temples were rediscovered in the 18th century, sparking a wave of fascination across Europe. Artists, writers, and architects flocked to see these beautifully preserved Doric temples, inspiring works that celebrated their grandeur.

🏛️ Fascinating Find: At the Paestum Archaeological Museum, you can view the famous Tomb of the Diver—a rare fresco from Magna Graecia depicting a young man diving into water, symbolizing the soul’s journey to the afterlife. It’s one of the only known artworks of its kind and offers a unique glimpse into ancient beliefs.

The ancient Greek temples of Paestum in Italy, with well-preserved Doric columns standing against a clear sky. The grassy field and shadows add a serene atmosphere to the historic site.
The majestic temples of Paestum, a remarkable example of ancient Greek architecture in Italy, standing proudly in Cilento’s lush landscape.
A close-up view of the Temple of Neptune in Paestum, showcasing the detailed Doric columns and architectural design of this ancient Greek structure.
The impressive Temple of Neptune in Paestum, highlighting the grandeur and architectural mastery of ancient Greece.
A visitor exploring the ancient Greek temples at Paestum, standing between towering columns and taking in the historic site.
Exploring Paestum’s ancient temples, where history comes alive amidst towering columns and quiet stone corridors.
The Tomb of the Diver fresco from Paestum, Italy, depicting a young man diving into water, symbolizing the soul’s journey from life to the afterlife.
The mysterious Tomb of the Diver fresco at Paestum, a rare artwork from Magna Graecia symbolizing the passage from life to the afterlife.
Inside the Paestum Archaeological Museum, showcasing classical statues and ancient artworks, including a statue in the foreground against a backdrop of historical paintings.
The Paestum Archaeological Museum offers a journey through ancient history with its stunning collection of statues, frescoes, and artifacts.

Velia (Elea): Ancient Wisdom Amidst Ruins 📜🏺

Head south to Velia, also known as Elea, a once-prosperous Greek city steeped in philosophical legacy. Wander through the Archaeological Park of Elea-Velia, where philosophy giants like Parmenides and Zeno developed the Eleatic school of thought.

Discover the Porta Rosa, an ancient stone arch that’s the oldest of its kind in Italy, connecting the city’s two hills.

Imagine scholars gathering in Velia’s agora to debate ideas that shaped Western thought.

📜 Fascinating Fact: Velia was one of the rare cities dedicated to philosophical study in the ancient world and is often called the birthplace of Western philosophy.

Aerial view of the ancient archaeological site of Velia (Elea) in Cilento, Italy, showing the layout of the ruins and surrounding countryside.
The archaeological site of Velia (Elea), once a flourishing Greek city and a significant center of philosophy in ancient times, now preserved in the heart of Cilento.

Certosa di Padula: Italy’s Largest Monastic Complex 🏰

The Certosa di Padula (Charterhouse of San Lorenzo) is a stunning masterpiece of Baroque architecture and Italy’s largest Carthusian monastery. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features:

Europe’s largest cloister, a breathtaking space that spans over 15,000 square meters.

A museum with an impressive collection of artifacts from ancient times, offering glimpses into centuries of local history.

📜 Curious Fact: In 1535, Emperor Charles V stayed at Certosa di Padula and was honored with a massive omelet made from over 1,000 eggs—a culinary tribute that’s still remembered today!

Aerial view of the entire Certosa di Padula complex, showcasing the extensive grounds, the Great Cloister, and the red-tiled roofs set against a lush green landscape.
An aerial view of the Certosa di Padula, one of the largest monasteries in Europe, with sprawling grounds, impressive architecture, and a scenic location in the Cilento region.
A long corridor with frescoes lining the walls at the Certosa di Padula, showcasing detailed artistic scenes under a richly decorated ceiling.
The frescoed corridors of the Certosa di Padula display exquisite artwork, providing a visual journey through religious and pastoral scenes that reflect the cultural richness of the charterhouse.
Intricate carved wooden choir stalls in the Certosa di Padula, with detailed scrollwork and decorative elements showcasing skilled craftsmanship.
The finely carved wooden choir stalls in the Certosa di Padula are a marvel of monastic artistry, displaying intricate detail and expert craftsmanship.
A beautifully frescoed room inside the Certosa di Padula, with detailed wall paintings, arched ceilings, and natural light from a large window illuminating the artwork.
Inside the Certosa di Padula, visitors can admire stunning frescoes that bring to life religious and historic scenes, adding to the monastic complex's rich artistic heritage.
The historic monastic kitchen at the Certosa di Padula, with a large central hearth, ceramic tile decorations, and ancient cooking pots.
The monastic kitchen of the Certosa di Padula, where large hearths and ceramic tiles reveal the communal life and culinary practices of the monks who lived here.

🏞 Nature’s Playground: Hikes, Rivers, and Secluded Beaches

Calore Gorges: A Hidden Haven for Adventurers 🛶🌲

Ready for a thrill? The Calore Gorges offer a rugged escape where you can kayak, hike, or picnic by the Calore River, whose emerald-green waters carve through towering cliffs. This secluded paradise, cherished by locals, is perfect for those who crave adventure mixed with natural beauty.

🌿 Insider Tip: Pack a picnic with local treats—buffalo mozzarella, olives, and fresh bread—for an authentic Cilento feast by the river.

A crystal-clear blue pool in the Calore Gorges, surrounded by steep rock walls, creating a refreshing swimming spot for hikers.
Discover a hidden gem in the Calore Gorges! Hikers can cool off in this refreshing blue pool nestled between dramatic rock walls—an ideal stop for nature lovers.
An observation deck along the Calore Gorges hiking path in Cilento, with visitors enjoying panoramic views of the rugged cliffs and green valley below.
Adventure awaits at the Calore Gorges! This scenic hiking trail and lookout offer sweeping views of Cilento’s rugged cliffs and lush landscapes, perfect for active travelers ready to explore.

Capelli di Venere Waterfall: A Fairytale Setting 🌿💧

Step into a magical scene at Capelli di Venere (“Venus’s Hair”) Waterfall. Framed by lush ferns and stunning travertine rock formations, this hidden gem is a must for nature lovers and geology enthusiasts alike. The waterfall’s name comes from the delicate maidenhair ferns that cascade around it, creating an ethereal atmosphere.

📜 Did You Know? The water here has a high carbonate content, which leaves a unique white coating on the rocks and plants, adding to the mystical look of this enchanting spot.

Close-up of water flowing over vibrant green moss at the Capelli di Venere Waterfall, an inviting spot for hikers in Cilento.
A close-up of the Capelli di Venere Waterfall reveals the delicate beauty of its moss-covered rocks and cascading water—a refreshing reward for hikers in Cilento’s scenic trails.

Cala Bianca & Baia degli Infreschi: Beach Bliss by Boat 🚤💦

Seeking hidden beaches? Cala Bianca and Baia degli Infreschi are only accessible by boat, rewarding visitors with some of the clearest waters in Italy. Surrounded by pristine nature, these secluded bays are ideal for swimming and sunbathing in blissful privacy.

🚤 Pro Tip: Book a boat tour from Palinuro or Marina di Camerota for easy access to these paradises. Pack your snorkel gear to explore the vibrant marine life just below the surface!

Cala Bianca beach in Cilento, Italy, with clear turquoise waters and surrounded by steep, rocky cliffs—a secluded paradise for beachgoers and hikers.
Discover Cala Bianca, a hidden gem reachable by trail or boat, offering pristine turquoise waters and a peaceful beach framed by dramatic cliffs—ideal for adventurous travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path paradise.
Crystal-clear waters at Baia degli Infreschi in Cilento, surrounded by rocky formations and lush greenery—a scenic spot accessible by boat or hiking.
Baia degli Infreschi is a must-visit for active travelers, with its crystal-clear waters and secluded beaches accessible via a scenic hike or boat trip. It’s the perfect spot to swim, relax, and enjoy Cilento’s natural beauty.

🎒 Hidden Treasures & Adventure Spots

Castelcivita Caves: The “Devil’s Caves” of Cilento 🌌🕳️

For those drawn to the mysteries underground, the Castelcivita Caves—locally known as the “Devil’s Caves”—offer a surreal landscape of winding tunnels, vast chambers, and otherworldly rock formations. Explore nearly 1,700 meters of passages carved over millennia by underground rivers. This journey through the shadows is an adventure you won’t forget!

📜 Did You Know? The Castelcivita Caves date back over 35 million years and stretch for nearly 5 kilometers underground, making them one of southern Italy’s longest cave systems. They were also a temporary shelter for early humans, with evidence of prehistoric habitation found within these ancient chambers.

The colorful and illuminated stalactites and stalagmites inside the Castelcivita Caves in Cilento, creating a mesmerizing and otherworldly scene.
Venture into the Castelcivita Caves, where dramatic stalactites and stalagmites create a surreal underground world—perfect for explorers seeking a unique and adventurous experience in Cilento.
A winding pathway inside the Castelcivita Caves, with colorful lighting highlighting the cave’s impressive rock formations.
Follow the winding paths of the Castelcivita Caves, where colorful lights enhance the beauty of these ancient formations—a must-see for those with a spirit for adventure.

WWF Oasis in Morigerati: A Natural Haven by the Bussento River 🌿💧

Discover a serene oasis at the WWF Oasis in Morigerati, where you can stroll along scenic paths through lush greenery and ancient caves beside the tranquil Bussento River. The trail ends at a refreshing natural spring, perfect for a dip to cool off after your hike. It’s a protected sanctuary where nature thrives, and visitors can enjoy the untouched beauty of the Cilento landscape.

🌊 Pro Tip: Bring water shoes and a picnic to fully enjoy a day by the springs, shaded by dense forest and serenaded by the sounds of the river.

🌞 Cilento’s Dreamy Villages: A Step Back in Time

Castellabate: Medieval Charm with Movie-Star Views 🎬🏰

Perched on a hillside overlooking the coast, Castellabate offers scenes that could be right out of a movie—literally, it was featured in Welcome to the South! The village’s medieval alleys, ancient castles, and lively piazzas are perfect for capturing those envy-worthy photos.

📜 Did You Know? Castellabate’s Castello dell’Abate dates back to the 12th century and provides incredible views over the Gulf of Salerno!

A picturesque view of Castellabate, framed through an ancient archway. This historic hilltop village offers enchanting glimpses of the Mediterranean and timeless charm, perfect for travelers seeking authentic Italian beauty.
View of Castellabate village and the Mediterranean Sea seen through an archway, capturing the historic and scenic charm of the Cilento region.

Pollica & Acciaroli: Hemingway’s Hideaway? 📚🐬

Did Hemingway fall in love with Acciaroli? Maybe so! Whether or not it’s true, these charming seaside villages delight with:

The Norman Tower, a 13th-century icon

Cobbled Streets lined with historic architecture

Dolphin Sightings off the coast during summer

Pollica and Acciaroli offer a peaceful escape, blending local history with enchanting views and seaside fun.

🌿 Intriguing Insight: In Acciaroli, where around 10% of residents live beyond 100, researchers from the University of California, San Diego, and Rome’s Sapienza University attribute this remarkable longevity to an active lifestyle and the Mediterranean diet—now recognized by UNESCO as part of the world’s Intangible Cultural Heritage.

A charming narrow street in Acciaroli, featuring an old stone building with a rustic red stucco bell tower topped by a small dome. The view captures Mediterranean potted plants and a glimpse of the waterfront through a nearby railing.
Historic Charm in Acciaroli – Explore the quaint streets of Acciaroli, filled with character and history. This bell tower and stone building offer a glimpse into the timeless architecture of this Mediterranean gem.
Boats gently floating in the serene waters of Acciaroli's picturesque harbor under a partly cloudy sky, with traditional pastel-colored buildings lining the waterfront and green hills in the background.
A Peaceful Day in Acciaroli's Harbour – Discover the tranquil charm of Acciaroli’s harbour, where fishing boats and yachts rest against a scenic backdrop of rolling hills and colourful buildings. A perfect spot for a leisurely stroll by the water.

Pisciotta: Medieval Mystique Amidst Olive Groves 🌿⛪

Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, Pisciotta is a treasure trove of history, with winding alleys and ancient stone buildings that seem frozen in time.

Start your visit at Piazza Raffaele Pinto and wander through its historic centre.

Explore ancient chapels and grand palaces set against a backdrop of lush olive groves.

Don’t miss the panoramic terraces offering breathtaking sea views!

📜 Local Highlight: The olive groves here produce some of the best olive oil in the region—be sure to sample it with fresh bread!

A picturesque view of Pisciotta, a charming hilltop village in Cilento National Park, Italy, featuring terracotta-roofed buildings nestled among lush greenery with the coastline and sea in the background.
The timeless beauty of Pisciotta in Cilento National Park—a hilltop gem overlooking the Mediterranean coastline, offering a glimpse into Italy's serene rural charm.
A narrow cobblestone street in Pisciotta lined with traditional stone houses featuring colorful shutters and balconies adorned with blooming flowers. The street winds uphill, leading to the central piazza, capturing the quaint and timeless atmosphere of the historic village.
Wandering the picturesque alleys of Pisciotta, where every corner reveals the authentic beauty of this medieval gem nestled among ancient olive groves.

🏖 Top Beaches to Visit

Marina di Camerota & Palinuro: Unforgettable Coastal Gems 🌊💤

Renowned for some of Cilento’s most beautiful beaches, Marina di Camerota and Palinuro offer turquoise waters and soft sand perfect for a relaxing day.

Buon Dormire Beach: This secluded cove, which means “Good Sleep Beach,” is known for its calm, clear waters and peaceful vibe.

Accessible by Boat: Many of the stunning hidden beaches in this area, including the famous Cala Bianca, are best reached by boat for an extra sense of adventure!

Pro Tip: Book a boat tour from Palinuro for easy access to these hidden paradises.

Palinuro Beach lined with orange umbrellas, calm blue waters, and lush green hills in the background.
Relax on the sandy shores of Palinuro, a coastal gem with tranquil waters and stunning natural surroundings.

Capaccio Paestum: Golden Sands & Luxurious Lounging 🧖‍♀️🌞

For those seeking a blend of nature and relaxation, Capaccio Paestum offers:

Golden Sands and Dunes: Stretching along the coast, this beach is lined with natural dunes and shaded by pine forests.

Beach Club 93: Enjoy a luxurious experience with a saltwater pool, spa treatments, and even beachside yoga.

🌊 Unique Feature: This coastline is known for its Blue Flag beaches, signifying exceptionally clean waters and eco-friendly facilities—a mark of quality in Italy!

Aerial view of a pristine beach lined with umbrellas and loungers at Beach Club 93, with clear blue water stretching along the coast.
Relax at Beach Club 93, where soft sands and endless ocean views create the perfect beachside retreat.
Elegant white cabanas with flowing curtains on a green lawn overlooking the sea, creating a serene lounging space at Beach Club 93
Unwind in style at Beach Club 93's luxurious cabanas, a perfect spot to enjoy the tranquil seaside atmosphere.

🧀 Mozzarella di Bufala: Cilento’s Iconic Taste

Vannulo Farm: Where Buffaloes are Treated Like Royalty 🌿🐃

At Tenuta Vannulo, buffaloes are more than livestock—they’re VIPs! The farm’s commitment to ethical care sets a new standard:

Free-Range Pastures: The buffaloes roam freely in lush fields.

Relaxing Music: Classical music plays to keep them calm.

Gentle Massages: Yes, these buffaloes even get massages!

Locals say these buffaloes live “la dolce vita,” which may be why Vannulo’s mozzarella is so indulgent and rich.

📜 Did You Know? Cilento’s buffalo mozzarella has D.O.P. status (Protected Designation of Origin), ensuring it’s crafted with top-quality standards and authenticity.

🍦 More Than Just Mozzarella

Buffalo milk yogurt – Rich and smooth, perfect for breakfast.

Buffalo milk gelato – An indulgent dessert with a creamy texture.

Buffalo enjoying a grooming session with large rotating brushes at Tenuta Vannulo, highlighting animal welfare on the farm.
Happy buffalo, quality mozzarella – Tenuta Vannulo ensures their buffalo are well cared for, a key to their renowned cheese.
Close-up of hands holding a large, braided mozzarella cheese, freshly made at Tenuta Vannulo.
Artisanal mozzarella at its finest – hand-braided and crafted with care at Tenuta Vannulo.
Display of historical dairy tools and equipment in a museum setting at Tenuta Vannulo, showcasing the heritage of mozzarella making.
Step back in time and explore the rich history of mozzarella making at Tenuta Vannulo’s on-site museum.

🍑 The White Fig of Cilento: A Golden Treasure

Santomiele Farm: Figs at Their Finest 🌳🍫

The White Fig of Cilento is a true delicacy, known as the Dottato fig. This variety, with its soft amber pulp and honey-like sweetness, is deeply cherished in Cilento.

The Santomiele farm has perfected fig production into an art form! Their “Fig in Wonderland” tour offers a memorable tasting journey:

Hand-Stuffed Figs: Try figs filled with almonds, citrus, or dark chocolate.

Fig Wrapping: For an aromatic twist, figs are wrapped in their own leaves, adding depth to every bite.

📜 Did You Know? The White Fig of Cilento holds D.O.P. status, honouring its traditional roots and ensuring high standards.

🍯 A Historical Delight

In ancient Rome, figs were seen as food for the gods, symbolising abundance and prosperity. Today, the White Fig of Cilento is enjoyed during the holiday season as a Christmas treat. Families gather to make torrone di fichi, a fig, honey, and almond confection that’s loved throughout Italy!

🍫 Tasting Tip: Pair figs with a drizzle of local honey and serve alongside almond biscotti for a truly Cilentan treat!

A tray of dried white figs from Cilento set against a scenic backdrop of rolling hills and mountains under a clear sky.
The prized dried white figs of Cilento – a traditional delicacy harvested and sun-dried amidst the stunning landscapes of southern Italy.

🪂 Flying Over Cilento: Between Sky, Earth, and Sea

🎈 Paestum International Hot Air Balloon Festival

Each year in September and October, the Paestum International Hot Air Balloon Festival brings vibrant color to the skies above the ancient ruins of Paestum. This enchanting event offers a chance to watch or join colorful balloons as they rise above the UNESCO World Heritage Site, providing a rare view of the archaeological park from above.

Festival Highlights 🎪🌤️

Balloon Flights: Choose between tethered flights for a quick lift or free flights for a full aerial experience.

Family Fun: Enjoy dedicated play areas for children, educational workshops, and street performances.

Local Delights: Explore craft and food markets offering regional specialties, from artisanal cheeses to handmade souvenirs.

📜 Did You Know? The festival attracts balloonists and enthusiasts from around the world, making it one of the most unique ways to see Paestum and its ancient temples.

Choose your flight style:

Tandem Flight: Share the experience with a loved one or a friend—it’s even an opportunity for a romantic high-altitude kiss!

Solo Flight for a personal, thrill-seeking adventure.

Family-Friendly: Fly with a child for an unforgettable shared memory.

Choose Your Style: Opt for sitting for comfort, the classic angel pose with arms outstretched, or go upside down if you’re up for a freestyle thrill!

🌅 Pro Tip: For an extra magical experience, try a sunset flight with views of the Gulf of Salerno bathed in golden light.

Close-up of two colorful hot air balloons in flight against a cloudy sky during the Capaccio hot air balloon festival.
Soar into the skies at Capaccio’s hot air balloon festival, where vibrant balloons fill the autumn air with color and adventure.

The Cilento Zipline: A Thrilling Ride with Spectacular Views 🌄🌊

Experience an exhilarating journey over the stunning landscapes of Cilento on the Cilento Zipline. From the Amalfi and Cilento Coasts to the Gulf of Salerno, the ancient site of Paestum, and even the island of Capri, the views are breathtaking as you fly across this unique stretch of sky.

Starting Point: Mount Cantenna, near Trentinara and Capaccio—close to the Paestum ruins

Height and Speed: Start at 593 meters above sea level and reach speeds of up to 120 km/h, soaring up to 300 meters above ground

Total Flight Distance: 1.5 kilometers, crossing two dramatic gorges over the Sele Plain

Accessibility: Elevator access at the starting ramp for those with mobility needs

Flight Options: Solo, Tandem, or Family Fun 👨‍👩‍👧💨

Choose your flight style:

Tandem Flight: Share the experience with a loved one or a friend—it’s even an opportunity for a romantic high-altitude kiss!

Solo Flight for a personal, thrill-seeking adventure.

Family-Friendly: Fly with a child for an unforgettable shared memory.

Choose Your Style: Opt for sitting for comfort, the classic angel pose with arms outstretched, or go upside down if you’re up for a freestyle thrill!

🌅 Pro Tip: For an extra magical experience, try a sunset flight with views of the Gulf of Salerno bathed in golden light.

A paraglider launching off a hillside in Cilento, Italy, with spectators watching and a vast landscape stretching out below.
Experience the thrill of paragliding in Cilento – take in breathtaking views from above as you glide over stunning Italian landscapes.
A coastal town with sandy beaches and verdant hills in Cilento, Italy, meeting the turquoise sea.
Explore Cilento’s charming seaside villages, where vibrant landscapes meet tranquil shores.
Mountainous landscape with lush greenery in Cilento, Italy, under a bright blue sky.
Discover the rugged beauty of Cilento’s mountainous terrain, perfect for scenic hikes and panoramic views.
Vineyard overlooking the sea in Cilento, Italy, with lush grapevines and a serene ocean view.
Sip and savour in Cilento’s wine country, where vineyards thrive against the backdrop of the Mediterranean.
Pristine beach in Pisciotta, Italy, with golden sand bordered by dense greenery and clear blue waters.
Unwind on Cilento’s unspoiled beaches, an ideal escape for sunseekers and nature lovers alike.

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