Cilento (often referring to Cilento e Vallo di Diano National Park in southwest Italy, sometimes including nearby areas) is packed with beaches, ancient sites, hill towns, and great hikes. Here are the main things to see, grouped by area:
Coastal highlights (Cilento coast)
Paestum (UNESCO) – one of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world (near the town of Paestum/Capaccio). – Velia / Elea (UNESCO) – impressive Greek-Roman ruins with scenic views. – Marina di Camerota – lively coastal base for exploring nearby coves. – Cala Bianca (Marina di Camerota) – a standout beach with turquoise water. – Policastro Bussentino / Scario / San Giovanni a Piro area – quieter stretches of coast and sea viewpoints. – Acciaroli – a classic “old-school” seaside town, often used as a base for boat trips. – Ascea Marina – beaches plus the archaeological area of Elea/Ascea depending on where you base. – San Marco di Castellabate & Castellabate – pretty medieval setting + access to coves along the coast.
Inland and “hill town” atmosphere
Vallo della Lucania – good for markets and as a gateway town. – Teggiano – historic center; great if you want less beach and more medieval character. – Perdifumo, Castelnuovo Cilento, Montecorice – charming villages and viewpoints. – Astelamo / Certosa di Padula area (nearby) – the famous Certosa di San Lorenzo (Padula Charterhouse) is a major “wow” site.
Cilento is a pristine, rugged region south of the Amalfi Coast. It offers spectacular Greek ruins, world-famous buffalo mozzarella, and crowd-free beaches. Top highlights include exploring the ancient temples at Paestum, discovering sea caves in Palinuro, and enjoying locally made delicacies. Key Things to Do & See :
- Wander Ancient Ruins: Visit the UNESCO-listed Paestum Archaeological Park to see three of the world’s best-preserved Greek temples, dating back to 550 BC. You can also explore the ancient Greek settlement of Velia, the birthplace of the Eleatic school of philosophy.
- Relax on Unspoiled Beaches: Take a boat tour from Marina di Camerota to secluded spots like Cala Bianca, or visit the dramatic cliffs and the Blue Cave (Grotta Azzurra) in Palinuro.
- Taste Local Specialties: Visit a traditional buffalo farm—such as Tenuta Vannulo near Paestum—to see how world-class buffalo mozzarella is made. Cilento is also known for its DOP white figs, which you can sample or buy on a tour at Santomiele.
- Explore Medieval Hilltop Villages: Wander the cobblestone streets and visit the castle of Castellabate or explore the abandoned ghost town of Roscigno Vecchia.
- Tour the National Park: The Cilento, Vallo di Diano and Alburni National Park offers endless hiking opportunities, underground karst systems at the Pertosa-Auletta Caves, and the majestic Certosa di San Lorenzo di Padula, one of Europe’s largest monasteries.
Nature & beaches
Cilento National Park viewpoints and trails – you’ll find many hikes from easy to challenging. – Caves and coastal geology (depending on season/conditions) – some areas have boat-access coves and grottos. – Swim spots in coves like Cala del Cefalo (near San Nicola / Marina di Camerota area) and other smaller beaches around the coast.
Boat trips (highly recommended) – If you’re on the coast, consider a boat tour for: Hidden coves and beach caves – Stops at multiple beaches in a day – Sea views of cliffs and promontories
Best “first picks” if you have limited time
1. Paestum (Greek temples) – 2. Velia / Elea = 3. Marina di Camerota + Cala Bianca (or similar nearby beaches) – 4. Castellabate / San Marco – 5. Certosa di Padula (if you can do inland)
