Discover Salerno.
Set between the Mediterranean Sea and the hills of Campania, Salerno offers a historic city centre, a lively waterfront and a gateway to some of southern Italy’s most remarkable cultural landscapes.
A Mediterranean setting for ideas and discovery.
Salerno provides the setting for the 2027 GIG-ARTS School on Digital Governance. Located on the Tyrrhenian coast in southern Italy, the city combines a compact urban centre with a historic core, a long seafront promenade and views across the Gulf of Salerno.
Beyond the city, the wider Campania region brings together archaeological sites, historic towns, Mediterranean landscapes and distinctive cultural traditions. Salerno is a convenient base from which participants can discover these places before, during or after the School.
Whether you have a few free hours to explore the city or additional days to travel around the region, Salerno offers opportunities to combine academic exchange with cultural discovery.
A city best discovered on foot.
Salerno’s historic centre, gardens, waterfront and hilltop landmarks offer a range of experiences within and around the city. Here are four places worth adding to your itinerary.
History & culture
The old town and Duomo
Wander through the narrow streets of Salerno’s historic centre, where churches, traditional shops, small squares and cafés reflect the city’s layered history. The Cathedral of Saint Matthew, known as the Duomo di Salerno, is one of its most important landmarks, celebrated for its medieval architecture and historic crypt.
Sea & city life
Lungomare Trieste
Salerno’s waterfront promenade is a pleasant place for a walk, with sea views, palm trees and access to the rhythm of everyday city life. It is an easy way to enjoy the Mediterranean setting between activities, particularly around sunset.
Nature & heritage
Giardino della Minerva
This historic botanical garden occupies a series of terraces overlooking Salerno’s old town. Closely associated with the city’s medieval medical tradition, it offers a quieter perspective on Salerno’s cultural history, with cultivated plants, garden paths and views across the city.
Views & history
Castello di Arechi
Rising above the city, Arechi Castle offers a glimpse into Salerno’s medieval past and expansive views over the Gulf of Salerno. Its elevated setting makes it a rewarding excursion for visitors interested in history, landscapes and photography. Plan your visit around access arrangements and opening times.
Explore the wider Campania region.
Salerno also provides a starting point for discovering some of southern Italy’s best-known destinations. Ancient archaeological sites, historic cities and coastal towns offer different ways to experience the region’s history and landscape.
The Amalfi Coast
Famous for its dramatic cliffs, coastal villages and Mediterranean views, the Amalfi Coast is one of Campania’s defining landscapes. Positano and Amalfi are among its best-known destinations, offering historic streets, local food and spectacular scenery.
Coastal landscapes
Pompeii and Vesuvius
Preserved beneath volcanic ash after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79, Pompeii offers an extraordinary view of life in the Roman world. Its streets, houses and public buildings make the archaeological site a remarkable destination for anyone interested in history and heritage.
Archaeology & history
Paestum
South of Salerno, Paestum is renowned for its remarkably preserved ancient Greek temples and archaeological landscape. The site offers a distinctive perspective on the ancient history of southern Italy and is an excellent option for a cultural excursion.
Ancient Greek heritageThe regional capital is known for its historic centre, museums, architecture, food culture and lively urban atmosphere. Naples can be considered for an additional day trip or as part of a longer stay in Campania. Allow sufficient time to plan your journey and explore the city beyond its main landmarks.
Getting around and making the most of your stay.
Salerno’s transport connections make it possible to combine the School with visits to other parts of Campania. A little planning will help you make the most of your time in the region.
Arriving in Salerno
Salerno has a railway station with connections to other Italian cities, including Naples and Rome. Depending on your point of departure, rail travel may be a convenient way to reach the city. Check your complete journey before booking accommodation and travel.
Exploring the city
Many of Salerno’s central streets, shops, cafés and historic landmarks can be explored on foot. Comfortable walking shoes are useful, especially if you plan to visit the upper parts of the historic centre or Arechi Castle.
Regional excursions
Rail services are useful for destinations such as Naples, Pompeii and Paestum, although the appropriate route and connections depend on your destination. The Amalfi Coast can be reached by road and, when services operate, by sea from Salerno.
Visiting in February
The School takes place in winter, when conditions can be cooler and wetter than in the summer months. Coastal ferry services and some visitor attractions may operate on reduced schedules or close seasonally. Check current transport timetables, weather forecasts and opening hours before arranging excursions.
If you plan to visit places outside Salerno, check transport connections in advance and leave enough time to return for School activities. For excursions involving several destinations, consider whether a full day is needed. Travel times, fares, opening hours and seasonal services should be verified shortly before your visit.
Meet us by the sea.
The 2027 GIG-ARTS School on Digital Governance will take place at Polo Nautico Salerno, a hotel and conference venue situated directly on the Mediterranean waterfront. Its seaside setting provides a distinctive backdrop for the School’s academic programme and opportunities for exchange.
One setting for learning and exchange.
Polo Nautico Salerno combines accommodation and conference facilities in a seafront location. Participants will gather here for the School’s programme, discussions and shared activities, with the Mediterranean just outside.
The venue also offers a convenient option for participants who prefer to stay where the School takes place, helping to make it easier to move between sessions and time outside the programme.
Where should you stay?
We recommend considering Polo Nautico Salerno for your accommodation, as staying at the School venue can make participation more convenient. However, this is a recommendation rather than a requirement: Salerno offers other accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses and apartments in different parts of the city. Participants are welcome to compare options according to their budget, preferences and transport needs. Please check availability, room rates and booking conditions directly with your chosen accommodation provider.
A closer look at the venue
Discover the hotel’s seafront setting and the facilities that will host the School.
The venue and its Mediterranean setting
Spaces at Polo Nautico Salerno
Find the venue
Polo Nautico Salerno · Salerno, Italy
Open the map to plan your journey and check
directions before travelling.
A place to exchange ideas, discover new perspectives and experience Campania.
The GIG-ARTS School is an opportunity to connect with an international community working on digital governance. Salerno and its surroundings offer an additional setting for conversation, cultural discovery and experiences beyond the classroom. We look forward to welcoming participants to southern Italy in February 2027.