Cetara
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Latest page update: 1 February 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Sandwiched between Vietri sul Mare to its east and Erchie to its west, the gorgeous fishing village of Cetara is one of the highlights along the eastern section of the Amalfi Coast road.
As with so many towns and villages in Italy, Cetara is famous for a particular food that it produces which in this case is anchovies. As you walk up and down the main thoroughfare you'll find signs for "Alici di Cetara" (Anchovies from Cetara) with some shops solely selling anchovy-based products. |
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The focal point of the town is undoubtedly the beach area where depending on the time of year you'll either find fishing boats, sunbathers or a combination of both.
Just behind the beach there's a small cluster of bars and restaurants with more places to eat to be found along the main street that runs from the top of the town down to the beach. Other highlights of Cetara include its pretty, domed church as well as the fort that stares down onto the beach.
You can easily reach Cetara by car as it sits on the main Amalfi Coast Road while buses also run in both directions.
Just behind the beach there's a small cluster of bars and restaurants with more places to eat to be found along the main street that runs from the top of the town down to the beach. Other highlights of Cetara include its pretty, domed church as well as the fort that stares down onto the beach.
You can easily reach Cetara by car as it sits on the main Amalfi Coast Road while buses also run in both directions.
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Cetara: one of the Amalfi Coast's hidden gems
Cetara is a fishing town on the Amalfi Coast, near Salerno. It sits at the base of a steep hillside, facing the Mediterranean Sea. Its history dates back to the Middle Ages when it was part of the Duchy of Amalfi. It later became known for tuna fishing and the production of anchovy sauce.
The Church of San Pietro Apostolo stands in the center, with a bell tower and decorated interior. The Viceregal Tower, built in the 16th century, was used to defend against pirate attacks. A small beach sits near the harbor, where fishing boats are docked. Restaurants along the waterfront serve seafood and traditional dishes.
Nearby, Vietri sul Mare is known for its ceramic workshops. Amalfi, with its cathedral and maritime history, is a short drive away. Ferries connect Cetara to Salerno, Positano, and Capri. Hiking trails in the surrounding hills lead to viewpoints of the coastline.
The Church of San Pietro Apostolo stands in the center, with a bell tower and decorated interior. The Viceregal Tower, built in the 16th century, was used to defend against pirate attacks. A small beach sits near the harbor, where fishing boats are docked. Restaurants along the waterfront serve seafood and traditional dishes.
Nearby, Vietri sul Mare is known for its ceramic workshops. Amalfi, with its cathedral and maritime history, is a short drive away. Ferries connect Cetara to Salerno, Positano, and Capri. Hiking trails in the surrounding hills lead to viewpoints of the coastline.
Comune di Cetara
What are the best hotels in Cetara?
- Hotel Cetus: Perched on a cliff overlooking the Amalfi Coast, this 4-star hotel offers panoramic sea views, a private beach, and an on-site restaurant specializing in local seafood dishes.
- La Sorgente B&B: Located in the heart of Cetara, this bed and breakfast provides comfortable rooms with modern amenities and is just a short walk from the beach.
- A Pastaiola: This guesthouse offers cozy accommodations with a shared lounge and is praised for its friendly host and proximity to local attractions.
- Hotel Cetara - Albergo Diffuso: Offering a unique lodging experience, this hotel features rooms spread throughout the historic center of Cetara, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the local culture.
- B&B Lemons Coast: Set amidst lemon groves, this bed and breakfast provides a tranquil environment with sea-view terraces and easy access to hiking trails along the coast.
What's the best way to reach Cetara?
Cetara is accessible by various transport options. The nearest airport is Naples International Airport, about 60 kilometers away. From the airport, travelers can take a taxi, rent a car, or use a shuttle bus to Salerno for further connections.
By road, Cetara is reached via the SS163 Amalfi Drive, a scenic but winding coastal route. Parking is limited, especially during peak season.
There are no direct train services to Cetara. The nearest station is in Salerno, where travelers can continue by bus or ferry.
Ferry connections from Salerno provide a convenient and scenic way to reach Cetara, particularly in summer.
Local SITA buses connect Cetara with Salerno, Maiori, and Amalfi, offering a reliable but often crowded public transport option.
By road, Cetara is reached via the SS163 Amalfi Drive, a scenic but winding coastal route. Parking is limited, especially during peak season.
There are no direct train services to Cetara. The nearest station is in Salerno, where travelers can continue by bus or ferry.
Ferry connections from Salerno provide a convenient and scenic way to reach Cetara, particularly in summer.
Local SITA buses connect Cetara with Salerno, Maiori, and Amalfi, offering a reliable but often crowded public transport option.
Cetara Gallery
Where are the best places to eat in Cetara?
- Al Convento - Casa Torrente: A Bib Gourmand restaurant recognized by the Michelin Guide, offering Campanian and Mediterranean cuisine. The menu features dishes such as fried anchovies stuffed with smoked provolone cheese and spaghetti with local anchovy sauce. The restaurant boasts a frescoed dining room and an attractive terrace overlooking the village's small square.
- La Dispensa di Armatore: Specializing in seafood, this restaurant emphasizes sustainability and utilizes products like colatura di alici, bluefin tuna roe, and ventresca. The menu includes dishes such as marjoram risotto with squid ragout and bluefin tuna roe.
- Ristorante San Pietro: Located near the fishermen’s square, this establishment offers a seafood-focused menu with options like mixed seafood zuppa allo scoglio and risotto with homemade tuna roe. The ambiance is noted for its hospitality.
- La Cianciola: Since 1958, this restaurant has been serving creative interpretations of Amalfi Coast cuisine. Dishes include tuna panzanella with pickles, marinated anchovies, and tubettoni with fresh cherry tomatoes, anchovies, capers, and pine nuts.
- Cetara Punto e Pasta: A highly-rated restaurant known for its Italian and seafood dishes. Guests appreciate its cozy atmosphere and diverse menu offerings.
