Paestum
Latest page update: 13 February 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The Paestum Archaeological Park is located in the Province of Salerno, 37 kilometres of the city of Salerno.
Since 1998 it has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site along with the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park, the archaeological site of Velia and the Certosa di Padula. Highlights nearby include Agropoli and the Cilento Coast. |
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Paestum: Ancient Greek temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Paestum is one of the most important archaeological sites in the country, renowned for its remarkably well-preserved ancient Greek temples. It is situated near the town of Capaccio, about 40 kilometers south of Salerno, and is easily accessible by car via the A3 motorway or by train on the Naples-Salerno-Reggio Calabria line.
Founded by Greek colonists in the 6th century BCE as Poseidonia, Paestum later became a Roman city, blending Greek and Roman cultural influences. The site is famous for its three majestic Doric temples: the Temple of Hera, the Temple of Athena, and the Temple of Neptune, considered masterpieces of ancient architecture.
Visitors can explore the adjacent Archaeological Museum, which houses artifacts like pottery, frescoes, and the famous Tomb of the Diver. Nearby, the Cilento National Park and the Amalfi Coast offer stunning natural landscapes and additional attractions.
Founded by Greek colonists in the 6th century BCE as Poseidonia, Paestum later became a Roman city, blending Greek and Roman cultural influences. The site is famous for its three majestic Doric temples: the Temple of Hera, the Temple of Athena, and the Temple of Neptune, considered masterpieces of ancient architecture.
Visitors can explore the adjacent Archaeological Museum, which houses artifacts like pottery, frescoes, and the famous Tomb of the Diver. Nearby, the Cilento National Park and the Amalfi Coast offer stunning natural landscapes and additional attractions.
Opening-times:
Tue - Sun: 08:30 - 19:30 Mondays: Closed Last admission: 18:50 |
Prices:
Park only: €5, Museum & Park: €6 (December to February) Park only: €8, Museum & Park: €12 (March to November) Museum only: €4 (Dec- Feb), €6 (March to November) |
Parco archeologico di Paestum
Province: Salerno
Region: Campania Historical period: Antiquity Recommended stay: Tenuta Duca Marigliano Boutique Hotel Close by: Agropoli, Battipaglia, Eboli, Santa Maria di Castellabate Nearest train station: Paestum |
What are the best hotels in Paestum?
- Savoy Hotel & Spa: A 5-star hotel located 700 meters from its private beach, offering spacious rooms with terraces or balconies overlooking the outdoor swimming pool or Paestum. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast and regional specialties at the on-site restaurant.
- Hotel Le Palme: Situated near the Cilento National Park and 1.9 miles from the archaeological area of Paestum, this hotel features a private beach area, outdoor pool, and lush garden. The seaside is 492 feet away, across the pine wood.
- Tenuta Duca Marigliano Boutique Hotel: A 19th-century estate turned boutique hotel, located just a few minutes' walk from the archaeological site in Paestum. The property offers beautifully furnished rooms blending past and present, set amidst the countryside of Cilento.
- Il Cannito: A beautifully converted farmhouse in the hills above Paestum, featuring four rooms with private terraces and a deck with a view. The hotel offers a swimming pool and an excellent restaurant open only to hotel guests.
- Borgo la Pietraia: A 12-room hotel perched on a hilltop overlooking the valley of Paestum and the ocean beyond. The hotel offers panoramic views, a large pool, and a restaurant specializing in classical Cilentan cooking.
What's the best way to reach Paestum?
Paestum is easily accessible by various means of transportation. The nearest airport is Naples International Airport (Aeroporto di Napoli-Capodichino), about 1.5 hours away by car. From the airport, you can take a taxi or drive via the A3 highway. Paestum also has a railway station with regular train services connecting it to major cities like Naples, Salerno, and other parts of the region.
The train ride from Naples to Paestum takes around 1.5 hours. Local buses are available from Salerno and Battipaglia, offering convenient connections to Paestum. Additionally, the town is easily reachable by car, as it is located along the SS18 coastal road, which connects it to other towns along the Tyrrhenian coast.
The train ride from Naples to Paestum takes around 1.5 hours. Local buses are available from Salerno and Battipaglia, offering convenient connections to Paestum. Additionally, the town is easily reachable by car, as it is located along the SS18 coastal road, which connects it to other towns along the Tyrrhenian coast.
Paestum Gallery
Where are the best places to eat in Paestum?
- Tre Olivi: A two-Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative approach to Campanian cuisine, offering a tasting menu that showcases local ingredients with modern techniques.
- Da Nonna Sceppa: Celebrated for its traditional Mediterranean dishes, this restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and is renowned for its seafood specialties.
- Osteria Arbustico: Known for its modern cuisine, this establishment offers a menu that highlights local ingredients and innovative preparations.
- Le Trabe: Located within Tenuta Capodifiume, this restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a focus on local produce and traditional flavors.
- Casa Coloni: Situated within the Tenuta Duca Marigliano Boutique Hotel, this restaurant offers a contemporary dining experience with a menu that reflects the rich culinary heritage of the region.