In the southern region, not far from Naples, one of the must-see events in November 2025 is the "Luci d'Artista" in Salerno. This festival features artistic illuminations that transform the city's streets, squares, and gardens, with themes that change each year. These themes range from children's fairy tales to local attractions, maritime myths, and the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, among others. While enjoying a stroll through the enchanting lights of this Christmas celebration, you can also take in the stunning skyline and the picturesque gulf from the City Eye Ferris wheel. Every year, local and national artists illuminate squares, streets, and historic monuments, creating a vibrant open-air museum. With interactive installations, light sculptures, and themed routes, visitors can enjoy the beauty of the lights while discovering Salerno's hidden historical and artistic treasures.
Salerno has also a long and rich culinary tradition, making it an ideal destination for food lovers. Typical Salernitan cuisine showcases fresh seafood from the coast and notable pasta dishes like scialatielli ai frutti di mare. It's a quick and easy recipe, a symbol of the Salerno summer, where the flavor of homemade pasta perfectly complements the freshness and sweetness of seafood—mussels, clams, shrimp, and calamari. The pasta shape known as "scialatielli" was created by Chef Cosentino in 1978, earning him the Entremetier of the Year award. Other local specialties include various seafood dishes, homemade pasta, and regional wines such as Falanghina. Additionally, pizza and gelato are popular options, with recommendations for Saporito for pizza and Bar Nettuno for gelato. Suggestions on other specialities and where to eat them below.
Zizzona from Battipaglia
It is one of the most famous and appreciated dairy products of Salerno and the entire province. The "Zizzona" from Battipaglia, made famous by the film "Welcome to the South," is a large buffalo mozzarella with a distinctive shape reminiscent of a full breast. Usually larger than traditional mozzarella, it is bright white in color and juicy in flavor. It pairs well with many dishes but can also be enjoyed on its own.
Pizza Carmine
Pizza in Salerno is slightly different from the typical Neapolitan version, being thin and with a thick crust. The "Carmine" pizza is one of the most popular in the city, along with the traditional Margherita. It takes its name from Carmine Donadio, owner of the "Carminuccio" pizzeria located in the popular, somewhat outlying neighborhood of Mariconda, considered by many to be the best pizza in the city. Its toppings include tomato, cheese, diced pancetta, and basil.
Scazetta
Sweets play an essential role in the culinary tradition of Campania, and one noteworthy dessert in Salerno is the famous "scazzetta." This delightful specialty is crafted by the "Pantaleone" pastry shop, located in the heart of the city’s historic center. The scazzetta is simple yet delicious, made with just a few ingredients: sponge cake, cream, wild strawberries, and a red glaze. It is named after the dialect term for the ceremonial headdress that cardinals receive from the pope during their investiture.
Fried Cuoppo
Fried cuoppo flavia is a typical street food from Campania, and it is considered the undisputed king of street food in Salerno. This dish is a cone filled with an assortment of fried seafood, ranging in size and brimming with various options. As you stroll through the streets of downtown Salerno, you'll inevitably encounter vendors selling fried cuoppo, which typically includes anchovies, shrimp, calamari, and a mix of other seafood, all breaded and fried to perfection. This popular street food is loved by locals and visitors alike, and it is usually available for just a few euros.
Salerno features a number of fabulous restaurants but have a look at Ristorante Cicirinella, known for its version of Scialatielli ai frutti di mare and probably one of the most elegant version of Pizza Fritta with Shrimp and Caviar! Or Osteria Canali, known for its Slow Food events and if you like nutty flavors try their Spaghetto alla Nocciola at Hostaria il Brigante - with an attached Agriturismo.
Write a comment