Salerno is definitely less dangerous than Naples. I duly recommend it to use it as a base for touring around the area (1 day in Pompei, 1 day on the Amalfi Coast, 1 day in Capri). Salerno has nothing really special to offer, but is quieter than Naples and from the train station to the hostel is a nice walk. From Salerno Harbour leaves boats to the Amalfi coast and Capri (2 different boats leaving from 2 different parts of the harbour). The train to Pompei is a 20 minute journey.
I spent several days in Naples, and thought it charming and with fantastic food. It was more earthy and simple than the bigger tourist destinations, but with lots of zip and flavor. Yes, the men were forward, but there were also some very helpful people who gave me directions and tips while I was exploring.
I met up with a load of guys who were going down to Willys Pub in Amalfi. We had a fantastic night people there from all over the world and the drinks were reasoably priced. I would recommend the pub to anyone who likes a good night out and a drink.
Alot of people just do a day trip to Amalfi, but you need to see the place at night. When it becomes illuminated, it gives off a pink glow. Some of the best Limoncello in Italy is coming out of Amalfi, and some places will even take you into the basements of their shops and see how it is made. The beach is not as great for swimming as you would expect from such a beautiful coastline, but it is swimmable -- when you are in the water be sure to turn around and look at the coast and the town behind you. And although this seems a little shady, there will be women walking on the beach offering massages, but its harmless and worth it. For a reasonable price, my friend and I each got a massage for about half an hour. Just make sure they go easy on the massage oil.
Salerno is a great base for exploring the Amalfi coast. Accommodation is fairly reasonable. It is a small town, but the shopping really is fantastic and the small streets lined with restaurants, cafes, and a moutainous background give you an awesome vibe. On the beach at night (the end of town away from the main train station) there are bonfires, music, and things like beach volleyball. There is also a kind of "boardwalk" (well a sidewalk) along the water that gets kind of lively at night. Vendors set up their stands and kids are playing and they roast corn on the cob (very strange for Italians but it's good) and it's just a fun place to meet young people if that's what you want.
This is my new favorite place in Europe. Everything you've read about how beautiful Positano is is completely true. I loved walking down to the sea and stopping at the bar at the bottom and having a glass of wine and fresh green olives. Never mind that famous people like Howie Mandel are eating two tables away. It's the town itself and the views that are the real stars.
I have visited Sorrento twice. I absolutely love it there, it is one of my favourite places in the whole world. I would strongly reccomend anyone to visit Sorrento and the surrounding area, as it is beautiful and the culture is fantastic! I can't wait to go back!
Don't believe those who say Naples is not worth seeing -- it' s one of the most charming cities in Europe. Don't miss it!
Sorrento is class! Had the best holiday ever there. Food is really nice too!
Positano is glamorous -- just as it is in the movies.
Naples is dirty, it is seedy, and the men are relentless! I would not recommend Napels, especially if you have limited travel time. AND BE CAREFUL OF THIEVES.
Naples was very seedy and dirty. If you're going to stay on the Amalfi Coast, pick a different city. It was expensive and I did not feel very safe there. When I return to Italy I do not plan on going back here.
Hostelz.com is the only hostel guide with complete information and reviews on all youth hostels and backpackers worldwide.
