Key Facts about Vietri sul Mare, Italy

Location

Vietri sul Mare sits at the gateway to the Amalfi Coast, in the Campania region of southern Italy. Overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, it’s just a few kilometers from Salerno and about 55 km from Naples — making it an ideal first stop for travelers exploring the Amalfi coastline.

Known for

Vietri sul Mare is renowned as the ceramics capital of Italy, famous for its hand-painted majolica tiles that decorate everything from church domes to shopfronts. Beyond its craftsmanship, Vietri charms visitors with pastel-colored houses, clifftop views, and a relaxed, authentic atmosphere compared to its glitzier Amalfi neighbors.

Best Time to Visit

• April–June: Perfect for warm weather, blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds.

• July–August: Peak beach season with lively coastal energy.

• September–October: Ideal for pleasant weather and cultural events.

Local Language

Italian (English is commonly understood in tourist areas).

Currency

Euro (€).

Getting There

• By air: Fly into Naples International Airport (NAP) and drive or take a train to Vietri (about 1.5 hours).

• By train: Regular routes from Naples and Salerno stop at Vietri sul Mare-Cetara Station.

• By car: Accessible via the A3 motorway, exit at Vietri sul Mare.

• By ferry: Seasonal ferries connect nearby towns along the Amalfi Coast.

Top Attractions

• Villa Comunale di Vietri: A panoramic garden with sea views and colorful tiled benches.

• Church of San Giovanni Battista: Features an iconic majolica-tiled dome visible from across the town.

• Museo della Ceramica: Located in Villa Guariglia, showcasing centuries of ceramic artistry.

• Marina di Vietri Beach: The main beach with clear waters and charming coastal cafés.

• Raito Village: A quiet hillside hamlet with breathtaking views of the Amalfi coastline.

Local Specialties

• Ceramiche Vietresi: Hand-painted pottery and tiles — the town’s signature craft.

• Seafood pasta: Especially scialatielli ai frutti di mare, a regional favorite.

• Delizia al limone: A lemon-scented sponge dessert typical of the Amalfi Coast.

• Limoncello: The famous lemon liqueur made with Amalfi lemons.

Notable Events

• Festa della Madonna dell’Arco (April): A traditional religious procession through the streets.

• Ceramics Festival (August): Celebrates local artisans with open studios, workshops, and exhibitions.

• Feast of San Giovanni Battista (June 24): The village’s main festival honoring its patron saint with parades and fireworks.