About 35 minutes by car from Marina di Casal Velino lies Castellabate, one of the most picturesque villages in Cilento, made famous throughout Italy by the film "Benvenuti al Sud". Its medieval historic centre, perched on a hill overlooking the gulf, and the seaside district of Santa Maria di Castellabate, with its seafront promenade and small harbour, together form one of the most popular destinations along the coast.

What to see. In the upper village, a walk through the narrow streets leads to the Belvedere di San Costabile, a panoramic terrace offering views stretching from Punta Licosa to Capo Palinuro on the clearest days. It is also an ideal starting point for exploring the medieval centre and the Castello dell'Abate. Heading down towards the sea, in Santa Maria di Castellabate you will find the Lungomare Perrotti, the tower bearing the same name, and the Church of Santa Maria a Mare, with its distinctive bell tower.

When to go. On summer evenings, between 7:30 and 8:30 pm, the Belvedere di San Costabile offers one of the most photographed sunsets in Cilento — it is worth planning your visit around this time. The historic centre cannot be reached by car: leave your vehicle in one of the paid car parks near the Belvedere and continue on foot for just a few minutes.

What to combine it with. From Santa Maria di Castellabate, you can easily continue towards San Marco, with its marina, or stop at one of the seafront restaurants to taste local specialities such as "alici 'mbuttunate", a traditional Cilento dish of stuffed anchovies. The area is also connected by sea by the Metrò del Mare services, which depart from Casal Velino itself.

How to get there. From Marina di Casal Velino, Castellabate can be reached in about 45 minutes by car by following the coast northwards — a perfect half-day trip, perhaps ending with sunset at the Belvedere.

There is so much more to see and do in Cilento: discover all the other destinations and experiences in the area.