Guests staying with us have one of Italy’s most fascinating archaeological sites just 30 minutes away by car: Paestum, home to three remarkably well-preserved Greek temples. It is one of the most rewarding day trips to take during your stay, perfect for a half-day combining sea and culture, or for a full day if you want to explore at a more leisurely pace.

What to see. The archaeological site can be explored on foot, walking among the Doric temples of the Temple of Neptune, the Basilica and the Temple of Ceres. Built more than 2,500 years ago by the Greek colonists who founded the city as Poseidonia, they are among the best-preserved temples in the world, and walking between their columns really does feel like stepping back in time. The route is flat and accessible, making it suitable for families with children and for anyone who prefers a relaxed visit. Just a short walk away is also the National Archaeological Museum, home to the famous Tomb of the Diver — one of the most extraordinary masterpieces of ancient Greek painting.

Tickets and opening hours. The archaeological park is open every day from 8:30 am to 7:30 pm (last admission to the archaeological area at 6:30 pm and to the museum at 7:00 pm). The ticket — €15 from March to November, €10 from December to February, free for visitors under 18 — is valid for 3 days and includes not only the museum and archaeological area of Paestum, but also admission to the archaeological site of Velia. This means you can visit both sites with the same ticket, even on different days. Advance booking is not required for a standard visit.

In summer. From June to August, the temples also come alive in the evening, with a programme of events worth checking if your stay falls during this period: concerts, theatre performances and guided tours under the stars as part of the Musica & Parole programme, culminating in the atmospheric Notte Bianca tra i Templi in mid-August, when the entire archaeological area remains open until late at night, with music, theatre and food experiences. It is a different and particularly atmospheric way to experience the site.

What to combine it with. Before heading back to the guesthouse, stop at one of the local dairies to taste freshly made Campania buffalo mozzarella PDO, a speciality genuinely produced locally. Alternatively, spend an hour on Paestum beach, with its fine sand, quite different from our more rocky coastline — a pleasant contrast to discover during your holiday, and a perfect way to cool off after walking among the temples.

How to get there. From Marina di Casal Velino, Paestum can be reached by following the coast northwards, in about 30 minutes by car. The route is straightforward and well signposted, but if you would like some extra information or advice on how to plan your day — where to park, when to go to avoid the crowds, or whether it is worth combining your visit with an evening event — you can always ask us when you are staying with us: we know the area well and are happy to help you plan your excursion.

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