Cava de’ Tirreni

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Cava de’ Tirreni's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrive in Cava de’ Tirreni
morning
:

After arriving in the charming town of Cava de’ Tirreni, settle into your accommodation and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Savor a traditional Italian cappuccino paired with a fresh pastry as you take in the views of the surrounding hills. Spend the rest of the morning wandering the narrow streets and discovering quaint shops and local artisans.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the stunning Monastery of Santa Maria al Rifugio, where you can appreciate the peaceful ambiance and remarkable architecture. After a guided tour, enjoy a light lunch at a nearby trattoria, sampling local dishes like pasta with seafood or fresh mozzarella. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the Cathedral of Sant'Adelaide, immersing yourself in its rich history.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant for dinner and indulge in a feast of traditional Campanian cuisine. Savor regional specialties like eggplant parmesan or gnocchi, paired with a glass of local wine. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the town, enjoying the warm atmosphere and perhaps catching a live performance in one of the squares.

day 2
Explore the Old Town
morning
:

Start your day with an authentic breakfast in the heart of the Old Town, delighting in local pastries and coffee. Then embark on a guided walking tour that introduces you to the rich history of Cava de’ Tirreni, including the fascinating tales of its medieval past. Make sure to take your time to admire the unique architecture and the vibrant murals adorning the buildings.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a charming bistro, head to the nearby Valle delle Ferriere, a lush nature reserve with stunning walking trails. Enjoy a trek through the lush forests, discovering picturesque waterfalls and ancient ruins along the way. Allow yourself to be enveloped in the tranquility of nature as you explore this enchanting environment.

evening
:

As night falls, return to the town for dinner at a family-run restaurant known for its warm hospitality. Experience the ambiance and flavors of homemade pasta dishes while chatting with locals about their favorite hidden gems in the area. Afterwards, enjoy a gelato from a popular gelateria as you wander the illuminated streets.

day 3
Cultural Immersion in Cava de’ Tirreni
morning
:

Begin your day by visiting the local market, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and sample fresh produce, cheeses, and cured meats. Take your time interacting with the friendly vendors and picking out ingredients for your own Italian cooking class later in the week. Afterward, enjoy a café con latte in a bustling piazza as you watch the town come alive.

afternoon
:

Attend a cooking class where you can learn how to prepare traditional Campanian dishes under the guidance of a local chef. Relish the experience of creating fresh pasta, sauces, and desserts from scratch, paired with regional wines. After enjoying your delicious meal, take a leisurely stroll through town to appreciate the artistic showcases found in galleries along the way.

evening
:

For dinner, visit a nearby pizzeria known for its authentic Neapolitan pizza. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and indulge in a classic margherita pizza with fresh basil and mozzarella, all cooked in a wood-fired oven. Cap your evening with a visit to a local bar to sample some local craft beers or wines while mingling with the locals.

day 4
Visit Historical Sites
morning
:

Start off with breakfast at a local pizzeria, sampling a traditional pastry called 'sfogliatella'. Following the meal, head out to explore the ancient ruins of the old paper mill in Cava, which gives insight into the town's history and its importance in paper production during medieval times. Stroll along the scenic paths that surround these historical sites, filled with olive trees and stone structures.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the stunning Church of San Francesco and its adjoining cloister, where you can appreciate the tranquility of the gardens and the stunning frescoes. Spend some time contemplating the architecture and artistic work before heading to the Caves of Castelcivita for a guided tour. Marvel at the impressive stalactites and stalagmites while learning about the geological history of the region.

evening
:

For dinner, discover a local osteria famous for its hearty southern Italian fare. Try traditional dishes like pastiera or a hearty meat ragu as you unwind after a day of exploration. Wrap up the night with a visit to a local wine bar, choosing from a selection of regional wines to enjoy while listening to live music.

day 5
Art and Nature Day
morning
:

Spend your morning at the Museum of Cava de' Tirreni, where you can explore various exhibits showcasing local art and history. Marvel at the artworks and artifacts that reflect the region's rich cultural heritage. Afterwards, enjoy a coffee at the museum café, reflecting on the artistic journey you just experienced.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head to the Natural Park of Cilento and Vallo di Diano for a breath of fresh air and stunning landscapes. Engage in activities such as hiking or bird-watching, surrounded by diverse flora and fauna. Make sure to bring a packed lunch to enjoy amidst nature's beauty.

evening
:

As you return to Cava de’ Tirreni, treat yourself to dinner at a local farm-to-table restaurant that specializes in using fresh, local ingredients. Engage with the chef and learn about their cooking philosophy while enjoying dishes made from the day's harvest. Spend your evening admiring the stars in a quiet spot overlooking the town, a perfect end to a day filled with inspiration.

day 6
Coastal Relaxation in Vietri sul Mare
morning
:

Take a short trip to the nearby town of Vietri sul Mare, renowned for its beautiful ceramics and stunning coastline. Start with breakfast at a local café, indulging in delicious treats while enjoying the sea views. Visit one of the ceramics workshops to see local artisans at work and maybe even pick up a unique souvenir.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon relaxing on the sandy beaches of Vietri, basking in the sun and taking a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean Sea. For lunch, try a beachside eatery serving fresh fish and seafood pasta. Consider renting a kayak or paddleboard for some fun on the water, exploring the coastline from a different perspective.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, take a stroll along the vibrant seafront promenade before settling down for dinner at a beach restaurant. Enjoy the locals' specialties while watching the sunset over the horizon. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely evening walk on the beach, listening to the waves and soaking in the tranquility of the sea.

day 7
Hiking and Adventure
morning
:

Prepare for an adventurous day filled with hiking as you breakfast at your accommodation. Head out early to explore one of the nearby trails leading through the breathtaking landscapes of the Monti Lattari mountains. Traverse through lush forests and wildflowers, immersing yourself in nature as you hike towards an impressive viewpoint.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a packed lunch at the summit, taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding regions and the breathtaking coastline below. After your meal, descend via a different route that offers unique perspectives of the mountain range. Set aside some time to visit a local vineyard for a wine tasting that showcases the flavors of the area.

evening
:

Return to Cava de’ Tirreni for a comforting dinner at a rustic tavern, where you can share your adventures over hearty traditional dishes. Engage with the locals, who can share insights about the best hikes and hidden gems in the area. End your day with a night walk to the nearby view point, soaking in the tranquil evening atmosphere.

day 8
Last Day Reflections
morning
:

On your last morning, take a reflective stroll around the town before breakfast, absorbing the sights and sounds of Cava de’ Tirreni one last time. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your favorite café, cherishing the familiar flavors as you plan your departure. Visit any last-minute spots you may have missed or simply soak up the atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Spend your final afternoon picking up souvenirs or homemade crafts as mementos of your trip. Enjoy a light lunch in view of the town, reminiscing about your adventures over the past ten days. Take this time to relax and appreciate your experience before saying goodbye to this beautiful part of Italy.

evening
:

As your stay comes to a close, indulge in a farewell dinner at a top-rated restaurant, savoring the flavors you’ve grown to love. Share stories with fellow travelers or your new friends from Cava de’ Tirreni. Conclude the evening by enjoying a nightcap at a local bar, leaving with lasting memories of your time in this picturesque Italian town.

Discover Cava de’ Tirreni

Read more in our Cava de’ Tirreni 2025 Travel Guide.

Cava de’ Tirreni Travel Guide