Amalfi Coast
Cetara
The fishing village. The authentic soul of the Amalfi Coast.
The Soul of the Coast
Cetara is the authentic soul of the Amalfi Coast. Situated at the foot of Monte Falerio, this small gem has preserved intact its charm as a fishing village, resisting the transformations of mass tourism. Here time is marked by the return of traditional fishing boats and the scent of the sea.
Unlike larger cities, Cetara is explored slowly. The village is a labyrinth of alleys that all converge towards the marina, where you can still see the authentic movement of traditional fishing today.
Did you know?
1,000+
barrels of colatura mature each year
2010
year colatura received PDO certification
8-10
minimum months of fermentation for PDO
Colatura di alici inherits the tradition of garum, the Roman fish liquid that flavoured all dishes. Cetara is still the only place in the world where this ancient technique is practiced industrially.
What to See in Cetara
The Royal Tower
Symbol of the village, this Angevin tower served to defend the population from Saracen raids. Today, after careful restoration, it hosts the Civic Museum of the Tower with works by local painters and the Museum of the Cellar, dedicated to the fishing tradition.
Church of San Pietro Apostolo
The spiritual heart of Cetara. Its dome covered with majolica stands out among the white houses, while the baroque interior and the 12th-century bell tower testify to the historical importance of the village.
The Port and Waterfront
Cetara's port is one of the most active on the coast. Walking along the pier allows you to see up close the cianciare (boats used for anchovy fishing) and enjoy an overview of the village rising up the hill.
Cetara's Beaches
The beaches here are characterized by deep, clean waters, thanks to the currents of the Gulf of Salerno.
Spiaggia della Marina
Located right at the foot of the village, it is the most convenient and frequented, surrounded by coloured houses and dominated by the Tower.
Spiaggia di Porto
A small strip of sand and pebbles located behind the pier, perfect for a quick swim in crystal-clear water.
Spiaggia di Lannari
A wild cove accessible via a long staircase along the Amalfi State Road, ideal for those seeking tranquility and emerald-green sea.
Gastronomy: The Gold of Cetara
Cetara is the gastronomic capital of the Amalfi Coast. Its fame is linked to two products of excellence.
Colatura di Alici (PDO)
An amber liquid obtained by fermenting anchovies under salt in wooden barrels (terzigni). It is the main ingredient of spaghetti alla cetarese and obtained Protected Designation of Origin status in 2010. Learn more about colatura.
Red Tuna
Cetara's fleet is among the most important in the Mediterranean for tuna fishing, which is processed artisanally following recipes passed down through generations.
How to Get There
By Ferry ⭐
Travelmar Seasonal
Connection with Salerno, Vietri, Maiori, Minori, Amalfi (verify times).
SITA Bus
20-30 minutes from Salerno
Salerno-Amalfi line regularly stops in Cetara.
By Car
Second municipality from Salerno
Public parking near the port (paid, limited).