The Luci d’Artista light show is now a regular event in Salerno during the Christmas period and beyond. This show isn't simply made up of lights, but actual illuminated art installations that create a magical atmosphere throughout the city. The show brings in thousands of visitors from every corner of the region of Campania and beyond.
Here is some useful information to help you plan your visit to the Luci d’Artista in Salerno during the Christmas holidays.
When is the Luci d’Artista in Salerno held?
The famous lights of Salerno are turned on at the end of November and remain on until the end of January. In 2024, the lighting ceremony is scheduled for Friday, November 29. These illuminated art installations decorating the city of Salerno are turned on after dark, usually around five in the afternoon, and remain on until late at night.
The display of light installations and projections is open to the public and no ticket is required.
At the beginning of December, the traditional Christmas tree in Piazza Portanova is also lit up.
Things to do in Salerno during Luci d'Artista
During the Christmas period, in addition to the light displays and projections in the city squares, the city of Salerno also organizes traditional Christmas markets with typical food products, local crafts, decorations, and gifts. The stalls are set up along the Trieste seafront and in other areas of the city.
Given the mild climate that usually remains at this time of year in Salerno and the surrounding area, your trip to see the Luci d’Artista can also be combined with other events and activities. You could visit the Cathedral of Salerno, which dates back to the 11th century, as well as Arechi Castle, which is also from the medieval period. You could also book a guided tour to discover the historic center.
A trip to the Amalfi Coast
Salerno is also a good starting point for excursions to the nearby Amalfi Coast, getting there by car or public transport. Vietri sul Mare is the closest town, with Amalfi and Positano just a few dozen kilometers away.
Sea crossings are limited during the winter months, but you can also reach the Amalfi Coast by bus. A private transfer is also an option, especially if you have little time and if you're traveling with your family.
If you're thinking of visiting the Luci d'Artista at the end of the year, you can participate in the New Year's Eve party that is traditionally held in Piazza della Libertà, with music, a midnight toast, and fireworks.
What is the best itinerary to see all the installations during Luci d’Artista?
The artistic light installations wind throughout Salerno, and it's impossible to see them all in the course of just one walk. If you'd like to see the entire display, the ideal situation is to stay overnight at least one night so you have enough time to explore the different neighborhoods.
Itinerary to see the lights with an approximately three-hour walk
Start from the station in Piazza della Concordia (where the trains from Naples, the subway, and the Arechi parking lot shuttles arrive), and walk along Corso Vittorio Emanuele, the main shopping street. A must-see is Piazza Portanova, where the large Christmas tree is installed.
From here, walk into the medieval historic center, along the historic Via Mercanti. With a small detour you'll reach the cathedral (Duomo) of Salerno and the temple of Pomona. Head back to Via dei Mercanti and continue until you reach Piazza Largo Campo, which is the heart of Salerno's nightlife.
Once you're out of the historic center you'll reach Villa Comunale, where every year an enchanted garden with artistic lights is created. Continue your walk by heading back along the seafront to stroll through the Christmas markets up to Piazza Flavio Gioia.
A tasty break
Along the road you'll encounter lots of tempting street food, such as cuoppo di pesce fritto (fried fish), pizza a portafoglio (folded pizza), or a classic Italian-style mixed seafood fry.
You can also taste the typical Christmas sweets, such as struffoli and chocolate mostaccioli.
Getting to Salerno for Luci d’Artista
Given the large turnout and heavy traffic, getting to Salerno by public transport can be a good option.
The easiest transport is the high-speed train, which connects Salerno with Naples, Rome, and many other large Italian cities. Salerno's train station is located right in the center of the city and it's an easy walk from there to see the various installations.
An alternative for those coming from far away is the Salerno Costa d'Amalfi airport, which recently opened to commercial flights. The airport is about 40 minutes by bus from the city center.
Speaking of buses, Salerno is connected to several cities in Italy also with buses from different companies, such as Itabus and Flixbus.
If you travel by car, keep in mind that during the entire period of the Luci d'Artista it's very complicated to find parking and there's always a lot of traffic in the city center. The best option is to park at the Arechi rest area, near the highway exit, and from there take the subway, which offers an extended service for the entire duration of the Luci d'Artista event. If you plan to stay overnight in Salerno, choose a hotel with its own parking or an affiliated parking garage. In the Mercatello area there's also a camper area near a subway stop.
Staying overnight in Salerno
Staying a night or two in Salerno is an excellent idea during the light festival, giving you time to visit the installations and the main sights in the city and even take a side trip to the Cilento or the Amalfi Coast. There are a number of new and renovated hotels in town, though we recommend avoiding the busiest roads in the historic center, which can be noisy during the holiday weekends.
FAQ - Frequently asked questions
Is a ticket required to see the Luci d'Artista?
No ticket is required to see the Luci d'Artista; the event is free and open to the public.
Is Luci d'Artista suitable for children?
The Luci d'Artista event is suitable for all ages, and there are many light installations designed especially for children.
However, keep in mind that there will be crowds as well as traffic and parking difficulties.
Where can I park for Luci d'Artista?
If you're not staying overnight, we recommend parking at Arechi Stadium and using public transport to reach the center, as parking inside the city can be difficult during the period when Luci d'Artista is taking place.
Where is Luci d'Artista, and how long does it take to visit?
The Luci d'Artista light installations are distributed throughout the center of Salerno, including public squares, streets and gardens. The main installations are at Villa Comunale, Piazza Portanova, and Corso Vittorio Emanuele. Visiting the installations in the historic center area takes about three hours. If you want to visit the lights throughout the city at your own pace, we recommend staying overnight.