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Getting Around Paestum

Getting Around Paestum

Paestum Campania, Italy Travel Guide

Public Transit Overview

Comprehensive overview of public transit systems.

Systems & Hubs

  • In Paestum, public transport mainly local bus services connecting the park with ancient ruins area with the modern town of Capaccio Scalo and nearby localities. Paestum does not have a metro or tram system.
  • The train (Trenitalia) is the main public transport link for visitors, connecting Paestum to Salerno, Naples, and other cities.
  • The Paestum train station is the important hub for incoming passengers and departures.

Train Efficiency

For reaching Paestum, train is in most cases the most efficient and recommended way to arrive from Salerno or Naples.

Walkable Sites

Once in Paestum, the archaeological park and museum are easily walkable from the train station.

Local Travel

For exploring beyond the park (beaches, buffalo farms), consider walking, cycling, or by means of a local bus or taxi. Download offline maps.

Accessibility & Tips

Accessibility Info
  • Trains generally have designated spaces for wheelchairs, but accessibility varies. Contact Trenitalia in advance.
  • Local buses might not be very accessible.
  • Historical park has some paved walkways, but much terrain is uneven. Museum generally more accessible.
Efficient Movement
  • Plan movements on Sundays/public holidays due to limited bus schedules.
  • Use Google Maps offline for navigation.
  • Consider cycling for flat areas to buffalo ranches and beaches.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

White, "TAXI" sign, meter inside. Find at station or call service.

Typical Fares

Metered pricing for rides. Confirm fixed rate for specific routes. Cash often preferred.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber not widely available in Paestum or most of Southern Italy. Free Now might be a possibility in larger towns.

Safety Tips

Use licensed taxis for safety and fair pricing. Confirm meter is on or agree on fare.

Rental Options

Renting an automobile or bike offers flexibility for exploring Paestum and the surrounding region.

Car Rental

  • Requirements: Generally 21+ (some 25+). Valid national driver's license, International Driving Permit (IDP) (non-EU), credit card for deposit.
  • Companies: Big multinational corporations like Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Enterprise, and Sixt. Local agencies could be an option.
  • Booking: Book in advance for better rates and availability, especially for peak season.
  • Insurance: Understand options (CDW, theft protection, personal accident). Consider purchasing full coverage for peace of mind.

Other Rentals

  • Motorcycle and scooter rentals: Available in some coastal towns near Paestum, less common directly in Paestum itself. Valid motorcycle license required. Helmets are mandatory.
  • Bicycle rentals: Local shops near the park with ancient ruins and in the modern town offer rentals.
  • This is a good option for exploring the flat surrounding areas, including routes to buffalo farms and the beaches.
  • Paestum does not have large-scale public bicycle systems.

Driving Rules & Parking

  • Driving Laws: Drive on the right. Seatbelts are required for all passengers.
  • Speed limits strictly enforced, often with speed cameras. Headlights must be on outside urban areas, even during the day.
  • Road Conditions: Main motorways are well-maintained. Secondary roads can be narrower and winding (Cilento National Park).
  • Parking: Pay parking areas are available near the Paestum Archaeological Park.
  • Blue lines indicate paid parking. White lines mean free parking (rare in tourist areas). Yellow lines indicate restricted parking.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly

The Paestum Archaeological Park is highly pedestrian-friendly, with designated paths. The modern part of Paestum is also suitable for walking.

Walking Tours

Many guided tours are available. Self-guided tours are easy with a map and information panels provided inside the park.

Cycling Safety

Flat roads around Paestum suit easy cycling. Be aware of traffic on main roads. Wearing a Helmet is recommended for safety.

Specialized Transportation

Paestum does not feature many unique ways of getting around.

Tour Buses & Shuttles

  • No hop-on-hop-off services are available specifically within Paestum.
  • Tour buses are common for day trips originating from Naples, Salerno, or the Amalfi Coast, bringing groups directly to the ancient site.
  • These are regularly part of organized excursions.

Limited Unique Options

  • Boat taxis are available in coastal towns along italy's Stunning Southern coastline, but not for travel to or from Paestum.
  • Cable cars, funiculars, or similar unique local transport are not applicable to Paestum.
  • No specific "no-go" areas for pedestrians or cyclists, but avoid cycling on major highways (autostrade).

Accessibility Services

Park Accessibility

The Paestum Archaeological Park has made efforts to improve accessibility with some surfaced trails and ramps.

Some areas might pose difficulties.

Museum Accessibility

The museum building is for the most part more accessible for travelers with mobility needs.

Easier navigating throughdoors.

Advance Planning

It's a good idea to contact the park directly for the most up-to-date accessibility information and to ask about particular routes or assistance available.

Advance planning facilitates a smoother visit.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Driving Laws
  • Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
  • Speed limits are strictly enforced, often with speed cameras.
  • Headlights must be on beyond the city limits, even during the day.
Road Conditions
  • Main motorways are well-maintained and offer good driving conditions.
  • Secondary roads can be narrower and winding, especially within the Cilento National Park.
  • Drivers throughout Italy can be pushy; anticipate quick maneuvers and close following.

No-Go Areas & Safety

  • There are no specific "no-go" areas in Paestum for safety reasons.
  • Exercise normal caution in poorly lit areas at night.
  • Avoid cycling on major highways (autostrade).
  • Stick to designated paths within the park with ancient ruins.
  • For train travel, arrive at the station at least 15-20 minutes before departure.
  • Be aware of platform changes.
  • Be sure to validate regional train tickets before boarding to prevent getting fined.
  • If traveling with mobility limitations, contact where you're staying and the park with ancient ruins in advance.

Final Transportation Tips

Utilize public transport for efficiency, especially trains for inter-city travel.

Consider car rental for exploring the broader region and off-the-beaten-path destinations.

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