Avellino
Avellino, Italy
Enthusiasts of World War II history may recognized Avellino as the site of an important Allied attack to cut off retreating German troops in 1943, but today this modern city, set just outside the Monti Picentini Regional Park in the Apennine Mountains, is known primarily for its lovely alpine views and excellent food and wine.
The basics
The Picentini Mountains are a popular summer respite from the heat and crowds of Campania’s coastline. Many visitors stop in the city of Avellino to tour the city’s cathedral and remains of the Lombard Castle in Piazza Castello (Castle Square), as well as stroll the pedestrian main thoroughfare or hike to the Montevergine Sanctuary.
The countryside surrounding the city is famous for its truffles and excellent rustic cuisine, and joining a truffle hunt or food and wine tour is the ideal way to discover Avellino’s gastronomic delights.
Things to know before you go
- A day in Avellino and the Monti Picentini Regional Park can be a welcome break from the busy city of Naples for kids.
- You’ll want to capture the views of the surrounding alpine countryside from Avellino, so don’t forget your camera.
- Truffle hunts and food and wine tours generally require outdoor walking, so wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.
- Many culinary tours in the countryside outside Avellino are not wheelchair accessible, so confirm in advance.
How to get there
Avellino is located along the Sabato River about an hour east of Naples and about two hours east of Sorrento. Public transportation to the Picentini Mountains is limited, so opt for a guided tour that includes transportation from the coast.
When to get there
Avellino and the nearby Monti Picentini Regional Park are both popular destinations in summer, though you should schedule your city visit for the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat of the day.
The Monti Picentini Regional Park
The Monti Picentini Regional Park covers more than 150,000 acres (62,220 hectares) of the Apennine Mountains near Avellino. Its scenic hiking trails make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, while the region’s famed wild truffles, Taurasi DOCG wine, and traditional culinary specialties (think cured pork and extra-virgin olive oil) offer a gourmand’s delight.
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