Giardino della Minerva

The garden is located at Vicolo Ferrante Sanseverino 1, in Salerno’s Centro Storico. It’s open from Tuesday to Sunday, typically from 09:30 until the evening closing time (which varies by season). Entrance costs around €6 for the combined ticket that includes the garden, the Papi surgical instrument museum, and the Virtual Museum of the Salerno Medical School; reduced tickets are available for students, seniors, and children under 12. There’s also an annual pass for visitors who want to return. The site includes a small refreshment point where you can enjoy herbal teas made with local medicinal plants.

The Giardino della Minerva is not just a pretty garden — it’s a historic scientific site. Its layout includes carefully restored terraces, water channels, and ancient walls, so be ready for a gentle uphill walk and some steps. Visits may involve walking between levels using stairways, though recent renovations added better accessibility. The garden’s medicinal plants are labeled, making it engaging for anyone interested in herbal lore. Also, the garden’s lighting was upgraded, so there are beautiful evening visits when the lanterns highlight the terraces and water features.

To reach the garden, head into Salerno’s old town and climb toward the higher hillside areas. From the city center or waterfront, you can walk via narrow historic streets and staircases. If you prefer public transport, some local buses reach stops that drop you near the upper old town. Driving is possible but challenging — streets are narrow and parking is limited in this part of the city. Once you’re in the Centro Storico, follow signs up to the garden’s entrance on Via Ferrante Sanseverino.