Southern Italy is well-known for its beauty and tradition, not to mention the incredible food. It’s especially popular in the summer, when visitors can explore its idyllic beaches and dine al fresco every night.

However, the popularisation of hotspots like Amalfi, Capri and Positano over the past few years has led to severe overcrowding. For those looking for a quieter coastal destination that still somehow flies under the radar, one southern town might do the trick. And it’s located just two hours away from the hustle and bustle of the Amalfi Coast.

Santa Maria di Castellabate, located on the Cilento coast, is still largely undiscovered by the international crowds, despite having many of the features that travellers look for: stunning beaches, rich history and exceptional food.

Unlike Amalfi’s steep cliffs and dense crowds, Santa Maria di Castellabate has a flatter, walkable waterfront with sandy beaches and calm, clear waters.

Its location within the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park means there are strict environmental protections in place which, in turn, help maintain its Blue Flag beach status.

Heather Green, Head of Product at Citalia, has shared insight into this hidden gem, which she recommends visiting in 2025 while it still remains under wraps.

She said: “Famous for its hilltop towns, charming villages and breathtaking Blue Flag beaches, Santa Maria di Castellabate is a slow tourism destination with an appetite.”

The area is well known for its traditional southern Italian cuisine, much of it rooted in the healthy aspects of the Mediterranean diet.

Heather said: “Known for enjoying a varied diet of fresh fish and seasonal ingredients, the region is home to a high percentage of centenarians.

“Sample local dishes such as fusilli cilentani (fusilli pasta and ragout) and mozzarella di bufala (buffalo mozzarella) and discover the hidden food secrets that are said to promote health and longevity.”

Seafood, particularly anchovies, features heavily in the local diet, with markets and family-run trattorias serving daily catches with vegetables grown in the nearby hills.

The town is small, but its culinary reputation is growing, something helped by the presence of the Michelin-starred Osteria 1861, located in a former private home dating back to that year.

Santa Maria di Castellabate is also well placed for cultural day trips, as it is close to several UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Heather suggested: “During your travels, be sure to visit the ancient Greek temples of Paestum and the stunning coastline of the National Park of Cilento.”

The temples of Paestum are some of the best preserved in Europe, while the protected marine reserve at Punta Licosa offers walking trails and quiet coves.