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There are great many things to do in Italy, and so are in Avellino.
Nestled in the heart of Southern Italy, Avellino is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
With vibrant streets bustling with life and history seeping through every corner, this city offers a wealth of activities to delight the senses and enrich the soul.
From indulging in local cuisines to immersing in cultural experiences, Avellino has something for everyone.
So take a step into this charming city and let it capture your heart.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Avellino:
1. Il Carcere Borbonico di Avellino
Il Carcere Borbonico di Avellino is a former Bourbon prison in Avellino, Italy, that has been converted into a museum.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the various cells, courtyards, and corridors of the prison to learn about the grim conditions in which prisoners were kept during the Bourbon era.
The museum provides a glimpse into the history of prison life and the way it has evolved over time.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the prison chapel, which is still used for religious services to this day. The chapel is a remnant of the prison’s original construction in the 1700s and features stunning frescoes and religious artwork.
Insider travel tips: – It’s worth taking a guided tour of the prison to get a more in-depth understanding of its history and significance.
2. Santuario di Montevergine
A beautiful and historic sanctuary located atop Monte Partenio in Avellino, Italy.
What to see or do: Take in the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Admire the ornate baroque architecture of the sanctuary’s church, which is adorned with frescoes and sculptures.
Visit the museum to see a collection of religious art and artifacts, including works by famous artists.
Don’t miss: The annual feast of the Madonna di Montevergine, which takes place on September 12th and draws thousands of pilgrims from across Italy.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the pathways leading to the sanctuary can be steep and rocky. Be sure to taste some of the delicious local specialties, such as the renowned Montevergine lentils, while in the area.
3. Il Castello Normanno di Gesualdo
Il Castello Normanno is a historic castle located in the town of Gesualdo in Avellino, Italy. The castle was built in the 11th century and has undergone several renovations over the centuries.
What to see or do: The castle is now a museum and art gallery that houses several collections of art, furniture, and historic artifacts.
Visitors can explore the castle’s rooms and courtyards, and view exhibitions of ancient pottery, medieval weapons and armor, and Renaissance paintings and sculptures.
Don’t miss: The guided tours of the castle, which provide a comprehensive overview of its history and unique architectural features, such as the ancient cistern and the well-preserved tower.
Insider travel tips: – Check the museum’s website for information on special exhibitions and events.
4. Palazzo Caracciolo di Avellino
Palazzo Caracciolo di Avellino is a historic 16th-century palace in Naples, Italy, that has been converted into a luxury hotel.
What to see or do: The palace-hotel offers a unique atmosphere with its original frescoes, marble staircase, and baroque decorations. Guests can enjoy the beautiful courtyard garden or relax in the spa area with a Turkish bath and a mini-gym.
The hotel also has a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to explore the surrounding historic district of Naples, with its many landmarks, such as the Castel dell’Ovo, the Royal Palace of Naples, and the Piazza del Plebiscito.
Insider travel tips: Visit the hotel’s lounge bar, which offers a wide variety of cocktails and is located in the old stables of the palace.
Be sure to try the local specialty, the “sfogliatella,” a delicious pastry filled with ricotta cheese and candied fruit.
5. Cattedrale di Avellino
Cattedrale di Avellino is a beautiful Roman Catholic cathedral located in the city of Avellino in southern Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning architecture of the cathedral which features a mix of Gothic and Baroque styles. The interior boasts exquisite artwork, frescoes, and intricate carvings.
Take a walk through the peaceful cloister and gardens, or attend a Mass to experience the religious significance of this holy site.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the stunning Bell Tower, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of Avellino and the surrounding countryside. Also, don’t miss the beautiful organ, which has been hailed as one of the best in Southern Italy.
Insider travel tips: – The cathedral is free to enter, but donations are appreciated.
6. Il Convento di Sant’Anna a Caposele
Il Convento di Sant’Anna is a historic convent located in Caposele, a small town in the province of Avellino in Southern Italy.
What to see or do: The convent, built in the 16th century, is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, with a stunning façade featuring ornate decorations and intricate carvings.
Visitors can explore the beautiful cloisters and chapels and admire the exquisite frescoes and paintings by renowned artists such as Luca Giordano.
The convent also houses a museum with a collection of precious religious artifacts.
Don’t miss: The highlight of Il Convento di Sant’Anna is the magnificent church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, which boasts a monumental altar and a breathtaking ceiling fresco depicting the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to check the opening hours before you visit, as the convent may be closed on certain days.
It’s also advisable to wear comfortable shoes, as there are several flights of stairs to climb in order to fully appreciate the beauty of the convent’s architecture.
7. Museo Irpino di Avellino
What to see or do: Explore the rich cultural history of the province of Avellino through a variety of exhibits, including ancient pottery, jewelry, and sculptures.
Don’t miss: The collection of Roman coins, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the economic and political history of the region.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to arrive early to avoid crowds, and consider taking a guided tour to get the most out of your visit.
Don’t forget to stop by the museum’s gift shop on your way out for unique souvenirs and locally-crafted products.
8. La Chiesa di San Francesco di Paola ad Avellino
La Chiesa di San Francesco di Paola is a beautiful church located in the heart of Avellino, a city in southern Italy.
What to see or do: The church is known for its stunning architecture, which includes a central dome and two bell towers. Inside, visitors can admire various works of art, including frescoes and statues.
The church also often hosts concerts and musical events.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the stunning frescoes that cover the ceilings and walls of the church. The works of art depict scenes from the life of Saint Francis of Paola, the patron saint of the church.
Insider travel tips: For a unique experience, try to visit the church during one of the musical events that are held there. The acoustics inside are top-notch, and the atmosphere is truly unforgettable.
Additionally, be sure to dress appropriately when visiting any church in Italy, as shorts and sleeveless tops may not be allowed.
9. Parco Regionale dei Monti Picentini
Parco Regionale dei Monti Picentini is a stunning regional park located in the province of Avellino, Italy.
What to see or do: Hiking is the main activity in the park, and with over 146km of trails, there is no shortage of options for nature lovers.
Along the trails, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains, forests, and waterfalls.
Don’t miss: One of the must-see sights in the park is the Monte Terminio peak, which offers an unforgettable panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
Another highlight is the charming medieval town of Montella, which is surrounded by the park and offers a glimpse into the region’s history and culture.
Insider travel tips: – If you plan on hiking, be sure to pack appropriate gear such as sturdy shoes, a hat, and sunscreen.
10. Il Castello di Montesarchio
Il Castello di Montesarchio is an ancient fortress located in the heart of Montesarchio, a picturesque town in the province of Avellino, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a tour of the castle, which includes exploring the towers, walls, and rooms filled with medieval artifacts and furniture.
You can also take in the stunning panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside from the castle’s lookout points.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the castle’s chapel, which houses beautiful frescoes from the 15th and 16th centuries. Also, take a walk through the castle’s lush, flower-filled garden.
Insider travel tips: – To avoid crowds, visit the castle during the early morning or late afternoon.
11. Il Santuario della Madonna del Carmine a Taurasi
Il Santuario della Madonna del Carmine is a beautiful shrine located in the small town of Taurasi in the Avellino province of Italy.
The sanctuary is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and attracts many visitors from afar.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning baroque architecture, ornate frescoes, and the beautiful sculptures throughout the sanctuary. The sanctuary also features a beautiful organ and a large bell tower, both of which are worth seeing.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the sanctuary is the stunning painting of the Madonna del Carmine. It is a painting of the Virgin Mary holding the Baby Jesus and is said to have miraculous powers.
Visitors can also see the crypt below the sanctuary, which houses the remains of various clergymen.
Insider travel tips: – The sanctuary is open daily, but it is best to visit during the morning or late afternoon when the light is at its best.
12. Il Castello di Ariano Irpino
Il Castello di Ariano Irpino is a medieval castle located in the town of Ariano Irpino, in the region of Campania, Italy.
It is a fine example of medieval architecture and it played a key role in the history of the region.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle and discover its rich history as a fortress and residence of noble families. The castle features an impressive tower, defensive walls, a courtyard, and a medieval chapel.
Don’t miss: Make sure to climb the tower for views over the surrounding countryside and visit the chapel to admire its beautiful frescoes.
Insider travel tips: – Check the website for opening times and admission prices before visiting.
13. Il Museo Archeologico di Ariano Irpino
Il Museo Archeologico di Ariano Irpino is an archaeological museum located in Ariano Irpino, a town in the province of Avellino, Campania, Italy.
What to see or do: The museum houses a rich collection of archaeological finds dating back to the prehistoric period, ancient Greek and Roman times, and the medieval and Renaissance periods.
Visitors can admire various artifacts such as pottery, sculptures, jewelry, and coins. The exhibits provide a comprehensive overview of the history and culture of the region over thousands of years.
Don’t miss: One of the most interesting exhibits is the so-called “Ariano’s Gold,” a collection of precious jewelry and coins found in a tomb from the Hellenistic period.
Moreover, the museum hosts a room dedicated to the famous battle of “Campi Raudii,” fought in 321 BC, between the Roman Republic and the Samnite people.
Insider travel tips: The museum is closed on Mondays and during some public holidays, so it’s better to check the opening hours before planning a visit.
14. La Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelo a Montefusco
La Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelo (The Church of St. Michael the Archangel) is a beautiful religious building located in Montefusco, a small town in the province of Avellino, Italy.
What to see or do: The church boasts a stunning Baroque architecture with intricate stucco decorations and frescoes adorning its interior walls.
Visitors can admire the grandeur of the nave, the ornate altar, and the intricacy of the chapels dedicated to the Madonna and St.
Joseph.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the church is the magnificent dome fresco, which features a stunning depiction of St. Michael the Archangel defeating Satan in a dramatic scene.
Also, make sure to check out the pipe organ, which dates back to the 19th century and is still in use during religious services.
Insider travel tips: If you’re visiting the area, consider attending one of the church’s religious services to experience its grandeur and spirituality.
Additionally, the town of Montefusco is known for its excellent wines, so be sure to sample some of the local vintages while you’re there.
Finally, make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the church is located atop a hill and requires a short but steep climb to reach it.
15. Parco dei Pini di Avellino
Parco dei Pini di Avellino is a beautiful park located in Avellino, Italy.
What to see or do: The park is perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature. Visitors can walk along the paths, have a picnic, or simply sit and admire the trees.
Don’t miss: Be sure to walk to the top of the park to see the stunning views of Avellino and the surrounding mountains.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during the week to avoid crowds.