is it worth our while to continue travelling to Solarno and then onto Paestum once we have seen the Amalfi Coast? Or is another area close by more value for our time? We will be in on the Amalfi Coast the first week of Sept.

If you like ancient ruins, Paestum is a very good choice. If not, it's not a good use of your time. If possible, go in the morning (less crowded) & do the Amalfi Coast in the afternoon. When we were there last year, two of the temples had scaffolding but nonetheless the whole area was impressive. Their museum is much easier to get through than the archeologic museum in Naples, and the tomb paintings are spectacular. If there's anyone in the group who can't walk a great distance, this is a pretty good alternative to visiting Pompeii.

Agree fully with Anne. The other alternative would be to spend time in Naples, a vibrant city that is much underrated. Do a search on this site for more information, or feel free to e-mail me--though I'll be traveling for the next week, so it will be a little time before I can get back to you.

Salerno

Like someone said, unless you really want to see the Greek Ruins and it may be your only opportunity, (They are incredible), I wouldn't take time in Paestum, though you can stay at the beach. I wouldn't take time in Salerno unless you have lot's of time. I would also use the time to see Naples, or Capri, Herculaneum. If you do want to see Paestum, arrive mid afternoon, visit the site in late afternoon/early evening, (they light them), and move on in the morning.

Paestum is awsome. You will not find many Greek Ruins in such great condition in many places. You cannot really compare Paestum with Pompei; totally different experience. Not just Roman vs Greek, but scope, breadth, emotion, etc. <BR> <BR>Solarno is interesting as a place to see Italians in day to day life without tourists or "must see" antiquities". Wouldn't make a special effort to go there, but as you will pass through on the way, it is worth a wander. <BR> <BR>Naples is fantatsic. Rick Steeves refers to it as "slice of life" and wandering the high rise side streets (after visiting the Museo Archeologico) was an incredible experience. <BR> <BR>Having said all this, if you are going to be in the area, Pompei has to be the first priority. The chance to see what life in Rome was like 2,000 years ago is no less than astonishing.