Rental car or not
 

If we are going to be based in Salerno for 7 days will we want/need a car? Can we use public transportation or trains to get around the region?

It depends on where you want to go (and to a lesser degree what time of year), but it's likely you'll want a car for at least part of your stay.

A car is much better, but be carefull because italians drive very bad!

I think Italians are wonderful drivers.

I am curious about your plans in or around Salerno. Where will you be staying?

I've always thought Italians are skillful drivers, although I've seen some road behaviors that were pretty astounding in and around Naples! You will find me in the far right lane on the rare occasion when I am behind the wheel in Italy!

ditto ek

Not sure what we will be doing in and around Salerno. I only just decided on the location so I haven't got much done in the way of researching what is around. We are planning on being there the first week in April (school vacation). I want to go to Capri. I want to see Pompeii, but will have to convince the son who is the reason for the trip (he will be graduating next year) that it won't be terribly crowded. Probably will also want to go to Paestum.

You should research the ferry schedule from Salerno to Capri in early April.

It shouldn't be terribly crowded at Pompeii that week as most schools won't be on vacation until later in April. Palm Sunday is April 17, 2011.

So far, your objectives seem to favor Sorrento side rather than Salerno side except for Paestum. Also, a car is not useful in visiting Capri :-). Deciding what you want to do first would help you decide where to stay and how to visit those locations.