BA will launch flight routes to two beautiful Italian cities with fewer tourists than other beloved hotspots in time for the summer. The airline will offer direct routes from London to Rimini, a Roman beach resort loved by Italians on the Adriatic Coast, and the ancient port city of Salerno on the Amalfi Coast from May.
Flights to Salerno, affectionately known as “little Naples”, will depart from London Gatwick, while flights to Rimini will leave from London Heathrow. Despite its nickname, Salerno has far fewer tourists than its popular neighbour on the Amalfi Coast, while offering quick connections to the region’s most famous sites, like Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius. The ancient city is steeped in history, with a Cathedral that dominates the skyline built on the ruins of a Roman temple with imposing Byzantine bronze doors.
Salerno Costa d’Amalfi airport is a new addition to Italy’s famed coast, having only opened in July last year, offering tourists the chance to fly direct to the coastline instead of via Naples.
Rimini is equally steeped in history, having been founded by the Romans more than 2,200 years ago in 268 BC against the backdrop of the Adriatic Sea.
With nine miles of sandy beaches, visitors can choose between lazing on the sands where Italians holiday, or exploring the old town, which is about a 15-minute walk inland.
The 2,000-year-old Tiberius Bridge is a must-see, having stood the test of time to carry Roman legions to Second World War tanks.
Flights to Rimini will run until September, giving motorsport fans the chance to watch the San Marino and Rimini Riviera motorcycle Grand Prix.
Flights to Salerno take two hours and 50 minutes, and operate three times a week on Monday, Thursday and Saturday until 25 October.
Rimini flights take two hours and 15 minutes and depart three times a week on Monday, Thursday and Saturday until 27 September.