Located just over the bay of Naples, you will find the beautiful town of Sorrento. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, a foodie adventure, or a launchpad for exploring Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Mount Vesuvius, Sorrento is a destination that has it all.
Truly one of our favorite places in the world to visit. With its beautiful narrow cobbled streets lined with cafes, fabulous retsutrants and unique little shops, and its charming and charismatic people not to mention the amazing food, this town in the southern part of Italy never fails to amaze.
Oh and the sunsets here are breathtaking to. Casting a golden glow over the entire bay of naples.
Sorrento is often called the gateway to the Amalfi Coast, the famous UNESCO-listed stretch of coastline lined with picture postcard towns perched between mountains and the sea.
There is so much to see and do in this part of Italy, with many boat tours of the surrounding islands on offer from Sorrento, including a short ferry ride to the magical island of Capri.
Sorrento’s Famous Lemons & Limoncello
If there’s one thing Sorrento is famous for (besides its incredible views), it’s lemons. But not just any lemons—the local variety, Sfusato Amalfitano, is enormous, bursting with intense citrus flavor, and essential for making Limoncello, the region’s signature liqueur. And you must try the most amazing lemon sorbet, made from and inside the famous lemons.
A visit to Sorrento wouldn’t be complete without sampling a chilled glass of Limoncello. Whether you sip it as a shot or mix it into a cocktail (a Limoncello Spritz, perhaps?), this bright, zesty drink is pure Italian sunshine in a glass. For a deeper experience, you can visit a local lemon farm, where you’ll learn how the liqueur is made, wander through fragrant lemon groves, and taste artisanal Limoncello straight from the source.
Experience Pizza and Limoncello making with the Sorrento farm and tastings tour where you will get a true taste of this beautiful region. Visit a family-run farm, a cheese factory, and a pizzeria, where you can learn about true Italian family recipes, and even have a go at making your own pizza. Sample some of the local homemade bread, lemonade, and Limoncello, as well as some of the region's finest extra virgin olive oil.
Head down to the harbour. Although Sorrento doesn't have sandy beaches, there is no shortage of waterfront places for you to chill out, walk along or swim in. The steep stretch of coastline along the Marina Grande and the Marina Piccola is lined with restaurants overlooking the bay, and there is plenty of space for you to enjoy an opportunity to swim or simply soak up some rays. Here, you can find boat tours and a ferry to Naples, the romantic city of Capri, and explore the Amalfi coastline.
Top Things to Do in Sorrento
1. Explore Piazza Tasso
The heart of Sorrento, Piazza Tasso, is a lively square surrounded by cafes, shops, and restaurants. It’s the perfect spot for a morning espresso or an evening aperitivo while people-watching and soaking up the Italian atmosphere.
2. Wander the Historic Streets
Lose yourself in Sorrento’s old town, where narrow alleyways lead to artisan shops selling handmade leather sandals, ceramics, and limoncello chocolates. The streets feel like a postcard—colorful, charming, and full of life.
3. Visit Marina Grande & Marina Piccola
Sorrento’s two picturesque harbors, Marina Grande and Marina Piccola, are perfect for a scenic stroll. Marina Grande, the older fishing village, is lined with seafood restaurants, while Marina Piccola is the main port where ferries depart for Capri, Naples, and the Amalfi Coast.
4. Relax at the Bagni della Regina Giovanna
A hidden gem just outside the town, Bagni della Regina Giovanna is a natural swimming pool enclosed by rock formations with stunning views of the sea. It’s said to have been a favorite bathing spot of Queen Giovanna of Naples—an idyllic place for a refreshing dip!
5. Take a Day Trip to Pompeii, Herculaneum & Mount Vesuvius
Sorrento is an ideal base for exploring some of Italy’s most famous historical sites:
- Pompeii: Step back in time at this ancient Roman city, frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. Walking through its streets, you’ll see well-preserved homes, bathhouses, and even plaster casts of the residents caught in the eruption.
- Herculaneum: Often overshadowed by Pompeii, Herculaneum is actually better preserved, with vibrant frescoes, wooden beams, and even carbonized furniture giving you an intimate glimpse into daily Roman life.
- Mount Vesuvius: If you’re feeling adventurous, hike to the summit of Europe’s most famous volcano. The panoramic views over Naples Bay are breathtaking, and standing at the crater’s edge is an unforgettable experience.
A Day in Capri: What to See & Do
Just a 20-30 minute ferry ride from Sorrento, Capri is one of the most glamorous and breathtaking islands in the Mediterranean. Known for its dramatic cliffs, hidden grottoes, and boutique shopping, Capri is a must-visit.
The island does get extremely busy in the summer months, and patience is required, especially when waiting for buses and tour guides to take you around the island. If you don't like it hot, avoid July and August. May, June and September and lovely months to visit the island.
So what to do in Capri?
1. Experience the Blue Grotto
Capri’s most famous attraction, the Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra), is a sea cave where sunlight creates an otherworldly blue glow inside. To visit, you’ll board a small rowboat, duck through a narrow opening, and enter a magical world of wonderfully calming blue waters. Be sure to check the opening hours, and the tour will only operate when the weather and waters permit.
2. Ride the Chairlift to Monte Solaro.
This is my favourite thing to do in Capri.
For the best views of Capri, take the chairlift from Anacapri to Monte Solaro. The ride itself is peaceful with a nice slow ride to the top that takes roughly 13 minutes where you're welcomed with a breathtaking panorama of the island, the Amalfi Coast, and beyond. At the top there is a beutiful resturant, plenty of viewing points, somewhere to sit down and have a drink and toilets.
3. Stroll Through Capri Town & Anacapri
Capri Town is where you’ll find designer boutiques, charming cafes, and stunning sea views from the famous Piazzetta and beautiful little streets with amazing places to eat and drink on every corner. Anacapri, the quieter part of the island, has cobblestone streets and hidden corners, perfect for a relaxing escape from the crowds.
4. Visit the Gardens of Augustus
These beautifully manicured gardens offer stunning views of the Faraglioni rock formations and the winding Via Krupp, a scenic cliffside pathway.
5. Boat Tour Around the Island
One of the best ways to experience Capri is by boat. A private or group boat tour will take you around the island, stopping at hidden caves, secluded beaches, and the famous Faraglioni rocks. Some tours even include a chance to swim in crystal-clear waters.
Where to stay in Sorrento
- Staying in Sorrento gives you a great base for exploring the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, and Naples, as well as enjoying the best the town has to offer. With a wide range of accommodations and dining options, you'll find something to suit your needs.
My favourite place to stay in Sorrento is the Hotel Excelsior Vittoria.
Hotel Excelsior Vittoria. The hotel overlooks the bay of Naples and is amazing in every way, from its surroundings to location, fantastic staff, and the restaurant overlooking the sea.
This 5-star hotel is set overlooking the bay of Naples in 3 historic buildings and features a few quality restaurants, a swimming pool, live music and entertainment, a spa, and some beautiful gardens. This hotel is luxurious and so is the price tag.
If you are on a budget, there are plenty of B&Bs and cheaper hotels in Sorrento. The Best Western Hotel La Solara is more budget-friendly.
Final Thoughts
Sorrento and Capri are two of Italy’s most magical destinations, offering a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and Italian charm. Whether you’re sipping Limoncello in a sun-drenched piazza, exploring ancient ruins, or sailing past Capri’s legendary cliffs, your time here will be nothing short of unforgettable.
So, are you ready to experience the magic of Sorrento & Capri? Let me know your travel plans in the comments below!