Things To Do
in Sorrento
Perched on dramatic cliffs above the Bay of Naples, Sorrento offers sweeping sea views and a refined coastal atmosphere. Its compact historic center weaves narrow lanes, lemon-scented alleys, and elegant palazzi around Piazza Tasso. The town serves as a gateway to the Amalfi Coast and Capri, with ferry terminals, charming cafes, and a lively market scene.
Lemon groves, seafood trattorias, and sunset terraces define the laid-back yet vibrant character that travelers adore.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Sorrento and settle into your hotel with stunning views of the Bay of Naples. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Italian pastries and espresso. Take a morning stroll through the historic center, admiring the colorful buildings and quaint shops.
Visit the beautiful Gardens of Villa Comunale for panoramic views of the coastline. Grab lunch at a seaside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood and local wines. Spend the afternoon exploring the charming streets and boutiques, or relax by the beach.
Dine at a local trattoria where you can enjoy homemade pasta and the famous Limoncello. Take a romantic walk along the waterfront, soaking up the enchanting atmosphere. End the evening with a gelato while watching the sunset.
Take an early train to Pompeii and marvel at the preserved ruins of this ancient city. Join a guided tour to learn the interesting history and stories of its tragic eruption. Enjoy a light breakfast in the nearby café before venturing out.
Head to Mount Vesuvius for an exciting hike up to the crater. Take in breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples as you trek to the top. Treat yourself to a packed lunch amid nature, surrounded by magnificent landscapes.
Return to Sorrento and unwind at your hotel. Enjoy dinner at a pizzeria, indulging in authentic Neapolitan pizza. Join a local music evening at a nearby bar for a taste of Italian culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍝Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🍷Three-course dinner for two (mid-range restaurant) | $50-90 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $120-250 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $2-5 |
| 🚆One-way local transport (bus/tram) or taxi within town | $2-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery and panoramic views
- Compact, walkable historic center with easy access to nature and boats
- Crowds in peak season can be congested and expensive
- Some roads are narrow and parking is limited
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è la stazione?" - Where is the station?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Sorrento
Visit one of these nice places.
The bustling main square with arcades and lively streets, ideal for capturing people-watching scenes and sunset reflections on nearby facades.
A panoramic terrace offering sweeping views of the Bay of Naples, Capri, and the coast—perfect for golden hour shots.
A working fishing harbor with colorful boats, steep stairways, and sea-salt textures that make vibrant coastal photos.
The Cathedral with its stone façade and tranquil cloister; great for architectural shots and quiet interiors.
A scenic rocky cove near the coast featuring natural pools and rugged cliffs—dramatic coastline photography.
Food in Sorrento
Sorrento Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Soft potato gnocchi baked with tomato, mozzarella, and basil; a quintessential dish found in many local trattorie.
Must-Try!
Spaghetti with fresh clams, garlic, olive oil, and a touch of white wine—a seaside staple.
A lemon-flavored dessert showcasing Sorrento’s signature citrus.
Fresh catches such as sardines and anchovies prepared simply with olive oil and herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market near the town center where you’ll find fruit, vegetables, cheese, and local snacks; a great place to sample street-food-style bites.
Fried mixed seafood served in a paper cone, a classic waterfront snack you’ll encounter along the harbor.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Buongiorno or Buonasera. In churches and religious sites, dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered).
Evening strolls along the streets—a social routine; keep voices moderate and avoid blocking pathways.
Mealtime is social; wait to be seated, say please and thank you, and avoid rushing meals—enjoy the slower pace.
Safety
Tipping in Sorrento
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. A 5-10% tip is common if service is not included. For bars, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is fine.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming citrus trees, and fewer crowds. Great for walking tours, day trips to Capri, and garden photography.
Hot and busy with high humidity; beaches, boats, and ferries fill the coastline. Afternoon swims and sunset viewing are ideal.
Warm days with cooler evenings; great for hikes and regional produce markets as harvest begins.
Milder than many European winters; some seasonal closures occur, but the town remains charming with fewer crowds and cozy cafes.
Sorrento at Night
Hiking in Sorrento
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal hike with rugged cliffs, sea views, and the possibility to glimpse the island of Capri; a popular day-trip from Sorrento.
Iconic hiking trail along the Amalfi Coast; best accessed via a short transfer from Sorrento to Bomerano (Agerola) for dramatic panoramas.
Coastal paths linking historic ruins, sea views, and natural coves near the southern edge of Sorrento.
Airports
How to reach Sorrento by plane.
Main international gateway to the region; about 50-60 km from Sorrento; accessible by train, bus, or taxi.
Another option with longer transit to Sorrento; typically used for low-cost carriers; requires transfer to rail or road transport.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Large presence of visitors from Europe, North America, and Asia, with varying lengths of stay.
Residents who work in tourism, dining, and retail; many families with long-standing ties to the lemon groves and coastal trades.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular due to the coastal setting and access to the bay and nearby islands.
Accessible from beaches and lidos around Sorrento and nearby coves.
Coastal and hillside trails around the Sorrento Peninsula and Capo di Sorrento.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sorrento.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many trattorie offer vegetarian pastas with olive oil and tomato-based sauces; request simplicity (pomodoro e basilico) and dishes centered on vegetables or cheese, and consider fish-free seafood options if you eat seafood but avoid meat. Look for pesto and mushroom varieties, and verify broth-based dishes if you are vegetarian.