SORRENTO

Sorrento has a plethora of fun experiences for visitors. Here are some of the best things to do in Sorrento:

Explore the Old Town: Wander through charming narrow streets, quaint shops, and local markets, while immersing yourself in the town’s lively atmosphere.

Piazza Tasso: This central square is a great starting point for your Sorrento adventure, surrounded by cafes, shops, and a bustling vibe.

Limoncello Tasting: Sorrento is famous for its limoncello liqueur made from local lemons. Don’t miss the chance to taste and even visit local limoncello producers.

Marina Grande: Head down to the old fishing village of Marina Grande for a taste of authentic coastal life. It’s a great place to enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants.

Sorrento Cathedral: Visit the stunning Duomo di Sorrento, an ornate 15th-century cathedral featuring intricate architecture and religious art.

Villa Comunale: This park offers panoramic views of the Gulf of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. It’s a wonderful place to relax and take in the breathtaking scenery.

Shopping: My favorite! Sorrento is known for its craftsmanship, especially in woodwork and inlaid furniture. There are many shops to explore for unique souvenirs, linens, clothing, and local goods.

Hiking: If you’re into outdoor activities, consider hiking the Sorrentine Peninsula trails for spectacular views and a closer connection to the natural beauty of the region.

Cruise along the Amalfi Coast: Take a boat tour to fully appreciate the stunning coastline, dramatic cliffs, and charming villages from the water. This is one of my favorite things to do when I’m there.

Day Trips: Sorrento serves as an excellent base for day trips to other gems along the Amalfi Coast, including Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. You can also explore the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum nearby. Here are a few great day trips I recommend:

• Herculaneum Private Tour – Guide and archeologist Luciano really makes this experience come alive.

• Capri and Blue Grotto Boat Tour – Swimming in the Blue Grotto is an experience you won’t soon forget.  The boat stops off for snorkeling too!

• Another great tour is the Sorrento Farm and Food Experience includes lunch, bottomless wine, several limoncellos, and tasting and pressing of olives for olive oil.

Cooking Classes: Immerse yourself in Italian cuisine by joining a cooking class to learn how to make traditional dishes like pasta and pizza. “Cook Like a Local with a Sea View” is a great cooking class and one of the items they teach you how to prepare is homemade gnocchi….my favorite!

If you’re looking for a fabulous hotel in Sorrento, Maison La Minervetta is where it’s at.  You’ll wake up to jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Gulf of Naples right from your bed – where the ocean is your personal backyard. This boutique gem rocks a blend of chic and contemporary vibes with an artistic twist that’s totally Instagram-worthy.  Plus, you’re just a stone’s throw from all the coastal charm and Italian deliciousness Sorrento has to offer. Trust me, staying here is like living inside a work of coastal art while having the best of Sorrento at your doorstep.

See our detailed review and current pricing for Maison La Minervetta below.

So, if you’re thinking about driving yourself around Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast, here’s a heads-up: it’s a bit of an adventure, and not always in the best way. The roads are narrow and winding along the coastline and can be seriously nerve-wracking, especially if you’re not used to Italian driving habits. Picture tight turns, crazy traffic, and the constant possibility of getting stuck in a narrow alleyway that wasn’t meant for cars.  Parking? That’s a challenge of its own, with limited spaces and steep fees.  In my opinion, the stress of navigating these roads might outweigh the convenience of having a car. Consider the local buses, ferries, and even walking – they’re often easier, safer, and let you soak in the stunning scenery stress-free. Your vacation memories will thank you!

If you’re wondering the best way to get from Naples or Rome to Sorrento, I cover it in this blog post. Once you’re in Sorrento, there are a variety of transportation options to help you get around the town and explore the surrounding areas. Here are some of the best ways to get around:

• Walking: The historic center of Sorrento is relatively compact and pedestrian friendly. Many of the town’s attractions, hotels, shops, restaurants, and sights are within walking distance of each other.

• Local Buses: Sorrento has a well-connected local bus system that can take you to different parts of the town and nearby areas. It’s a cost-effective way to travel and explore the Amalfi Coast.

• Circumvesuviana Train: The Circumvesuviana is a local train network that connects Sorrento with Naples and other towns along the route.  It’s a convenient option if you’re planning to visit places like Pompeii, Herculaneum, or Naples.

• Taxis: Taxis are available in Sorrento and can be useful for short distances or when you want more convenience. However, they tend to be quite a bit more expensive than other forms of transportation.

• Ferries and Hydrofoils: Sorrento’s has access to ferries and hydrofoils that connect to nearby islands like Capri, Ischia, and Procida. These are great options for day trips or island hopping.

• Private Transfers: For a more personalized experience, I suggest arranging private transfers with local companies. This is especially convenient if you’re traveling with a group or have specific transportation needs.  Prestige Limo is reliable and reasonably priced, although you will need to make advance reservations.

• Bike Rentals: Some areas of Sorrento and its surroundings can be explored by bicycle. Bike rentals are available in town, and cycling can be a fun way to enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace.

• Guided Tours: Joining guided tours can be a convenient way to explore specific attractions or take organized day trips to nearby places of interest.

There are a plethora of excellent restaurants in Sorrento so you will have many options, but keep in mind that you will need reservations.

Be sure to try some local classics like “Linguine alle Vongole” (linguine with clams) and “Gnocchi alla Sorrentina” (potato gnocchi with tomato sauce and mozzarella). Oh, and don’t miss trying Sorrento’s famous Limoncello after dinner. Here are a few of my favorite restaurants in Sorrento:

Bagni Delfino

Bagni Delfino is a tried-and-true restaurant we dine at every time we’re in Sorrento.  If you’re staying at Maison La Minervetta, you can just take the stairway down to the restaurant which is right on the waterfront.  If you have mobility concerns, it’s a good idea to contact Bagni Delfino directly for guidance.

The restaurant is located directly on the water’s edge.  The view is hard to beat, and if you time it right, you can watch the sun setting over the Gulf of Naples.

Being right by the sea, it’s probably no surprise that they serve fresh seafood, but they also specialize in Sorrentine cuisine.  The food is always wonderful and the service is excellent.  As we were leaving the restaurant during our last visit, we inquired about purchasing a bottle of wine to take with us back to the hotel.  The owner gave it to us (at no charge) and said enjoy! 

Frankie’s Pizza

For quick, casual, and inexpensive, check out Frankie’s Pizza.   They do pizza right!

Inn Buffalito

We often frequent Inn Buffalito for lunch when we’re in Sorrento.  It’s a casual atmosphere, a good vibe, and attentive staff.   

The restaurant does an excellent Buffalo Ragu Pasta, and if you’re a cheese lover, be sure to try their cheese platter, which has the creamiest, yummiest burrata I’ve ever had. 

Tavern Allegra

Tavern Allegra has great food, but the singing and atmosphere really make the place special. It’s a very entertaining way to enjoy dinner!

Traveling to Sorrento, Italy, can be a wonderful experience. Here are some essential tips to help you make the most of your trip:

• Weather and Season: Sorrento has a Mediterranean climate, so summers (June to August) can be quite hot and crowded with tourists. In my opinion, Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are the best times to visit, as the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer crowds.

• Currency: The currency used in Sorrento and the rest of Italy is the Euro (€). It’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases, but credit cards are widely accepted.

• Transportation: Sorrento is well-connected by train, bus, and ferry to nearby cities like Naples, Pompeii, and Capri. The Circumvesuviana train connects Sorrento to Naples. Buses are the primary mode of transport within the town and to nearby attractions.

• Accommodation: Book your accommodation well in advance, especially during the peak tourist season. Sorrento offers a range of options from luxury hotels to more budget-friendly options.

• Local Products: Sorrento is famous for its lemons. Try some lemon-based products, like limoncello, lemon-flavored desserts, and lemon-scented soaps. You can also find handmade ceramics and local crafts.

• Local Customs: Italians tend to dress elegantly, especially when dining out. While casual clothing is acceptable, you might want to dress up a bit for a more refined dining experience.

• Sightseeing: Sorrento is a great base for exploring the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, and the nearby islands of Capri and Ischia. Plan your day trips in advance, and consider guided tours for a more informative experience.

• Beach Etiquette: If you plan to visit the beaches in Sorrento, keep in mind that many of them are rocky. Water shoes can be handy. Also, some beaches charge a fee for access or renting sunbeds and umbrellas.

• Evening Scene:  The town comes to life in the evening with many shops, boutiques, and markets staying open late to accommodate tourists and locals alike. You can explore charming streets like Corso Italia and Via San Cesareo, where you’ll find a variety of shops selling clothing, souvenirs, handmade crafts, and more.

Remember to check the latest travel advisories and local guidelines before your trip, as rules and regulations may change over time. Enjoy your visit to Sorrento and the beautiful Amalfi Coast!

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