BEST THINGS TO DO in Sorrento, Italy (2026)

If you're dreaming of lemon trees, sea views, and day trips to Capri, Sorrento is your ideal base in Southern Italy. I've spent time here uncovering the best things to do, where to eat, how to get around, and the local experiences that make this town unforgettable. Here's everything you need to plan your trip to Sorrento.

If you're planning a trip to Sorrento, be sure to also check out my travel guides to Capri and the Amalfi Coast, both easy to visit from Sorrento and perfect for rounding out your itinerary.

Scenic view of Sorrento coastline with cliffs and colorful buildings overlooking the Bay of Naples

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Jump To

📍 Where is Sorrento?
🌍 Sorrento Italy Map
Thing to do in Sorrento Italy
👫🏽 Best Guided Tours
👩🏽‍🍳 Cooking Classes in Sorrento Italy
✈️ How to Get to Sorrento, Italy
🍋 Lemons in Sorrento Italy
🍴 Best Restaurants in Sorrento Italy
🍽️ Best Restaurants in Sorrento
🏨 Where to Stay in Sorrento
🏊🏽‍♀️ Hotel in Sorrento Italy With Swimming Pool
🏖️ Sorrento Beaches Italy
🚙 Day Trip Ideas From Sorrento, Italy
🌡️ Sorrento Italy Weather
🌤️ When to Visit Sorrento
❓FAQs
🇮🇹 Explore More of Italy!

📍 Where is Sorrento?

Sorrento is perched on the Sorrentine Peninsula in Campania, just south of Naples. It overlooks the Bay of Naples, with views of Mount Vesuvius and easy access to Capri, Pompeii, and the Amalfi Coast.

🚌 Day trip hub for Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, and more

🛤️ 1 hour by Circumvesuviana train from Naples

⛴️ 30-minute ferry to Capri

🌍 Sorrento Italy Map

Aerial photo of Sorrento, Italy at sunset with Mount Vesuvius in the distance

Thing to do in Sorrento Italy

Sorrento, Italy, is hands down one of our top spots to check out and chill in while we're exploring Italy. Here's a rundown of awesome things to do and cool places to see in this stunning corner of the globe... have fun!

1. Explore the Old Town

Wander Corso Italia, pop into leather shops, and grab espresso at a street-side café. Don't miss the Cloister of San Francesco and Villa Comunale for sweeping sea views.

2. Swim at Bagni Regina Giovanna

A 40-minute walk or short drive from town leads to a natural swimming cove with ancient Roman villa ruins. Go early to avoid crowds and bring walking shoes.

3. Try Limoncello at Limonoro

This family-run shop lets you sample house-made limoncello, creams, and candies made from hand-peeled Sorrento lemons. The lemon crème is a must.

4. Dine Under the Lemons at 'O Parrucchiano

One of Sorrento's most iconic restaurants-famous for inventing cannelloni. Eat under a canopy of lemon trees in the heart of the old town.

5. Visit Marina Grande

This historic fishing village turned harbor is great for a seaside meal or ferry departure. It's more laid-back than the busier Marina Piccola.

6. Drive along the Amalfi Coast

You don't need to be a pro to drive the Amalfi Coast. You just need patience and to keep your eyes open. The road is a bit wild, with a rule about license plates for a stretch between Positano and Vietri sul Mare. Big vehicles? Forget about it during daylight.

Sorrento’s Marina Grande beach with colorful fishing boats and seafood restaurants

Exploring the Highlights:

Positano: It's all about the views and the climb. Positano packs in hotels, restaurants, and shops on steep streets. Summer means packed beaches.
Amalfi: Once a maritime big shot, Amalfi now draws crowds with its dock, fancy Duomo, and old-school Piazza Duomo. It's also where you get your hands on bambagina paper and limoncello.
Ravello: Sitting high up, Ravello offers the kind of views that knock you out. Famous for gardens at Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone, plus it's a hub for music events.

Alternative Ways to Explore: Not into driving? There's more than one way to see the Amalfi Coast. Ferries give you the scenic route, buses are cheap but can be a hassle. Want something special? Hire a boat or join a tour for the VIP view.

Planning Your Trip: Rushing the Amalfi Coast? Bad idea. It's doable in a day from Sorrento to Salerno but you'll miss too much. Slow down, take a few days or even a week to really soak it in. Your itinerary should match your pace and what you want to see.

7. Visit Piazza Tasso

Piazza Tasso sits in Sorrento's heart. It's the go-to spot, alive with bars, food, and shops. Tourists flock here. It's the core of the action. Gelato, shopping, dining, or just watching - the square offers it all. It's alive, day and night. Every alley whispers stories of cafes and trinkets.

8.Take a trip to Agriturismo Primaluce

Agriturismo Primaluce sits between the sea and mountains in Sorrento, Italy. It's a unique spot, surrounded by green hills and overlooking the Naples Gulf. The place screams pure magic and a deep connection with nature.

Lemon trees growing in a grove near Sorrento, Italy — **Sorrento lemon garden**

They have two B&B rooms and a big dining area. Guests get the real deal farm life here. You've got free parking, WiFi, a bar, a restaurant, and kid-friendly stuff. It's perfect for families, couples, or anyone into the farm scene.

You can do a bunch of farm and cooking stuff that everyone says is a must in Italy. Like learning how to make wine and olive oil, watching cheese get made, and making pizzas in an old stone oven. The hosts are cool and funny, making everything memorable.

9.Make a pilgrimage to Chiostro di San Francesco

The Chiostro di San Francesco in Sorrento hides in plain sight. It's history and modern life crashing together. Imagine architecture that meshes like a DJ's playlist. Built on 7th-century monastery ruins. Adorned with columns from ancient temples. Each column has a story. The right light turns it magical.

It's free. Wheelchair-friendly, no Braille though. Open 7 A.M. to 7 P.M. daily. Plenty of time to explore.

Historic Cloister of San Francesco courtyard in Sorrento’s old town — ***Chiostro di San Francesco***

10. Treat yourself to the best gelato at Gelateria Davide

Hit Gelateria Davide in Sorrento for top-notch gelato. It's packed with flavors. People rave about it. They dig the vibe and the staff too. Pistachio and coconut kill it there. Don't skip the tiramisu.

a scenic view of Capri — ***Take a trip to Capri!***

11. Live the high life with a trip to Capri

Capri, off Sorrento, is a slice of the high life. It's all cliffs and shimmering waters. You've got boat tours. They're up close and personal. They hit the big spots: Blue Grotto, Faraglioni, secret beaches. Plus, snorkeling.

Take the "Capri Boat Tour From Sorrento." It nails a 97% approval rating. They pack in the hidden gems. You get drinks, fruit, and gear for diving. But, pay extra for Blue Grotto entry and some taxes.

Then, there's the "Small Group Boat Tour to Sorrento Coast, Capri & Blue Grotto." It showcases less-known coves plus the Blue Grotto. Includes transfers, snacks, and drinks. Again, no ticket to the Blue Grotto or snorkeling gear.

Basilica of Sant'Antonio. — ***Basilica di Sant'Antonino***

12. Visit the Basilica of Sant'Antonino

In Sorrento's heart sits the Basilica of Sant'Antonino. It's old, hitting the 11th century mark. A short walk from Piazza Tasso, it stands. It's dedicated to Sant'Antonino, Sorrento's go-to saint. His bones are inside. They say he once snatched a kid from a shark. Whale bones by the door nod to that story.

The place mixes Baroque with Romanesque, catching eyes in Sorrento.Built in 1668, its Roman-style facade got an 18th-century facelift. Inside, it's all about the Latin cross layout. Thin marble columns and miracle paintings fill the place. The altar, topped with a dome, packs in more design.

👫🏽 Best Guided Tours

Want to really see Sorrento and Italy? Get a local guide. They'll show you the good stuff, the kind you'd miss solo. Check out our top Sorrento tours. You'll love 'em.

👩🏽‍🍳 Cooking Classes in Sorrento Italy

Sorrento is a magnet for folks keen on diving into its culinary scene. The big players? Cooking School La Cucina del Gusto by Chef Carmen and Nonna Flora's cooking classes are where it's at.

Cooking School La Cucina del Gusto by Chef Carmen: All About the Flavor

Chef Carmen knows how to blend learning with a whole lot of fun. Imagine whipping up classic Italian dishes, from gnocchi to tiramisu, while belting out tunes and sipping on something nice.

Nonna Flora's Cooking School: Genuine Vibes

Over at Nonna Flora's, Anna's making waves with her down-to-earth, hands-on cooking sessions. It's not just about picking up new recipes; it's about creating moments you'll remember, surrounded by the cozy comfort of her kitchen. You'll leave not just with a bunch of cool new cooking tricks but probably a few extra friends too.

✈️ How to Get to Sorrento, Italy

Here's a quick guide to getting around Sorrento:

Fly into Naples (NAP)
Sorrento does not have an airport. Naples is the main entry point.

From Naples

Circumvesuviana train: About 1 hour, cheapest and most common option.
Campania Express: Faster, fewer stops, more comfortable.

By car or transfer

Drive or private transfer: About 1-1.5 hours from Naples. Transfers are the easiest option if you have luggage.

By ferry (seasonal)
Ferries run from Naples and nearby coastal towns in spring and summer, weather permitting.

Granita in sorrento. — ***Lemon "granita" in Sorrento - a summer must-have!***

🍋 Lemons in Sorrento Italy

The Femminello lemon is the soul of Sorrento-thick-skinned, aromatic, and used in everything from granita to pasta sauces. Visit a lemon grove or take a tasting tour to understand why these lemons are world-famous.

🍴 Best Restaurants in Sorrento Italy

Sorrento's got a bunch of awesome eateries serving up everything from classic Italian dishes to some truly unique bites. Here are a few of our top favorites in this Italian gem:

🍽️ Best Restaurants in Sorrento

Bagni Delfino - Waterfront seafood and pasta
Il Buco - Michelin-starred local tasting menus
L'Antica Trattoria - Elegant setting, classic dishes
Terrazza Bosquet - Fine dining with cliffside views
Ristorante Museo Caruso - Charming, with live music and regional plates

🏨 Where to Stay in Sorrento

Looking for a Sorrento hotel? Hit up Booking.com. Find deals, compare prices, pick spots. Real photos, honest reviews.

Use the search bar below for Sorrento hotels:

Don't forget to explore some of these awesome hotels in Sorrento. We've personally stayed at a few, and others come highly recommended by our fellow Italian adventure-loving friends and family.

Grand Hotel La Favorita - Rooftop pool, perfect location (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)
Hotel Regina - Stunning views and tranquil garden
Atlantic Palace - Budget-friendly with free shuttle and pool
Hotel Lorelei Londres - Sophisticated boutique with sea views
Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria - Iconic luxury stay

🏊🏽‍♀️ Hotel in Sorrento Italy With Swimming Pool

Sorrento and its beaches are like paradise, but we know sometimes you're craving that freshwater pool vibe. Totally get it. You're looking to chill by the pool, cocktail in hand, soaking in those picture-perfect views that scream 'Instagram gold'. So, take a peek at these Sorrento hotels with swimming pools:

Our top hotel pick in Sorrento, complete with a swimming pool, is amusingly named "La Favorita" - and yeah, we see the irony there! Here's why it's our go-to:

Grand Hotel La Favorita

Grand Hotel La Favorita (Rated exceptional (9.5/10) for its facilities and service ) sits in Sorrento's core. It's Italian elegance done right, mixing old-school charm with a modern twist. It's a luxury spot known for its fancy decor and perfect location. The place dives deep into Sorrento's culture and scenery.

Also be sure to check out these other hotel gems with swimming pools:

Parco dei Principi - Offers fabulous (8.8/10) amenities, highly rated by guests .
Grand Hotel Royal - Known for its superb (9.2/10) experience, popular with guests .
Grand Hotel Ambasciatori - Also enjoys a superb rating (9.2/10), favored by those booking five-star hotels .
Hotel Belair - Offers very good (8.5/10) accommodations and services .
Hotel Lorelei Londres - Receives superb reviews (9.2/10), highly recommended .
Bellevue Syrene - Rated superb (9.4/10), a popular choice among guests .
Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria - Exceptional (9.5/10) rating for its top-notch facilities and services .

🏖️ Sorrento Beaches Italy

Sorrento, Italy, is home to some amazing beaches. Each one brings something special to the table, along with plenty of amenities for a comfortable day out. You're in for a memorable beach experience. Check out our top recommendations.

🏖️ Best Beaches in Sorrento

Nerano - Great for day trips, known for spaghetti alla Nerano

Marina Piccola - Central and convenient with clubs and views

Marina Grande - More local, with seafood trattorias

Bagni Regina Giovanna - Natural pool with ruins

Puolo Beach - Family-friendly with shallow water

Adventure seekers: Don't miss out on Cala di Mitigliano and Marina della Lobra. Between their stunning natural beauty and the exciting trails leading you there, you're in for some truly memorable views and pristine waters.

🚙 Day Trip Ideas From Sorrento, Italy

Sorrento, Italy, puts you smack in the middle of beauty and history. It's your launchpad. Think day trips. You can hit up these roster of cities, all a stone's throw away:

Naples:

Naples: Hop on the train and you're there in an hour. "Napoli" is all about that lively vibe, rich history, and, of course, world-class pizza. Make sure to check out the historic center (it's a UNESCO treasure) and the Royal Palace. Straight to the good stuff.

Pompeii and Herculaneum:

Pompeii and Herculaneum: Imagine towns perfectly preserved since AD 79 thanks to Vesuvius doing its thing. Pompeii's the bigger name, but Herculaneum? Even better preserved. Both are just a quick train ride from Sorrento. Time travel, anyone?

Capri:

Capri: This is the high-end spot in the Bay of Naples. Famous for its dramatic cliffs, swanky places to stay, and the mesmerizing Blue Grotto. A ferry gets you there in 20-30 minutes.

Positano and the Amalfi Coast:

Positano and the Amalfi Coast: We're talking stunning cliffs, inviting beaches, and views that'll make your Instagram pop. It's super easy to get to by bus or boat from Sorrento. And Positano? It's postcard-perfect with its steep streets, boutique shops, and cozy cafes.

Ravello:

Ravello: Sitting pretty above the sea, Ravello offers killer views, gorgeous villas, and some classy music events. It's about a 1.5 to 2-hour journey from Sorrento but believe me, it's worth the trip.

Ischia:

Ischia: This lush island boasts therapeutic thermal waters, lovely beaches, and beautiful gardens. Make sure you visit the Aragonese Castle and indulge in some spa time. Just an hour by ferry from Sorrento.

Salerno:

Salerno: A bit further along the coast, Salerno offers a delightful mix of historic charm, relaxing seaside strolls, and the oldest botanical garden in Europe. The train ride from Sorrento is about 1.5 to 2 hours.

🌡️ Sorrento Italy Weather

Sorrento, Italy, has this irresistible Mediterranean charm that shifts with the seasons, each offering its own vibe. Let's break down the best times to visit, keeping an eye on those Fahrenheit temps.

🌤️ When to Visit Sorrento

Season	Temp (°F)	What to Expect
Spring	65–74°F	Flowers, fewer tourists
Summer	85–88°F	Beach season, peak crowds
Fall	68–79°F	Great weather, fewer crowds
Winter	42–49°F	Quiet, cooler, lower prices

❓FAQs

Here are some of the top questions we get about Sorrento, Italy, and we've got the answers ready for you:

What is Sorrento Italy known for?

Sorrento is famous for its cliffside views of the Bay of Naples, lemon groves, and as a gateway to Capri, Pompeii, and the Amalfi Coast. It's charming, convenient, and full of Southern Italian flavor.

Which is better Amalfi or Sorrento?

Sorrento is ideal for budget-friendly stays and day trips to nearby sights like Pompeii and Capri. Amalfi offers more dramatic coastal scenery and beaches. Choose Sorrento for flexibility; Amalfi for that true Amalfi Coast feel.

Is Sorrento Italy worth seeing?

Absolutely. Sorrento combines stunning sea views, rich history, incredible food, and easy access to some of Italy's top destinations. It's laid-back, scenic, and a perfect base for exploring the region.

Is Sorrento part of the Amalfi Coast?

No. Sorrento is on the Sorrentine Peninsula, just north of the official Amalfi Coast. While it's not technically part of it, it's a popular jumping-off point to explore Amalfi, Positano, and beyond.