Sorrento and the surrounding area

Discovering the capital of the Sorrento Peninsula

Sorrento and the surrounding area
Sorrento and the surrounding area
Sorrento and the surrounding area
Sorrento and the surrounding area
Sorrento and the surrounding area

Tickets for Sorrento - Capri crossings

Sorrento Italy, nestled high on a cliffside overlooking the Bay of Naples, is one of the most fascinating and desirable destinations in Campania. It’s the most famous town along the Sorrento Peninsula, which includes Vico Equense, Meta, Piano di Sorrento, Sant'Agnello, Sorrento, and Massa Lubrense.

Known for its natural beauty, mild climate, and warm hospitality, Sorrento is a place where history and culture blend harmoniously with contemporary luxury. Walking through its picturesque streets, the air of the Mediterranean mixes with the scent of the citrus groves that characterize this part of Italy. From the panoramic terraces of Sorrento you can take in Italian postcard views of places such as Mt. Vesuvius, the island of Capri, and the Amalfi Coast.

Sorrento is often chosen as a base for exploring all the surrounding areas thanks to its strategic position. From here, visitors can reach Positano, Pompeii, or Capri in less than 30 minutes with buses, trains, and hydrofoils. The evening offers lots of possibilities for relaxing, enjoying an aperitivo and people-watching, and taking a leisurely stroll. You’ll find many restaurants to choose from in the old town and the main square.

This article is a detailed guide for planning your visit to Sorrento, including how to book a ferry, taking a guided tour, the most delicious local eateries, and ideas for a day trip and full-day exploring. Here's what awaits you:

  • How to get to Sorrento: Practical information on sea crossings and transport

  • How to get around Sorrento: Tips for exploring the area

  • The port of Sorrento: Everything you need to know about this maritime hub

  • Visiting the island of Procida: Guide to discovering Procida departing from Sorrento

  • What to see in Sorrento: The town’s main attractions and places of interest

  • Day trip itinerary: A plan for making the most of a full-day trip in Sorrento

  • One-week itinerary: A detailed plan for an entire week exploring

  • The most beautiful beaches: The best beaches for relaxing and enjoying the sea

  • What to buy in Sorrento: Essential souvenirs, gifts, and traditional products

  • What to eat in Sorrento and where: Guide to the best restaurants, trattorias, and gelato shops

How to get to Sorrento

Sorrento is an hour's drive south of Naples. You can also reach the town with the local train line, the Circumvesuviana.

By car

Take the A3 Naples-Salerno highway and exit at Castellammare di Stabia. From there, continue for approximately 15 miles along a panoramic road that offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples. This option allows you to enjoy the scenery and stop at various scenic spots along the route. There are also lemonade and sandwich stands at the many scenic rest stops.

By train

Napoli Centrale train station offers regular connections with the local Circumvesuviana train line, for travel from Naples to Sorrento in approximately one hour and ten minutes. Trains are frequent and are an inexpensive, convenient way to reach your destination. The downside is that they are often overcrowded and don’t have air conditioning.

By plane

Naples Capodichino Airport is the closest to Sorrento. From there, you can take for the Curreri Bus shuttle service to the center of Sorrento, or take a taxi for a quicker and more direct journey. The most exclusive and comfortable option is to book a private transfer service.

By hydrofoil

Ferries and hydrofoils depart regularly from Molo Beverello pier in Naples. The crossing takes around 40 minutes and offers spectacular views of the Gulf of Naples. A hydrofoil is a wonderful way to start your holiday in Sorrento because you can enjoy the sea breeze and beautiful views as you reach your destination.

Tickets Napoli - Sorrento

Ferry and hydrofoil booking tips

We recommend you book ferry and hydrofoil tickets online in advance.

Tickets are always refundable in the event your crossing is cancelled due to bad weather or rough seas.

Private transfers

You can book a private transfer service that includes pickup from Naples Capodichino Airport or Napoli Centrale train station and takes you directly to your hotel in Sorrento. These services offer a more convenient and stress-free experience, and offer you the freedom of choosing your departure time.

Book a private transfer to Sorrento

How to get around Sorrento

Once you arrive, getting around Sorrento and the surrounding area is simple thanks to an efficient local transport network.

Bus

Local buses connect the area’s main attractions and nearby towns such as Massa Lubrense, Positano, and Amalfi. Buses leave regularly from the main station and are an inexpensive, convenient option for exploring the region. Tickets can be purchased on board or at local newsstands and tobacconists.

Be aware that when returning to Sorrento from the most popular locations (for example, Positano) you may experience delays due to traffic and overcrowding.

Train

Sorrento is served by the Circumvesuviana train line. This train is the most convenient way to reach Pompeii and Herculaneum from Sorrento. The entrance to the Pompeii archaeological site is located right in front of the train station.

Scooter

Getting around Sorrento on a scooter is a convenient way to explore the area, especially the various villages of the Amalfi Coast. There are many scooter rental shops to choose from. However, we recommend renting a scooter only if you have prior experience driving on two wheels.

Taxi

For quicker travel, taxis are available throughout Sorrento. To avoid unpleasant surprises on your cab fare, however, we suggest you agree on the price with your driver before starting the trip. For longer routes it’s generally better to hire a private driver, who will offer an excellent level of service and provide pricing in advance. Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Bolt are not available in Sorrento.

Hydrofoils and ferries

Traveling around the area by sea is certainly the most pleasant way to explore. Hydrofoils and ferries depart from the port of Marina Piccola in Sorrento for Capri, Ischia, and villages along the Amalfi Coast. Ferry connections are frequent and offer a fast, scenic way to reach some of the region's most beautiful destinations.

The port of Sorrento

The port of Sorrento, known as Marina Piccola, is the only port in the city for passenger transport. Here you’ll find ticket offices for the main transport companies (SNAV, NLG and Caremar) as well as coffee/snack bars, restaurants, and shops. Most boat tours also depart from here.

How to get to the port of Sorrento

You can easily reach the port of Sorrento by going down the stairs from Piazza Tasso. If you have luggage, you can take the elevator from Villa Comunale. Alternatively there is a bus service that stops in Piazza Sant'Antonino. We recommend it especially for the return trip, to avoid the climb.

If you’ll be arriving by car or scooter, there’s a secure parking lot at the port. However, if you want to avoid traffic in the city center (and, above all, driving the winding road to the port), you can leave your car or scooter at one of the paid parking lots on the outskirts of the city, which offer a car valet service to the port.

Alternative port: Piano di Sorrento

If your hotel is located in Piano or Sant'Agnello, you can consider traveling to Capri from the smaller port of Piano di Sorrento, which offers two departures daily. The quiet and relaxed atmosphere of this port, which is also known as Marina di Cassano, is far from the tourist crowds the main port in Sorrento. Here, amidst the small local businesses along the port, you’ll likely also see local fishermen repairing their nets.

What to see in Sorrento

Sorrento is full of historical and natural attractions that fascinate visitors from all over the world. The historic center is a labyrinth of picturesque streets filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants that offer a taste of local culture. Everything is gathered around the main square, Piazza Tasso. One of your first stops should be the Sorrento Duomo, a 15th-century cathedral dedicated to Saints Philip and James, with a richly decorated interior.

The Cloister of San Francesco

The Cloister of San Francesco is another unmissable place. This ancient medieval cloister, a haven of peace and tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, is famous for its Gothic architecture. It’s a popular venue for weddings and cultural events, and often hosts concerts and art exhibitions.

Villa Comunale

Villa Comunale is the ideal place for a leisurely stroll with spectacular views of the Gulf of Naples. This public park offers well-kept gardens and a panoramic terrace with views of Mount Vesuvius and the profile of the Sorrentine Peninsula. It’s the perfect place for taking pictures and relaxing.

Correale Museum

Visit the Museo Correale di Terranova, which houses a vast collection of art and antiques, including paintings, porcelain, and period furniture. The museum is located in an 18th-century villa and offers an overview of the history and culture of Sorrento and the surrounding region.

Piazza Tasso

The famous Piazza Tasso is the central square in Sorrento and it’s an ideal place for people-watching and enjoying a coffee, gelato, or an aperitivo. Piazza Tasso is also where many of Sorrento's main shopping streets start from. You’ll find a variety of shops selling local and artisanal products. The square takes its name from the poet Torquato Tasso, who was born in Sorrento. The piazza has a statue of Tasso as well as one of St. Antonino, the city’s patron saint. Not far from the square, you can overlook the Vallone dei Mulini, the Valley of the Mills.

What to see in a day

If you only have one day in Sorrento, here are our recommendations for what you can’t miss, so you can make the most of your time.

Morning

Start your day born with a stroll along Corso Italia, the city's main shopping street, where you will find a variety of boutiques and cafes. Running parallel to Corso Italia is via San Cesareo, the oldest street in Sorrento. It dates back to Roman times and recalls the ancient layout of Roman cities, in cardini and decumani. The Sorrento Cathedral, a historic building with beautifully decorated interiors, is located along Corso Italia. The cathedral is dedicated to Saints Philip and James and offers a tranquil oasis of spirituality in the heart of the city. On Via San Cesareo, stop to admire the frescoed dome of the Sedil Dominova. It was once a meeting point between the nobles of the city, and today is the headquarters of the Mutual Aid Workers' Society. A traditional nativity scene is set up here every Christmas.

Next, visit the peaceful Cloister of San Francesco. This Medieval cloister is famous for its Gothic arches and tranquil garden, and is often used for concerts and art exhibitions.

To admire the view, go to the gardens of Villa Comunale, where you can enjoy a relaxing walk with a spectacular panorama of the Gulf of Naples. This public park offers a scenic terrace where you can see Mount Vesuvius and the islands of Capri and Ischia, so it’s the perfect place for taking pictures.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, stop by the Correale Museum, which houses a collection of art and antiques. The museum is located in a historic villa and offers an overview of the history and culture of Sorrento and the surrounding region. End your day with dinner in one of the restaurants in Marina Grande, where you can savor traditional cooking with a spectacular view of the sea. The Marina Grande district is an ancient fishing village with an authentic and relaxed atmosphere, making it perfect for an unforgettable evening.

One-week itinerary based in Sorrento

With an entire week in Sorrento you can explore the city as well as the wonders of the surrounding area. Here’s our suggested itinerary to make the most of your stay:

1. The city of Sorrento

Day 1: Explore Sorrento. Start with a visit to the historic center, admiring the picturesque streets, the Sorrento Cathedral and the Cloister of San Francesco. Stroll through the gardens at the Villa Comunale for a panoramic view of the Gulf of Naples. End the day with dinner at one of the local restaurants.

2. The island of Capri

Day 2: Excursion to Capri. Take a ferry or hydrofoil from the port of Sorrento and spend the day exploring the island of Capri. Visit Anacapri, the Blue Grotto, and the Gardens of Augustus. Return to Sorrento in the evening.

What to see in one day on Capri

3. The Amalfi Coast

Day 3: Visit to Positano and Amalfi. Take a bus or ferry to Positano, one of the most picturesque villages on the Amalfi Coast. Stroll through the narrow streets and relax on the beach. Continue to Amalfi, visiting the Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo) and the splendid coast. If you have time you can reach Ravello, 10 minutes by bus from Amalfi. Return to Sorrento in the evening.

Visit the Amalfi Coast in one day

4. Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius

Day 4: Excursion to Pompeii and Vesuvius. Take a Circumvesuviana train to Pompeii and spend the morning exploring the ancient ruins. In the afternoon, hike to Vesuvius, the volcano that destroyed Pompeii in 79 AD, for breathtaking panoramic views.

Tours of Pompeii and Herculaneum

5. Relax by the sea

Day 5: Relaxing day in Sorrento. Spend a day exploring Sorrento further, visiting the Correale Museum and enjoying some shopping along Corso Italia. Relax on the beach at Marina Grande or Marina Piccola.

The beaches of Sorrento

6. The island of Procida

Day 6: Trip to Procida. Take a ferry to Procida and spend the day exploring this enchanting island. Visit Marina Corricella, Terra Murata, and enjoy a fresh fish lunch at one of the local restaurants in Corricella.

Visit the island of Procida in one day

7. Massa Lubrense

Day 7: Explore Massa Lubrense. Take an excursion to Massa Lubrense, a nearby location known for its hidden beaches and scenic trails. Enjoy a relaxing day at the seaside and end your week with dinner at one of Sorrento's local restaurants.

Visiting the Bay of Ieranto

The most beautiful beaches

Due to its particular landscape, Sorrento doesn’t have many beaches, and the ones it does have are mainly rocky. At Marina Piccola in the city center you’ll find small beaches with volcanic sand as well as some beaches built on stilts.

The Baths of Queen Giovanna (Bagni Regina Giovanna)

One of Sorrento's favorite places for taking in the sea is the Bagni di Regina Giovanna, a natural swimming pool surrounded by cliffs. This historic place takes its name from Queen Giovanna II of Anjou of Naples, who according to legend loved to bathe in these waters. The natural pool is accessible via a panoramic path and offers a unique experience.

The Bay of Puolo

Immediately after the Sorrento cape you’ll come to Puolo Beach, which is very popular with local families. At this sand and pebble beach you can rent sun loungers and umbrellas, and there are several restaurants nearby where you can enjoy a lunch or dinner of freshly caught fish. If you want a glamorous experience, make a reservation at the Maya Beach Club.

Nerano

If you’re looking for crystal-clear water, go to the end of Punta Campanella and head towards Marina del Cantone in Nerano. This location is famous for its clear sea and excellent restaurants, many of which serve the local specialty "spaghetti alla Nerano,” a pasta dish made with zucchini and Provolone del Monaco cheese.

The beaches of Nerano

What to buy in Sorrento

Sorrento is renowned for its handcrafted items and culinary specialties. You’ll find many opportunities for bringing home a piece of this splendid location.

Limoncello

Limoncello is certainly the most famous local souvenir. This sweet and refreshing liqueur is produced with the area’s iconic local lemons, and is perfect as a keepsake or gift for friends and family. You can buy it in many shops throughout the city. You may also wish to visit the Sorrento Excellence factory, where limoncello is produced.

Ceramics

An important local artistic tradition is hand-painted ceramics and Capodimonte porcelain, which you can purchase in the local shops. Choose from a range of pieces, including decorative plates and vases, to add a touch of Sorrento to your home.

Inlaid wood

Another local specialty is inlaid wood, an art form that has deep roots in Sorrento’s history. You’ll will find a variety of finely crafted wooden objects, such as boxes, frames, and furniture. These handcrafted pieces are ideal for those who appreciate masterful craftsmanship and local tradition.

Traditional products

For culinary lovers, Sorrento offers a wide range of traditional food products. Local olive oil is renowned for its rich, fruity flavor, and many farms with olive groves offer tastings and direct sales. Local cheeses and cured meats are also excellent items to bring back with you to recreate the authentic taste of Campania in your own home.

Finally, you cannot leave Sorrento without purchasing some traditional desserts, such as almond biscuits and the famous rum babas. These delicious desserts are the perfect way to end a meal or accompany a coffee.

What to eat in Sorrento and where

Sorrento is an important Mediterranean culinary destination that’s famous for its authentic flavors and fresh ingredients. Many restaurants here also have spectacular views at water’s edge. Here is a detailed guide on what to eat and where to taste the best traditional Sorrento dishes.

Traditional dishes to try

  • Gnocchi alla Sorrentina: A classic of local cuisine, these potato gnocchi are seasoned with a delicious tomato sauce, fresh basil, and plenty of mozzarella, then baked augratin until they form a golden crust.

  • Lemon Delight: This iconic dessert consists of a soft lemon cake covered in lemon cream and decorated with fresh lemon zest. It's a must for anyone who loves fresh, citrusy sweets.

  • Pizza: Nearby Naples is the home of pizza, but Sorrento has a thriving local pizza tradition as well. The pizzas here are cooked in a wood-fired oven and prepared with high-quality local ingredients.

  • Seafood: With the sea so close, fresh fish dishes are a specialty here. Don't miss the grilled fish, spaghetti with clams, and fish soup.

Traditional restaurants

Il Parrucchiano: Located in the heart of the historic centre, this restaurant has a wonderful lemon garden. It’s one of the oldest restaurants in Sorrento and boasts having invented the recipe for traditional cannelloni.

Zi' Ntonio: This restaurant has a historic family tradition of serving traditional dishes in a welcoming atmosphere. Locals particularly love the seafood risotto here, known as "risotto special.”

Trattoria Da Emilia: Located on the Marina Grande, this trattoria offers fresh fish dishes in an informal and picturesque setting. Try the spaghetti with clams and the fried fish.

Michelin-starred restaurants

Il Buco: This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a fine dining experience with creative dishes using local ingredients. The tasting menu is a journey through the flavors of Campania.

Don Alfonso 1890: Located a few kilometers from Sorrento in Sant'Agata sui Due Golfi, this restaurant is famous throughout the world for its innovative cuisine and the use of organic products grown on its own farm.

Pizzerias

Pizzeria da Franco: One of the most famous pizzerias in Sorrento, known for its wood-fired pizza with fresh ingredients. The Pizza Margherita here is a must-try classic.

Pizzeria Aurora: Located in Piazza Tasso, this pizzeria offers a wide selection of pizzas, including the traditional Margherita as well as pizza con salsiccia e friarielli (sausage and broccoli rabe).

Vasame: This pizzeria in Piazza Lauro offers gourmet pizzas, a charming location, and live music on some evenings.

Bars for an aperitivo

Bar Syrenuse: Located in Piazza Tasso, this is the ideal place for an outdoor aperitif. Try a glass of local wine accompanied by finger foods such as bruschetta and mixed fried appetizers.

La Villa Garden: With breathtaking views of the sea, this bar is perfect for a sunset aperitif. Order a Spritz or Limoncello cocktail to start the evening.

Gelato shops

Gelateria Primavera: This is a Sorrento institution known for its vast selection of flavors and the quality of its gelato. Definitely try the dark chocolate and orange flavor.

Raki Gelateria: Famous for its original flavors and high-quality ingredients, this gelato shop is a must for ice cream lovers. Try the lemon and basil flavor gelato for a true Sorrento experience.