Curator’s statement
As someone passionate about all things Italy, I wholeheartedly recommend making Sorrento your home base while exploring Campania, Italy. Perched on cliffs overlooking the shimmering Bay of Naples, Sorrento charms with its coastal beauty, relaxed vibe and lemon-scented breezes. But Sorrento’s real draw is its proximity to iconic destinations like Pompeii, Positano, Capri and the Amalfi Coast. Staying in this friendly town allows you to easily access the region’s best of the best. After long days exploring, relax at your Sorrento hotel before another adventure. I’ve adored Sorrento since visiting while living in Naples. Now I suggest it to travelers for centrally experiencing Campania’s very best while soaking up true dolce vita vibes.
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Things to do in Sorrento
Stroll through Sorrento's city center - Walk through the pedestrian-only streets to admire historic churches, palazzos and charming piazzas. Stop for gelato or limoncello!
Visit the Museo Bottega della Tarsia Lignea - This museum highlights Sorrento's famous intarsio woodwork technique. You’ll find intricate decorative furniture and creations.
Indulge in a farm-to-table meal - The Campania region boasts incredible produce. Try restaurants like Il Buco for fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Make reservations in advance!
Cruise to Capri for the day - This glittering island impresses with stunning grottos and coastline. Explore Capri Town and Anacapri, and ride the funicular for views. Book the ferry ahead of time for a stress-free trip.
Relax at Marina Grande Beach - Sorrento boasts this family-friendly public beach with a contrasting laidback vibe from the town center. Here you’ll love to swim and lounge.
Hike the Path of the Gods - For stunning scenery, take this cliffside trail linking Agerola to Positano. Wear proper footwear for the steep steps.
Learn traditional Italian cooking skills - Opt for a cooking class learning Campania's culinary culture. Make mozzarella and pizza at an agriturismo farm or pasta with local chefs.
Visit the ancient ruins of Pompeii - This archeological site provides a glimpse into Roman civilization before Mount Vesuvius erupted. The preserved buildings and artifacts will amaze you.
Explore colorful Positano - This postcard-perfect Amalfi Coast village blends pastel houses, boutiques and luxury resorts. Don't miss the church of Santa Maria Assunta.
Experience Naples' sights - Italy's third-largest city brims with world-class museums and pizzerias. Highlights include the Royal Palace, underground catacombs and dining like a local.
Day trips
Capri - The most beautiful island getaway with stunning Blue Grotto sea cavern, iconic Faraglioni rocks and the cutest cafes. Reach by 45-minute ferry from Sorrento.
Amalfi/Positano - Postcard-perfect coastal villages with pastel buildings, luxury hotels and hillside winding streets. Drive 50 mins or take a bus from Sorrento.
Ravello - Charming hilltop town acclaimed for beautiful panoramic views over the Amalfi Coast. Reach in 35 minutes by car.
Pompeii - Immense ancient Roman city ruins and artifacts preserved by the 79 AD eruption of Mt. Vesuvius. The train takes 35 mins from Sorrento.
Naples - Vibrant regional capital with a wealth of world-class museums, architecture, pizzerias and energy. Reach by 70-minute train.
Ischia - Largest island in Gulf of Naples, renowned for thermal springs, beaches, gardens and seafood. The ferry ride from Sorrento is 50 minutes.
With Sorrento as your base, all of Campania's treasures are easily within reach! Allocate at least a full day to take in the magic of each destination.
Places to eat & drink in Sorrento
Ristorante Bagni Delfino, Sorrento - Seafood lovers must try the linguine with clams and mussels. Their lemon desserts showcase Sorrento's famous fruit.
Sofia Out of Time Gelateria, Capri - This artisanal gelateria crafts incredible, unique flavors like rosemary and lavender. The perfect treat after exploring Capri Town.
Da Adolfo, Positano - Only accessible by boat, this laidback beach hut on the Amalfi Coast excels at grilled fresh seafood.
O’Puledrone, Amalfi - This restaurant is owned and operated by a local fisher family who are warm and welcoming. Make sure to get the catch of the day!
Pizzeria Aurora, Sorrento - Traditional wood-fired pizza shines at this local favorite for 70 years. Try the house specialty: smoked mozzarella and spicy salami.
Ristorante Michel’Angelo, Naples - Elegant spot with a scene-stealing terrace overlooking the Gulf of Naples. Fresh seafood pasta is always a favorite here.
Le Tre Arcate, Sorrento - Charming restaurant set in a cliffside lemon grove doing farm-to-table right. The veggie antipasti is a fan favorite.
Pizzeria Sorbillo, Naples - No Naples visit is complete without pizza at this iconic and always crowded pizzeria. Expect long lines unless you eat like a local and order to-go!
La Basilica, Sorrento - This restaurant excels in creating the perfect ambience while serving amazing food. Their homemade chocolate desserts are delicious.
Il Buco, Sorrento - If you want to have a truly special dining experience, this place is it. The food, service and atmosphere are on of a kind. Splurge on the tasting menu for a real treat.
Need to know
Though beautiful year-round, I recommend visiting Sorrento and the Campania region during the spring and fall shoulder seasons of March-May and September-October for ideal weather and fewer crowds. You’ll find pleasant temperatures, blooming flora, local harvest produce and refreshed attractions without summer heat and congestion. While summer promises beach weather, costs and crowds peak. Winter brings festive holiday ambiance but rainy weather. Whenever you choose to visit, Sorrento’s charm and Campania’s treasures guarantee a magical vacation you’ll never forget!
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Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Italy's Best Kept Secret — Why Puglia Should Be Your Next Italian Destination.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Sorrento.