Sorrento is a charming town situated in Southern Italy that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend getaway or a family vacation, Sorrento is the perfect destination. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top things to do and see in Sorrento, so you can make the most of your weekend away.
How to Get There
Sorrento is easily accessible by train or bus from Naples. If you’re flying into Naples, you can take a shuttle bus or a taxi from the airport to the train station. From there, you can take a train or a bus to Sorrento. The journey takes approximately one hour.
Where to Stay
Sorrento offers a variety of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. If you’re looking for luxury, consider staying at the Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria, a five-star hotel that offers stunning views of the Bay of Naples. For a more budget-friendly option, check out Valentina Relais B&B, a local family-run accommodation. We stayed here during our last visit and couldn’t recommend it enough! If you’d like to see a room tour, make sure to check out our YouTube video below.
Tips for Visiting
- -Sorrento is busiest during the summer months, so consider visiting in the shoulder season (April-May or September-October) to avoid crowds.
-
- - Wear comfortable shoes, as the town has steep hills and narrow streets.
-
- - Be prepared for warm weather, especially in the summer months. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
-
- - If you’re planning to take a boat tour, bring a jacket or a sweater, as it can get chilly on the water.
Day 1: Explore the Town
Start your weekend off by exploring the historic center of Sorrento. Take a stroll through the narrow streets and alleyways, where you’ll find colorful buildings, artisan shops, and charming cafes. Stop by the Piazza Tasso, the main square of the town, and enjoy a cup of coffee while people-watching and taking in the lively atmosphere.
Afterward, visit the Cathedral of Sorrento, a beautiful 15th-century church that houses stunning frescoes and artwork. From there, head to the Museo Correale di Terranova, a museum that showcases the history and culture of Sorrento.
In the afternoon, take a short walk to the Villa Comunale, a beautiful park that offers panoramic views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the park, and take in the breathtaking scenery.
Day 2: Visit Amalfi and Positano
If you’re staying in Sorrento, visiting the nearby towns of Positano and Amalfi is a must-do activity. In the summer, you can take a ferry from Sorrento to Amalfi, which offers stunning views of the coastline. Alternatively, you can take a bus or drive along the scenic Amalfi Coast road. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes to Positano, and from there, another 40 minutes to Amalfi. You’ll pass through charming towns and villages along the way, so make sure to look out the window!
You’ll arrive to Positano first, where you can enjoy the narrow streets, breathtaking views and a lovely walk all the way down to the famous Positano Beach. Once there, you can enjoy a lovely (but expensive) meal by the sea. Although note that in high season it may be difficult to get a table!
After Positano, drive or ride the bus to Amalfi. Once you arrive, be sure to explore the historic center, visit the Cathedral of St. Andrew, and enjoy the beautiful beaches and coastline.
When you’re done, head back to Sorrento to get a good night sleep before your last day
Day 3: Relax by the Sea & enjoy the Local Cuisine
If you’re visiting in summer, you’ll be able to enjoy the weather to sunbathe and swim in the sea in Sorrento. If you have a car, you can drive to some nearby locations, or walk to swimming spots in the center of town. Check out Sorrento’s official list of Public Beaches here.
No visit to Sorrento is complete without trying the local cuisine. Sorrento is a food lover’s paradise, with a rich culinary tradition that includes fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and delicious desserts. One of the most famous dishes in Sorrento is the gnocchi alla sorrentina, a hearty pasta dish made with tomato sauce, fresh basil, and melted mozzarella cheese. For dessert, try the famous limoncello, a lemon liqueur that’s made with locally grown lemons.
If you’re interested in learning more about the local cuisine, consider taking a cooking class. Many of the restaurants in Sorrento offer cooking classes where you can learn how to make traditional Italian dishes.
Sorrento is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. With its stunning coastline, rich history, and proximity to the Amalfi Coast, it makes for the perfect short destination. Whether you’re looking to relax and unwind or explore all that Sorrento has to offer, you won’t be disappointed. So pack your bags and get ready for a weekend you’ll never forget!