Overlooking the glistening waters of the Bay of Naples, Sorrento offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking both relaxation and exploration.
One of the first things you’ll notice in Sorrento is the imposing silhouette of Mount Vesuvius, overlooking the region.
This iconic volcano, known for its catastrophic eruption in 79 AD, provides a dramatic backdrop to the town’s picturesque setting.
At the heart of Sorrento is Piazza Tasso, the town’s bustling central square. Lined with charming cafes and lively restaurants, this vibrant square is the perfect place to soak up the local atmosphere.
Whether you’re sipping an espresso, enjoying a gelato, or simply people-watching, Piazza Tasso is the place to be. From here, you can easily explore the town on foot, with many of Sorrento’s attractions just a short walk away.
One such attraction is the Correale di Terranova Museum, a museum which houses 24 exhibition rooms of an impressive collection of furniture, fine china, and paintings by Neapolitan artists from the 15th to the 19th centuries. It’s a must-visit for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Sorrento is also renowned for its lemons. Dubbed the Lemon Capital of Italy, Sorrento is home to Giardini di Cataldo, also known as The Lemon Grove.
This idyllic garden offers the most authentic lemon experience in the region, where visitors can wander through rows of lemon trees, sample fresh limoncello, and savour the fragrant aroma of the citrus orchards.
It’s the perfect way to spend a leisurely afternoon and no visit to the town would be complete without experiencing its famous citrus fruits.
As you continue exploring Sorrento, you’ll come across the Duomo, a stunning cathedral located on Corso Italia, the town’s main thoroughfare.
The Duomo, with its distinctive clock tower, dates back to the 11th century and was rebuilt in the 15th century in a striking Romanesque style. Its intricate interior and beautiful architecture make it one of Sorrento’s most notable landmarks.
Just a 30-minute train ride from Sorrento, Pompeii offers a fascinating glimpse into life in a Roman town frozen in time. Buried under layers of ash and pumice stone during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, Pompeii’s well-preserved streets, homes, and public buildings provide a gripping look into the past.
For those looking to bring a piece of Sorrento home with them, a visit to Via San Cesareo is a must. This bustling street, just off Piazza Tasso, is lined with shops selling locally-made crafts, regional delicacies, and unique souvenirs.
Here, you can find everything from hand-crafted ceramics to bottles of Sorrento’s famous limoncello. Don’t miss the chance to stock up on olive oil, ricotta, smoked scamorza cheese, and other delicious treats that capture the flavours of the region.
And while Sorrento may not be famed for its beaches like other Italian towns, there are a few spectacular places you can visit on the Sorrento Coast that are just moments away from the town centre. These include Leranto Bay, the Queen Giovanna baths, and Marina Piccola.