Sorrento, Italy

The city of Sorrento may be on the smaller size, but it is big on reputation. Known for its welcoming locals, splendorous scenery, and oh-so-romantic vibes.

Sorrento is a rainbow of colour! The sapphire waters of the Mediterranean Sea crash against Sorrento’s white rocks, while pastel pink and yellow buildings line the coast and lush greenery floods the surrounds. Still not convinced? Read our reasons you should pack your bags and head straight to this coastal wonder.

Shopping in Sorrento

Despite its size, the city’s streets are lined with shops, just waiting for visitors to peek into. With Corso Italia and Via San Cesareo both being the main shopping streets to wander down. With clothes, shoes, artwork, and food all up for grabs, you can fill your suitcase up to the brim with these goodies.

• Water Wonders

  If you are a fan of the water, look no further, for Sorrento’s seas are not just for show. The beach areas are swarming with both locals and tourists, with the calm waters perfect for any age. The main beach in Sorrento is located next to the port of Marina Piccola, and another beach can be found in the small fishing village of Marina Grande. These beaches are perfect for a chilled day in the Italian sun, but they can become busy during the summer months. If you’d like to find a more secluded spot, then you can travel to beaches and pools a little further out of the city. The natural pool of Regina Giovanna is well worth a visit for its blue lagoon encircled by rocks with only a small opening looking out to the sea. If you’re not a fan of the beach then large pools litter every hotel, giving you a stunning view as you swim. Otherwise, if you are after an even greater adventure, join one of the underwater dive tours. Letting you trek along the ocean’s floor to discover the submerged statue that protects the city.

• Vallone dei Mulini

  

  Located behind Piazza Tasso you will find a surprising sight – a huge gorge with overgrown ruins called Vallone di Mulini (Valley of the Mills). This gorge was created by a volcanic eruption that occurred 35,000 years ago and is carved by two rivers. The rivers here made it a perfect spot to build mills however the buildings have now been abandoned and left to ruin. What makes this site so unique is that nature appears to be taking back its environment, enveloping the mills in green foliage. Due to the moisture and sun exposure here, the area is a perfect habitat for a specific kind of fern, and it is this that you see covering the walls of the gorge and buildings within.

• Sorrento Cathedral

  

  The Duomo in Sorrento is a Romanesque-style cathedral that dates to the 11^th century but was rebuilt in the 15^th century. The façade of the building is far more modern however, having been constructed in the early 20^th century. The walls inside are made of beautiful pink and white marble and the ceiling is adorned with beautiful paintings. Don’t be fooled by this church’s simple exterior, the inside is dramatic and elegant and well worth investigating.

• Food in Sorrento

  If you are in the mood for a local lunch or dinner, head to the Piazza Tasso. This bustling square is swarming with restaurants and bars. Here you can order a delicious oily pasta made from scratch that goes perfectly with your Italian wine. If you would like to try the local fisherman’s seafood, head to the sandy strip of Marina Grande.

• Limoncello

  Sorrento is famous for many things but most importantly, it is famed for its lemons. You will see images of the fruit on countless souvenirs, but the main produce created by the locals is the citrus liqueur, Limoncello. There is nothing better than a sweet treat after a glorious meal, and Sorrento does this religiously. Offering all guests, a free shot of their famous limoncello post-meal. On a hot summer night, this delicious drink will make you feel as though you are truly a part of the city of Sorrento.

• Old Sorrento

  The ancient section of Sorrento is bursting with narrow cobblestone streets and colourful buildings. The historic area is bursting with ancient structures and rich culture. Here you can stroll along and step into the old churches and vintage shops while you discover the true Sorrento.

• Visit the Island of Capri

  

  The iconic Capri Island is a mere 20-minute ferry ride away, promising you beautiful views as the sea salt air whips your hair around. The island is home to many fabulous day adventures, including the famous Blue Grotto. Whilst on the island you can relax at one of its many beaches or walk around the ancient Roman ruins of Villa Jovis before dining at one of its many restaurants.

Places to visit near Sorrento

Sorrento is a beautiful place to explore but it also makes a perfect place from which to explore the nearby historical sites and the Amalfi Coast. North of the city is the famous volcano Mount Vesuvius and the neighbouring towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum which it destroyed almost 2000 years ago. You can hike to the crater of the Vesuvius and look out across the landscape, over to Sorrento and across the glittering sea.

South of Sorrento is the beautiful Amalfi Coast. Containing picturesque towns such as Positano, Praiano, and Amalfi, the coastline here is among the most spectacular in the world and even a drive along the twisting road will take your breath away.

With its sweet-scented citrus groves, fascinating history and bustling modern city life, Sorrento is a place that should be on everybody’s bucket list. Whether you take a day tour here or choose it as your base for exploration, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience.