Sorrento is a picturesque town overlooking the Bay of Naples, perfect for a romantic and relaxing vacation. It is famous for its lemons, Limoncello, and beautiful cliffs. Its charming old town is full of cafes and shops selling local products.
The main attractions include Piazza Tasso, Marina Grande, and the gardens of Villa Comunale, which offer views of Mount Vesuvius. It’s best to visit in spring or autumn when there are fewer tourists, and the weather is still mild. Sorrento is also an excellent base for trips to the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, and even Capri.
You can easily reach Sorrento by train from Naples or ferry from Capri. In the town, walk around to enjoy its charm and peaceful atmosphere fully.
In this post, I will introduce you to Sorrento — a charming town worth visiting when travelling through southern Italy. You’ll find practical information on how to get to Sorrento, the best places to stay, and where to eat.
I will also share the most interesting attractions in the town, its lovely beaches, and viewpoints with spectacular landscapes. This post will help you plan the perfect stay in Sorrento, so you can fully enjoy this magical place.
How to Get to Sorrento from Naples
Travelling from Naples to Sorrento is convenient, and you have several options:
Circumvesuviana Train
This is the most popular option. A direct train runs from Napoli Centrale station to Sorrento every 30 minutes. The journey takes about 1 hour. Circumvesuviana is a local train, so be prepared for basic comfort and no air conditioning. However, the views from the windows, especially as you get closer to Sorrento, make up for any discomfort.
SITA Bus
If you prefer to enjoy the views from a higher route, SITA buses depart from Piazza Garibaldi in Naples. The route winds along the coastal roads, offering incredible panoramas. The travel time ranges from 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.
Ferry (Available Only in Season)
This is a good option for those who want to enjoy a scenic boat ride. Ferries depart from Molo Beverello port in Naples, and the trip takes about 40 minutes. The views of the Bay of Naples, Mount Vesuvius, and Capri make the journey unforgettable. The price is a bit higher than the train, but the comfort and scenery are worth the cost.
Car
You can rent a car, but keep in mind that the roads along the Amalfi Coast are narrow and winding, and parking in Sorrento can be challenging. The drive from Naples takes about 1 hour, but it may take longer depending on traffic.
Each option has its advantages, so choose the one that best suits your preferences and travel plans. I chose to travel by train, but I visited Sorrento in March, during the low season. In peak tourist season, trains can be crowded, so I would recommend taking the ferry then.
Useful links
- A Complete List of All Possible Connections Between Naples and Sorrento: trip between Naples – Sorrento*
- Tolomedo Project and SorrentoWalks invite you to explore walking trails of great tourist and natural significance on the Sorrento Peninsula. Check out various hiking options in and around the town.
Where Does the Name Sorrento Come From?
The name Sorrento likely comes from the Greek word “Surrentum,” which in ancient times referred to a settlement founded by the Greeks on the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea. According to legend, Sorrento was also associated with sirens, the mythical creatures from Greek mythology that lured sailors with their songs. The word “sirenia” may have influenced the town’s name, highlighting its connection to the sea and mythology.
Where Is the Best Place to Stay?
- Centro Storico: Close to the main attractions and restaurants. It’s perfect for a stroll through the old town.
- Marina Grande: A charming area by the marina. It offers beautiful sea views and a quieter atmosphere.
- Piazza Tasso: The central point of Sorrento. It’s close to shops, cafes, and public transport.
I recommend a hotel in the old town centre where I spent a few days:
Hotel Mignon Meublè, Via Sersale 9, 80067 Sorrento, Italy
GPS Coordinates: N 040° 37.484, E 14° 22.352
Hotel Mignon Meublè in Sorrento is the perfect place for a peaceful stay in the city’s heart. Its excellent location offers quick access to the main attractions while providing a quiet environment. The hotel’s interior is well-maintained and cosy, and the rooms are spotlessly clean and comfortable. The breakfast room is inviting, offering delicious pastries and fresh products to start your day pleasantly. An added feature is the small, inner garden with a terrace — a perfect spot to enjoy an afternoon coffee or a glass of wine in a pleasant, green setting. The friendly and attentive staff ensure guests’ comfort, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
Lemon Sorrento: Everything You Need to Know About This Place
Ceramics with Moorish Heads
In Sorrento, and other parts of southern Italy, ceramics depicting Moorish heads are quite popular. These decorative items reflect the region’s history, influenced by various cultures, including Arab culture, over the centuries. Traditionally, these ceramic heads (Testa di Moro) show the faces of Moors — men and women adorned with elaborate headpieces and jewellery. According to legend, one story tells of a love affair between a Moorish prince and a Sicilian girl. When she discovered his betrayal, she decided to kill him and use his head as a flower vase. These ceramics symbolize southern Italy’s rich, although sometimes dramatic, history.
Limoncello – A Local Delicacy
Limoncello, a popular lemon liqueur, is one of Sorrento’s most iconic products. Made from local lemons — the famous Limoni di Sorrento — the liqueur has an intense aroma and refreshing taste. It is worth knowing that lemons from this region are larger and more aromatic than those found in other parts of Italy, which makes Sorrento limoncello unique. The production process involves macerating lemon peels in alcohol and adding water and sugar. The liqueur is served chilled, usually after a meal, as a digestivo.
Gorges in Sorrento
Sorrento, perched on a rocky coastline, is home to several gorges, the most famous of which is Vallone dei Mulini. This gorge is located near the town centre and is the remnant of an ancient mill that operated there from the 13th century. Over time, it was abandoned, and today the ruins, covered in lush vegetation, create a picturesque landscape that attracts tourists and photographers. The gorges in Sorrento are part of the region’s unique topography, blending rocky cliffs with abundant greenery.
Blue Flag
Sorrento, situated on cliffs, does not have wide, sandy beaches like some other seaside towns. Instead, it offers distinctive wooden platforms located directly by the cliffs. These platforms extend over the crystal-clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, creating unique spots for sunbathing and swimming. Many of these platforms belong to local bathing establishments, like Marina Piccola, and come equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, and bars, providing visitors with comfortable facilities in a picturesque setting. These platforms are a great way to enjoy the sea in Sorrento despite its rocky coastline.
Sorrento has several beaches (including those with wooden platforms), and some of them are Blue Flag certified. The Blue Flag is an international certification awarded to beaches that meet the highest standards of water quality, environmental management, safety, and tourist infrastructure. It is a sign that the beach is clean, well-organized, and safe for visitors. The Blue
Blue Flag-certified beaches are:
- Riviera Massa
- Marina Piccola
- San Francesco (this beach is only accessible to Sorrento residents)
- Puolo
Main Beaches in Sorrento
- Marina Grande: This is the most famous beach in Sorrento. Located in the old part of town, it has a charming, traditional character. The beach is surrounded by colourful buildings and offers views of the Bay of Naples.
- Marina Piccola: Closer to the town centre, this beach is known for its wooden platforms that stretch along the coast. It’s a popular spot for relaxing and sunbathing with a view of Mount Vesuvius. The port and ticket offices are also located here, making it a departure point for trips to Capri and other towns on the Amalfi Coast.
- Leonelli’s Beach: A private beach with long piers and sunbeds. It offers amenities such as bars, restaurants, and water sports equipment rentals.
- Bagni della Regina Giovanna: This is a more natural and wild beach, located in a small cove. It features a natural pool surrounded by rocky cliffs, making it an ideal spot for swimming in crystal-clear water.
Presepi – Miniature Nativity Scenes from Campania
Presepi are not just traditional Christmas nativity scenes. They also depict detailed representations of everyday life in the region. Initially, these scenes only featured the classic figures associated with the birth of Jesus, but over time, small figurines of artisans, farmers, animals, and other elements of daily life were added.
Symbolism and Local Elements
The presepi often include local touches that reflect life in southern Italy. The figurines represent not only shepherds but also vendors, bakers, fishermen, and even musicians—figures symbolizing typical professions and daily activities in the region. Miniature houses and workshops are carefully crafted, often inspired by the architecture of Campania.
History and Tradition
The art of making presepi flourished in the 18th century when Neapolitan aristocrats and wealthy citizens began collecting and commissioning intricately crafted nativity scenes. Handcrafted by local artisans, these presepi evolved into more than just religious representations. They became a way to showcase everyday life, traditions, and the culture of the region.
Where to See Them
During the holiday season, presepi exhibitions are held in many places throughout Campania, including Sorrento. Some displays are available to view year-round. Via San Gregorio Armeno in Naples is one of the most famous locations where artisans sell nativity figurines and miniature set pieces. In Sorrento, you can also find shops and workshops where traditional presepi are created. One place where Presepi can be seen is the Cathedral of St. Philip and James in Sorrento.
Presepi is a vital part of the region’s culture and a beautiful example of craftsmanship that has endured through the centuries, blending tradition with the daily lives of Campania’s residents.
“Lemon” Sorrento: Main Attractions in the City
Sorrento offers many attractions and beautiful places worth visiting. Here are some suggestions that may interest you:
Piazza Tasso
The central square in Sorrento is bustling with cafés, restaurants, and boutiques. It’s the perfect spot to relax, watch the life of the city, and try local cuisine. Be sure to sit down with a coffee and enjoy the atmosphere. In the narrow streets leading off from the square, pay attention to the information boards, as they will help you find several historic houses.
Cathedral of St. Philip and James
The Cathedral of St. Philip and James is an impressive 12th-century temple that reflects the city’s long history. Known for its Romanesque façade and beautifully decorated interiors, it captivates visitors with intricate frescoes and sculptures. It’s worth visiting to appreciate the spiritual heritage of the region and explore the wealth of architecture and sacred art. It’s also an excellent place for a moment of peace and reflection in the heart of Sorrento.
Marina Grande
This charming traditional fishing district features small boats, colourful houses, and a beach. It’s an ideal spot for a stroll, a swim in the sea, and trying fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants overlooking the bay.
Vallone dei Mulini
This picturesque gorge features the ruins of an old mill, covered in lush vegetation. Located near the city centre, it’s an interesting point for photography enthusiasts. It provides insight into the natural beauty and history of the region.
Sedile Dominova
A historic aristocratic lodge from the 15th century, Sedile Dominova is adorned with frescoes and unique architecture. It is one of the few remaining meeting places of the aristocracy open for visits, making it an important part of the city’s history.
Villa Fiorentino
Villa Fiorentino is an elegant 20th-century residence surrounded by beautiful gardens. It serves as an important cultural venue for art exhibitions, concerts, and cultural events. Visiting the villa allows you to experience the unique atmosphere of the place and see how contemporary art meets the history and tradition of the region. The surrounding gardens, filled with citrus trees and flowers, are perfect for a relaxing stroll and a moment of rest.
Admission to the gardens is free.
More info can be found on the original website fondazionesorrento.com
Viewpoint at Villa Comunale
One of the most beautiful viewpoints in Sorrento, the garden offers panoramic views of the Bay of Naples and Vesuvius. It’s an ideal spot for a stroll or to relax in the shade of the trees.
Church of St. Francis – Chiesa di San Francesco
This stunning 13th-century church is surrounded by a beautiful garden. Be sure to visit the adjacent monastery with its Gothic cloisters, where classical music concerts are often held.
Corso Italia
The main shopping street in Sorrento is filled with boutiques, cafés, and restaurants.
It’s a perfect place for a leisurely walk, shopping, and trying local specialities, including the famous limoncello.
Each of these attractions offers something unique, providing an opportunity to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Sorrento and enjoy its history, culture, and stunning views.
You can see all this in one day, but why rush being in such a beautiful place? Slow down and take a moment to stop! You will find peace (however, only after the tourist season), a wonderful atmosphere, delicious food, unforgettable views, and breathtaking sunsets.
Why Is It Worth Visiting Sorrento?
Sorrento is a picturesque town where the scent of lemons fills the air. Lemon trees can be seen at every turn, producing the famous, refreshing limoncello. The narrow streets are lined with charming Italian taverns where you can sample traditional dishes. Fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and local wines are just a taste of the delightful offerings of the local cuisine.
The town’s architecture blends traces of the past with a charming Mediterranean style. As you stroll through Sorrento, you can discover quaint alleyways, old churches, and beautiful squares that offer panoramic views of the Bay of Naples and Vesuvius.
The beaches in Sorrento are somewhat different from those in other regions—they are intimate, often built on wooden platforms along high cliffs, adding to their unique charm. This is an ideal place to relax in the sun, away from the hustle and bustle, especially outside the tourist season. The town has a particularly peaceful character in spring or early autumn, allowing you to enjoy the local beauty fully.
Due to its location, Sorrento is also an excellent base for exploring the Amalfi Coast. It’s easy to set off from here to Positano, Amalfi, or Ravello while enjoying the views of one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world.
If you dream of complete relaxation, delicious food, Italian wine, and breathtaking views, Sorrento is a destination worth visiting. It’s best experienced outside of the peak season when you can avoid the crowds and truly feel the magic of this corner of Italy.
Why Do I Call it Lemon Sorrento?
The term “Lemon Sorrento” signifies that this town is closely tied to lemon cultivation and their presence in local culture. Sorrento is famous for its lemon groves that flourish in the surrounding hills and valleys. From these lemons, the renowned limoncello is produced, a local delicacy. Lemons are omnipresent in the town’s architecture, cuisine, and handicrafts, making the lemon motif a symbol of Sorrento. Thus, “Lemon Sorrento” captures the essence of this place, its natural richness, and its freshness.
ITALY – My Other Posts
I also encourage you to read my other posts about Italy.
- Italy photos
- Naples and Pompeii – tailor-made travel plan
- Pompeii – Top Attractions
- Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast – tailor-made travel plan
- The island of Ischia 1-day outside Naples
- Verona – in the footsteps of Romeo and Juliet
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