Guide to Sorrento: 25 best things to do in Sorrento, Italy

Come with me to discover the best things to do in Sorrento, Italy’s famous gateway to the Amalfi Coast! We spent over a week exploring this charming city in Southern Italy, and I’m here to tell you all about it.

Sorrento’s history dates all the way back to the 6th century BC. Its very name comes from the sirens, those human-like creatures in Greek mythology who lured sailors to their rocky shores. They supposedly lived on the Li Galli Islands, near Sorrento!

Today, sitting on a high coastal cliff, Sorrento is widely known as an ideal base for exploring the Amalfi Coast, Capri, Pompeii, and other iconic destinations in the area. Sorrento has great ferry, bus, and train connections to all the main attractions!

With charming vibes and scenic views of Mount Vesuvius and the Gulf of Naples, it is no wonder that Sorrento attracts visitors from all parts of the world. In this guide, you’ll find the best things to do in Sorrento, all with photos, descriptions, and locations. Happy travels!

1. Visit Piazza Tasso, the busy heartbeat of Sorrento

Welcome to Sorrento! Named after an Italian poet, who was born in this town, Piazza Tasso is the central place in Sorrento.

Although there isn’t much to see in the square itself, this is a popular meeting place and a major intersection from where you can reach many of Sorrento’s famous attractions and must-visit sites.

We passed through Piazza Tasso Square many times during our visit to Sorrento. This is a great place to stop by for a quick breakfast if you haven’t had it yet.

We had cappuccino and sandwiches at Fauno Bar with a view of the whole square – the perfect place to people-watch! Bar del Carmine is another great choice for a breakfast break.

Piazza Tasso square is the starting point for two particularly famous shopping streets in Sorrento – Via San Cesareo and Corso Italia. Both are full of souvenir stores, gelato shops, cafés, restaurants, and more.

Probably, one of the most popular things to do in Sorrento’s Piazza Tasso is to check out the views from the Mirante Piazza Tasso viewpoint.

Sorrento town sits on a high seaside cliff, and, in a unique way, Piazza Tasso square is built above a deep gorge carved out by two rivers.

You can simply peek over the railings and see a deep and narrow gorge below you! Quite impressive!

Piazza Tasso also hosts a statue of Saint Antoninus of Sorrento, as well as the beautiful Sanctuary of the Madonna del Carmine church known for its Baroque architecture. We peeked inside this church to see its gorgeous ceiling paintings (see photos below!).

There is one more thing to do while visiting this square.

If you walk through a short, tree-lined alley, you will reach another viewpoint looking down to the dramatic Vallone dei Mulini, an overgrown valley housing ancient mills (see the next section on this blog).

Although Piazza Tasso is not your typical city square with cars constantly passing through, there are a couple of things here you simply cannot miss.

I highly recommend stopping by Piazza Tasso to check out the views, drink an espresso, people-watch, peek inside the beautiful church, walk over to the Vallone dei Mulini, and embark on a shopping spree in the nearby streets.

Location: Piazza Tasso

2. Peek down the Vallone dei Mulini river valley

As I mentioned above, one of the not-to-be-missed things to do in Sorrento center is to see the beautiful 40-thousand-year-old Vallone dei Mulini, or the Valley of the Mills.

Despite the fact that this unique valley is situated right next to Piazza Tasso square, it stays hidden away from sight, and most tourists don’t even notice this place.

Turns out, all you need to do while strolling along the street is walk to the railings and peek down into the valley! The view of this valley, carved out by two rivers, is pretty dramatic!

What makes this valley worth visiting is the fact that deep down inside the valley, you can still see the historical and now-abandoned flour mills, which give this valley its name.

The mills date back to the 13th century when they supplied flour for local use. Eventually, centuries later, they stopped working and were finally abandoned in the first half of the 20th century.

We made sure to stroll by this valley and see it from above. It is just steps away from Piazza Tasso, so don’t forget to stop by! Somebody has to keep those forgotten places remembered, right?!

Location: Vallone dei Mulini

3. Go on a souvenir shopping spree on Via San Cesareo

Via San Cesareo is a famous street in Sorrento that begins at Piazza Tasso and stretches for a few hundred meters (about 400 yards).

Lined with countless shops, Via San Cesareo offers a journey full of colors, flavors, and scents. Every tourist should stroll down this street at least a couple of times!

Experiencing all the fun this street offers was one of my favorite things to do in Sorrento, haha!

You’ll find all kinds of stores here selling clothing, ceramics, leather goods, shoes, and of course, souvenirs. There are also plenty of restaurants, pizzerias, gelato shops, and more.

The street is always buzzing with people exploring the town, shopping, or picking out gifts to take home. It gets especially crowded when cruise ships are docked in the port!

Even if you don’t want to buy anything, I recommend grabbing a gelato and strolling along the street, checking out the hustle and bustle of this iconic street.

But if you’re looking for gifts or souvenirs, this is the best place to be! Popular items include limoncello liqueur, hand-painted ceramics, leather sandals and bags, lemon-print clothing, and of course, pasta.

Alternatively, Via San Cesareo has a parallel sister street—Corso Italia. It is also a popular shopping street, but it’s more focused on designer clothing and restaurants (the section that is parallel to Via San Cesareo).

Not nearly as fun as Via San Cesareo, if you as me! However, it has its positives – Corso Italia is much wider and more tranquil than Via San Cesareo.

There are many restaurants and bars with tables along the street where you can have a nice meal and people-watch during the day and evening when it gets busier.

Location: Via San Cesareo – Corso Italia

4. Find the best gelato in Sorrento

When in Italy (read like Eat-aly), you officially have permission to eat as many gelatos as you can! Hunting for the best gelatos was one of my favorite things to do in Sorrento (surprise!), haha!

Sorrento boasts a top-notch restaurant and café scene, so you can easily find everything from the most iconic Italian dishes to sweet treats—including gelato, of course!

There are countless gelato shops in Sorrento, but I always read reviews online before stepping into any food spot. My stomach has limits, and I only want to eat the best and most delicious food!

There are four famous gelaterias in Sorrento: Antica Gelateria Sorrentina, Raki, Fresco Sorrento, and Gelateria David (all locations below), with two of them located on the same Via San Cesareo shopping street. We spent several days in Sorrento, so we had time to try them all!

To be honest, they’re all amazing and have tons of great reviews. You won’t be disappointed by any of them, and also the prices were very reasonable in all of the spots.

However, I have to admit, Antica Gelateria Sorrentina felt a bit superior to me. Maybe it was the fact that the gelato was handmade on the spot by an older gentleman we saw working behind the scenes. However, Raki ice cream shop was a close second!

Somehow, those gelatos from Antica Gelateria Sorrentina were so, so flavorful! I tried Crema Amalfitana (it had a creamy, lemony taste), and my husband always gets pistachio gelato. We were both super delighted and happy with our choices!

Location: Antica Gelateria Sorrentina – Raki – Fresco Sorrento – Gelateria David

5. Take a look inside the historical Dominova Seat

The Dominova Seat, or Sedile Dominova, is one of the most unique places to visit in Sorrento. Located on the popular and always-busy Via San Cesareo shopping street, this hidden gem often goes unnoticed by regular tourists.

The Dominova Seat was established by a group of noble Sorrento families back in the 14th century and was used as a meeting place to discuss different matters, including politics or administrative problems.

You can visit this beautiful open-air loggia for free. I have traveled a lot around Southern Europe but had never heard of such a specific place before, so I was curious to check it out.

Today, the Dominova Seat is adjacent to a museum, so there is actually a gate at the entrance. We walked over there in the morning, sometime after 9 AM, and the gate was still closed, but we came back around 10 AM, and it was already open.

What makes it so special? This beautiful quadrangular portico is a little masterpiece. It is adorned with intricate 18th-century frescoes and supported by large stone columns, which support its dome.

By the way, I read on the internet that the dome is actually covered with yellow and green majolica tiles, but, unfortunately, you would have to climb a mountain to see the rooftops in Salerno, so I didn’t see it with my eyes.

However, if you switch to satellite mode on Google Maps and zoom in on this place, you’ll see the sparkling dome with geometrical patterns.

It only takes a couple of minutes to see this unique place in Sorrento, so I highly recommend walking by to check it out. When we visited, there was an artist inside painting beautiful paintings with scenes from the Amalfi Coast. They were so stunning!

Location: Dominova Seat

6. Try Sorrento’s famous dish – gnocchi alla sorrentina

When visiting Sorrento, there’s one dish you simply have to try: gnocchi alla sorrentina – Sorrento’s very own pasta dish. Well, if you consider gnocchi pasta, haha!

Sorrento-style gnocchi is a wonderful comfort dish – light but hearty at the same time. Trying this dish is one of the top things to do in Sorrento – do not leave this place without trying this dish!

Gnocchi alla Sorrentina consists of potato gnocchi (soft, pillowy dumplings), a tomato sauce made with tomatoes from the Sorrentine Peninsula, cheese, and a bit of fresh basil.

It’s a really simple dish – just like typical Mediterranean-style food – and you’ll find it on the menu at almost every Italian restaurant in Sorrento.

I tried it at La Cantinaccia del Popolo, an iconic local restaurant serving a mix of Italian dishes and traditional foods from the Amalfi Coast and the Sorrentine Peninsula.

The portion was so big, I couldn’t even finish it!

But, as I said, this dish is a must-have on the menu, so you will definitely find it in every Italian restaurant in Sorrento! I can recommend places like Torna a Surriento Trattoria, Storico8 Restaurant, Benvenuti in Casa, and Fuoro.

Location: La Cantinaccia del Popolo

7. Go on a day trip to the iconic Capri Island

Capri Island is one of the most beautiful places in Italy, and getting there from Sorrento is super convenient. There are direct ferries going from Sorrento port to Capri Island multiple times a day!

While you can reach Capri from many places in this region, including from Naples, from Amalfi, from Maiori, from Salerno, as well as from Castellammare di Stabia, Sorrento is actually the closest port to Capri. You can see the island from the shore!

So, because you will be so close, a trip to the wonderful Capri is a must!

Known for its world-famous 350-feet-high (100-meter-high) Faraglioni di Capri sea stacks, Blue Grotto sea cave, and, of course, the popular Caprese salad, this island has long been a favorite for the rich and famous as well as regular travelers alike.

We actually spent a couple of days in Capri (including our honeymoon!) trying to soak in everything this beautiful place had to offer.

And those were some of our favorite memories from our trip to this part of Italy. I see why people love this island so much!

If you can, I recommend spending the night on the island.

Most of the island’s visitors are daytrippers, so those quiet evenings after all the ferries have left, as well as the tranquil mornings before they arrive, were quite magical!

Yes, those mid-day crowds CAN be a bit off-putting, but if you wander away from the busy squares, you’ll find the island’s tranquil beauty!

8. Stroll through the gorgeous San Francesco cloister

The beautiful Saint Francis Church and Convent was one of my favorite places to visit in Sorrento! It sits just steps away from the Villa Comunale seaside park, a popular place to gather and enjoy the panoramic coastal views.

You can visit the patio of the Cloister of San Francesco (and the adjacent church!) for free during its opening hours. It is a peaceful escape from the normally busy Sorrento streets.

Besides some gardeners tending to plants and a couple of other tourists, this place was surprisingly empty if you compare it to the square right outside the door, haha!

The cloister, along with the church, was built back in the 14th century on the ruins of a medieval monastery. It definitely felt like stepping back in time!

I loved the beautiful arcade surrounding the cloister’s rectangular patio. It is decorated with plants, flowers, and even some trees.

There is not much else to do except walk around the arcade, check out the art exhibition, and take some unique photos. The cloister is definitely one of the most picture-perfect places in Sorrento!

There was also a small shop inside the cloister where you could buy artworks from Sorrento artists. Besides the shop and art exhibitions, today the cloister also hosts musical events and even weddings!

After taking lots of photos and checking out the cloister, we also peeked inside the adjacent Chiesa di San Francesco church. You should be able to freely enter the church unless there is a celebration taking place.

The church was beautiful, but nothing spectacular (see photo of its interior above), if you compare it to other churches in Sorrento, which often boast stunning frescoes and canvases.

Location: Chiostro di San Francesco

9. Enjoy the sweeping views at Villa Comunale di Sorrento

Located just steps away from Saint Francis Church and Convent is one of the most iconic places in Sorrento: Villa Comunale di Sorrento.

This fantastic 19th-century seaside garden is one of the most popular places to visit in Sorrento and is often referred to as ‘the balcony of the city.’

Once you arrive there, you’ll understand why!

Sorrento sits on a high seaside cliff, and Villa Comunale di Sorrento public park is located right by the cliffside, offering sweeping views of the Bay of Naples, including the majestic Mount Vesuvius volcano.

The views from this place are simply unbeatable!

The Sorrento cliffside is lined with scenic benches and features a stairway down to the beach. If you’re not a fan of climbing stairs, there’s an elevator in another corner of this park where you can pay a small fee to take you down to the beach.

A visit to this garden must be on your Sorrento bucket list, so don’t even think about skipping it! Although it was always quite busy when we visited, it was well worth the hype.

There are ice cream vendors and a café at the park with tables just steps away from the cliffside, making this a great place to come for a coffee break or a cocktail during your travels.

We came here both during the day and at sunset to watch the sun slide down the horizon into the Mediterranean Sea (see photos above!). It’s a magical place to return to!

Location: Villa Comunale di Sorrento

10. Peek inside the beautiful Sorrento Cathedral

The beautiful Baroque cathedral in Sorrento (officially the Cathedral of Saints Philip and James) might look modest from the outside, but it’s well worth stopping by to admire its interior!

The cathedral dates back to the 11th century, when the original building was completed, though it has undergone many reconstructions over the centuries.

To me, the most interesting part of the cathedral is that its bell tower sits about 50 meters from the church building—something you don’t see very often!

Entrance to the cathedral is free. Unless there’s a celebration, you should be able to walk freely inside and admire its majestic interior, adorned with frescoes, altars, and filled with historic artifacts.

The ceiling above the central nave, covered in painted canvases, is definitely the most impressive part of the interior. I’m always amazed by how such large artworks were created and placed so high up!

Exploring historical sites is one of the top things to do in Sorrento, and, unsurprisingly, there are many churches in the city. However, if you had to choose just one church to visit, this might be the one!

For those of you who love exploring thousand-year-old churches, there is one more place to check out – the 11th-century Basilica Sant’Antonino.

This wonderful basilica may look unimpressive from the outside, but there are some treasures to discover inside it.

First, look at that majestic art on the church’s ceilings above the central nave as well as those beautiful frescoes on the walls! And you can visit this for free (unless there’s a private event!).

And then there’s more. You can also wander downstairs under the altar to find the basilica’s crypt. The crypt is supported by marble columns and houses the remains of Saint Antonino, the patron saint of Sorrento.

The crypt also houses numerous canvases depicting miracles performed by Saint Antonino, two altars, the statue of Sant’Antonino, as well as a collection of artifacts. Such a peaceful and tranquil place, hiding in the heart of Sorrento.

If you are into historical places, then I highly recommend spending a couple of minutes to visit the patron saint of Sorrento! The visit is free, and it will only take about 15 to 20 minutes to see the interior and the crypt.

Location: Cattedrale dei Santi Filippo e Giacomo – Basilica Sant’Antonino

11. Go on a hunt for the best pasta in Sorrento

Italy’s pasta is one of the most beloved foods in the world, and it would be a shame not to try different (and new!) pasta dishes when visiting Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast. Pasta was among my favorite foods we tried on the Amalfi Coast.

Just like there are many types of pasta (like spaghetti, penne, or fusilli), there are also many types of pasta dishes in Italy, and every region has its own special pasta dishes.

Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast are known to have a couple of rather famous pastas. I already mentioned the must-try gnocchi alla sorrentina, but there are more pastas that are specific to this region.

If you want to try this region’s pastas, then check the menu for these options: pasta al limone (lemon pasta), scialatielli ai frutti di mare, or just scialatielli (a type of pasta invented in Amalfi), spaghetti alla nerano (zucchini pasta), and spaghetti alle vongole (clam pasta).

A special mention to ravioli alla caprese, a ravioli (filled pasta) dish from the nearby Capri Island. If you didn’t try it there, you can very likely find it in many restaurants here in Sorrento. I did try it while in Capri, and it was fantastic!

Where to eat pasta in Sorrento? Lucky for you, Sorrento is known for its abundance of great restaurants. I can recommend places like: Enjoy Restaurant, Mamma che Pasta, La Cantinaccia del Popolo, Torna a Surriento Trattoria, and La Locanda Del Gusto.

12. Try limoncello, Sorrento’s famous lemon liqueur

Limoncello is a traditional Italian lemon liqueur that originated in the Sorrentine Peninsula. If there is something you must taste while traveling to this part of Italy, then limoncello is definitely high up on the list!

Limoncello was created by the monks who used it for medicinal purposes, but later people started making it at home (and still do!), and mostly used it to help with digestion after meals.

You might notice that some restaurants will serve it to you after your meal (right before paying). I am not into strong drinks, but I had to try it. Luckily, you’re not meant to drink a lot – it is quite strong, so you only have a small shot!

Did it help with my digestion? I have no idea, haha!

If limoncello is not served as a complement, you can probably order it yourself, as many restaurants serve it. But you can do as we did – we bought a small limoncello bottle in a shop and slowly emptied it at home (see locations for shops below).

Limoncello is one of the most popular souvenirs and local products you’ll find in shops around Sorrento, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding it. It comes in various sizes, including small bottles that are suitable for carry-on luggage.

Besides asking for a shot at a restaurant and buying a small bottle in a shop, you can take it to the next level and tour a local lemon garden in Sorrento with limoncello tastings, or join a limoncello workshop and learn all about the secrets of making this special drink!

Location: Limonoro Fabbrica Liquori – Limoncello di Sorrento

13. Go on a day trip to the Amalfi Coast villages

Sorrento (along with Salerno city) is often referred to as the gateway to the Amalfi Coast thanks to its location right by the Amalfi Drive road (the one that goes along the famous coastline), offering easy access to the towns along the Amalfi Coast.

This makes Sorrento the perfect base to settle during your vacation and go on day trips to famous destinations in the area, like Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius, Capri Island, and, of course, the towns along the Amalfi Coast.

How to get there from Sorrento?

There are three options: by ferry (the fastest way, but more expensive), by public bus (the cheapest, but it will get crowded unless you go in the morning), or by private taxi (very convenient, as you can plan your own itinerary; perfect for groups).

Okay, yes, you can also rent a car or a scooter, if you feel adventurous. But you need to know that the only road that goes along the coastline is narrow, winding, and often congested with traffic, and by midday, all parking spots will be full (especially for cars). It’s a gamble!

Even more, during the summertime, car access to the Amalfi Drive road is limited for rental cars due to the License Plate Alternation System. Based on the last number on your license plate, you can enter the Amalfi Drive road only on odd or even dates of the month.

So, which places are the must-sees on the Amalfi Coast?

Usually, the famous Amalfi Coast ‘trilogy’ is Positano, the Amalfi town, and Ravello, with its iconic cliffside villas and the Terrace of Infinity. However, due to their popularity, they will be the most crowded places on the coastline.

If you are into more relaxing experiences, I recommend traveling to Amalfi town, and then using the pedestrian tunnel to go to its more tranquil twin town, Atrani. It is just as beautiful but significantly less busy.

Or you can take a ferry to Maiori and then walk to the little Minori village along one of the most beautiful walking paths on the Amalfi Coast: Path of the Lemons. It connects Maiori and Minori and goes through fragrant lemon gardens with fruit hanging above your head!

No matter where you go, don’t plan more than two villages in one day. Just enjoy the views, buy a gelato and sit by the beach, have lunch in a garden restaurant, and try to soak in that La Dolce Vita life you came here for!

The Amalfi Coast is called the Divine Coast for a reason!

14. Visit a lemon garden café or tour a lemon garden

One of the most interesting and charming things to do in Sorrento might actually be visiting a lemon garden café or touring one of Sorrento’s many lemon gardens.

I know for sure that for many travelers, touring a local lemon garden in Sorrento is a bucket list experience. How charming it is to walk under lemon trees and pick lemons with your hands?

However, if you are not ready for a tour, there are multiple lemon farms inside Sorrento where they also have their own cafés, so you can go there, grab a drink or a lemon sorbet, and sit at tables inside the gardens.

One of the most famous ones (and the closest to the center of Sorrento) is I Giardini di Cataldo. They have a shop offering all kinds of lemon products, a cafe with tables inside their lemon garden, as well as guided tours through the garden.

We came here to try their lemon sorbet, and it was one of the best ones we tried on the Amalfi Coast! And the lemon garden is very picture-perfect and charming. If you want some photos under lemon trees, this is a great place to do that!

Another lemon garden cafés close by is Vivaio Ruoppo Lemon Farm. They offer lemon tours and cooking classes in the garden.

However, there is another way to enjoy lemon gardens: go to a restaurant located in a garden. There are a couple of them in Sorrento. Probably, the most famous one is O’Parrucchiano La Favorita restaurant. But another one worth checking out is La Limonaia.

Location: I Giardini di Cataldo

15. See Mount Vesuvius views from Piazza della Vittoria

Piazza della Vittoria, the beautiful balcony of Sorrento!

This charming seaside square in Sorrento is a quieter and less-visited alternative to the always-packed Villa Comunale di Sorrento. Both squares are located just a short walk from each other.

Just like Villa Comunale di Sorrento, this square also offers gorgeous panoramic views of the Sorrento coastline, the Gulf of Naples, and Mount Vesuvius, as well as epic sunset views. We came here many times during our visit to Sorrento.

Piazza della Vittoria is the perfect place to find a bench and relax under the trees. Yes, there is a small park as well, featuring a memorial sculpture, multiple benches, pathways, and lots of greenery.

You will most likely pass Piazza della Vittoria square when heading to Marina Grande in Sorrento. The square is right in the middle between Marina Piccola and Marina Grande, Sorrento’s two beaches.

This is definitely a place not to miss in Sorrento!

Location: Piazza della Vittoria

16. Walk over to the charming Marina Grande

I’ll be completely honest right now…Marina Grande might be my favorite place in Sorrento!

Marina Grande, or the Big Marina, is actually the smaller of Sorrento’s two ports. It is known for its relaxed atmosphere, free sandy beach, seaside restaurants, as well as colorful houses lining the shore.

The scenic views and more tranquil atmosphere were a pleasant surprise after fighting through the crowded streets and squares of Sorrento’s historic center, haha!

Marina Grande is definitely one of the prettiest parts of Sorrento!

It used to be an old fishing village and an entry point to historic Sorrento. While the main part of the town sits high on a seaside cliff, Marina Grande is down by the water.

Historically, ships and boats docked at Marina Grande, and then traders and visitors used historic streets to climb up to the town. Luckily, it is a moderately gradual climb!

If you walk over to Marina Grande today (by a narrow street from the same Piazza della Vittoria square), you will have to pass through centuries-old stone gates marking the entrance to the city walls.

Yes, there once was a high stone wall around Sorrento’s old town.

But what about Marina Grande today, and why is it so special?

It’s just the quintessential Italian postcard village by the Mediterranean Sea. There is nothing world-famous to see here, but you definitely don’t need that for a place to be absolutely wonderful.

Besides charming fishermen’s boats floating in the water, what I liked most about Marina Grande is that there are plenty of seaside restaurants lining the beach, especially places that won’t break the bank.

We came here for dinner right around sunset time, and it was one of my favorite dinners from our trip. The waves were washing the shore, the sun was setting, and we were sipping wine and eating pasta. Pure bliss.

Some of the seaside restaurants I can recommend in Marina Grande are Trattoria Da Emilia (this is where we had dinner), Porta Marina Restaurant, and Ristorante Bagni Delfino.

Location: Marina Grande

17. Learn how to cook the Italian way

I know that half the world has a fascination with Italian food. Yes, me too. Pizza and pasta are some of the most beloved foods around the world, no doubt.

If you are a foodie like me and like to cook some food at home, then taking a cooking class might be one of the best things to do in Sorrento for you!

Forget simply dining out! Here you can get truly hands-on with authentic Italian techniques from local chefs. Imagine mastering the art of making fresh pasta from scratch, perfecting a traditional pizza dough, or other regional dishes… A dream!

There are a couple of popular cooking classes to choose from, depending on your wishes, but don’t skip this opportunity in Sorrento! The best souvenir you can take home is your Italian culinary skills, letting you recreate Italy’s flavors at home for years to come!

18. Go on a trip to the ancient ghost town of Pompeii

Ahh, Pompeii. I’m sure I’m not the only one who remembers hearing about this fateful ancient city in history lessons at school. Did you hear about it, too?

Pompeii was once a bustling Roman city of 10 to 15 thousand residents, sitting at the foot of Mount Vesuvius, until one fateful day in 79 AD, when Vesuvius violently erupted.

As a result of this sudden eruption, the city, along with many of its inhabitants, was buried under thick layers of volcanic ash and pumice, effectively freezing it in time. The eruption actually began the day before, which allowed some residents to escape.

You can imagine that at that time, digging out a whole city was no easy task. So, it lay there largely forgotten for centuries, until its rediscovery at the end of the 16th century, and then more significant excavations began in the mid-18th century.

Today, Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as the world’s only fully preserved archaeological site where you can witness an entire ancient Roman city. You’ll see exactly how it looked with its shops, bars, villas, streets, squares, temples, and more.

The Pompeii archaeological site is also one of the most visited places in Italy, drawing a couple of million visitors to this ghost town every year. So, what’s the best way to visit Pompeii?

Luckily, visiting Pompeii from Sorrento is incredibly easy!

Sorrento is part of the Circumvesuviana Railway line, which connects Naples and Sorrento, and this train will take you directly to Pompeii. The train station is conveniently located just 100 meters from the site’s entrance.

I highly recommend purchasing online tickets to Pompeii prior to your visit to skip the long lines at the ticket office.

When we arrived at Pompeii in the morning, 90% of the other visitors headed straight for the ticket offices. Thanks to our online tickets, we were able to enter Pompeii as the very first two visitors of the day!

I also highly recommend drawing up a short plan of the key places you want to visit in Pompeii. The city is large, and you could easily find yourself wandering endlessly for hours.

While it’s impossible to see everything, you can comfortably cover all the main and most interesting spots in a focused 2-hour visit.

So, the best solution is either to book a guided tour with an archaeologist to truly understand what you’re seeing, or you can save the main highlights on Google Maps and follow your own self-guided route through the city.

My top locations in Pompeii included the historical Basilica, Temple of Apollo, and the massive Forum of Pompeii, with all the buildings surrounding the Forum Square.

Then I recommend looking into some of the ‘Casa’ buildings you see on Google Maps, which are 2-thousand-year-old luxury Roman villas with bright frescoes painted on the walls, mosaics covering the floors, and inner courtyards with statues and columns.

All of it is well preserved for thousands of years under the volcanic ash.

My favorite villas were Casa Della Fontana Piccola, Casa dei Dioscuri, Casa del Fauno, the largest house in Pompeii, Casa de Marco Lucrecio en la Via Stabiana, Casa del Menandro, Casa di Ottavio Quartione, and Lupanare di Pompei brothel.

There are even more villas, however, at one point they all start looking the same, so we understood that it was time to finish touring the never-ending Pompeii villas, haha.

If you want to see the horrific sight of plaster casts of victims of the eruption, then try looking into the Macellum market next to the Forum of Pompeii, the Garden of the Fugitives, or Casa di Sirico, where they hold the first victims ever found during the excavations.

We also tried to check out the Amphitheatre of Pompeii and the Teatro Grande, but they were closed for restoration, so we could only see them from the outside. But we did get to see Pompeii from above, from a small hill where you can visit public toilets.

We saw all these places with the standard entrance ticket. There are even more villas and even more archaeological sites, but we felt that this was enough for us. If you can, come here in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy Pompeii with cooler temperatures.

Pompeii is a place we will remember for sure.

Location: Archaeological Park of Pompeii

19. Find the best pizza in Sorrento

Sorrento is a dream for foodies, offering a wide range of fantastic restaurants. Sometimes you would expect a popular tourist destination to be full of tourist traps, but not here!

Talking about food, one of the must-try foods when visiting the Amalfi Coast and Sorrento is the world-famous Neapolitan pizza. After all, this area is the birthplace of pizzas!

We went to two pizza restaurants in Sorrento, including the trendy Frankie’s Pizza Bar, where I ordered their iconic heart-shaped pizza, and Ristorante Pizzeria S. Antonino, where we sat at a relaxing rooftop terrace.

Other amazing and popular pizza restaurants in Sorrento include Storico8 Pizza, Pizzeria da Franco, as well as Ristorante Pizzeria Tasso.

Also, a shout-out to the wonderful Torna a Surriento Trattoria Pizzeria. Although we went there to eat pasta, they are known for their authentic Neapolitan pizzas. One of my favorite, authentic places to eat in Sorrento! Friendly prices are an added bonus!

20. Try a lemon sorbet inside a lemon

Everybody knows Italian gelatos; however, once you set foot on the Amalfi Coast, it becomes all about the lemons. This area is famous for its large lemons, known as Sfusato Amalfitano.

These lemons are the color, the flavor, and the scent of the Amalfi Coast!

One of the best ways to enjoy them is by trying the iconic lemon sorbet served inside a real, hollowed-out lemon. You’ll see little stores selling them all around Sorrento, especially on Via San Cesareo shopping street.

We have tried this iconic lemon treat many times during our travels around the Amalfi Coast, including Sorrento. They also serve regular gelato inside them, but we always stick to lemon sorbet.

The sorbet is deliciously zesty and flavorful, with a perfectly balanced taste: sweet and citrusy flavors all blending together. The perfect refreshment on a hot summer day!

They are more expensive than regular gelatos; however, trying lemon sorbet inside a lemon is one of the bucket list things to do in Sorrento, Italy, so it’s definitely worth it!

21. Visit Sorrento’s unique beaches

Although it’s a coastal town, going to the beach in Sorrento may not be as easy as it sounds.

Sorrento’s historical center (where most of the travelers stay) is located on a high coastal cliff. The beach is there, but it is far below your feet if you look at it from the clifftop. So, how do you get there?

There are a couple of ways, but the most popular options are from the Villa Comunale di Sorrento seaside park. If you feel like walking, there is a staircase leading straight down the cliff.

However, if you don’t feel like walking, there is a public elevator (for a small fee) inside the park that you can use to skip those stairs and get to the beach a bit faster (if there is no line at the elevator!).

About the beach itself, like in almost every beach in this area, there are paid sections (beach clubs) and free sections on the beach. Most of the beach is paid access only.

However, it will be very convenient to have your own lounge chair and beach umbrella, so it makes sense to pay if you want to spend a longer time by the beach.

But if you only want to take a quick dip into the Mediterranean Sea, just head to the free section in the sand and enjoy the water there!

Because of limited space, Sorrento’s beach clubs have built overwater platforms inside the water and placed beach chairs on them. I loved this unique feature of Sorrento’s beaches!

We didn’t see anything like it anywhere else along the Amalfi Coast!

Tip! If you want a quieter beach, I recommend walking over to the charming Marina Grande and its public beach with fishermen’s boats floating right by the shore. It’s a totally different vibe from the busy and loud beaches in Sorrento center.

Location: Sorrento beachside – Beach in Marina Grande

22. Walk over to the secret beach of Bagni Regina Giovanna

If you don’t mind a beach day with some adventures, Sorrento has the perfect place for you! We loved this hidden gem in Sorrento!

Just 3 kilometers (around 2 miles) from Sorrento’s historic center, you’ll find a truly unique swimming spot steeped in history: Bagni Regina Giovanna, or the Baths of Queen Giovanna.

This spot is actually a secluded natural swimming pool with pristine water, enclosed by coastal rocks that protect it from the wind and waves of the open sea. If you check out the photos, you’ll see how it’s connected to the sea by a beautiful rock archway.

But there’s more. Perched on the coastal cliff right next to the pool were the ruins of a large ancient Roman seaside villa, Villa Pollio Felice. Dating back to the 1st century BC, not much remains of it today, but it’s a cool fact to remember.

Legend has it that Queen Giovanna D’Angiò of Naples often visited this place, spending time with her lovers, swimming in this very rock pool. You can even spot some of the ancient ruins right next to the water – look for two stone archways, visible in the photos above!

The rock pool is public and has free access. You can get there on foot via a cobbled path starting from the main street, which then turns into a dirt path leading down to the water.

Make sure to wear comfortable, sturdy shoes, and bring water, sunscreen, and anything else you need for a rustic beach day.

If this unique spot isn’t quite for you or it feels a bit too busy (it does have limited space!), then there are other cool swim spots further along the coastline. We saw quite a few people enjoying the water and jumping from rocks into the sea!

Location: Bagni Regina Giovanna

23. Watch the spectacular Sorrento sunset

Sorrento sunsets are something else!

Because of its location on a high coastal cliff and the town facing west, Sorrento offers some of the most spectacular sunsets in the area.

Watching the sunset in Sorrento is a must. And there are a couple of places and ways to do that. First of all, some of the hotels in Sorrento already offer rooms with views, so you might be able to do that from your hotel!

If not, then Villa Comunale di Sorrento and Piazza della Vittoria seaside parks are both popular (and free!) options and offer fantastic views of the Gulf of Naples, Mount Vesuvius, and the sunset.

If you want to make the experience extra magical, I recommend finding a seaside restaurant and having dinner at sunset. We went to Trattoria Da Emilia in Marina Grande at sunset, and it was one of my favorite memories of our trip!

Whichever sunset option you choose, watching the sun go down in the Mediterranean Sea is one of the most magical things to do in Sorrento!

Location: Villa Comunale di Sorrento – Piazza della Vittoria – Marina Grande

24. See the views at Belvedere di Sorrento

One of the best things to do in Sorrento is to hunt for the views! The whole town is like a picturesque painting with colorful houses sitting on a high seaside cliff.

Not to mention that Sorrento is one of the best places in the area to watch the sunset and enjoy the scenic panorama of the famous Mount Vesuvius volcano.

If you are traveling by car or private taxi in the Naples-Sorrento direction, there is one very popular spot you need to visit: the Belvedere di Sorrento viewpoint, overlooking the entire Sorrento coastline.

This viewpoint is located on a cliff at the side of the road, with many parking spaces available. There are always some food carts offering fresh granitas and lemonade, which you can enjoy while admiring the scenic views.

We have driven past this place numerous times, and no matter the time of day, there have always been cars parked along the road and people enjoying the Sorrento panorama, especially around sunset time!

However, if you are staying in Sorrento and don’t have the opportunity to get to this viewpoint, I can recommend walking over to the Punto Panoramico ‘Lucio Dalla’ viewpoint next to Hotel Lorelei Londres in Sorrento.

This scenic streetside viewpoint has a few benches and a perfect view of the Mount Vesuvius volcano. Although we walked over there during the day, I can imagine this could also be a fantastic place to watch the sunset.

When we visited, there was a beautiful text written in Italian on the railings that said “you never disappoint me”. Clearly talking about the amazing views! Such a cute photo spot in Sorrento – many people stopped by to take pictures here!

This viewpoint is definitely worth visiting, especially because many scenic viewpoints in Sorrento center get crowded quickly, especially places like Villa Comunale di Sorrento and Piazza della Vittoria.

This viewpoint is not a big space – just a corner next to the sidewalk with cars passing by behind you; however, we did spend some time there sitting on a bench, and we really liked this place and the views in this secret spot in Sorrento.

However, if you are staying somewhere on the other side of Sorrento’s historical center, there are amazing spots with views closer to you. We found one similar spot along Via Capo or Strada Statale 145.

There’s a viewing platform next to Hotel Belair Sorrento with panoramic views of Sorrento and the whole Bay of Naples with Mount Vesuvius in the distance. You can also see the charming Marina Grande fishing village from above. It’s a wonderful scenic spot.

The Via Capo or Strada Statale 145 road is the same road that turns into the Amalfi Drive road and follows along the Amalfi Coast, so it is quite busy, but the panoramic view from along the road and from the viewing platform was amazing.

Location: Belvedere di Sorrento – Punto panoramico “Lucio Dalla” – Via Capo Viewpoint

25. Stroll under orange trees at Parco di Villa Fiorentino

Last but not least, if you are looking for a peaceful place away from the busy shopping streets of Sorrento, then Parco di Villa Fiorentino with its orange garden is the perfect place to check out.

Parco di Villa Fiorentino is free to enter, but it does have opening hours.

The park hosts a 20th-century villa, a beautiful building used for concerts, art exhibitions, and other cultural events, but the real treat is the orange garden behind it.

If you haven’t yet visited a lemon garden in Sorrento, then this is the best alternative you can find right in the heart of the old town. And it is free!

The garden is rather small but filled with orange trees, pathways for a leisurely stroll under the trees, as well as benches for relaxing in a tranquil atmosphere. A nice escape from the always-busy shopping streets nearby!

We visited this place in the summertime, and all the flowers were blooming around the villa, children were playing in the nearby playground, and it was so quiet and relaxing.

Clearly, it is not a must-visit place, but it’s nice to check out if you are looking for a quiet spot to eat your gelato or to check off visiting a citrus grove from your bucket list.

Location: Parco di Villa Fiorentino

Happy exploring!

From its dramatic clifftop views overlooking the Bay of Naples to its charming historical heart, Sorrento truly embodies the essence of an enchanting Mediterranean escape.

We spent over a week exploring Sorrento and could have explored even some more. The city is famously known as the gateway to the Amalfi Coast and blends natural beauty with ancient legends, vibrant culture, and delicious flavors. Yes, we ate so well in Sorrento!

I hope this Sorrento travel guide inspires you to plan your own visit and discover its many wonders. Whether it’s those stunning sunsets over Mount Vesuvius or its many restaurants with prime Italian cuisine, I’m sure you’ll have unforgettable memories from this place.

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