Overlooking the scenic Bay of Naples, with dramatic cliff tops giving way to picturesque fishing villages, the Sorrento Peninsula is truly a breathtaking place to behold. For 2000 years visitors from all over the world have been attracted to Sorrento, with its breathtaking sunsets, fragrances of orange and lemon orchards, landscapes of hills and valleys adorned with vineyards and olive groves. Situated on Italy’s west coast, in the Campania region, it’s one of our most popular destinations and easily one of Europe's most beautiful spots; Sorrento is the perfect base for holidays to Italy, as it offers an opportunity for relaxation and to see some of the most famous Italian sights. Check out our suggestions for things to do in Sorrento, as well as day trip ideas, and experience this stunning part of Italy.
1. Explore Sorrento Town
The old town of Sorrento is full of character, a labyrinth of atmospheric cobbled streets, filled with interesting shops, characterful bars, historic churches, pavement cafés and tiny alleyways. Some of the highlights of Sorrento town include the cloister of San Francesco, Sorrento Cathedral, the Correale Museum and the original fishing village of Marina Grande.
2. Take a Pompeii Tour
You could easily spend hours exploring the magnificent ancient Roman town of Pompeii. Learn how time was frozen in the year 79AD when the city was buried and largely preserved under ash after the eruption of the mighty Mount Vesuvius. This should definitely be on your travel list and we recommend having a guide show you this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site
3. Visit Capri
The enchanting island of Capri is renowned for its beauty and clear blue sea! The boat trip to Capri from Sorrento port takes approximately 25 minutes. Wander through the charming Capri town, discover the Augustus Gardens, spend some time relaxing on the beach or cool off with a leisurely swim! During your free time and depending on the weather conditions, you could visit the famous Blue Grotto, a sea cave and one of Italy’s famous natural attractions. It’s only accessible by a rowing boat and it was used by Emperor Tiberius as his private swimming pool. Although visitors are banned from swimming in the cave for safety reasons, as soon as you enter you’ll be dazzled by the glow of the turquoise waters.
4. Experience The Amalfi Coast
Possibly one of the most scenic drives in Europe, the Amalfi Coast is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and pastel coloured villages, including Positano, perched over the turquoise Mediterranean Sea, Amalfi which houses a beautiful Medieval Cathedral and Ravello with its historic town centre.
5. Uncover Positano
Explore Positano, the Amalfi Coasts' most photogenic town! Enjoy the beautiful colourful houses as they tumble down the cascading cliffs leading into the ocean. Top off your trip by taking in the enchanting views of Positano at sunset. With a cocktail in hand, it will be hard to draw your eyes away from the colourful skyline and glistening lights!
6. Discover Herculaneum
For history enthusiasts, if you have some free time during your stay in Sorrento, we suggest going to Herculaneum, an ancient Roman town which was also destroyed by Mount Vesuvius at the same time as Pompeii.
7. Hike Mount Vesuvius
Mount Vesuvius is one of the few active volcanoes left in Europe, it’s last eruption was in 1944. Although infamous for destroying Ancient Roman cities, it’s now a national park full of great hiking trails, where you can trek to its crater. For those feeling less energetic, you can get a shuttle bus to the top where you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of the Bay of Naples and Pompeii.
8. See The Bay of Naples
From canary yellow to tropical turquoise, the Bay of Naples is a sight to behold with its array of colourful houses dotting the coastline! You can easily visit Naples by taking a ferry or train from Sorrento. The city of Naples itself is also a picture-perfect paradise with rows of quaint colourful shops, charming cafés and authentic restaurants waiting to be explored. Make sure to try a pizza as this classic Italian dish was invented in Naples!
9. Experience Sorrento cuisine
The Sorrento region boasts some of the best pizza in Italy. The Pizza Margherita, a hot flatbread topped with red tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese and basil to represent the Italian flag is a must-taste! Pasta or risotto with fresh seafood are also popular and delicious. The Campania region produces excellent wines, including the fruity white Greco di Tufo and the lighter Fiano di Avellino, while red wine lovers will enjoy a glass of Taurasi. A chilled glass of Limoncello, made from juicy local lemons, is a great way to end a meal!
The Sorrento Peninsula is the perfect location for a touring holiday, with easy access to the spectacular Amalfi Drive, the charming town of Sorrento, the romantic island of Capri and the ancient ruins of Pompeii. If you're feeling inspired to visit this beautiful Italian region, check out our guided Sorrento holidays.
