Sorrento, also known as the City of Lemons, and once you’re here, you’ll see why! It’s home to some of the oldest lemon groves in Italy, and the famous Limone di Sorrento shows up in everything—from zesty granita to that delicious, must-try limoncello.
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But there’s so much more to this town than citrus. The colorful streets, stunning sea views, and lively beach clubs give Sorrento a fun, laid-back vibe. It’s the perfect place to spend a full day enjoying the best things southern Italy has to offer. And getting here is easy—it’s just a scenic ferry ride away from Naples, Capri, Positano, and other towns along the Amalfi Coast.
If you’ve only got one day, I’ve got you covered with everything you need to make the most of it. This day trip itinerary includes all the major sites like Piazza Tasso and Marina Grande, plus hidden corners, lemony treats, and even a peaceful boat ride along the coast.
If you’re visiting in the summer months, expect the town to be very busy and lively, but even in quieter seasons, it’s still full of charm. Since we’ve only got a full day to work with, get ready—this itinerary is packed! But of course, feel free to adjust the pace based on your energy and what excites you most.
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STARTING POINT: Near the Ferry Terminal (Marina Piccola)
Important Information to keep in mind!
Sorrento has two marinas: Marina Piccola and Marina Grande.
Marina Grande is the smaller, quieter one. Marina Piccola is the main port—this is where most ferries and cruise ships come in and out.
If you’re arriving from places like Amalfi or Positano, you’ll be getting off at Marina Piccola since it’s close to the centre of Sorrento.
Villa Comunale
Once you get off the ferry at Marina Piccola, head straight to Villa Comunale, which is a scenic walk. This is the perfect way to start your day. It’s just a short walk from the ferry. The views over the Bay of Naples are absolutely stunning—especially in the morning. You’ll get a first taste of Sorrento’s natural beauty, with cliffs, sea, and Vesuvius in the distance. It’s a great place to take a few photos and kick off your day.
Piazza della Vittoria
Just around the corner from the park is Piazza della Vittoria. It’s a quiet square with benches, palm trees, and more beautiful sea views. In the center, you’ll see a white marble monument honoring those who fell in World War I, with a dramatic winged figure symbolizing victory. It’s a quick stop but totally worth it for the scenery, and it leads you smoothly into the heart of town.
Breakfast & Morning Walk
Grab a Coffee & Snack at Mò Mò
Start heading toward the city center and stop at Mò Mò for your morning coffee. It’s a great little spot to grab a proper Italian espresso, a flaky pastry or some fruit. The vibe is relaxed, and it’s a perfect way to fuel up before exploring the town. they also serve lunch and dinner with a great menu, in case you decide to come back! Also, it’s a great value for the money.
Visit Vallone dei Mulini
Just a few steps from Mò Mò is Vallone dei Mulini—a hidden ravine right in the center of Sorrento. It’s the kind of place you might miss if you’re not looking for it. From above, you can see the ruins of an old 13th-century mill, now covered in plants and greenery. It almost feels like a secret jungle right in the middle of town.
You can’t actually walk down into the ravine, but the view from the railing is beautiful and totally worth a quick stop. It’s pretty cool to see how this quiet, overgrown spot contrasts with the busy streets just around the corner. From here, it’s just a 5-minute walk to the next destination, the main square of Sorrento, Piazza Tasso. It’s an easy and fun stop to make along the way.
Mid-Morning: Central Sorrento
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Piazza Tasso
This is the main square of Sorrento, and it’s where all the action happens. Piazza Tasso is a lively, central spot that connects many of the town’s key streets and neighborhoods. This includes Corso Italia and Via San Cesareo, which can be a natural home base as you explore.
The square is full of energy, with cafes on sidewalks, tons of restaurants, and many shops around the area. You’re also just a 3-minute walk from Sorrento Cathedral. This is a great place to start if you’re interested in visiting a few landmarks close by or have extra time.
You can stop here for a cappuccino or just pass through a few times, you’ll quickly realize why this square is considered the heart of town.
Via San Cesareo
Just a few steps from Piazza Tasso, Via San Cesareo is one of Sorrento’s most charming narrow streets, full of color and character. You’ll pass small, family-run shops selling everything from handmade ceramics to lemon-themed treats and souvenirs. You can just smell the scent of citrus in the air, and the mix of artisan goods makes it hard to leave empty-handed. This is the perfect place to wander and enjoy the local vibe while doing a little shopping along the way.
Limoncello Tasting at Limonoro Fabbrica
While you’re exploring Via San Cesareo, make sure to stop at Limonoro. It’s one of the most well-known spots in town for limoncello tasting. The staff is super welcoming and invites you to try different samples! You can sample the local favorite, browse lemon-themed gifts, and get a feel for how this iconic Sorrento liqueur is made. It’s a quick but fun stop—and a sweet one too!
Corso Italia
Corso Italia is Sorrento’s main street and runs right through the center of town. It intersects with Piazza Tasso and connects easily to Via San Cesareo, so it’s perfect to explore while you’re close by. Take a stroll to check out more shops, boutiques, and cafés. It has a slightly more modern feel, but still holds onto that classic southern Italian charm and lively energy.
Have more time in Sorrento? Check out some of these tours!
Afternoon: Views, Lemons, Food & Sweet Ending
If you are visiting during the summer months or in warm weather, you can do one of the two options in the afternoon!
Option 1:
Visit I Giardini di Cataldo
I Giardini di Cataldo is a beautiful lemon garden and a real hidden gem in Sorrento. When you arrive, you’ll see a small counter with a few tables and chairs. Here, you can taste fresh limoncello, enjoy some lemon ice cream, and try jams and other tasty treats made from the garden’s lemons.
As you walk past the shop, you’ll enter the garden itself. It’s filled with lemon trees and shaded by wooden pergolas covered with straw mats. There are a few spots to sit down if you want to relax and enjoy a snack surrounded by the lemon trees.
The garden has a charming, old-fashioned vibe and is a perfect place to take photos. It’s peaceful and full of natural beauty, giving you an authentic taste of Sorrento’s famous lemon tradition.
The Narrow Winding Road Lookout
Just a short walk from I Giardini di Cataldo, make your way toward the eastern edge of town to find this charming lookout spot. It’s a short walk, and once you’re there, you’ll be rewarded with amazing views of the coastline that really show off Sorrento’s natural beauty. It’s the perfect place to pause and take in the sea and cliffs stretching out before you.
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Dine at Convivio
Tucked away just a short walk from Sorrento’s historic center, Convivio is a fantastic spot to have some authentic local cuisine. This is a cozy restaurant that serves fresh fish and traditional dishes made with simple, high-quality ingredients. I recommend stopping by for lunch or an early dinner to enjoy delicious local flavors at fair prices.
The service was super friendly, and the atmosphere was authentic. It’s a great place to taste the real flavors of Sorrento and get a genuine feel for the town’s food culture.
Get Gelato from Amorino Gelato
End your day with a sweet treat at Amorino Gelato, located right by Piazza Tasso. Their gelato is famous not just for the flavors but for being shaped like a beautiful rose! Plus, it comes topped with a delicate macaron. It’s a lovely way to enjoy a classic Italian dessert before you head back to the ferry or catch your next ride. A perfect little finish to your day in Sorrento!
Option #2: Spend the afternoon relaxing at a beach club:
Marameo Beach Club
If you want a more relaxing afternoon, I highly recommend spending some time at Marameo Beach Club. The location is fantastic—right by the water—and the atmosphere is super laid-back. The prices are fair for what you get, and the food and drinks hit the spot perfectly.
Marameo Beach Club is one of Sorrento’s most historic and stylish beach spots. It has changing cabins, floating sunbeds, king-size loungers, and a cozy area with sofas. It’s actually the only beach here that has towel service, which makes things super easy.
Located right at Marina Piccola, just a short walk from the historic center, Marameo has amazing views of Muunt Vesuvius and the sea. It’s the perfect spot if you’re looking for a classy yet laid-back atmosphere while enjoying the sun and the water. You can also relax in the private Jacuzzi area with cozy armchairs or jump straight into the sea from the floating sunbeds.
Since you’ll be spending the afternoon here, you can easily stay for dinner at the beach club’s restaurant. Plus, being right by Marina Piccola makes getting back super convenient—you’ll be leaving from the marina just steps away from the club.
The beach club is open from April through October, so it’s the perfect spot to enjoy Sorrento’s warmer months.
Staying overnight in Sorrento?
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Final Thoughts: One Day in Sorrento 🍋
Spending a day in Sorrento, the famous lemon town, is the perfect way to experience the charm of southern Italy. From scenic walks through narrow streets and lemon groves to boat tours along the stunning coastline, there’s so much packed into this beautiful town. You’ll get a little bit of everything—local culture, sea views, hidden gems, and of course, amazing food!
Even with just one day, you can explore the historic center, enjoy a limoncello tasting (or two!) Enjoy the views from cliffside gardens, and end your day with a peaceful moment by the water. If you’re visiting for the flavors, the scenery, or the sunshine, Sorrento is the kind of place that leaves a lasting impression.
I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your day—lemons and all 🍋✨
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Growing up between Europe and New York, I was always drawn to new places and how they made me feel. After visiting over 25 countries, that love has only grown. I enjoy finding great places to visit, stay, and eat—and I’m someone who really loves planning and staying organized. Through this blog and on Instagram, I share my travel tips, personal experiences, and ready-to-go itineraries to help you plan memorable trips.