🍋 Sorrento is known as the City of Lemons—and it’s easy to see why. The citrus scent floats through the air, especially in the warmer months. The famous Limone di Sorrento shows up in everything from icy granita to bottles of bright, refreshing limoncello.
But Sorrento is so much more than just lemons. Expect to see colorful streets, spectacular views, beach clubs, and a relaxed southern Italian vibe. This coastal town is one of the best places to explore in the Campania region.
This post contains affiliate links where I earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Your support helps me continue to provide valuable travel tips and recommendations.
Below are helpful resources to make your travel planning easier and stress-free:
Many travelers find that Sorrento is the best way to start (or base) their Amalfi Coast adventure. It’s a popular destination for good reason. It’s easy to reach from Naples by train, ferry, or car. And it’s well-connected to Capri, Positano, Amalfi, and even Pompeii. As a major town in the region, Sorrento makes getting around simple. But it still has that small-town coastal vibe people love.
In this guide, I’m sharing all the best things to do in Sorrento. There’s everythign from famous spots like Piazza Tasso and Marina Grande to hidden gems, beach clubs, and local bites you won’t want to miss. If you’re planning a trip to this popular destination, this list will help you make the most of it.
🌟 Check out how and the best ways to get to the Amalfi Coast blog post!
22 Top Things to Do in Sorrento
1- Stroll through the Historic Center
One of the best ways to experience Sorrento is by simply walking through its historic center. The narrow cobblestone streets are full of artisan shops, family-run cafés, and boutiques with lemon-themed everything.
You’ll find handcrafted ceramics, limoncello tastings, and plenty of places to stop for a gelato or espresso. It’s the kind of place where you can wander aimlessly and always discover something new around the corner.
2- Views from Villa Comunale Park
Villa Comunale Park is the perfect place to relax and experience the beauty of Sorrento. There are beautiful gardens, fountains, and views of the Bay of Naples. You’ll see dramatic cliffs, sparkling blue water, and even Mount Vesuvius in the distance.
It’s a great spot to take a few photos, breathe in the sea air, and get your first glimpse of Sorrento’s natural beauty.
3- Visit Museo Correale di Terranova
A lesser-known museum housed in a beautiful villa with Neapolitan art, antique furniture, and sea views. It’s quiet, peaceful, and gives you a deeper look into the history and elegance of Sorrento. Don’t miss the lush garden out back—it’s a hidden gem with views over the Bay of Naples.
4- Piazza della Vittoria
Right next to Villa Comunale Park is Piazza della Vittoria. It’s a quiet square with benches, palm trees, and more beautiful 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.
🌟 Check out Capri 1 Day Ultimate Travel Guide blog post!
5- Take a Cooking Class
Taking a cooking class in Sorrento is a fun and hands-on way to dive into local culture and local cuisine. You’ll learn how to make classic dishes like fresh pasta, gnocchi, or tiramisu—often in a family kitchen or on a farm surrounded by lemon trees.
Many classes also include wine, limoncello, and a full meal at the end. It’s a great way to meet locals, pick up new skills, and bring a little taste of Italy home with you!
Best Cooking Class Experiences:
6- Visit Vallone dei Mulini
Vallone dei Mulini is 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.
🌟 Check out Perfect one day in POSITANO, the BEST travel guide blog post!
7- Relax at Marina Grande
Marina Grande is a charming fishing village that feels like a step back in time. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely lunch by the water and watch colorful boats drift by. It has an old-world charm and relaxed vibe.
Marina Grande truly captures the dolce vita spirit of Sorrento. Take your time here and enjoy the seaside atmosphere—you might never want to leave.
8 – Take a Boat Trip to Capri or the Amalfi Coast
One of the best ways to enjoy the beautiful scenery around Sorrento is by taking a boat tour to the Island of Capri or the UNESCO World Heritage Site – Amalfi Coast. These day trips are super popular for good reason—you’ll cruise along the coast with some of the best views in southern Italy.
You can choose a group tour or a private boat; either way, you’ll get to swim in hidden coves, visit charming seaside towns, or just relax on the deck.
Sorrento is the perfect surrounding area to base yourself for these adventures, with easy access to both Capri and Amalfi by sea. If you’re visiting during the high season (summer months), make sure to book in advance, as tours often fill up quickly. This is one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have in this region—don’t skip it!
Sorrento is a perfect base for boat tours or private transfers to the neighboring gems.
Bout Tours from Sorrento:
9- Ride the Sorrento Lift
There’s an elevator that takes you from Marina Piccola up to the town center—quick and scenic! It’s a fun and easy way to avoid the uphill walk, especially on hot days. The views as you ride up are a nice little bonus. A one-way ticket costs €1.10, or €2 for a round trip.
10- 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.
11- Visit the Cloister of San Francesco
A peaceful 14th-century cloister right near the gardens—often used for weddings thanks to its romantic arches.
🌟 Check out AMALFI COAST Travel Itinerary blog post!
12- 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. The scent of citrus floats through 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.
13- Limoncello Tasting at Limonoro Fabbrica
Make sure to stop at Limonoro. It’s one of the most well-known spots in town for limoncello tasting. The staff is super friendly 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!
🌟 Check out 15 BEST Positano Instagram spots on the Amalfi Coast blog post!
14- Wine Tasting
Wine tasting is one of the best ways to experience the rich flavors and traditions of Sorrento and the Campania region. You can relax in a lemon grove with a glass of local wine or visit historic estates and family-run farms.
These wine tasting experiences often include delicious regional foods that perfectly complement the wines.
It’s a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the local culture, enjoy beautiful views, and savor some of Italy’s finest wines during your visit.
Best Wine Tasting Experiences:
15- 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.
16- Shop for Limoncello & Ceramics
Since Sorrento is known for its lemons, so shopping for limoncello is a must. You’ll find locally made bottles in just about every size, often beautifully packaged and perfect for gifting. Another popular souvenir? Hand-painted ceramics. From colorful tiles and plates to lemon-themed kitchenware, these pieces are made by local artisans and add a little piece of Sorrento charm to your home.
17- Walking Guided Tour
A guided walking tour is a fantastic way to get to know Sorrento like a local. You’ll wander through the charming historic center with expert tour guides who share stories about the town’s past, its churches, narrow lanes, and hidden corners that you might otherwise miss.
It’s a relaxed, social experience that combines sightseeing with insider knowledge, giving you a real insight into Sorrento’s culture and charm.
Best Guided Tour Experience:
18- 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.
19- 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.
20- Get Gelato from Amorino Gelato
Indulge in 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!
21- 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 offers 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 Vesuvius and the sea. It’s the perfect spot if you’re looking for a classy yet laid-back atmosphere.
It’s great for lounging by the water or relaxing with a good book. You can also unwind in the private Jacuzzi area with cozy armchairs or jump straight into the sea from the floating sunbeds.
The beach club is open from April through October, so it’s the perfect spot to enjoy Sorrento’s warmer months.
🌟 Check out PUGLIA Ultimate Itinerary: The Best Travel Guide blog post!
22- Have a Sunset Aperitivo at a Rooftop Bar
There’s no better way to end your day in Sorrento than with a sunset aperitivo overlooking the sea. Head to a rooftop bar where you can sip a spritz or glass of wine while watching the sky turn golden over the Bay of Naples. The views, sea breeze, and laid-back atmosphere is one of the best ways to relax.
Some great spots to check out are Sky View Bar, La Terrazza Lounge Bar, Bellavista Cocktail Bar Sorrento, and La Finestrella.
Where to Stay in Sorrento
🏨 Check out these great options for every budget
Tips and Things to Know Before Visiting Sorrento
Is there a Ferry Terminal in Sorrento?
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.
How to Get to Sorrento?
Sorrento is easy to reach thanks to reliable public transportation options.
If you’re coming from Naples, one of the most popular ways to get here is by the Circumvesuviana train. It runs regularly from Naples’ train station (Napoli Centrale) and takes about an hour to reach Sorrento. Tickets are affordable and can be purchased at the ticket office before boarding.
There’s also a public bus option, which takes a bit longer but offers scenic views along the way.
Another great option—especially on a sunny day—is the ferry. Boats run from Naples, Capri, and other coastal towns, arriving right at Marina Piccola in Sorrento. It’s a scenic and relaxing way to travel.
Should I Book Activities and Tickets Ahead of Time?
Planning ahead can really make a difference when visiting Sorrento, especially during the busy high season (summer months). Popular attractions, boat tours, cooking classes, and even restaurants tend to fill up fast. Booking in advance is definitely the best way to avoid sold-out spots or waiting in a long line.
If you’re visiting during the quieter months, there is more flexibility. However, it’s still a good idea to check availability for must-do activities. A little planning goes a long way to making your trip smooth and enjoyable.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Sorrento?
Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast are beautiful year-round, but your experience can vary depending on when you go. Each season offers something different. Some months are great for beach days, others for fewer crowds or a peaceful escape. Below, I’ve broken down what to expect in different places along the coast throughout the year.
April, May, September, and October (shoulder season)
Hands down, this is the best time to visit! Late spring and early fall bring mild, pleasant weather—ideal for exploring without the intense summer heat. The crowds are smaller, so you’ll enjoy a more relaxed, peaceful experience. Plus, most hotels, restaurants, and attractions are open and easy to access.
June – August (peak season)
Summer months are the busiest and hottest time of the year to visit. Prices for hotels and activities increase significantly, and reservations need to be made months in advance. The region becomes very crowded, which can make it harder to fully enjoy the sights and experiences.
November– March (off-season)
The weather is cooler, and some hotels and restaurants close for the winter. However, it is much quieter, with fewer tourists and the opportunity to see the local lifestyle without the summer rush. This can be an ideal time for those who prefer a peaceful visit and don’t mind the cooler temperatures.
🌟 Check out MATERA Ultimate Travel Guide to Ancient City in Italy blog post!
Final Thoughts 🍋
Sorrento, the famous lemon town, has an incredible mix of experiences that show off the charm of southern Italy. The narrow streets, artisan shops, limoncello, culture, nature, delicious food, and sea views are just some of the wonderful things this beautiful town has to offer.
You’ll find plenty of sunshine, scenic beauty, and authentic Italian flavors—Sorrento is the kind of place that stays with you.
I hope this guide helps you enjoy the very best that Sorrento has to offer—lemons and all! 🍋
Read my other Italy-related posts
- Where to Stay in Rome: Ultimate Guide for First Time
- Amazing Things to do in Ostuni: Puglia’s White City
- Capri Itinerary: How to See the Amalfi Coast Gem
- What to Do in Ravello: Top & Epic Things You’ll Love
- Sorrento: 22 Best & Ultimate Things to Do in 2025
- Best Cave Hotels in Matera, Italy to book now
- Capri 1 Day Ultimate Travel Guide: All You Need to Know
- Sorrento in One Day: Ultimate Itinerary to Lemon Town
- Monopoli Beaches: Beautiful Spots to Explore in Italy
- 15 BEST Positano Instagram spots on the Amalfi Coast
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.