Sorrento sits ideally between Naples and the Amalfi Coast on a peninsula jutting out into the sea. It makes an excellent hub for exploring some of Italy's most beautiful scenery and historic ruins, like Pompeii. You can discover the region's traditional wooden art and lemon-infused culinary treats, and enjoy the surrounding nature along the coast, in protected parks, and within the Campanian Archipelago, a group of islands including posh Capri.

Getting Oriented

Sorrento's colorful waterfront.

Sorrento is the perfect hub for exploring quintessential Italian characteristics, mixing historic ruins with urban charm, exquisite nature, idyllic coastlines and fishing towns, and glamorous islands. To the north, you'll find energetic Naples, Mt. Vesuvius, and the ruins of Pompeii. To the south are the stunning Amalfi Coast and protected nature parks. Read more about regional Sorrento and discover the caves and beaches of the Amalfi Coast.

While on the Sorrentine Peninsula, don't miss exploring some of the cultural aspects, like the famous lemons that appear in several delicious dishes, or the traditional wood art. The port of Sorrento connects easily to the nearby islands, including Capri, Ischia, and Procida, which all make excellent day trips. And, of course, no trip to the region is complete without visiting the picturesque fishing villages along the coast, including charming Positano and Amalfi, known as the "pearls" of the area.

Exploring Cultural Sorrento

Sorrento and its surrounding region offer a unique look at Italian culture, especially local art and gastronomy. Here is where you'll find the country's best limoncello from the area's signature lemon groves. 

Sorrento Lemon Tour & Cooking Class

Taste the products of Sorrento's famed lemons, like limoncello.

Lemons find their way into many typical dishes of Campanian cuisine, and that's because the region grows a very special type: Sfusato Amalfitano. This large lemon produces everything from limoncello to lemon jams, sauces, and honey. You'll try them all with a tasting and tour at a local lemon grove. Then visit the Museum of Rural Culture, Arts and Crafts to learn more about the production process. Your newfound knowledge will help you tackle your lemon-themed cooking class, where you'll learn how to prepare an assortment of dishes featuring local vegetables and traditional pasta. Read More

Sorrento Inlaid Wood Workshop

Discover the regional inlaid wood art.

Sorrento is known for its traditional inlaid wood art, and the best way to experience it is with an interactive workshop. You'll enjoy a live presentation inside the authentic Sorrentine Inlaid Wood Factory, where you can learn the history and techniques behind this unique art. Today, artisans have innovated and modernized the craft, but haven’t abandoned the centuries-old traditions. After watching the art in action, you'll make your own masterpiece to take home! Read More

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Discover Sorrento's Regional History

Although nature and its coastline best identify the Sorrentine Peninsula, its location near Mt. Vesuvius allows you to explore some of the most interesting ruins in the country: Pompeii and Herculaneum. 

Pompeii and Herculaneum Tour

The remains of Villa Julia in Pompeii.

Walk through the impressive ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum with an archeologist. First, stop at Pompeii, one of the last cities to offer visitors a true image of ancient Roman settlements. Your guide will share the history of the town, explain how the Romans lived, and lead you to the most important public buildings and private houses. The city had a complex water system, theater, gymnasium, baths, and a substantial population, all buried under layers of ash for hundreds of years. Then head to Herculaneum, a city that was buried even deeper than Pompeii and offers even more treasures. Read More

Experience the Coastline & Islands

When in Sorrento, you must explore the stunning coastline that wraps around the peninsula and along the Amalfi Coast. Enjoy boat tours to visit colorful villages, beautiful nature, and islands beloved by locals and visitors alike.

Amalfi Coast Driving & Boat Tour From Sorrento

Beautiful Positano along the Amalfi Coast.

Explore the Amalfi Coast by both land and sea to get the full experience! Start with a scenic drive to the idyllic seaside town of Positano, a popular tourist destination since the Roman Empire. Enjoy the village's posh vibe and wander its charming, flower-lined streets and narrow lanes. Then jump on a boat for a coastal tour, passing cliffs, coves, and bays as you make your way to Amalfi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On your drive back, stop in Ravello and visit the elegant Villa Rufolo, a favorite destination of musicians, artists, and poets. Read More

Ischia & Procida Boat Tour From Sorrento

Aragonese Castle on the small island of Ischia.

From Sorrento's port, enjoy a boat tour to the islands of Ischia and Procida, the pearls of the Gulf of Naples known worldwide for their beautiful landscapes and artistic and cultural features. As you make your way first to Procida, savor the views of the islet of Nisida, the Campi Flegrei volcano, and the rocky Capo Miseno. Then explore the island on your own, visiting the ancient hamlet of Terra Murata, Saint Michael’s Abbey, and Marina di Corricella, for example. Next, sail around scenic Ischia and enjoy some free time to visit highlights like the Port of Sant'Angelo or Maronti Beach. Relax on board with snacks and a limoncello tasting as you sail back to port. Read More

Active Eco Trip in Sorrentine Natural Park & Marine Reserve

Wildflowers on the Protected Sorrenine Coast.

Leave the crowds behind and get off the beaten path in the unspoiled areas of the Punta Campanella Protected Marine Area, where you'll go hiking, snorkeling, and sea kayaking just outside of Sorrento. Start with a moderate trek through the Mediterranean flora and olive groves of Baia di Ieranto, a scenic and historically important bay. Back in Greek and Roman times, the area was essential for natural resources. But today, you can experience the protected marine communities with fun ecotourism, including snorkeling and sea kayaking. Read More

How Does Sorrento Fit into an Italy Itinerary?

The scenic coast near Sorrento.

Thanks to its prime location, you can easily fit Sorrento into nearly any Italian itinerary. As mentioned, it works well as a hub for exploring Naples, Mt. Vesuvius, Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, and the nearby islands. But you can also work Sorrento into an Italian vacation by connecting it with cities like Bari to the south, or Rome and Florence to the north. You can also fly or sail to the fascinating island of Sicily, an area with its own unique culture and Italy's other famous volcano.

Plan for at least 2-3 days on the Sorrentine Peninsula, but add more if you want to use Sorrento as a base. If you have the time, consider a week or two and fit other cities and areas into the mix! Learn more about Italy's distinct regions and how to best allocate your time in the country.

Past kimkim travelers have enjoyed the following trips that include Sorrento: