Sorrento may be known as the Gateway to the Amalfi Coast but it’s so much more than just a gateway. While many stay in Sorrento for the accessibility to other places such as Capri, Pompeii, and Positano, it is by itself still a popular tourist attraction. It’s got a panoramic view of the Bay of Naples, amazing food, sunny weather, tons of things to do, and while a little touristy, still has an authentic vibe. Here are the best things to do in Sorrento.
Hang out in Piazza Tasso
Piazza Tasso is the main hub of activity in Sorrento. There are usually loads of people milling about as well as horse-drawn carriages, ready to transport tourists around. Surrounded by cafes, small shops, fruit stands, and restaurants, it’s the perfect place to kick back and relax, while eating delicious food!
Eat the Local Food
Speaking of food, Sorrento has got some of the best. It’s famous for its citrus; you’ll find lemon and orange trees nearly everywhere in Sorrento, and it’d do you good to eat a few. There are also plenty of restaurants serving incredible authentic Italian cuisine that you should definitely try, after all, you’re in Italy, you know you’re going to be eating a lot. And if you have time, be sure to stop at Queen’s Chips. What? I hear you ask incredulously. I’m in Italy and you want me to eat french fries?! Oh, but don’t worry, these are no ordinary french fries. They are the best french fries I’ve ever eaten and they come with a delicious sauce as well. Just try it out.
Visit the Church of San Francesco
One of Sorrento’s most beautiful churches, the Church of San Francesco dates back to the 14th century. The church has absolutely gorgeous architecture, and if you come during the summertime you can also enjoy concerts held inside the Church!
Wander the back streets of Old Sorrento
While the many commercialized parts of Sorrento still have their charm, you’ll find a more quaint side of Sorrento in the old section. Forget cars, the roads twist and wind so much that you’d have a hard time fitting a car in between the two sides of the street! Instead, lose the map and explore on foot. Who knows what you’ll find?
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Go lemon shopping!
Like I mentioned before, lemons are a huge part of Sorrento. You’ll find lemons in practically everything, soaps, souvenirs, food, and more. The most popular lemon product you’ll find is limoncello liquor, made by soaking a lemon peel in alcohol. Buy a few or all of these lemon products to bring home and remind you of Sorrento time and time again.
Watch the Sunset
If you climb up to either side of the little semicircle bay Sorrento is in, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Bay of Naples and Sorrento from afar with the most gorgeous pink sunset you could possibly find. You can even see Mt. Vesuvius from across the bay!
Take a Day Trip to Capri
Capri is a lovely little island only a short 20 minute ferry ride away from Sorrento! A popular summer destination for tourists and locals alike, everything is more expensive on Capri. Luckily you can stay overnight in Sorrento and take day trips to Capri instead to save money! There are many things to do on Capri; for more, see my post Capri Photo-Diary.
Take a Day trip to the Amalfi Coast
Sorrento isn’t called gateway into the Amalfi Coast for nothing. Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello are very close by – the furthest one is only an hour away! Positano is generally the most popular, due to the gorgeous landscape you can see in the photo, but all are pleasing to the eye and all have plenty to do. For the best experience, rent a motorbike and zip around the cliff-side roads; you’ll get some stunning views!
Take a Day trip to Pompeii
Pompeii was an ancient Roman city just going about its day when suddenly Mount Vesuvius erupted and buried the entire city in ash. A thousand years later, we can still see the buildings and streets of Pompeii because the ash preserved them so well. Any history buff will love to come here, and even if you’re not a history buff it’s still well worth the visit!
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