The Sorrento Peninsula is often referred to by its two common names, “Gulf of the Sirens” and “Garden of Delights.” There are tales of Roman high society spending their vacations here and on the neighboring island of Capri, which is known for its breathtaking scenery. Sorrento is perched on steep cliffs that plunge into a sea of magnificent blue hues. Surrounded by mountains filled with the flavors and smells of orange, lemon, and olive trees, Sorrento offers views of the Bay of Naples, the islands of Capri and Ischia, and Mount Vesuvius. From its two ports, visitors can set sail for the islands or the Amalfi Coast or explore the city’s many sights. Let’s say you’re in Naples but only have a little time. In that case, you can take a day trip from Naples to Sorrento or, if you want the whole package, you can take a tour from Naples to the Amalfi Coast. If you do so, you will be well-versed in the essentials of one of the world’s most stunning coastlines. An unforgettable experience is a boat ride along the coast, where you can see the brightly painted towns that spill down the mountainside, with their sandy beaches and clear waters, and the sheer cliffs that divide them from neighboring towns. This beautiful town 50 km from Naples is where the famous Italian lemon liqueur “Limoncello” comes from. It is said that the best lemons in Italy grow here. But even in Greek and Roman times, people knew that the land was suitable for growing fruit trees, especially vineyards.
Places to Visit in Sorrento
Golden sun, crystal-clear sea, mesmerizing beaching, rich history… Italy is a great country to visit, thanks to its rich history, world-famous cuisine, and breathtaking nature. Sorrento is the ideal place to begin exploring this beautiful country. This place offers a whole package to its visitors.
Via San Cesareo
It is a pedestrian street with cobblestones typical of Roman roads and one of the two main roads that cross Sorrento. On this narrow street, you will find all the souvenir shops, crafts, food, and fruit stalls. The most notable building is Sedile Dominova, which served as an assembly where the medieval upper class discussed political and economic issues related to the Sorrento region. Today it retains the restored original frescoes and houses tables used by locals to meet and play cards.
Piazza Tasso
Sorrento’s main square, Piazza Tasso, is the city’s beating heart. Named after the 17th-century poet Torquato Tasso, the piazza puts you right in the heart of the action. Its many cafes and restaurants make it the perfect place to grab an espresso or pre-dinner aperitif while watching the world go by. The main shopping district, Corso Italia, begins from the square, making it an ideal place to rest after a long shopping day. For a bit of culture, you can visit the baroque church in the square, Santa Maria del Carmine.
Cathedral of Saints Philip and James
The Cathedral of Saints Philip and James is located on Corso Italia. It is one of the most impressive buildings to see in Sorrento. It’s easy to miss because nearby buildings like the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Sorrento, which is known for its famous bell tower with typical Sorrento marquetry, make it hard to see. The austere exterior of the building doesn’t do justice to the beautiful art, marble, and frescoes inside. It was initially constructed in the 11th century but has since undergone numerous renovations. Torquato Tasso, the famous Sorrentine poet, was baptized here. This is an excellent place to visit if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Sorrento.
Villa Comunale
Villa Comunale is the best area to stay in Sorrento at the same time. The winding roads of the Villa Comunale are the perfect setting for the most scenic stroll in all of Sorrento. These public gardens perched atop the cliffs provide a tranquil green space in the heart of the city and a breathtaking panorama of the Gulf of Naples. You can relax in the shade on the benches and enjoy the scenery while savoring one of the ice creams from the best ice cream parlor in town. A lift will take you directly from the Villa Comunale gardens to the Sorrento harbor.
Mariana Grande
Marina Grande is an old fishing village located at the foot of Sorrento. It is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region. Still, fishing remains one of the main activities of the locals. During the day, you can enjoy the sun and the sea and admire the view. Among other things, you can see the Bay of Naples, Capo di Sorrento, and even Vesuvius.
Marina Grande, along with Piazza Tasso, is the best place to eat in town. Many of the restaurants here have great views and serve delicious seafood and fish dishes that are traditional to the area. It takes little time to reach the old town from the Marina Grande harbor. As a result, it serves as an ideal place to store your luggage while in Sorrento.
Bagni Della Regina Giovanna
Bagni Regina Giovanna is just outside Sorrento, next to the remains of a Roman villa. This hidden gem has a private cove with a natural pool and rocky outcroppings all around it. The baths supposedly got their name from Queen Joan of Naples, who ruled the Kingdom of Naples in the 14th century and is said to have spent many relaxing hours soaking in the waters. In fact, its calm waters and pleasant setting have kept it as a popular swimming spot even today. The ruins of a Roman villa, built in the 1st century BC and situated in a breathtaking setting overlooking the water, are also open to visitors.
Best Hotels to Stay in Sorrento 🏨
Every year, more and more visitors come to Sorrento because it has everything you could want from a resort. This emerging influx of visitors brings many hotels with it. Sorrento has many options, from dazzling luxury hotels to affordable quality hotels. Here you can find the best hotels where to stay in Sorrento.
Luxurious Hotels to Stay in Sorrento 💰💰💰
Of course, it is possible to have an all-inclusive experience in the luxurious hotels of Sorrento. Lying down by the serene blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea and thinking nothing is a great experience. You can taste immersive Italian cuisine in world-famous restaurants, unwind in glamorous spa centers, or pamper yourself while looking for a breathtaking view. It might sound like heaven on earth, but actually, it is all possible in five-star hotels in Sorrento, Italy.
Hotel Belair🔗
If you want to stay in a hotel as luxurious as you can imagine on the Mediterranean coast, you should choose Hotel Belair. Its guests have a great time from the moment they step into its elegant, large rooms. You can try exotic drinks at the pool bar or taste a unique selection of delicious Italian wines while lounging by the pool on site. The terrace restaurant in the hotel has an unforgettable view of the Bay of Naples. The hotel, which is within walking distance of the city center, offers a unique experience to its visitors. If you are thinking, where is the best place to stay in Sorrento.
Grand Hotel Royal🔗
The Grand Hotel Royal is the correct address for a breathtaking holiday under the shadow of Mount Vesuvius. Located on the shore of the Bay of Naples, you can have the holiday experience of your dreams at the hotel. You can enjoy the deep blue Mediterranean at the hotel’s private beach. The hotel has two restaurants, one serving Italian cuisine and the other serving international cuisine. One of the most essential features of the Grand Hotel Royal is that it has a deep blue sky on one side and a lush garden full of palm trees on the other. The Grand Hotel Royal is one of the best luxury hotels in Sorrento, Italy.
Grand Hotel La Favorita🔗
Another hotel where you can pamper yourself in Sorrento is the Grand Hotel La Favorita. The restaurant offers a selection of Mediterranean cuisine and has a dazzling view. The hotel’s spa center has a Turkish bath, sauna, massage rooms, and swimming pools inside and outside that are decorated with marbles from Italy. Grand Hotel La Favorita, one of the best places to stay in Sorrento, is one of the perfect options for those who want to have a luxury holiday.
Budget-Friendly Places to Stay in Sorrento💰💰
Sorrento is known as one of the best places to go on vacation, but that doesn’t mean that it’s only in the expensive hotels in the area. If you want to spend your holiday in a more affordable hotel, there are many places to choose from in Sorrento. These are the nicest hotels in Sorrento.
Imperial Hotel Tramontano🔗
With the beautiful nature of Sorrento on one side and the endless blue of the Mediterranean on the other, you will leave the hotel feeling rested, refreshed, and renewed. The hotel, which also contains a chapel from the 16th century, is like a hidden garden for its visitors. A few minutes from the Sorrento train station, the hotel is within easy reach of Naples. In this aspect, the Imperial Hotel Tramontano has the best location to stay in Sorrento.
Hotel Michelangelo🔗
The Hotel Michelangelo is among the best hotels in Sorrento. Located in the city center, Hotel Michelangelo is the perfect option for those who want to have an unforgettable holiday experience without pushing their budget too much. Thanks to the restaurant located on the hotel’s terrace, you can taste delicious examples of Mediterranean and Italian cuisine in front of the endless Mediterranean Sea and magnificent Vesuvius.
Grand Hotel Parco del Sole🔗
It is impossible to escape the beauty of the sea, sky, nature, and history in Sorrento. However, if you still want to stay in a quieter and calmer place and refresh during your holiday, staying at the Grand Hotel Parco del Sole, which is within walking distance of Sorrento, is the right choice. While relaxing in the hotel’s outdoor pool, you can also sample the best example of a Limoncello, which is famous all over the world. The Grand Hotel Parco del Sole is located in the best area to stay in Sorrento.
Cheap Places to Stay in Sorrento
Vacation is more than just staying in five-star hotels. Especially if you are going to a hidden paradise like Sorrento, the hotel becomes even more insignificant since there are few hotels where you can find what Sorrento has to offer. On the other hand, because the area is a tourist hub, even cheap hotels can provide services of very high quality. Here are the best cheap hotels where to stay in Sorrento, Italy.
Hotel Leone🔗
Hotel Leone is one of the best in western Sorrento. You wouldn’t expect an outdoor pool, a great terrace, and a breathtaking view in a cheap hotel, but they are all available at Hotel Leone. You can have an excellent Italian breakfast in the hotel’s garden under the lemon and olive trees.
Hotel Rivage🔗
The view from Hotel Rivage is fantastic because it is right by the Bay of Naples. The hotel has two different restaurants serving Italian cuisine and selections from other countries. With its quiet and natural surroundings, Hotel Rivage is one of the best family hotels in Sorrento. You can also enjoy the outdoor pool while sipping your delicious Limoncello at the same time.
Hotel II Faro 🔗
There are many cheap hotels in Sorrento, but only some of them offer the quality that Hotel II Faro offers. Hotel II Faro stands out with its three different restaurants, not only with Italian flavors but also with its pizza restaurant and seafood restaurant. In its large and well-lit rooms, you can relieve the day’s tiredness and start a brand new day by breathing the fresh Mediterranean air. With its location in the city center, Hotel II Faro is one of the best places to stay in Sorrento.