The largest city on Italy’s Amalfi Coast is more of an access point to other nearby tourist sights than a full-day destination unto itself. That said, Sorrento offers plenty of scenic charm, as it sits atop a spectacular curve of limestone cliffs with panoramic views of the sparkling Bay of Naples, the colorful Marina Piccola, and on a clear day, Mt. Vesuvius.
Villa Comunale: With its photogenic mix of towering pines and palms, and manicured flowerbeds, Sorrento’s largest public park is a peaceful spot lined with paths leading to a belvedere affording fantastic views and stairs leading down to the marinas.
Easy Access to Capri, Positano, and Pompeii: Visitors with a full day in port can also hop a hydrofoil to the nearby island of Capri, a local bus to cliff-hugging Positano, or a train or taxi to the excavated ruins of Pompeii.
All Things Citrus: The fertile slopes surrounding the city produce fragrant, flavorful lemons and oranges — which are sold in abundance alongside locally made citrus candy, lemon sorbet, Limoncello liqueur, and zesty lemon and orange soaps.
Sun Loungers: Sorrento has a very small beach, but rows of sun loungers are for hire all along the jetty in Marina Piccola.
At-home Chefs: Your kitchen will be well-stocked after a walk through Sorrento’s side streets and alleys, where shops overflow with local olive oil, spices, flavored pastas, sun-dried tomatoes, colorful ceramic bowls, and olive wood utensils.
History Buffs: Its proximity to both Pompeii and Herculaneum makes Sorrento a great port for anyone fascinated by ancient ruins.
The Circumvesuviana Railway is ... An Adventure: Yes, it’s a cheap way to get to Pompeii, but it’s also extremely slow, crowded, painfully creaky, and without air conditioning.
Motion Sickness is Common: If you’re prone to nausea, take medication before heading out by bus or car (yes, the roads are that full of dizzying hairpin turns) or boat (the seas can be choppy).