Things to Do in Sorrento Italy

There are so many wonderful things to do in Sorrento, Italy! This small town on the Bay of Naples is one of the most popular places to visit in Southern Italy — and for good reason.

Sorrento is located in the Campania region of Italy, right on the Bay of Naples. It’s a short journey from both the city of Naples and the well-connected Naples Airport. But unlike that large, busy city, Sorrento is a relaxed coastal town with lots of sun-filled spots to discover.

I recently spent an Italy trip split between Naples and Sorrento — and what a lovely contrast it was! A perfect blend of Italy at its most frenetic and Italy at its most romantic.

Many travelers who dream of hiking the Amalfi Coast, exploring Capri’s Blue Grotto, exploring the archaeological sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum, and eating the finest pizza in Naples can experience all that while staying in Sorrento. Sorrento is close to all these places, and is perhaps one of the most strategically located day trip bases in Europe.

In other words, you can travel all over the Bay of Naples — but come home to the same bed overnight. You can unpack only once. It’s like taking a cruise, without all the horrific impact on the local region.

Come take a look — here are the best things to do in Sorrento Italy!

This post was published in September 2023.

Things to Do in Sorrento, Italy

Explore Sorrento’s Beautiful Streets

As soon as you arrive in Sorrento, you’ll be charmed by the beautiful streets here. It seems like sunshine spills through every alleyway — with boutiques offering traditional Italian leather, vibrant and colorful buildings, fruits and vegetable sellers, and more.

I highly recommend exploring Sorrento on a small group guided tour. This will give you a greater insight into Sorrento and its interesting history. For three hours, your guide will lead you down Corso Italia and through idyllic narrow streets where you get to sample the Sorrento street scene. 

Visit Piazza Tasso, marvel at the Sant’Antonio Church and the San Francisco Cloisters, then meander towards the ancient Valley of the Mills. Throughout your journey, you’ll learn about the history of it all and how Sorrento residents have come to celebrate these monuments. 

Sorrento’s downtown streets…