Sorrento Things to do

TOP 10 Sorrento Things to do + Amazing Restaurants & beaches

TOP 10 Sorrento Things to do + Restaurants & beaches. – The charm of Sorrento and the Sorrento Coast is genuinely unique; a strip of land south of the Gulf of Naples, stretching between land and sea, a small natural paradise with its overhanging cliffs, small bays, and sloping terraces where orange, olive trees, vines but above all lemons are grown. In spring, the intoxicating scent of lemons immediately strikes the visitor.

Sorrento stands on a tuff plain overlooking the sea and offers one of the most intense views of the region between lush vegetation and the cobalt-blue sea.

Man has always felt the charm of Sorrento: the ancients thought that this sea was the home of the Sirens, and legend has it that the ancient Surrentum was born in a place dedicated to the worship of these creatures. In the eighteenth century, Sorrento became one of the favorite destinations of the Grand Tour.

TOP 10 Sorrento Things to do

What are the top things to do in Sorrento? Here are some excellent ideas for the case do and see in Sorrento. 

Sorrento Things to do:

  1. Villa Comunale Sorrento
  2. The center of Sorrento with all the beautiful shops
  3. Marina Grande
  4. The baths of Queen Giovanna
  5. The bathing establishments of Sorrento and Roman ruins
  6. The Mills Vallum
  7. Marina Piccola
  8. Piazza Della Vittoria or Victory Square
  9. Correale Museum
  10. Sorrento Experience Museum

Other things to visit:

  • Wood Inlay Workshop Museum

Let’s see together some of these places.

Villa Comunale Sorrento

The first thing we can mention among things to do and see in Sorrento is the Villa Comunale. The Villa Comunale di Sorrento is a municipal park that acts as a terrace overlooking the sea. Access to this municipal park is free and free and from here, the view is magnificent: in front of us, we have the sea and the Vesuvius, below us, we can see the beaches of Sorrento with sunbeds and umbrellas.

Sorrento has small beaches and for this reason, the bathing beaches also extend to the sea. In fact, the sunbeds and umbrellas are placed not only on the beaches but also on the wooden walkways raised over the sea and on the piers always covered with wood and placed on the rocks.

  • bathing facilities Sorrento seen from above from the Villa Comunale at the sunset time 1
  • bathing facilities Sorrento seen from above from the Villa Comunale at the sunset time 2
  • bathing facilities Sorrento seen from above from the Villa Comunale at the sunset time 3
  • bathing facilities Sorrento seen from above from the Villa Comunale at the sunset time 4
  • bathing facilities Sorrento seen from above from the Villa Comunale at the sunset time 5
  • bathing facilities Sorrento seen from above from the Villa Comunale at the sunset time 6
  • bathing facilities Sorrento seen from above from the Villa Comunale at the sunset time 7
  • bathing facilities Sorrento seen from above from the Villa Comunale at the sunset time 8
  • bathing facilities Sorrento seen from above from the Villa Comunale at the sunset time 9
  • bathing facilities Sorrento seen from above from the Villa Comunale at the sunset time 10

In summer, the conformation of the beaches is very beautiful and colorful, especially when viewed from the top of the Villa Comunale. In addition to the colors of the umbrellas, the cabins have different colors for each bathing establishment.

The image of these bathing establishments placed on stilts will mark Sorrento and will leave you with a unique and characteristic memory of this place. In winter, however, this view loses a bit of its magic as the bathing facilities and wooden walkways are partially disassembled, but even in winter, we cannot help but go here to the Villa Comunale to enjoy the beautiful view of the Sorrento Peninsula in a peace you cannot enjoy in the summer.

  • Sorrento Italy Things to do Villa Comunale and view of the bathing facilities of Sorrento in winter 14
  • Sorrento Italy Things to do Villa Comunale and view of the bathing facilities of Sorrento in winter 1
  • Sorrento Italy Things to do Villa Comunale and view of the bathing facilities of Sorrento in winter 5
  • Sorrento things to do View of Marina Piccola from the Villa Comunale 3
  • Sorrento Italy Things to do Villa Comunale and view of the bathing facilities of Sorrento in winter 10

The view from the Villa Comunale becomes even more beautiful at sunset. This is why it is an excellent idea to come to the bar of the Villa Comunale for an evening aperitif or use the Villa Comunale as a beautiful scenic meeting place before dinner.

Watch the following video where you see the view from the Villa Comunale in summer.

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TOP 10 Sorrento Things to do: Villa Comunale

Here at the Villa Comunale, the most frequent visitors are perhaps the seagulls, who appreciate it particularly. In any case, it is nice to admire them; they are an additional attraction you can find in this municipal park.

The center of Sorrento

Sorrento is undoubtedly the sea and the Sorrento coast, but not only. The center of Sorrento is also very beautiful to see and is also one of the free things to do in Sorrento. In fact, it is pleasant to walk through the streets of the center, looking at the shops, discovering flavors and characteristic corners.

The center of Sorrento is made up of main streets connected and intersected with other secondary streets in which it is nice to walk and observe what surrounds us. If you want to explore the center of Sorrento, you could start from Piazza Tasso and then “get lost” in the streets of the center.

  • Sorrento Italy. Sorrento Things to do: The center of Sorrento
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  • Sorrento Things to do Center of Sorrento in winter 4
  • Sorrento Things to do Center of Sorrento in winter 5

In the center of Sorrento, you will also find excellent ice cream parlors and restaurants to be discovered and tried.

Center of Sorrento in winter

In winter, the center of Sorrento and, in particular, Piazza Tasso lights up for the party: an incredible sparkle of lights becomes the protagonist of the center of Sorrento and one of the main subjects to photograph.

  • Sorrento Things to do Tasso Square in winter lights up 5
  • Sorrento Things to do Tasso Square in winter lights up 8
  • Sorrento Things to do Tasso Square in winter lights up 6
  • Sorrento Things to do Tasso Square in winter lights up 9

Marina Grande

Marina Grande is part of Sorrento but it can be said that it is a small world apart. Marina Grande has the appearance of a small fishing village and is an area of ​​Sorrento that still retains an authentic aspect and that’s why visiting Marina Grande is one of the best things to do in Sorrento.

To get to Marina Grande from Piazza Della Vittoria, you have to go down a street, via Marina Grande precisely, which at a certain point becomes narrower. 

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Marina Grande Sorrento Italy. Sorrento Things to do. Sorrento Beaches.

The road is downhill because Marina Grande is at sea level, while the rest of Sorrento is on the cliff. 

  • Things to do in Sorrento Marina Grande in summer 3
  • Sorrento Things to do. Marina Grande seen from above

So to reach Marina Grande, you have to go down to sea level.

The Greek Gate

At the end of Via Marina Grande, you will find the Greek Gate in front of you. Every year thousands of visitors heading to Marina Grande probably pass through this door without even realizing its historical importance for the city of Sorrento.

The Greek gate is one of the original gates of the Greek city of Sorrento, built even in the 4th century BC, which served as access from the port to the city of Sorrento. Marina Grande was, for centuries, the first defense outpost for Sorrento against the invasions of the Mediterranean peoples.

Welcome to Marina Grande

A “Welcome to Marina Grande” sign welcomes you to the small village of Marina Grande. At this point, you are almost at the level of the beach and you only need to walk a staircase that acts as a panoramic balcony on Marina Grande. Before continuing, it is worth observing Marina Grande from here.

Sorrento thing to do Marina Grande Sorrento at the sunset time
Sorrento thing to do Marina Grande Sorrento at the sunset time

The first things we notice are the colorful houses lined up in front of the beach, the bathing establishments and the restaurants not on the sea, but even above the sea placed on stilts, and the grandeur of the Sorrento coast that we see right in front of us.

Films shot in Marina Grande

Going down the steps that take us to the beach, we can see some signs that remind us that a very famous Italian film was shot in part right here in Marina Grande.

This movie is “Pane Amore e…” or according to the English title “Scandal in Sorrento”, a 1955 film with Sophia Loren, and Vittorio De Sica, directed by Dino Risi.

Movie with Sophia Loren Scandal in Sorrento Film listed to Marina Grande Sorrento
Movie with Sophia Loren Scandal in Sorrento Film listed to Marina Grande Sorrento

Marina Grande beach

Marina Grande is a Sorrento landmark for those who want to relax on the beach. In fact, here in Marina Grande, we have a good portion of the beach compared to other areas of Sorrento.

  • Sorrento Beaches. Marina Grande beach Sorrento seen from above 3
  • Sorrento Beaches. Marina Grande beach Sorrento seen from above 2

The beach has sun beds, umbrellas, and other services such as pedal boat rental.

Restaurants

Here in Marina Grande, there are some excellent restaurants among which we want to cite to give examples the Delfino which despite being a bathing establishment is refined and elegant and the Taverna Azzurra which is usually open also in winter.

To see the images of the restaurants, you can scroll down this page and go to the specific section dedicated to restaurants.

Sunset from Marina Grande

It is very nice to see the sunset here from Marina Grande in the summer, especially if you dine in one of the restaurants overlooking the sea. In fact, from here, you can truly admire the sunset over the sea.

  • Sorrento Things to do. Sunset from Il Delfino Restaurant Marina Grande Sorrento Italy 2
  • Sorrento Things to do. Sunset from Il Delfino Restaurant Marina Grande Sorrento Italy 1
  • Marina Grande Beach Sorrento at the sunset time. Sorrento things to do Beaches
  • Things to do in Sorrento. Sunset time in Marina Grande Sorrento 1
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  • Things to do in Sorrento. Sunset time in Marina Grande Sorrento 2

Marina Grande in the evening

Marina Grande is quaint, lively, and colorful by day but just as beautiful in the evening when the lights come on and Marina Grande lights up.

Photo Gallery

Here are some pictures of Marina Grande in Sorrento in the evening.

Marina Grande by night in summer
  • Things to do in Sorrento Marina Grande by night in summer 1
  • Things to do in Sorrento Marina Grande by night in summer 2
Marina Grande by night in winter
  • Things to do in Sorrento in winter. Marina Grande Sorrento by night in winter 1
  • Things to do in Sorrento in winter. Marina Grande Sorrento by night in winter 5
  • Things to do in Sorrento in winter. Marina Grande Sorrento by night in winter 6
  • Things to do in Sorrento in winter. Marina Grande Sorrento by night in winter 8

Marina Grande in winter

In summer Marina Grande is lively and crowded with tourists who come to the sea to swim or simply those who want to admire the beauty of this village.

  • Marina Grande Sorrento In winter Sorrento things to do 1
  • Marina Grande Sorrento In winter Sorrento things to do 2
  • Marina Grande Beach Sorrento in winter Sorrento things to do

In winter Marina Grande is undoubtedly less crowded as the bathing establishments are closed and the swimming season is over. It is precisely in this period of quiet that Marina Grande fully regains its authenticity, and in which you can enjoy this place in complete relaxation.

The baths of Queen Giovanna

The Baths of Queen Giovanna are a very special place to swim but not only! In fact, it is nice to come to the Bagni Della Regina Giovanna even just to admire this place as it is unique and spectacular.

The Baths of Queen Giovanna are a natural pool formed by rocks connected to the sea only by a small passage.

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TOP 10 Sorrento Things to do: The baths of Queen Giovanna

The Baths of Queen Giovanna are just outside Sorrento but easily reachable by bus and then on foot following a paved path.

You could get to the Baths of Queen Giovanna even on foot, as it is about 2 km from Sorrento, but I do not recommend doing it. In fact, I think that although the distance is not very long, it is still a long walk to do on foot, and in some places, it is a bit dangerous because the road does not have a sidewalk or a pedestrian area for the whole route.

As the Baths of Queen Giovanna are such a particular and beautiful place to swim, if you go in August, you have to arrive very early to find a place: it is not very big so it gets crowded quickly.

The bathing establishments of Sorrento and Roman ruins

One of the most characteristic things of Sorrento are the bathing establishments located partly on the beach of Sorrento and partly on the typical stilts that go into the sea. In this way, you can sunbathe directly up to the sea and go down the stairs to swim.

Sorrento beach The bathing establishments of Sorrento and Roman ruins
Sorrento beach. The bathing establishments of Sorrento and Roman ruins

These bathing establishments are also very characteristic of colorful cabins that have different colors depending on which bathing establishment they belong to.

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  • Sorrento italy beach and sea umbrellas 2 scaled
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  • Sorrento italy beach Bagni da salvatore food 8 scaled

Among the various bathing establishments we have:

An additional peculiarity of the Bagni Salvatore is that they are located right next to the Roman ruins of the remains of the Villa of Agrippa Postumo. So, in addition to enjoying the sun and the sea, you can also see part of the remains of the Roman villa.

The Mills Vallum

The Mills Vallum is close to the city center and, therefore, easily reachable on foot from the center of Sorrento.

The Mills Vallum is visible by passing over the bridge between Viale Enrico Caruso and Via Fuorimura: from this bridge, you can see the valley from top to bottom as the valley is located right in the area below the bridge.

The area is free; to see the Mills Vallum, you don’t need an entrance ticket, so it’s free.

  • Sorrento Italy the Mills Vallum scaled
  • Sorrento Italy the Mills Vallum history scaled

What is the Mills Vallum?

The valley is generally a narrow and deep valley or a depression in the mountainous areas, with a narrow furrow and almost sheer walls. This definition well describes the Mills Vallum, which looks like a deep gorge carved into the rock or, to be more precise, in this case, the tufaceous plain.

How was the Mills Vallum formed?

As we read on the sign right next to the valley, the Mills Vallum originated and was dug by the waters from the river, rain, or torrential waters that, flowing on rocks and sloping land, exert an erosive action.

These flowing waters have, in fact, dug into the tufaceous plain deposited about 37,000 years ago following a catastrophic eruption of the Phlegraean Fields. The Phlegraean Fields are a large area located in the Gulf of Pozzuoli, west of Naples. The area has been well known since ancient times for its volcanic activity.

As you can see in the image, the Mills Vallum area is rich in vegetation, in fact, it constitutes the ideal habitat for the spontaneous growth of ferns due to the high humidity present.

Why is it called Mills Vallum?

Mills Vallum takes its name from the abandoned buildings you see in the middle of the vegetation.

You must know that this area that we see today completely abandoned was actually, in the past, a used and frequented area. It was then used as a tuff quarry, suitable for removing blocks, and then used for constructing new buildings in Sorrento.

One of these abandoned buildings was a mill which gives the valley its name. This mill dates back to around 1600 and used the river stream flow in the valley to grind the grain, which was then sold to the sawmill, the remains of which we can still see near the mill. Another ruin present is that of the public washhouse.

Why is the Mills Vallum abandoned today?

After a few centuries, the Mills area fell into disuse due to the abandonment of the infrastructure present in the area and the construction of Piazza Tasso during the nineteenth century. The construction of Piazza Tasso caused an accumulation of torrential water, resulting in flooding up to the humid microclimate present today, which favors the growth of ferns.

Marina Piccola

Marina Piccola is the area of ​​Sorrento, which includes the tourist port and some bars and restaurants where you can have breakfast or eat with the beautiful view of the sea of ​​Sorrento.

  • Sorrento in Winter. Marina Piccola Sorrento Things to do 1
  • Sorrento in Winter. Marina Piccola Sorrento Things to do 2
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  • Sorrento in winter Sorrento Coast and Marina Piccola Sorrento by night 1
  • Sorrento in winter Sorrento Coast and Marina Piccola Sorrento by night 2

But what I like most about Marina Piccola is that from here you can see very well from the bottom up the suggestive cliff and the shores of Sorrento. Really very beautiful and unique.

  • Sorrento in winter. Sorrento Beach and bathing establishments seen from Marina Piccola 2
  • Sorrento in winter from the boat Sorrento Coast and Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria 3
  • Sorrento in winter. Sorrento Coast in the evening from Marina Piccola 2
  • Sorrento in Summer Marina Piccola Sorrento things to do 1
  • Sorrento in Summer Marina Piccola Sorrento things to do 2
  • Sorrento in Summer Marina Piccola Sorrento things to do 3
  • Sorrento in Summer Marina Piccola Sorrento things to do 4

Another thing you see from Marina Piccola is the Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria. This hotel is part of the Sorrento skyline and stands out, being quite colorful and built on the rock. It certainly does not go unnoticed.

  • Marina Piccola Sorrento in Summer Hotel Excelsior Vittoria
  • Sorrento in winter from the boat at the sunset Sorrento Coast and Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria 1
  • Sorrento in winter from the boat at the sunset Sorrento Coast and Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria 2
  • Sorrento in winter from the boat at the sunset Sorrento Coast and Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria 3

You can also take the boat from Marina Grande to other places in the Gulf of Naples and the Amalfi Coast. From Marina Piccola, for example, you can go to Capri in both summer and winter. You can also take the boat to Positano and Amalfi from here, but not in winter because the service is suspended.

How to get off at Marina Piccola?

There are 2 main ways to get to Marina Piccola.

  • From the Villa Comunale
  • From Via Luigi De Maio

From the Villa Comunale

From the Villa Comunale di Sorrento, you can go down the stairs or, in any case, go down the descent that takes you to the shores of Sorrento, and then pass behind the shores and reach Marina Piccola on foot.

If you do not want to use the stairs, you can use the elevator, which for a fee, takes you down from the Villa Comunale to the Lidos of Sorrento.

Sorrento italy beach sea lift scaled
Sorrento Italy lift at the Villa Comunale

However, this option is not always valid in winter, in fact, we happened to find the area of ​​the lidos and bathing establishments closed and therefore, it was not possible to go to Marina Piccola.

  • Sorrento in Winter downhill street and stairs form Villa Comunale to Sorrento beach 3
  • Sorrento in Winter downhill street and stairs form Villa Comunale to Sorrento beach 5
  • Sorrento in Winter downhill street and stairs form Villa Comunale to Sorrento beach 1
  • Sorrento in Winter downhill street and stairs form Villa Comunale to Sorrento beach 2
  • Sorrento in Winter downhill street and stairs form Villa Comunale to Sorrento beach 4

From Via Luigi De Maio

The best way to get to Marina Piccola from Sorrento’s center is via Luigi De Maio. This way, it is possible to get to Marina Piccola on foot or by car. If you go down to Marina Piccola on foot at a certain point, you will also find stairs that allow you to reach Marina Piccola more quickly.

Video Marina Piccola Sorrento

Watch the following video:

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Sorrento Things to do: Marina Piccola

Video text

The charm of Sorrento and the Sorrento Coast is genuinely unique. Sorrento stands on a tuff plain overlooking the sea and offers one of the most intense views of the region between lush vegetation and the cobalt-blue sea. From the Villa Comunale, you can in fact enjoy a unique panorama, especially at sunset.

There are several things you can do in Sorrento and one of them is definitely to go to Marina Piccola where you can find some restaurants and relax directly by the sea. However, the main reason to go to Marina Piccola is to board one of the motor ships.
If you are in Sorrento, you will undoubtedly want to see the other places on the Amalfi Coast as well.

From Sorrento, you can easily reach Capri and Positano, for example. The boarding of the motor ships is right here in Marina Piccola, which is on the opposite side of Marina Grande if we take the center of Sorrento as a reference point. From the boat, you can admire the beauty and uniqueness of Sorrento from the sea and you can recognize Marina Grande thanks to the colorful houses directly overlooking the sea.

Marina Piccola Sorrento how to get there?

Sorrento things to do View of Marina Piccola from the Villa Comunale 3

There are 2 main ways to get to Marina Piccola:
1. From the Villa Comunale: from the Villa Comunale you can go down the stairs or in any case the descent that takes you to the shores of Sorrento and then go behind the shores and reach Marina Piccola on foot. 
If you do not want to use the stairs, you can use the lift that takes you from the Villa Comunale to the Lidos of Sorrento for a fee. 
However, this option is not always valid in winter.

2. From Via Luigi De Maio: the best way to get off at Marina Piccola from the center of Sorrento is via Luigi De Maio. 
This way, it is possible to get to Marina Piccola on foot or by car. 
If you go down to Marina Piccola on foot at a certain point, you will also find stairs that allow you to reach Marina Piccola more quickly.

Piazza Della Vittoria or Victory Square

Piazza Della Vittoria is not only one of the squares of Sorrento but is also a fantastic balcony overlooking the sea that offers a magnificent view of the Gulf of Naples.

  • Piazza Della Vittoria Sorrento from Terrazza Vittoria restaurant Hotel Continental
  • Piazza Della Vittoria or Victory Square Sorrento Things to do 2
  • Piazza Della Vittoria or Victory Square Sorrento Things to do 1 1
  • Piazza Della Vittoria or Victory Square Sorrento Things to do

Correale Museum

The Correale Museum is fascinating for 2 reasons:

  • it is an art museum
  • the museum is located inside an 18th-century villa

The exhibited works are great examples of figurative art dating back to the period from the fifteenth to the nineteenth century.

The museum is arranged in 24 exhibition rooms, spread over the four floors of the eighteenth-century residence.

Museum website: https://www.museocorreale.it/

Sorrento Experience Museum

Multimedia museum with the aim of making you discover the myths and legends of the Sorrento Peninsula, the history, culture, and centuries-old traditions of Sorrento.

Wood Inlay Workshop Museum

The Wood Inlay Workshop Museum is a museum where you will find numerous antique pieces of furniture decorated with traditional Sorrento wood inlays.

Best Day trips from Sorrento: things to do near Sorrento

Sorrento things to do? Till now, we’ve seen the thing to do in Sorrento but Sorrento is not only a beautiful place in itself because it is also a great starting point to see other beautiful places. Here are the main ones:

  1. Capri
  2. Pompeii
  3. Positano
  4. Amalfi
  5. Herculaneum
  6. Punta Campanella
  7. Naples

Train and bus timetables and tickets

If you are in Sorrento and are thinking of using buses or trains to visit other nearby places, I suggest you download the “Unico Campania” app. This app is an excellent tool for seeing bus and train timetables. It also allows you to buy tickets directly from the app.

Sorrento Italy Train and bus timetables and tickets
Sorrento Italy Train and bus timetables and tickets

Capri

Capri is located just in front of Sorrento and Sorrento is the best place from which to depart for Capri. In fact, boats leave for Capri from Marina Piccola in Sorrento in both summer and winter.

See: TOP 10 Amazing Things to do in Capri Amalfi Coast Italy

Pompeii

Pompeii is unique in the world and is a must-visit. From Sorrento, it is very convenient to go to Pompeii as you can go by car and train. In fact, you can also get to Pompeii by train without making changes in about 35 minutes.

Positano

Positano is probably the most beautiful town on the Amalfi Coast and if you are in Sorrento, you should take the opportunity to visit it.

You can go from Sorrento to Positano in several ways:

  • by car
  • on the bus. You can take the bus in front of the Sorrento train station
  • by boat from Marina Piccola to Sorrento, but the winter service is suspended.

See: Positano Italy: 10 unforgettable Things to do in Positano & Positano beach

Amalfi

Amalfi is the queen of the Amalfi Coast and an international tourist destination. Taking Sorrento as a reference point, it is located after Positano and Praiano, so it takes a little longer to reach it if you leave from Sorrento.

You can go from Sorrento to Amalfi in several ways:

  • by car
  • on the bus. You can take the bus in front of the Sorrento train station
  • by boat from Marina Piccola to Sorrento, but the winter service is suspended.

See: TOP 10 Things to do in Amalfi Italy

Herculaneum

Herculaneum is an extremely interesting archaeological site to visit. It is not as famous or as big as Pompeii but it is no less beautiful. Indeed many people prefer Herculaneum to Pompeii.

You can go from Sorrento to Herculaneum by car or by train. It takes about 1 hour by train from Sorrento but it is convenient as the train is direct.

Punta Campanella

Punta Campanella is the extreme point of the Sorrento peninsula and in front of it is the sea and Capri.

For those who love walking in Punta Campanella, it is possible to take a path.

If, on the other hand, you just want to enjoy the beauty of the extreme Sorrentine point, you can also take the boat and head towards the Amalfi Coast, in this way, you will pass in front of the most extreme point on the coast, the most westerly point: Punta Campanella.

As we said above, Punta Campanella is located right in front of the island of Capri and as you pass in front of it you have Punta Campanella on one side and the island of Capri on the other. Watching the following video, we focus for now on this beautiful rocky point of the Sorrento Coast. Watch the video!

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Punta Campanella Sorrento Things to do

You can also admire Punta Campanella from Monte Solaro in Capri. On clear days the spectacle is incredible!

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Sorrento Things to do: See the Punta Campanello from Capri

Naples

Naples is a city that offers many things to see as well as great food. To go to Naples from Sorrento, the best option is the train. In fact, in about 1 and 20 you can get to Naples from Sorrento by train.

Sorrento beach

Here are the 3 best options to enjoy the sea if you are in Sorrento. The main beaches of Sorrento are the following:

  1. The bathing establishments of Sorrento
  2. The Marina Grande beach
  3. The baths of Queen Giovanna
  4. The public beach of Sorrento

The public beach of Sorrento and the bathing establishments of Sorrento

Sorrento is characterized by many things but surely the beaches of Sorrento are one of those things that remain with you in Sorrento. In fact, in Sorrento we do not have large beaches but this does not prevent you from sunbathing and swimming.

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Sorrento Italy beach and sea. Sorrento Things to do

The seaside resorts of Sorrento, with their typical stilt houses, provide a valid alternative to relax and enjoy the sea. Surely you will not be able to build many sand castles but the seaside resorts of Sorrento provide a slightly different summer experience by the sea.

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Sorrento Italy beach. Sorrento Things to do

Thanks to the stilts you can sunbathe not only by the sea but also directly on the sea and swim you just need to go down into the water with the appropriate ladders.

In the following video, we see Sorrento’s beach and an overview from above of the bathing establishments of Sorrento with their stilt houses: among the most famous Leonelli’s beach and the Bagni Salvatore.

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Sorrento Beach. Sorrento Things to do

In the view from below, we have Leonelli’s beach in front of us, while Bagni Salvatore is clearly visible in the shot from above and is located on the opposite side of Leonelli’s beach.

Bagni Salvatore

An additional peculiarity of the Bagni Salvatore is that they are located right next to the Roman ruins of the remains of the Villa of Agrippa Postumo. So, in addition to enjoying the sun and the sea, you can also see part of the remains of the Romani villa.

Photo Gallery

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  • Sorrento italy beach Bagni da salvatore food 2 scaled

The Marina Grande Beach

Marina Grande is part of Sorrento but it can be said that it is a small world apart. Marina Grande has the appearance of a small fishing village and is an area of ​​Sorrento that still retains an authentic aspect.

Therefore, Marina Grande’s beach remains slightly moved from the center of Sorrento. In any case, this area of Sorrento is full of life day and night. During the day, everyone comes here to sunbathe and swim, while in the evening, it is nice to come to Marina Grande to enjoy an excellent dinner in one of the beautiful restaurants on the sea.

To get to Marina Grande from Piazza Della Vittoria, you have to go down a street, via Marina Grande precisely, which at a certain point becomes narrower.

The road is downhill because Marina Grande is at sea level, while the rest of Sorrento is on the cliff. So to reach Marina Grande, you have to go down to sea level.

  • Things to do in Sorrento Marina Grande in summer 3
  • Sorrento Beaches. Marina Grande beach Sorrento seen from above 3
  • Marina Grande Beach Sorrento at the sunset time. Sorrento things to do Beaches

Marina Grande is a Sorrento landmark for those who want to relax on the beach. In fact, here in Marina Grande, we have a good portion of the beach compared to other areas of Sorrento.

The beach has sun beds, umbrellas, and other services such as pedal boat rental.

The baths of Queen Giovanna

The baths of Regina Giovanna are located not far from Sorrento. They are a natural pool surrounded by rock walls and are a very special place for swimming. Really very impressive!

Near the baths of Queen Giovanna, there are also the remains of a Roman villa to visit. We, therefore, combine sea, landscape, and archeology.

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TOP 10 Sorrento Things to do: The baths of Queen Giovanna

The Regina Giovanna baths are easily reachable by bus. I do not recommend going there on foot because although they are not very far from Sorrento, it is a long walk, and the road in some places does not have a pedestrian area.

If you go in August, you must arrive very early because it is not very big and gets crowded quickly.

San Francesco public beach in Sorrento

The beach of San Francesco is the free beach or the solarium and public beach. An important note regarding the free beach of San Francesco is that a sign indicates that access is allowed only to residents of the Municipality of Sorrento.

Important note regarding the free beach of San Francesco is that a sign indicates that access is allowed only to residents of the Municipality of Sorrento.

Sorrento Restaurants and Food

Here are some restaurants you find in Sorrento.

Sorrento Restaurants with a view

Here are some restaurants where you can not only enjoy good food but where you can also enjoy the beautiful view.

Terrazza Vittoria restaurant in Hotel Continental

In Sorrento, one thing that makes your trip memorable is having a delicious dinner with a glass of good wine and a fantastic view.

There is nothing better than going to the Vittoria Terrace restaurant on the top of the Continental hotel before the sun goes down for an aperitif and watching the change on the horizon. Moreover, in front of us, we have the Vesuvius that characterizes the Sorrento view.

The Vesuvius volcano is clearly visible from Sorrento but not from other nearby locations. In fact, Vesuvius is not visible from the towns of the Amalfi Coast, such as Positano and Amalfi.

Watch the following video that shows you the beautiful panorama you see from the Terrazza Vittoria restaurant as the sun goes down until the sun gives way to the lights of Sorrento.

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Sorrento Things to do: dinner with a view at the Terrazza Vittoria restaurant

Photo Gallery Terrazza Vittoria restaurant

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Il delfino restaurant in Marina Grande Sorrento

Il Delfino restaurant is located in Marina Grande in Sorrento. Il Delfino restaurant also has a connected beach where you can sunbathe, located on one of the characteristic wooden docks. The Bagni Delfino Restaurant, despite having an area for sunbathing, still maintains an elegant atmosphere.

Savoring good fish dishes directly on the sea is a beautiful experience. The atmosphere at sunset is unique: you can see the sunset over the sea and observe Marina Grande, which dresses up as a lively seaside resort in the evening by turning on the lights. So on one side, you have the beautiful sunset and Marina Grande in all its authenticity on the other.

View from Il Delfino Restaurant

The following video shows you the view of Marina Grande illuminated just after sunset from the Il Delfino restaurant.

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Sorrento Things to do: Marina Grande Sorrento by night

In the following video instead, you can see the sunset from the Il Delfino restaurant.

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Sorrento Things to do. Sunset in Sorrento seen from Il Delfino restaurant (Marina Grande Sorrento)

Photo Gallery Il Delfino Restaurant

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Taverna Azzurra in Marina Grande

The Taverna Azzurra is located on the Marina Grande seafront and the outdoor area is right next to the beach. The Taverna Azzurra restaurant is generally open also in winter and also in winter, it is possible to eat in the outdoor area thanks to the fact that it is covered.

The atmosphere at the Taverna Azzurra is familiar and not refined; this is also reflected in the dishes, which are not particularly refined but good and abundant.

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Bagni Salvatore

In the summer you want the sea and you want to enjoy it fully. If you find yourself in a seaside resort in Sorrento, you will probably want to try its culinary proposals. So we did it too with I Bagni Salvatore.

At Bagni Salvatore, the dishes offered are pretty good for what we ate but what we liked most is the atmosphere and the view of the colorful cabins.

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Restaurants in the Center of Sorrento

Here are some restaurants you find in the center of Sorrento. They do not have a beautiful sea view, but some of these restaurants have truly unique interior rooms.

Zi Ntonio Restaurant

At the Zi Ntonio restaurant, you can enjoy well-prepared and served traditional pasta, risotto, and fish dishes. In addition to these dishes, there are also some pizzas on the menu.

The food and the dishes on offer are very good and the location is unique.

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O’Parrucchiano La Favorita

Beautiful and spacious restaurant, very particular inside, in the historical center of Sorrento. This restaurant looks good on the outside but the real surprise is on the inside.

Inside, the O’Parrucchiano La Favorita restaurant is waiting to be discovered. In fact, entering gradually, you discover a spectacular location where at specific points, you wonder if you are in a restaurant room or if you are in the beautiful garden of Sorrento. The rooms are, in fact, surrounded by lemon groves, which are the tradition of Sorrento and allow you to fully savor the Sorrento atmosphere even in winter.

The restaurant as a whole is elegant as the elements combine in harmony. The cuisine and dishes are good.

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Pubs and Sandwich shops

If, more than a restaurant, you are looking for a pub or sandwich shop to eat something tasty and not too demanding, here are some ideas of where to go.

A’Marenna Sorrento Bakery & Bistrot

A Marenna is our favorite place when we want to eat something good but we prefer not to go to a restaurant. Here you can find super sandwiches or better “panuozzi”, as the sandwiches are called here, with very good ingredients. You can, in fact, choose between the panuozzo or the ciabatta, but the “panuozzo” is unsurpassed. Absolutely to try.

Some of our favorite flavors that we find inside the panuozzi are:

  • Smoked salmon topped with drops of Sorrento lemon
  • Apulian burrata and black truffle patè
  • Raw Parma ham, Sorrentine ricotta, fig jam, and chopped hazelnuts
  • Country bacon, Sorrentine braid, mushrooms
  • Mortadella, Apulian stacciatella and pistachio cream
  • Restaurant Sorento Italy Amalfi Coast food 1
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Star Pub

Star Pub is a pub where you can enjoy good burgers and for those who don’t like burgers, there are also some restaurant dishes such as appetizers, first courses, main courses, and salads.

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Sorrento Italy in winter

Sorrento is an excellent place to stay also in winter. Most of the shops are also open in winter and from Sorrento, you can do a lot o day trips. Here are a few examples.

  1. Capri by boat you can get here in Sorrento at Marina Grande.
  2. Naples by train. From the Sorrento train station.
  3. Pompeii by train. From the Sorrento train station.
  4. Positano by bus. In front of the Sorrento train station, you can get the bus for all the Amalfi Coast.
  5. Amalfi by bus. In front of the Sorrento train station, you can get the bus for all the Amalfi Coast.
  6. Herculaneum by train. From the Sorrento train station.
  7. Praiano and Furore by bus. In front of the Sorrento train station, you can get the bus for all the Amalfi Coast.

Video Sorrento Italy in winter

How is Sorrento in winter? In this video, “Sorrento Italy in Winter vs Summer,” we see the main parts of Sorrento in winter. We also see the same areas in summer when people swim in the sea and relax under the sun. Watch the video!

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Sorrento Italy in winter vs summer

Additional contents

Related post to the subject “TOP 10 Sorrento Things to do + Restaurants & beaches”:

Pompeii

Amalfi Coast Italy

  • TOP 10 Sorrento Things to do + Restaurants & beaches

FAQ about the best things to do in Sorrento

What are the top things to do in Sorrento?

What are the top things to do in Sorrento? Here are some excellent ideas for the case do and see in Sorrento. 

1. Villa Comunale Sorrento
2. The center of Sorrento with all the beautiful shops
3. Marina Grande
4. The baths of Queen Giovanna
5. The bathing establishments of Sorrento and Roman ruins
6. The Mills Vallum
7. Marina Piccola
8. Piazza Della Vittoria or Victory Square
9. Wood Inlay Workshop Museum
10. Sorrento Experience Museum

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