Nine must-sees in Sorrento
In a world filled with trendy travel destinations and fleeting hotspots, Sorrento is an enduring classic. Located on Italy's stunning Amalfi Coast, this charming town has long been a magnet for travelers seeking more than just a pretty view. Sorrento offers an authentic taste of Italian life wrapped in the elegance of the Mediterranean.
Sorrento's appeal lies not only in its picturesque vistas but also in its proximity to some of Italy's most iconic sights. Here are nine unmissable experiences that should top your list:
Piazza Tasso
Piazza Tasso serves as the social and geographical centre of Sorrento. Beyond its lively atmosphere, the square is a testament to Sorrento's vibrant past and present. The square is named after the famous poet Torquato Tasso, whose works have left an indelible mark on Italian literature. Visitors can spot his statue in the piazza, a reminder of the town's rich cultural heritage.
Adjacent to the square, you'll find the "Sedile Dominova," an old meeting place for the local nobility, marked by its beautiful frescoed dome. The square is also home to the historic Fauno Bar, which has served patrons since the 1950s—an ideal spot for people-watching and soaking in the lively ambiance, particularly during the evening "passeggiata", the evening stroll, a beloved Italian tradition.
Marina Grande
Historically, this was the main harbor for Sorrento, and even today, it retains its old-world charm. The village is a microcosm of Sorrentine life, where you can witness fishermen mending their nets and locals catching up on the day's gossip. If you time your visit right, you might catch one of the local religious festivals, like the feast of Sant'Anna, where the harbor is lit up with fireworks and processions.
For those interested in cinema, Marina Grande was famously featured in the classic 1950s film "Pane, Amore e…" starring Sophia Loren. The beach at Marina Grande is one of the few sandy stretches in Sorrento, making it a perfect spot to relax and swim in the tranquil waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Villa Comunale Park
This park offers spectacular views and a gateway to Sorrento's rich artistic and cultural life. The Villa Comunale Park is connected to the Church and Cloister of San Francesco by a picturesque staircase often used as a backdrop for weddings and photoshoots. The park's meticulously maintained gardens bloom with vibrant flowers throughout the year and are dotted with sculptures and fountains that add to the ambience.
You can take an elevator down to the Marina Piccola, Sorrento's main port, from the park's terrace, where ferries depart for Capri, Naples, and the Amalfi Coast. The park is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, especially at sunset when the sky over the Bay of Naples explodes in a riot of colours, offering a perfect end to a day of exploration.
The Cloister of San Francesco
The Cloister of San Francesco is more than just a peaceful retreat; it's a living piece of Sorrento's history. Built in the 14th century, the cloister reflects a harmonious blend of architectural styles, including late medieval, Renaissance, and Arab influences, evident in the arches and columns that frame the courtyard.
The cloister's garden, towering palm trees and fragrant blooms add to the serene atmosphere. The adjoining Church of San Francesco is equally fascinating, featuring beautiful frescoes and a wooden ceiling from the 16th century. The cloister is also a cultural hub, hosting art exhibitions, classical music concerts, and even yoga classes, allowing visitors to experience the space in various ways.
Limoncello Tasting
Sorrento's lemons are legendary for their size and intense fragrance and flavor, making them a prized ingredient in Italian cuisine. Limoncello, the famous lemon liqueur, is made by steeping lemon zest in alcohol and then mixing it with sugar syrup. The result is a bright, aromatic drink that captures the essence of Sorrento's sun-drenched landscape.
For a truly immersive experience, visit a lemon grove like I Giardini di Cataldo, where you can walk among the citrus trees, learn about the cultivation process, and even try making limoncello. Many local producers also offer tastings of other lemon-based products, such as limoncello creams, marmalades, and candies. Don't forget to buy a bottle or two to bring home—a taste of Sorrento to enjoy long after your trip.
Website: I Giardini di Cataldo
Bagni della Regina Giovanna
The site, named after Queen Giovanna d'Anjou, who is said to have used the spot for private retreats, is surrounded by the ruins of a Roman villa known as Villa Pollio Felice. The villa, believed to date back to the 1st century BC, offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of ancient Rome's elite.
The area is somewhat secluded, accessible via a short but steep hike through olive groves and wild vegetation, adding to the adventure. Once there, the emerald green waters of the natural pool invite you to take a dip, and you can also explore the rocky outcrops that form caves and arches. The underwater scenery around the ruins is equally captivating for snorkelling, with marine life and remnants of the ancient world to discover.
Capri Island
Capri has captivated visitors for millennia, from Roman emperors like Tiberius, who built several villas on the island, to modern-day celebrities. The island is divided into two main towns: Capri and Anacapri. In Capri town, the Piazzetta is the place to see and be seen, often called "the world's living room." Here, you can enjoy a coffee or aperitif while observing the chic crowd. Anacapri, located higher up, offers a more tranquil experience with fewer tourists and stunning views.
Take the chairlift to the top of Monte Solaro, the island's highest point, for a panoramic vista that stretches as far as the Gulf of Naples and the Sorrento Peninsula. The island's natural beauty is also on display at the Gardens of Augustus, where you can marvel at the terraced flowerbeds and the dramatic Faraglioni rock formations jutting out of the sea. Don't miss a boat tour of the island, including visiting the Blue Grotto—a sea cave where sunlight creates an otherworldly blue glow.
Address to the Ferry Port
Pompeii
Pompeii offers one of the most immersive historical experiences in the world. As you walk along the ancient streets, you can see the wheel ruts left by Roman chariots and visit well-preserved homes with frescoes, mosaics, and household items that tell the story of everyday life in this ancient city. The Forum was the center of political and social life, and it remains a breathtaking sight, surrounded by the ruins of temples, basilicas, and public buildings. The Amphitheater, one of the oldest surviving Roman amphitheatres, could hold up to 20,000 spectators and still evoke its gladiatorial past's grandeur.
The Lupanar, an ancient brothel with explicit frescoes, offers insight into the less-discussed aspects of Roman life. For a more intimate experience, visit the Villa of the Mysteries, located just outside the leading site, where you can see some of the most exquisite frescoes depicting the initiation rites of a mysterious cult. Pompeii's preservation allows for a unique connection with the ancient world, making it an essential visit.
Website: Pompeii Archaeological Park
Path of the Gods
The Path of the Gods, or , is more than just a hike; it's a journey through some of Italy's most spectacular landscapes. The trail runs along the mountainside above the Amalfi Coast, offering continuous panoramic views of the coastline, dotted with tiny villages clinging to the cliffs. The 8 8-kilometre hike is best started in Bomerano, where the path is relatively flat and gradually becomes more challenging as you approach Nocelle, near Positano.
Along the way, you'll pass by ancient farmhouses, terraced vineyards, and isolated chapels. The Path of the Gods is a journey through the cultural landscape of the Amalfi Coast, where you can encounter local shepherds and farmers still practising traditional methods of agriculture. After completing the hike, you can reward yourself with a meal in Nocelle or continue down the steep stairs to Positano, where the azure waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea await.
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