A Guide to Sorrento: A Hidden Gem Near the Amalfi Coast
If you’re planning a trip to southern Italy, chances are you’ve already been dreaming about the Amalfi Coast — Positano’s cascading villas, Ravello’s romantic terraces, Amalfi’s dramatic cliffs. But what about Sorrento? Just a 30 minute drive away from the Amalfi Coast, this charming coastal town offers the same iconic views, convenient ferry access, and a completely different vibe — one that’s relaxed, walkable, and surprisingly underrated. Sorrento is one of the best places to stay if you want to visit the Amalfi Coast without the hassle of navigating tight cliffside roads every day. From Sorrento, you can easily take a ferry to Positano or Capri, hop on a train to Naples, or spend the day exploring nearby ruins like Pompeii. It’s no surprise that more and more travelers are choosing Sorrento as their base when visiting the Amalfi Coast.
Why You Shouldn’t Overlook Sorrento When Visiting the Amalfi Coast
While it’s technically not part of the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento feels like a natural extension of it. The historic center is full of character — decorated with its vibrant lemon groves, narrow alleyways, and sea-view terraces. It’s small enough to explore on foot, but large enough to offer boutique hotels, excellent restaurants, and vibrant piazzas full of local life. If you’re searching for where to stay in Sorrento or how to plan a Sorrento itinerary that includes day trips to the Amalfi Coast, this town makes it incredibly easy.
How To Get To Sorrento
Getting to Sorrento from Naples is easy and scenic, whether you prefer traveling by land or sea. By car, the drive takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, following the A3 highway and winding through coastal hills with breathtaking views along the way. For a more relaxed option, especially during high season, you can take a direct ferry from Naples Beverello Port to Sorrento’s Marina Piccola. The crossing typically takes around 40 minutes and offers stunning views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. Alternatively, the Circumvesuviana train departs regularly from Napoli Centrale and reaches Sorrento in just over an hour, stopping at popular archaeological sites like Pompeii and Herculaneum along the way.
If you’re already on the Amalfi Coast and you’d like to see Sorrento during your trip, getting there is both easy and scenic. The most relaxing option is to take a ferry: routes run seasonally from Positano and Amalfi to Sorrento, with travel times ranging from 30 minutes to one hour. These boat rides double as sightseeing experiences, offering incredible views of the coastline.
If you prefer to travel by land, hiring a private driver is a comfortable and stress-free way to reach Sorrento. Services like Daytrip allow you to book door-to-door transfers in advance, with the added bonus of optional sightseeing stops along the way. The coastal drive takes about 30 minutes from Positano and just over an hour from Amalfi, depending on traffic. Public buses (SITA) are also available, though they can be crowded and less reliable during peak season. For what it’s worth, I would have public transportation be your very last option when getting around The Amalfi Coast.
How Big is Sorrento?
Covering just under 10 square kilometers (about 3.7 square miles), Sorrento is compact and very easy to navigate. Its small footprint makes it feel intimate, but not lacking in things to do and see— you’ll still find beautiful hotels and agriturismos, lively piazzas, artisan boutiques, and stylish restaurants, all nestled within a walkable layout. With a year-round population of around 15,000 residents, Sorrento remains a working Italian town, not just a resort destination. That said, its international popularity brings a cosmopolitan energy, especially during the warmer months, when visitors from around the world come to experience its laid-back glamour.
Top Things to Do in Sorrento: Lemon Tastings, Boat Tours & Coastal Adventures
One of the top things to do in Sorrento is visit a traditional lemon farm nestled in the hills above town. I recommend booking this guided lemon farm tour and limoncello tasting in advance — it’s an authentic and delicious way to experience one of Sorrento’s most iconic traditions.
The Sorrento Lemon Farm Experience Everyone is Talking About
Sorrento may be small, but it’s full of memorable experiences that showcase the beauty, flavors, and traditions of southern Italy. One of the highlights is visiting a local lemon farm, where you can walk through fragrant groves and enjoy a limoncello tasting while learning about the region’s citrus heritage — an experience I highly recommend booking in advance.
If you’re looking to unwind by the sea, head to one of Sorrento’s historic beach clubs. Peter’s Beach and Leonelli’s Beach are two of the most popular spots, offering sunbed rentals, snack bars, and direct access to the calm, clear waters of the Marina Piccola.
You can also explore Sorrento’s vibrant historic center, take a hands-on Italian cooking class, or use Sorrento as a base for easy day trips to Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius, or the Amalfi Coast. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a relaxed coastal escape, Sorrento offers a well-rounded mix of experiences that are both enriching and unforgettable.
For a day on the water, consider a boat tour from Sorrento to Capri: a scenic cruise that often includes swimming stops, coastal caves, and views of the famous Faraglioni rocks.
The Best Capri + Amalfi Coast Boat Tours From Sorrento
Embarking on a boat tour from Sorrento to Capri is an unforgettable way to experience the stunning beauty of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious private excursion or a lively group adventure, there’s a tour to suit every preference.