Sorrento is a beautiful small town in the Sorrentine Peninsula overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. It is a common tourist destination, especially in the summer. Sorrento has sunny beaches and clear sea, you will have the opportunity to stroll through the characteristic streets of the historic center and visit the Cathedral, the Sedile Dominova, the Cloister of San Francesco and other important monuments.
April and September are considered as the best months to visit Sorrento to avoid the summer heat and the crowds of visitors. The temperature is mild and allows you to do everything you can do in the summer months. Although it is quite a bit cooler than summer, you will still get a good amount of warm and sunny weather, which is perfect for exploring the local area’s attractions. The average high in Sorrento is 18°C in April, which is warm enough for you to spend the day relaxing in the sun.
Sorrento is so close to Naples (50 km) that is the perfect destination for a day to spend outdoors when in Naples. Sorrento is not the only city to visit but you can take a complete tour of the Amalfi Coast by also visiting Amalfi, Positano, Ravello or Pompeii. Everywhere there is something amazing to admire.
Best Sorrento Tours
Sorrento: Full-Day Boat Tour to Positano, Amalfi and Ravello
/5Discover famous Italian coastal towns, and admire the charm of the Amalfi and Sorrento coasts on a full-day boat tour from Sorrento.
As low as
€65
on GetYourGuide.com
Sorrento and Amalfi Coast Small Group Tour by Boat
/5Discover the beauty of the Amalfi Coast and Sorrentine Peninsula on an amazing boat cruise along the coast. Marvel at the lovely landscapes and charming seaside resorts from the water and get some time to go ashore.
As low as
€119
on GetYourGuide.com
Is Sorrento very touristy?
Yes, Sorrento is touristy, crowded especially in summer. Sorrento is undoubtedly worth a visit if you enjoy amazing scenery, a rich cultural heritage, and extraordinary sightseeing. It is a very renowned tourist destination. There are several factors that contribute to making Sorrento what it is, including its picturesque views, cobbled streets, rich history and culture and proximity to other major tourist attractions such as the Amalfi Coast, Capri and Naples.
Are Sorrento lemons just simple lemons?
If there is a symbol of Sorrento, it is definitely the lemon. The intense yellow color and its unmistakable scent have now become the symbol of the Sorrento Peninsula. The Sorrento lemon, which can boast the PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) wording, is characterized not only by its elliptical shape, but also by its large size: in fact, each lemon must weight at least 85 grams.
It is a lot scented for the high concentration of essential oils and has a bright golden yellow colour. The peculiarities of the Sorrento lemon are the very succulent pulp, the very abundant and high acidity (but very well balanced by the sugar content), and the richness of vitamin C, mineral salts and many other substances that make it a real healthy food.
What are Sorrento lemons used for?
Lemon is very versatile: it can be eaten fresh but it can be used in culinary preparations ranging from first courses to desserts. Obviously it is impossible not to mention one of the most famous lemon-based things: limoncello, the acclaimed and renowned liqueur of the Sorrento tradition, also PGI.
What does the name Sorrento come from?
According to one of the best known legends, the name of the city derives from a tribute to the young Sirentum who later became Princess Durazzo. In fact, it is said that Sirentum was a sweet girl born from the union of Mirone, a farmer who lived in Casarlano, and Leucosia, one of the three sirens daughters of Acheloo.
General informations
Useful information for your visit to Sorrento.
Location
Sorrento is located on the Sorrentine Peninsula at the south-eastern terminus of the Circumvesuviana rail line, within easy access from Naples and Pompeii. The Sorrentine Peninsula has views of Naples, Vesuvius and the Isle of Capri. The Amalfi Drive, connecting Sorrento and Amalfi, is a narrow road along the high cliffs above the Tyrrhenian Sea. Ferries and hydrofoils connect the town to Naples, Amalfi, Positano, Capri and Ischia.
How to get to Sorrento
To reach Sorrento:
- It can be reached by train, being the last stop on the line from Napoli Piazza Garibaldi station. The train journey takes a little over an hour, usually with three departures per hour, and only costs a few Euros for a return ticket. If you’d prefer not to have to worry about navigating Naples’ public transport system, you may find it easier to rent a car and drive or to book an excursion with transport included.
Attractions nearby:
- Amalfi
- Positano
- Ravello
- Pompeii