A popular spot along the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, the town of Sorrento offers unrivalled views of the Bay of Naples and spectacular crystalline waters. Known worldwide for its lemons (being the home of Limoncello) and A-list visitors, Sorrento is both a foodie and culture haven, with a bustling Old Town and tons of local restaurants to discover.
Within close reach of nearby Naples, Rome, and Florence, Sorrento has a unique romantic appeal that has been luring tourists since the 19th Century. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly spots for swimming or lively bars and nightlife, Sorrento is a versatile and dynamic destination.
Looking for somewhere to rest your head? We have a wonderful selection of Sorrento villas to choose from, including villas with a beach nearby, within walking distance to the town, and near walkng/hiking paths too.
Discover the Oliver’s Travels way, where style and character define every handpicked villa in Sorrento. Our destination experts curate unique homes in beautiful locations that are perfect for families and guaranteed to ‘wow’.
Once you book a holiday, the service doesn't stop there. Our Concierge Service means you'll be in good hands to arrange in-house chefs, fridge stocking, housekeeping, and so much more, to make your stay truly extraordinary.
This small town is often overshadowed by other big hitters along the Amalfi Coast, having to compete with likes of Capri and Naples for its turn in the limelight. However, recent years (and a dazzling endorsement from a-list celebrities) have seen Sorrento really develop when it comes to tourism, while still retaining its unique original culture.
From people-watching in Piazzo Tasso to stepping back in time at Museo Correale, wandering through Sorrento is like diving into southern Italy’s dynamic past. Speaking of diving - take the waters and discover the submerged statue of the Madonna off the nearby Vervece Island. A truly impressive sight!
Sorrento is packed to the brim with pretty gems and wonderful things to do. Our villas to rent in Sorrento make the perfect base to explore for the ultimate family holiday, group getaway, or romantic escape. Stay by the beach, walk into town, or chill out with your very own private hot tub.
Get your bearings and start off your holiday in Sorrento with a self-guided walking tour of the town. Pass through Sorrento’s main square, Piazzo Tasso, named after the Italian poet who was born in this coastal town. See a nativity scene from the 1700s outside the town’s main cathedral before wandering down Via San Cesareo, one of Sorrento’s historic streets.
Spot newlyweds at the romantic Church of San Francesco, a popular wedding venue built in the 14th century. Then discover more about the local area and commerce at the Museo Correale and Museo Mata, the second being a great centre to witness impressive woodcraft.
Water lover? You’re in luck! Sorrento is close to one of the most spectacular diving sites off the island of Vervece, where a giant statue of the Madonna has been submerged to protect those looking to explore the coral-rich area.
Another popular swimming spot lies just a 40-minute walk from Sorrento town. Regina Giovanna was once a lavish Roman villa, and the remaining sea baths boast clear aquamarine waters among rocky patches. Perfect for a relaxing day before heading back to your Sorrento villa to unwind!
The Amalfi coast isn’t generally known for its wide stretches of beach, but there are some gems near Sorrento that are worth checking out. Marina Piccola is near to the port, and offers a small strip of volcanic sand that is backed by beach clubs and a free public beach. Similarly, Marina Grande also has volcanic sand, and the entire beach is free.
Puolo is loved by locals and tourists alike (so can get quite crowded in the summer months) but there is a large stretch of beach here and the water is pleasant and shallow. Choose from a private beach club or enjoy the free public section of the beach.
Head to Nerano and Marina del Cantone for a large pebbly beach, recommended by natives. The shore is lined with restaurants serving up the local speciality, spaghetti alla Nerano - made with courgette and provolone del Monaco cheese.
You don’t have to spend more than five minutes wandering around the town to discover what Sorrento is famed for - lemons! Grown and harvested on the steep, rocky slopes of the Sorrento Peninsula, you’ll find the tart fruit throughout dishes in every restaurant in Sorrento. Wash down your meal with a refreshing glass of limoncello, the true taste of southern Italy.
Being a fishing town, Sorrento also has an abundance of seafood restaurants. Locally sourced, you can really taste the freshness of these dishes. We recommend sampling Sorrento’s crowning jewel - shellfish - and ordering Spaghetti e Vongole (spaghetti with clams).
Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is another must-try, and you’ll find this at most traditional restaurants in Sorrento. Delicious gnocchi is smothered with tomato sauce and fresh Treccia cheese - yum!
The aforementioned Treccia cheese is actually a local variation of the traditional mozzarella, woven into a plait and often enjoyed with bread, salami and pasta, a regional treat.
Marina Grande (not to be confused with the marina in Capri) is Sorrento’s fishing village and is also home to one of the towns free sandy beaches. Enjoy a fresh fish dish from one of the local restaurants alongside other Sorrentine cuisine.
Sorrento's small size mean it is best explored by foot. There's nothing more satisfying than wandering the narrow streets and people watching in the square. However it's also easy to access Sorrento via car, train and ferry, meaning you can embark on day trips around the Amalfi coast.
The nearest airport to Sorrento is Naples, which has regular flights from most UK airports and takes just over two hours from London. From the airport, Sorrento is around an hours drive - rent a car or chat with our concierge team to arrange a private transfer.
Sorrento has its own train station, which is ideal if you’re looking to explore more of the Campania region. Trains run regularly to Naples and along the Amalfi coast - an easy and affordable day trip.
There’s also a ferry that runs between Sorrento and Naples’ port, taking just 35 minutes and avoiding that busy city-centre traffic. You can also easily visit other gems along the Amalfi, including Positano, Salerno, and Capri.
Taxis are available but will be expensive and busy, especially during the summer months. We recommend renting a car if you’re planning to visit somewhere slightly less accessible.
There is limited free parking spaces in the centre of Sorrento, though they are plenty of parking lots and garages if you are arriving by car.
Just remember that the historic centre of the town is closed each evening from 7:30 pm to traffic, and all day on Sunday!
