20 Best Things to Do in Sorrento, Italy

Figuring out what to do in Sorrento? I got you! This charming coastal town is packed with scenic viewpoints, lemon-scented streets, and easy access to places like Capri and Pompeii, but there’s also plenty to keep you busy right in town.

In this guide, I’ve rounded up the best things to do in Sorrento, from must-see spots and photo ops to local experiences like cooking classes and limoncello tastings.

Whether you’re spending one day in Sorrento as part of your Amalfi Coast itinerary or planning a longer trip, this list will help you make the most of your time.

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Best Things to Do in Sorrento

1. Explore the historic center of Sorrento

The historic center of Sorrento is a maze of narrow alleys, colorful buildings, and hidden courtyards that are just fun to wander. You’ll find everything from artisan shops and family-run trattorias to little churches and gelato spots around every corner.

This area has a laid-back charm that makes it easy to spend a few hours just strolling. Don’t miss Via San Cesareo, which is one of the liveliest shopping streets in town and a great place to pick up ceramics, limoncello, or leather goods.

If you’re into people-watching, grab a drink at an outdoor cafe and just soak in the vibe!

If you want to learn more about Sorrento’s history while exploring, you can join a Guided Walking Tour & Limoncello Tasting, which includes a visit to the old town and a stop to sample Sorrento’s signature drink.

2. Visit Piazza Tasso

Piazza Tasso is the main square in Sorrento and pretty much the center of everything. It’s always lively, whether it’s locals chatting over coffee or tourists heading off to explore.

You’ll probably walk through it more than once, but it’s worth hanging around for a bit. I recommend grabbing a quick coffee at Fauno Bar, which is right on the square and great for people-watching. There’s also a statue of the poet Torquato Tasso in the middle, which is where the piazza gets its name.

A bunch of Sorrento’s main streets branch off from here, so it’s a natural starting point for exploring.

3. Walk along Corso Italia

Corso Italia is Sorrento’s main shopping street, and it’s always buzzing. The wide pedestrian-friendly stretch is lined with boutiques, gelaterias, cafes, and souvenir shops, everything from local crafts to high-end Italian fashion.

Even if you’re not in the mood to shop, it’s a fun place to stroll, especially in the late afternoon or evening when it really comes alive. I loved wandering through here after dinner, gelato in hand, just taking it all in!

You’ll also find lots of restaurants and bars along the way, so it’s a good place to grab a drink or sit down for a meal if you’re not sure where to go.

4. Explore Parco di Villa Fiorentino

If you’re looking for a quiet break from the crowds, Parco di Villa Fiorentino is a lovely little escape right in the center of Sorrento. The villa itself is a beautiful historic building surrounded by lush gardens, palm trees, and shaded walking paths.

It often hosts art exhibitions and cultural events, so it’s worth popping in to see what’s on. Even if there’s nothing happening, the grounds are peaceful and well-maintained. It’s perfect for a short walk or a sit-down on one of the benches!

We stumbled upon it while exploring Sorrento and ended up spending more time there than we expected. It’s a nice spot to unwind for a bit, especially if you’re visiting during the hotter part of the day.

5. Enjoy the views from Piazza della Vittoria

If you love views, visiting Piazza della Vittoria is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Sorrento! It’s one of the best spots to take in those classic coastal views the city is so famous for.

It’s perched right above Marina Piccola and offers a panoramic view over the Bay of Naples, with Mount Vesuvius standing tall in the distance.

There are benches dotted along the edge, so it’s a great place to relax for a bit and enjoy the view. It’s also super close to Villa Comunale and the entrance to the elevator that takes you down to the marina, so it fits nicely into a leisurely stroll around town.

6. Watch the sunset at Villa Comunale

Villa Comunale is a small park in the heart of Sorrento, but it’s one of the best places in town to catch the sunset. Perched high above the sea, the terrace here looks straight out toward the Bay of Naples and the view is just incredible, especially at sunset!

There’s usually a mix of locals and tourists gathered here in the evenings, all soaking in the same view. It can get quite busy, especially in the high season, so I’d recommend coming a bit earlier to grab a good spot on the railing.

If you don’t feel like walking back uphill afterward, the elevator down to the marina is right next to the viewpoint.

7. Join a cooking class

One of the most fun things to do in Sorrento is to take a cooking class. There are plenty of options in and around town, and it’s such a great way to learn more about the local cuisine (and, of course, enjoy some delicious food along the way).

Most classes are held at family-run farms or restaurants and include extras like wine, limoncello, or even a short tour of the property.

If you’re not sure which one to pick, here are a few great options:

• Pizza Lesson, Wine, and Limoncello at a Local Farm: This class takes place on a traditional Sorrento farm and includes a quick tour of the gardens before getting hands-on with pizza making. You’ll get to enjoy your creation with some house wine and a limoncello tasting at the end.
• Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class with Wine: If you’re more into pasta, this one is a great pick. You’ll learn how to prepare the most perfect pasta dough and finish off with a creamy tiramisu for dessert and of course, a glass of wine!
• Lemon, Olive Oil and Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch: Not exactly a cooking class, but this is a great alternative. You’ll visit a local farm, sample homemade products like olive oil, wine, and limoncello, and enjoy a light lunch with a view. Perfect if you’re after a more relaxed foodie experience.

8. Visit the Cloister of San Francesco

Tucked away just a few steps from Villa Comunale, the Cloister of San Francesco is one of the most peaceful spots in Sorrento.

Dating back to the 14th century, this quiet courtyard features a mix of architectural styles, with medieval arches, stone columns, and bougainvillea creeping up the walls.

It’s free to enter and never feels overly busy, so it’s a lovely place to take a breather, snap a few photos, or just enjoy the shade for a few minutes. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a wedding or classical music performance, both are held here pretty often thanks to the beautiful setting.

It’s a quick stop but definitely worth adding to your Sorrento itinerary.

9. Head down to Marina Grande

Marina Grande is Sorrento’s old fishing village, and it has a totally different vibe from the main part of town. It’s more rustic and laid-back, with colorful boats bobbing in the water, narrow alleys lined with old homes, and a row of seafood restaurants right along the water’s edge.

Marina Grande is only a 10–15 minute walk from the center of Sorrento, but it feels like stepping into a different world. Just be prepared for a bit of a climb on the way back! There are a few sets of stairs and a bit of an uphill walk.

10. Spend some time on the beach

Sorrento isn’t known for long stretches of sandy beach, but there are still a few great spots where you can swim, sunbathe, or just relax by the water.

Most of the beaches are down below the cliffs and can be reached by walking or taking an elevator from Villa Comunale.

The beach clubs here are built on wooden platforms over the sea, and many of them have sun loungers, umbrellas, and access to changing rooms and bars.

Some popular spots include Leonelli’s Beach and Peter’s Beach – they’re right next to each other and just a short walk from the main square.

If you’re looking for something a bit more natural, you can also head to Bagni Regina Giovanna, a beautiful swimming spot surrounded by ruins, about a 10-minute drive from the center.

11. Take a day trip to Capri

If you’re planning to take a day trip to Capri, Sorrento is one of the best places to base yourself! The ferry ride only takes about 30 minutes, and there are several departures throughout the day.

I recommend catching one of the earliest ferries (usually around 8:30 am) to make the most of your one day in Capri. Ferries can fill up quickly in summer, so it’s a good idea to check the schedule and book your tickets in advance on Ferryscanner!

Capri has a lot to offer, from its famous viewpoints and designer shops to natural wonders like the Blue Grotto. You can also take a boat tour around the island, visit the beautiful Giardini di Augusto, or ride the chairlift up to Monte Solaro for some incredible views.

If you’d rather join a tour instead of organizing everything on your own, this Capri Boat Tour with Blue Grotto Visit is a fantastic choice!

12. Visit the Cathedral of Saints Philip and James

Tucked away in the historic center, Sorrento’s main cathedral isn’t as flashy as some of the coastal churches nearby, but it’s definitely worth a visit.

From the outside, the simple white facade doesn’t give much away, but step inside, and you’ll find a beautifully decorated interior with marble columns, detailed frescoes, and a striking wooden ceiling.

The cathedral dates back to the 11th century, though it’s been renovated several times since, and today, it blends Romanesque and Baroque architectural elements.

One of the more unique details is the inlaid wood choir stalls, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship that Sorrento is known for.

13. Shop for local crafts and souvenirs

One of the best things to do in Sorrento is just to wander through the little shops tucked along its winding streets. From hand-painted ceramics to embroidered linens and carved wooden items, there’s no shortage of unique souvenirs to bring home.

Sorrento is especially famous for its marquetry, or intarsia – an old tradition of wood inlay that you’ll see displayed in many boutique workshops around town. Even if you’re not buying anything big, it’s fun to pop into a few of these shops and admire the detailed work.

Of course, you’ll also find plenty of lemon-themed souvenirs everywhere you look, from soaps and perfumes to fridge magnets and limoncello bottles shaped like lemons. Most shops stay open late, so you’ll have time to browse after sightseeing or dinner.

14. Visit the Vallone dei Mulini

Right in the heart of Sorrento lies a hidden gem you might easily miss if you’re not looking for it. Vallone dei Mulini, or the Valley of the Mills, is a deep natural gorge just off Piazza Tasso that’s home to the ruins of an old mill, overgrown with greenery and moss.

It’s a super atmospheric spot that offers a glimpse into a very different side of Sorrento. The contrast between the bustling streets above and the quiet, almost eerie scene below is pretty striking!

You can’t walk down into the valley, but there’s a viewpoint right next to the road where you can look out over the ruins. Definitely worth a quick stop if you’re nearby!

15. Explore the rest of the Amalfi Coast

If you’re wondering where to stay on the Amalfi Coast that’s more on the budget side, Sorrento is a great choice!

It’s a fantastic base to explore the Amalfi Coast thanks to its location and great transport connections, not to mention that it’s way cheaper than the other towns on the coast.

You can hop on a ferry or take a bus to places like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. Positano is only about 40 minutes away by ferry and is famous for its colorful cliffside buildings and beautiful beach.

Amalfi has its own charm with historic landmarks and a dramatic setting, while Ravello sits high in the hills and is known for its incredible gardens and sweeping views.

If you’d rather skip the hassle of sorting out transportation, there are also some great tours that take care of everything for you.

You can explore the coast by water on an Amalfi and Positano Boat Tour or opt for a more comprehensive land-based Positano, Amalfi, & Ravello Amalfi Coast Tour by van, which includes all three towns in one day.

16. Visit the ruins of Pompeii

One of the most popular day trips from Sorrento is a visit to the ancient ruins of Pompeii. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was buried under volcanic ash when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD and offers a fascinating glimpse into daily life during the Roman Empire.

Walking through the preserved streets, you’ll see everything from bathhouses and temples to villas with original mosaics and frescoes still intact. It’s one of those places that truly brings history to life.

Pompeii is around 30-40 minutes from Sorrento by train, and you can take the Circumvesuviana line that runs between Sorrento and Naples. Just be prepared for crowds, especially in the summer months!

If you want a more in-depth experience without the hassle of navigating everything yourself, you can join this Day Tour to Pompeii Ruins and Mount Vesuvius.

17. Have a fancy ice cream at Amorino

If you’re craving something sweet, you’ve got to try the gelato at Amorino. This isn’t just your average scoop – each cone is shaped into a delicate flower, using as many flavors as you like. It’s a treat for both your taste buds and your camera roll!

There are two Amorino shops in Sorrento, but I recommend skipping the one on Piazza Tasso as it has some pretty bad reviews. Instead, head to the location on Via S. Cesareo. That’s the one we tried, and it was absolutely amazing!

It’s definitely on the pricier side for gelato, but the quality (and the presentation) makes up for it. They also offer extras like macarons on top if you want to go all out.

18. Try limoncello at a local shop or factory

You can’t leave Sorrento without tasting its most famous local product: limoncello! This famous liqueur is made from Sorrento lemons, known for their intense aroma and thick, flavorful peel.

There are lots of shops offering free tastings around town, and many of them also sell other lemon-themed products like candies, soaps, and pastries. If you want a quick sample, most shops along Via S. Cesareo are happy to offer a taste.

If you’re interested in seeing how it’s made, a few local factories and farms just outside the town center offer short tours and tastings. It’s a fun way to learn a bit more about this iconic drink and bring home a bottle (or two) as a souvenir.

19. Have a meal at a lemon-themed restaurant

Sorrento is all about lemons, so it’s no surprise that you’ll find a few restaurants that really lean into the theme.

One of the most famous is O’Parrucchiano La Favorita, known for its dreamy lemon garden where you can dine under real lemon trees. We didn’t get to visit this time, but it’s definitely on the list for our next trip!

A great alternative we accidentally stumbled upon is Ristorante La Basilica. While the lemon garden here is indoors, the decor is super charming, with leafy ceilings, fairy lights, and lemon-themed everything. It’s right in the center of town, and the food was also amazing!

20. Stop at the Belvedere di Sorrento

If you’re driving along the SS145 highway between Sorrento and Naples, make sure to pull over at this scenic viewpoint just outside of town. It’s about a 15-minute drive from the center of Sorrento and offers one of the most impressive panoramic views of the coastline.

You’ll get a full sweep of the cliffs, beaches, and colorful houses that stretch along the water. It’s a view that honestly took our breath away when we stopped!

There’s not much here besides a railing and the view itself, but it’s absolutely worth the short detour if you have a car. We stumbled across it on our drive back to Naples, and it turned out to be one of our favorite unplanned stops in the area.