With a dramatic cliff-top setting along the rugged Sorrentine Peninsula, Sorrento has been noted for its beauty since ancient times, when Greek ships sailed past, and later by the Romans who called the city Surrentum. Travelers today find the same remarkable views sweeping across the Bay of Naples to Mount Vesuvius, along with a lively southern Italian resort atmosphere.
The bustling Piazza Tasso is the heart of Sorrento. Corso Italia runs through the piazza and is lined with shops and restaurants on both sides. Escape the traffic and chaos of Piazza Tasso by wandering in Sorrento's historic district, which is located between Corso Italia and the Villa Comunale park that overlooks the cliffs of Sorrento. A grid of medieval streets, the historic center is Sorrento's most charming area. Via San Cesareo is a great spot for excellent restaurants and shops selling local specialties such as limoncello. Many shops sell beautiful intarsia, or inlaid woodworking, in the form of music boxes, furniture and decorative items.
From the top of the cliff in the center of Sorrento, follow the road down to Marina Grande, which is Sorrento's smaller and much more picturesque port. Colorful buildings and restaurants sit alongside the water, where you can dine overlooking the sea surrounded by a small fishing village scene.
Sorrento is ideally situated for exploring the Sorrentine Peninsula, including the Amalfi Coast, as well the nearby island of Capri, the archaeological sites of ancient Pompeii and Herculaneum, and the vibrant and fascinating city of Naples.
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