Sorrento hotels

Hotels in Sorrento

Unspoilt and still lovely despite its popularity with tourists, colourful Sorrento has spectacular views across the Gulf of Naples from its clifftop perch.

Surrounded by coastline, mountains, valleys and lemon and orange groves, Sorrento is also within easy reach of Pompeii, Naples and Capri. But book one of our Sorrento hotels and you may well find you don't want to go anywhere else.

Shopping

The cobbled streets of Sorrento's historic centre are full of shops selling the hand-crafted marquetry – elaborately inlaid wood – for which the area is famous. Family-run Stinga, now on its third generation of artisans, has attracted international attention for its unusual mosaic and geometric designs. There are also plenty of places selling ceramics, handmade sandals and limoncello. Anyone interested in their appearance should head to the Venti10 accessories boutique, which sells silk scarves, funky handmade jewellery, homeware and hats.

Sights

The 11th-century Basilica di San Antonino is the oldest church in the town. Inside you'll find Roman artefacts, medieval paintings and two whale ribs – the saint, who is buried underneath the cathedral, is said to have rescued a child from a whale's stomach.

The 15th-century cathedral is notable outside for its three-tiered bell tower and majolica clock. Inside there are colourful ceiling paintings, an altar, bishop's throne and pulpit all made of marble, and impressive marquetry in the choir stalls.

Museums

The Correale di Terranova Museum houses historic objects including clocks, archaeological finds, artwork, Japanese and Chinese ceramics, furniture, glass and Greek and Roman artefacts.

At the Museo-Bottega della Tarsia Lignea, housed in an 18th-century palace, you can learn more about Sorrento marquetry. As well as wooden furniture and objects, you can also see 19th-century paintings, prints and photographs of the town.

Outdoors

There are many hiking trails exploring the countryside around Sorrento, the Lattari Mountains and the coast, and you can join guided hikes and bike rides. Horse riding, diving, sailing, swimming and tennis are also on offer.

Sorrento doesn't have vast stretches of sandy beaches, but there are sandy areas at the Marina Piccola and Marina Grande. A walk or bus ride away is the cove at the Punto del Capo and the Bagni Regina Giovanna natural pool.

Eating and drinking

Homemade pasta, home-baked bread and daily fresh fish cooked in salt are on offer at L'Antica Trattoria, a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence winner. There's an upstairs terrace with flowers and vines and music from a mandolin player too. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are available.

Franco Coppola, the owner of the Inn Bufalito, is a member of the Slow Food movement and enthusiastic about local produce. The menu is heavy on mozzarella and buffalo meats, with options including Sorrento-style cheese fondue, buffalo steak and stuffed squid. You can also buy local produce here, including homemade pasta, honey and jams.

Learn how to make ice cream at the family run Gelateria David, where the flavours on offer include almond and lemon, and lemon, orange and mandarin sorbet.