What To See In Sorrento Italy In One Day?

Are you ready to be amazed by the beauty of Sorrento, Italy, in just one day?

Let’s answer the following question: ‘What to see in Sorrento Italy in one day‘? Should you focus on food, culture, landscapes, etc.?

This guide will help you make the most of a day in Sorrento, covering all the must-see spots, best restaurants, and essential tips.

Summary

Morning:

1. Scenic Breakfast at Piazza Tasso – Traditional Italian breakfast at Fauno Bar.
2. Explore Historic Center – Stroll through charming streets and visit the Sorrento Cathedral.

Afternoon:

1. Visit Cloister of San Francesco – Historical site with unique architecture.
2. Waterfront Lunch at Marina Grande – Fresh seafood at Ristorante Bagni Delfino.
3. Relax at Villa Comunale – Enjoy coastline views in the park.

Evening:

1. Sunset at Marina Grande – Stunning views and a peaceful beach.
2. Dinner at Ristorante Tasso – End with gelato from a local gelateria.
3. Stroll from Piazza Lauro to Piazza Tasso – Enjoy a leisurely walk through Sorrento.

The Perfect One-Day Sorrento Itinerary

Let’s take a look at a one-day Sorrento Itinerary.

Morning

1) Start with a Scenic Breakfast

Head to a local café such as Fauno Bar, located in Piazza Tasso, the main square of Sorrento. Enjoy a traditional Italian breakfast of cappuccino and a flaky croissant.

2) Visit the Historic Center of Sorrento

Walk through the historic center, exploring the charming narrow streets with many cute Italian shops, boutiques, and cafes. Don’t miss Corso Italia, the busy main street filled with local delights, and be sure to visit the bell tower with its historic majolica clock.

3) Tour the Cathedral of Sorrento

Please stop by the Sorrento Cathedral (Cattedrale di Sorrento), which dates back to the fifteenth century, to admire its stunning interiors, beautiful frescoes, and remarkable architecture. Entrance is free.

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Midday

4) Explore the Cloister of San Francesco

Walking through downtown Sorrento, you’ll come across one of Sorrento’s notable historical sites, the Cloister of San Francesco d’Assisi, one of the town’s oldest monuments.

Constructed on the remnants of a 7th-century monastery, the abbey beautifully merges 14th-century architecture with elements from later periods, incorporating ruins from pagan temples and other archaeological sites.

As you know, the columns of the arches are unique in height and decoration.

How Much Does It Cost?

Entry Fee: The cloister is free to enter, though there may be charges for special exhibitions or events.

For more information about the Cloister of San Francesco, visit the Tripadvisor Page.

KEEP READING for the next item in our one-day Sorrento itinerary!

5) Enjoy a Waterfront Lunch

Go to Marina Grande and settle for a seafood lunch at one of the many restaurants overlooking the water. Ristorante Bagni Delfino is a favorite for its fresh seafood and fantastic views.

Marina Grande is one of Sorrento’s OLDEST fishing villages, maintaining its traditional charm. Colorful boats bob in the harbor, and the air is filled with the scent of the sea. The tranquility and natural beauty of Sorrento’s fishing village make it a perfect spot to unwind.

The historic Church of Sant’Anna, located in the heart of the marina, adds a cultural touch. Visit during the evening for optimum conditions to see it beautifully illuminated. The church is dedicated to Sorrento’s patron saint, reflecting the town’s deep reverence and devotion.

Afternoon:

6) Visit the Museo Correale di Terranova or Bagni Della Regina Giovanna

Dive into Sorrento’s rich history at the Museo Correale di Terranova, where you’ll find a collection of Neapolitan art, historical artifacts, and a lush garden with panoramic views of the Bay of Naples.

Another historical site worth visiting is the Bagni della Regina Giovanna, known for its scenic beauty, natural swimming pool, Roman ruins, and limestone rocks. It was once a swimming spot for the legendary queen of Naples. Please read our FULL GUIDE on this swimming spot here.

7) Relax at Villa Comunale

Head to Villa Comunale, a beautiful park offering sweeping coastline views. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely walk or to rest under the shade of the trees.

Evening:

8) Sunset at Marina Grande

Watching the sunset at Marina Grande, Sorrento’s fishing village, is a breathtaking experience. Here’s what you can expect:

• Scenic Views:

The pier provides stunning panoramic views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky lights up with orange, pink, and purple hues, creating a picturesque backdrop.

• Beach Access:

Marina Grande has a small, pebbly beach where you can dip your toes in the Mediterranean or relax with the sound of waves. It’s less crowded than other beaches in Sorrento, offering a more peaceful experience.

9) Dine at a Local Restaurant: Ristorante Tasso

Ristorante Tasso is conveniently located at Via Correale, 11/D, 80067 Sorrento NA, Italy, just a short walk from Piazza Tasso, the heart of Sorrento.

Ristorante Tasso offers a mid-to-high price range, with dishes starting at around €15 for appetizers and up to €30–€40 for main courses. Expect to spend approximately €50–€70 per person for a full meal, including drinks.

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10) Finish with gelato.

End your day with a visit to a local gelateria like Gelateria Davide for a scoop of delicious Italian gelato.

Did you happen to know the difference between GELATO AND ICE CREAM? Gelato, an Italian delicacy, is made with more milk and less cream than ice cream, resulting in a lower fat content. Also, gelato generally does not include egg yolks, which are commonly found in American ice cream recipes. These differences make gelato a unique treat, offering a richer, more flavorful experience than traditional ice cream.

11) Stroll from Piazza Lauro to Piazza Tasso

A leisurely walk from Piazza Lauro to Piazza Tasso will give you a true taste of Sorrento’s charm.

Piazza Lauro

Piazza Lauro is centrally located in Sorrento, making it easily accessible throughout the town. It is a short walk from the central train station and many popular hotels.

Piazza Lauro offers a more modern vibe compared to the historic charm of Piazza Tasso. Its spacious layout and contemporary design serve as a nice contrast to the traditional architecture found elsewhere in Sorrento.

One of the critical features of Piazza Lauro is its well-maintained green areas. The square is adorned with trees, flowers, and benches, providing a peaceful oasis for tourists and locals.

Surrounding Piazza Lauro, you will find a variety of cafes, gelato shops, and restaurants. It’s a great relaxing spot for a coffee or a quick meal. Additionally, you can shop for souvenirs or local goods in several boutiques and stores.

Piazza Tasso

Piazza Tasso, the main square, is vibrant and bustling, perfect for people-watching and soaking in the local culture.

Piazza Tasso It is the vibrant core of Sorrento, a bustling crossroads filled with bars, hotels, restaurants, and meeting points for excursions. It’s a lively hub where you’ll find people moving in every direction.

The square is named after Torquato Tasso (1544–1595), a renowned poet and one of Sorrento’s beloved figures. His statue proudly stands in the northeastern corner of the square. You’ll find another statue dedicated to Sant’Antonio Abate at the opposite end.

12) Back to hotel

Either you go and explore the nightlife in Sorrento, or you go back to your hotel to end a day in Sorrento.

Where to Stay in Sorrento

To book all our accommodations when we travel, we always use Booking.com. They have the best prices and very flexible cancellation policies, depending on the accommodation you choose.

Luxury Option

Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria – This luxury hotel offers stunning views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. Nestled amidst lush gardens, it features luxurious rooms with antique decor, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and a spectacular wellness center.

Mid-Budget Option

Hotel Antiche Mura – Located in the heart of Sorrento, this charming hotel combines modern comforts with classic Italian elegance. You can enjoy a relaxing atmosphere with amenities like an outdoor pool, complimentary breakfast, and proximity to local attractions.

Budget Option

Ulisse Deluxe Hostel – Ideal for budget-conscious travelers, this hostel offers clean and comfortable accommodations without breaking the bank. Ulisse Deluxe Hostel provides excellent value for money with its central location, friendly staff, and well-appointed common areas.

Getting Around Sorrento

Sorrento is incredibly walkable, making it easy to explore on foot.

Once you’re in Sorrento, you have multiple options:

1. Walking: Sorrento is a SMALL TOWN, and many of its attractions, shops, restaurants, and cafes are within walking distance of each other. You can also reach Marina Grande, Sorrento’s charming fishing village, and enjoy lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants specializing in fresh seafood dishes.
2. Local Bus Services: The EAV buses operate regular services around Sorrento and to neighboring towns. The bus network helps visit local attractions and nearby villages.
3. Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis are available throughout Sorrento. They can be hailed on the street, found at taxi stands, or booked through your accommodation. Rideshare services like Uber are less common but may be accessible in larger areas.
4. Scooter and Bike Rentals: For a fun and flexible way to explore, consider renting a scooter or a bicycle. Several rental shops in Sorrento offer daily or weekly rentals.
5. Ferry and Boat Services: If you want to visit nearby coastal destinations such as Capri, Naples, or the Amalfi Coast, ferries and boat services depart regularly from the Marina Piccola port in Sorrento. This is also a scenic and enjoyable way to travel.

Another convenient way is to use the Sorrento Lift

A truly convenient and scenic way to reach the picturesque Marina Grande is by taking the SORRENTO LIFT.

This modern elevator near the Villa Comunale Park offers a quick and hassle-free descent to the old fishing village.

The ride saves time and provides stunning views of the cliffside and the azure waters below.

Once you step out of the lift, you will find yourself immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of Marina Grande.

The Sorrento Lift operates daily, making it an accessible option for both tourists and locals looking to explore the coastal delights of Sorrento.

RATES of the Sorrento lift

• TICKET: € 1,10
• RETURN TICKET: € 2,00
• DISABLED € 0,50
• FREE FOR CHILDREN LESS THAN ONE METRE HEIGHT

Ticket-Purchasing Locations for the Sorrento Lift

• Villa Comunale Park
• Sorrento Lift entrance in Marina Piccola

OPENING TIMES of the Sorrento Lift

• January, February, March, November and December, from 07,30 to 20:30
• April – October: 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
• May from 07,30 to 24,00
• June, July, August and September, from 07:30 to 01:00

CONTACT Details

Phone: +39 081.8781234

When should I visit Sorrento?

Sorrento is a year-round destination, but SPRING is the best time to visit!

• Spring (March to May): Spring is THE BEST time to visit Sorrento. The weather is pleasantly warm, and the crowds are relatively thin compared to the peak summer months. This is also a great time to experience the blooming flowers and green landscapes.
• Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Sorrento. The hot and sunny weather makes it perfect for beach activities, swimming, and boat tours. As we covered, be prepared for large crowds and high prices for accommodation and tours.
• Autumn (September to November): Autumn is a delightful time to visit as the crowds dissipate and the weather remains warm. It’s an ideal period for exploring the city’s historic sites, outdoor cafes, and stunning coastal views without the summer rush.
• Winter (December to February): The winter months are the least crowded, and while the weather is cooler, it remains mild compared to northern European winter conditions.

Discover Sorrento’s Culinary Scene

Restaurants

• Il Buco – A Michelin-starred restaurant offering an exquisite dining experience.
• Ristorante Pizzeria Tasso – Known for its delicious pizzas and friendly atmosphere.
• Trattoria da Emilia – A charming spot at Marina Grande serving traditional Sorrentine dishes. When visiting Sorrento, exploring its culinary delights is a must.

Nearby Attractions

Using Sorrento as a Hub to Explore the Amalfi Coast

Sorrento is an excellent base for exploring the Amalfi Coast. You can easily take a day trip to Positano, Naples, Amalfi, or Ravello, each offering stunning coastal views and unique attractions.

Conclusion

We hope we have been able to answer the question: ‘What to see in Sorrento Italy in one day’?

With its natural beauty, rich history, and culinary delights, Sorrento offers an unforgettable experience even in a single day.

Whether strolling through historic lanes, savoring local cuisine, or exploring ancient ruins, every moment in Sorrento is magical.

Let us know in the comments about your experience!