Sorrento, Italy: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2026

Sorrento, beautifully perched on a plateau overlooking the Bay of Naples, has been a favored tourist destination for nearly two centuries. Traditionally, it has been one of the preferred resorts for British visitors to Italy, and in recent decades, it has become Italy's leading package-holiday spot for English-speaking travelers. This historic seaside town has adeptly embraced tourism, offering a classic Mediterranean summer holiday atmosphere while preserving its authentic Italian character and charm.

One of Sorrento's main attractions is its ability to cater to a wide range of holiday experiences. Visitors can enjoy rural walks through lemon and olive groves or choose from various excursions by land or sea. With easy access to Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Naples in one direction, and the Amalfi Coast in another, Sorrento provides an excellent base for exploring Roman ruins, quaint seaside resorts, traditional villages, and stunning scenery. Its well-connected infrastructure makes Sorrento a convenient and practical holiday choice.

History of Sorrento

Ancient Origins: Sorrento’s history dates back to ancient times, with its origins rooted in Greek mythology and early human settlements. The name Sorrento is derived from the Latin word “Surrentum,” and legend has it that the town was founded by Liparus, the son of Ausonus and grandson of Ulysses. The area was originally inhabited by the Oscans, a pre-Roman Italic people.

Roman Era: Sorrento became an important Roman colony and a favored resort for the Roman elite. The town’s strategic location and natural beauty made it a desirable place for wealthy Romans to build luxurious villas. Remnants of Roman architecture and artifacts can still be seen in the area, reflecting its significance during this period.

Middle Ages: Following the fall of the Roman Empire, Sorrento experienced various invasions and changes in rule. It was initially part of the Byzantine Empire and later became a duchy under the Lombards. In the 11th century, Sorrento was incorporated into the Norman Kingdom of Sicily. Throughout the Middle Ages, it retained a degree of autonomy and developed as a maritime trading center.

Renaissance and Early Modern Period: During the Renaissance, Sorrento flourished culturally and economically. The town saw the construction of beautiful churches, palaces, and other significant buildings. It became a center of learning and culture, attracting scholars, artists, and nobility. The 16th century, however, brought challenges, including pirate raids, most notably by the infamous pirate Barbarossa.

19th Century to Present: The 19th century marked the beginning of Sorrento’s transformation into a popular tourist destination. The advent of the Grand Tour, a traditional trip around Europe undertaken by upper-class young men, brought many travelers to Sorrento. The town’s picturesque landscapes, mild climate, and cultural heritage made it a favorite stop.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Sorrento continued to attract writers, artists, and celebrities. The construction of modern infrastructure, including roads and railways, made it more accessible to tourists.

Modern Era: Today, Sorrento is renowned for its stunning views over the Bay of Naples, its charming historic center, and its role as a gateway to the Amalfi Coast. While tourism is the mainstay of its economy, Sorrento has managed to retain its unique character and charm, blending its rich historical past with modern amenities.

The town celebrates its cultural heritage through various festivals and events, including the Festa di Sant’Antonino, honoring its patron saint, and the Sorrento Lemon Festival, showcasing the region’s famous citrus fruits. Sorrento’s history, from its ancient beginnings to its present-day allure, continues to captivate visitors from around the world.

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Visiting Sorrento for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Sorrento on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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