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Sorrento is a charming cliffside town on Italy’s Bay of Naples—easy to combine with Naples, the Amalfi Coast, Capri and Pompeii. Expect steep lanes, panoramic views, seafood, limoncello, and a relaxed Italian pace.
Visa & entry requirements
- Schengen rules apply: non-EU visitors check whether you need a Schengen visa. U.S., Canada, UK, Australia, and many countries have visa-free entry for short stays (usually 90 days within 180 days).
- Passport should be valid for at least 3 months beyond planned departure from the Schengen Area (rules can vary—confirm before travel).
- Carry printed accommodation and return-ticket info for border control if requested.
Best time to visit
- Peak season: June–August (warm, crowded, higher prices).
- Best balance: May–early June and September–October — warm weather, fewer crowds, better prices.
- Winter (Nov–Mar): quieter, many hotels/restaurants reduce hours; good for lower prices and calmer sightseeing but cooler and rainier.
Safety tips
- Sorrento is generally safe for tourists. Take standard precautions:
- Watch for pickpockets in crowded areas, trains, and ferries.
- Keep valuables in a money belt or secure bag; avoid leaving belongings on beach loungers unattended.
- Be cautious on narrow streets and steep stairways; wear comfortable shoes.
- If driving, be aware of narrow, winding coastal roads and limited parking.
Local customs & etiquette
- Greet with a simple "Buongiorno" or "Buonasera"; Italians appreciate polite phrases.
- Dress: casual for daytime; slightly smarter for dinner in nicer restaurants.
- Dining: lunch is usually 12:30–2:30, dinner from 7:30–10:30. Tipping isn’t obligatory—round up or leave 5–10% for good service; many places add a coperto (cover charge) shown on the bill.
- Respect church etiquette: dress modestly when entering religious sites.
Currency & payments
- Currency: Euro (EUR). Cash is widely used for small purchases; credit/debit cards accepted at most hotels, restaurants and shops, but carry some cash for small cafes, market stalls and ferries.
- ATMs are common in town; notify your bank before travel to avoid card blocks.
Transportation
- By air: Nearest major airport is Naples (NAP) — ~1–1.5 hours to Sorrento by taxi, private transfer, or train/ferry combination.
- From Naples: Circumvesuviana train (Naples Porta Nolana to Sorrento) — affordable (~1 hr) but can be crowded. Alibus + SITA buses and private transfers available. Ferries from Molo Beverello (Naples) to Sorrento in season are faster and scenic.
- Around Sorrento: town is compact and best explored on foot; expect many steps and hills. Local buses (SITA) run to nearby towns along the Amalfi Coast. Taxis are limited and can be expensive. Renting a scooter is popular but requires confidence on narrow roads.
- Ferries: regular services to Capri, Ischia, Positano and Amalfi (seasonal). Book in high season.
Must-know tips & local insights
- Views: Visit Villa Comunale for panoramic views of the Bay of Naples and Vesuvius, especially at sunset.
- Day trips: Capri, Positano, Amalfi, Pompeii, Herculaneum and Mount Vesuvius are easy day trips—start early in high season.
- Food & drink: Try fresh seafood, gnocchi alla sorrentina, pasta with local tomatoes, and limoncello (Sorrento is famous for lemons). Visit a small family-run trattoria for authentic meals. Buy artisanal limoncello or ceramics as souvenirs.
- Markets: Daily markets sell local produce, cheese, and souvenirs—good for picnic ingredients.
- Crowds & timing: To avoid crush at the main Corso and marinas, explore narrow side streets and neighborhoods like Marina Grande in the morning or later afternoon.
- Accommodation tip: Book early for summer; consider staying slightly uphill or in nearby Sant’Agnello for quieter, better-value options.
- Connectivity: Wi‑Fi is common in hotels and cafes, but mobile data is handy for navigation on winding streets and ferry schedules.
Practical checklist
- Passport, any necessary Schengen visa, travel insurance
- Comfortable walking shoes, light layers, sun protection
- Some euros in cash, credit card, phone charger/adapter (Type C/E/F)
- Printed or offline maps and ferry/train schedules during high season
Enjoy Sorrento’s scenery, cuisine, and access to the Amalfi Coast—plan logistics for ferries and trains in high season and savor the relaxed pace.