The Sorrento Peninsula is the territory between the Gulf of Naples and the Gulf of Salerno — Sorrento as logistical centre, with its lemon groves, IGP lemons and limoncello production. It is the most convenient base for visiting the Amalfi Coast, Capri and Pompeii, connected to Naples by Circumvesuviana (50 min, €3.40 from Napoli-Piazza Garibaldi station). From Rome: 3h 30' by car. From Naples: 50 min by Circumvesuviana. Capodichino airport (NAP) 65km away — Circumvesuviana from Piazza Garibaldi.
Sorrento and the Peninsula
Sorrento (historic centre) has the Cathedral (17th-century frescoes), the Piazza Tasso arcades and Villa Comunale with the gulf terrace. Marina Piccola (with the villa lift, €1) is the harbour with fish restaurants. Intarsia woodwork (geometric inlay woodworking, local production since the 17th century) is the identity craft — the best shops are on Via San Cesareo. The IGP Sorrento lemon (very fragrant, thick rind, not suitable for direct consumption — only for limoncello, liqueurs and pastry) is the most exported product. Sant'Agnello (3km from Sorrento) and Piano di Sorrento (5km) are more authentic and cheaper. The Convento di San Francesco (Romanesque cloister, free) hosts summer concerts.
Excursions: Capri, Positano and Baia di Ieranto
From Sorrento you can easily reach: Capri (hydrofoil 20 min, €24 return from Sorrento), Positano and Amalfi (seasonal ferry April-October), Pompeii (Circumvesuviana 30 min), Naples (Circumvesuviana 50 min), Herculaneum (Circumvesuviana 40 min). The Path of the Gods (from Agerola above Positano, 7.5km, 3h, medium difficulty — bus from Sorrento to Agerola) is one of Campania's most famous treks. Baia di Ieranto (WWF marine reserve, free access, only on foot 1h 30' from Nerano) is the peninsula's most beautiful beach — no beach clubs, no bar, crystal water, controlled access (maximum 500 people simultaneously). Marina del Cantone (on foot from Nerano, 20 min) is the most authentic fishing village with excellent fish restaurants.
Practical tips
Baia di Ieranto (1h 30' on foot from Nerano) is the peninsula's most beautiful beach — worth every step
Sorrento is the best logistical base for Capri, Pompeii and Amalfi — a hub, not just a destination
Artisan Sorrento limoncello is bought from local shops — not from port souvenir shops
Plan your Sorrento Peninsula weekend
Sorrento, Capri and Baia di Ieranto — itinerary in 5 minutes.
Plan now
