This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.
Planning a trip to Sorrento, Italy? You’ve come to the experts!
This charming coastal town is the ideal base for exploring the Amalfi Coast, indulging in incredible Italian cuisine, and soaking up those dreamy Mediterranean views. Whether you’re craving a farm-fresh meal, a scenic boat ride to Capri, or a deep dive into ancient history at Pompeii, Sorrento has something for everyone.
We’ve put together this list of the best things to do in Sorrento, featuring top-rated tours that take the hassle out of planning. Each experience has been carefully chosen based on personal experience and outstanding reviews, so you can feel confident adding them to your itinerary. Ready to make your trip unforgettable? Let’s dive in!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Sorrento was this full-day tour of the Amalfi Coast. We had free time to explore multiple charming villages, took a boat ride along the coast, and loved that it was a small group with a fantastic guide.
- Don't Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Sorrento, Italy
- 1. Visit a farm and taste locally made olive oil, limoncello, and wine
- 2. Spend a day exploring Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello
- 3. Relax on a boat trip to Capri and the famous Blue Grotto
- 4. Learn how to cook like a local with a sea view
- 5. Take a day trip to Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius
- 6. Cruise along the Amalfi coast on a full-day boat tour
- 7. See Sorrento’s best sights and tastiest stops on a food tour
- Where to Stay in Sorrento, Italy
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Stay safe in Europe & avoid scams!
- Renting a Car in Italy
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Sorrento, Italy
1. Visit a farm and taste locally made olive oil, limoncello, and wine
- Duration: 3 hours and 45 minutes
- Time: 9:30 am and 3:30 pm (not available Mondays)
- Highlights: Discover the practices of a traditional Italian farm, enjoy a meal with dessert, sample a variety of olive oils, cheeses, limoncello, and more
- Inclusions: Professional guide, light lunch/dinner, food tastings, round trip transportation from Sorrento, hop-on hop-off tour
- Rating: 5 stars (check 1,800+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We’ve always loved Italian food, but tasting it fresh from the source took things to a whole new level! This farm-to-table tour brought us to a fourth-generation family farm outside Sorrento, where we saw how olive oil, wine, and honey are made and then got to taste everything!
Pickup near our hotel in Sorrento made getting started effortless. After a scenic countryside drive, we arrived at the farm, where the owners greeted us with warm smiles and handshakes. We immediately felt like old friends instead of tourists!
We could smell the citrus as we wandered through the olive and lemon groves and learned about the process of turning fresh olives into the rich, golden oil Italians swear by. Since this is a hop-on, hop-off tour, we didn’t have to walk the entire farm, making it easy to explore without getting worn out.
Our guide took his time explaining every step, making sure we didn’t just taste the food but understood the effort and tradition behind it. We even sipped their house-made wine and limoncello!
Afterward, we gathered around the table for a meal made from the farm’s organic ingredients. It didn’t feel like a tour but more like sitting down with family, sharing food, laughter, and good conversation.
This Italian farm tour is an unforgettable way to experience Sorrento’s food culture. Don’t just take our word for it—read hundreds of glowing 5-star reviews here!
Check availability and book this top-rated Italian farm tour today!
2. Spend a day exploring Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello
- Duration: 8 – 9 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 8:30–11 am
- Highlights: Soak up the beauty of the Amalfi Coast, let a driver navigate the winding coastal roads, explore the villages of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello
- Inclusions: Private tour with or without guide or group tour with guide (depending on the option selected), hotel pick up and drop off (only available on private tour options), air-conditioned mini-coach, boat transfer from Positano to Amalfi (from May to October with group options only)
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 1,900+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
For stunning views, charming villages, and an authentic glimpse into coastal life, this Amalfi Coast tour is the perfect way to explore paradise!
We opted for the group tour from Sorrento, enjoying a full-day adventure that stopped at Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. It offered the ideal mix of guided exploration and free time!
Leaving Sorrento, we were immediately grateful not to be navigating the winding coastal roads ourselves. Our guide kept us entertained with local history and insider tips while panoramic views of sheer cliffs and colorful villages stretched out before us.
In Positano, we had plenty of time to explore its narrow streets lined with boutiques, pick up handmade sandals, and grab a quick espresso near the beach.
Our favorite part was the boat ride from Positano to Amalfi! Seeing the coastline from the water revealed its dramatic beauty. Heads-up—the boat transfer only operates from May to October, so plan your visit accordingly!
In Amalfi, we had time to visit the Cathedral of Saint Andrews, savor a Santa Rosa pastry, and stroll past shops selling limoncello. Finally, we reached Ravello, a quieter but equally stunning town, where we took in incredible coastline views and, for an additional cost, wandered through Villa Rufolo’s beautiful gardens.
If you’re looking to experience the magic of the Amalfi Coast without the stress of planning, this tour is an absolute must!
This tour is likely to sell out—book early to secure your spot here!
3. Relax on a boat trip to Capri and the famous Blue Grotto
- Duration: 9 hours
- Time: 7:40 am, 8 am, 9 am, 9:15 am (depending on port location)
- Highlights: Admire coastal views as you cruise to Capri by jetfoil, visit the lively island towns of Anacapri and Capri, marvel at natural wonders like the Blue Grotto
- Inclusions: Local guide, port pickup and drop-off, round-trip fast ferry tickets, transport by shuttle bus on the island, Blue Grotto admission tickets, shared boat ride tour around the island (if Blue Grotto is closed)
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 950+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
A trip to Capri is a must when visiting Sorrento, and this full-day island tour made it effortless! With round-trip ferry tickets, island transport, and a local guide, all we had to do was show up at the Sorrento port, ready for an adventure.
The journey started with a jetfoil ride across the sea, with incredible views of the Sorrentine coastline and our amazing guide, Tiizianna. Our first stop was the famous Blue Grotto, a natural sea cave where the sunlight creates an electric blue glow. High waves can sometimes prevent entry, but we lucked out and got to see it. It looked like someone had dropped a neon light into the sea!
From there, we explored the island, stopping at Villa San Michele, a home-turned-museum known for its elegant architectural details and lush gardens. Then we stopped in Anacapri for our favorite part—a chairlift ride up Monte Solaro! The chairlift isn’t included in the tour price, but trust us, the views are absolutely worth it!
We finished the day in Capri’s main square, grabbing a quick espresso before heading back to Sorrento. The lively piazza was the perfect place to soak in the island’s energy, with stylish cafés, boutiques, and people-watching that could easily keep you entertained for hours.
Capri is stunning, but navigating it on your own can be overwhelming. This tour took care of everything, so we could just enjoy the experience!
Reserve your spot on this unforgettable island adventure here and pay later!
Related Read: Hotels in Sorrento book up fast, so read our guide on where to stay in Sorrento for tips!
4. Learn how to cook like a local with a sea view
- Duration: 4 hours
- Time: 10 am and 5 pm
- Highlights: Connect with a local host and instructor in his family villa on the Sorrentine coast, learn to make three traditional dishes, relax over lunch or dinner featuring your dishes
- Inclusions: Local cooking instructor, dinner/lunch, alcoholic beverages, coffee/tea, kitchen equipment, round-trip transportation from the Vico Equense train station (for an additional fee)
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 575+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We’ve taken cooking classes before, but nothing quite like this seaside culinary experience! Standing in a cozy kitchen with a view of the Sorrentine coastline, limoncello in hand, and learning from Chef Cristiano was perfect from start to finish.
We opted for transportation from the Vico Equense train station, and from the moment we arrived, we felt like family. We were greeted with coffee and given fresh ingredients picked straight from the garden.
Then, it was time to get to work! But don’t worry, even if you’re not a natural in the kitchen, Chef Cristiano makes it fun and simple. We prepped eggplant parmesan, layering crispy eggplant with rich tomato sauce and gooey mozzarella.
Making gnocchi was easier than I imagined. Rolling out the dough and cutting those soft little pillows felt like a small victory. And, of course, no meal is complete without dessert! We took turns assembling tiramisù, layering espresso-soaked biscuits with silky mascarpone, and sneaking a few bites in between.
After cooking, we sat down on the terrace to feast, and we have to say—this was some of the best food we had in Italy! Maybe it was the fresh ingredients, the wine, or just the joy of making it ourselves.
Either way, it was an experience we won’t forget. Read rave reviews here and find out why it’s a top-rated tour!
Don’t visit Sorrento without booking this one-of-a-kind cooking class here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
5. Take a day trip to Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius
- Duration: 8 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 7:30-10:30 am
- Highlights: Full-day private or group tour of Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius from Sorrento, wander amid Pompeii’s ruins, see the Forum of the Basilica, hike up Mt. Vesuvius and learn about its history
- Inclusions: Skip-the-line access, official local guide in Pompeii, round trip transportation with air-conditioned vehicle, Pompeii Archaeological Park and Vesuvius National Park admission, headphones in Pompeii for larger groups
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 1,000+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Some places just hit differently in person, and Pompeii is one of them! Walking its ancient streets on this Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius tour brought its history to life. Add a hike up the volcano that buried it, and you’ve got an unforgettable day!
The tour kicked off in Sorrento, where we met our group for the bus ride to Pompeii. Skipping the long lines once we arrived was a huge win, and having a guide made all the difference.
We wandered through the Forum, stepped inside ancient villas, and even saw the remains of a Roman fast-food joint. But the most chilling part? The plaster casts of people frozen in time—it’s eerie, but it really puts the power of Mt. Vesuvius into perspective!
Then came the climb! Our bus took us most of the way up Vesuvius, but the last stretch was on foot. The trail was steep and dusty, but totally worth it! Reaching the crater’s edge, I felt a mix of excitement and unease. Scientists say it’s overdue for another eruption, adding to the thrill.
If Vesuvius is closed, the tour swaps in Herculaneum, another ancient buried city with incredible ruins. Either way, this Pompeii tour needs to be on your Sorreto itinerary!
Whether you’re a history buff or just love a good adventure, this tour covers both. Skip-the-line tickets, expert guides, and round-trip transport make it hassle-free—just bring comfortable shoes and a sense of adventure!
Book here and get free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour starts!
6. Cruise along the Amalfi coast on a full-day boat tour
- Duration: 8 hours
- Time: 8 am and 9 am
- Highlights: Full-day boat tour of the Amalfi Coast from Sorrento, stop at Li Galli Island, Amalfi, and Positano, free time to swim, shop, dine, and stroll at each location, tour the Amalfi Coast without the hassle of vehicle traffic
- Inclusions: Hotel/port pickup and drop-off from Sorrento, beverages, light snack, alcoholic beverages, limoncello tasting, boat equipped with WiFi and stereo
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 400+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Our favorite way to experience the Amalfi Coast was by water! This full-day boat tour from Sorrento skips the traffic and gives you uninterrupted views of Italy’s most famous coastline—plus stops at Li Galli Island, Amalfi, and Positano for swimming, shopping, and plenty of limoncello!
After meeting our guide in Sorrento, we set sail with a small group (max 12 travelers), which made for a much more relaxed and personal experience than some larger tours we’ve been on.
The first stop was Li Galli Island. Snorkeling here felt like diving into a hidden paradise—the kind of place you’d never find on your own. You’ll need to bring your own snorkeling equipment, but it’s worth it! We saw the coolest neon blue and green ornate wrasse fish!
Back on board, the views kept getting better as we cruised past dramatic cliffs and pastel-colored villages. In Amalfi, we had plenty of time to explore. The grand staircase and intricate façade of the Cathedral of Saint Andrew were impossible to miss. After snapping photos, we grabbed seafood at a tucked-away trattoria before heading to Positano.
The steep, winding streets were lined with boutique shops selling everything from handmade sandals to locally made ceramics. Of course, we also had to stop at a beachside café for an espresso with an incredible view!
With Wi-Fi, snacks, and even a limoncello tasting onboard, this tour is as relaxing as it is scenic. It’s a popular one, though—so book in advance before it sells out!
Spots on this small-group tour go fast—book yours now for the best Amalfi Coast experience!
7. See Sorrento’s best sights and tastiest stops on a food tour
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 10:30 am and 4 pm (not available Tuesdays)
- Highlights: Small-group food and drink walking tour in Sorrento, visit eateries, shops, and markets, sample pasta, paninis, cheeses, cured meats, pastries, gelato, limoncello, and more
- Inclusions: Local guide, all food and drink tastings at eight different locations
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 700+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If there’s one thing we never say no to, it’s a food tour—especially in Italy! This small-group Sorrento walking tour isn’t just about eating (though let’s be honest, that’s the best part). It’s about discovering the city through its flavors, stopping at family-run spots that serve up the real deal.
We kicked things off in Piazza Tasso, where our guide gave us a quick rundown before leading us straight to dessert—because why not? The first bite was sfogliatelle, a flaky, shell-shaped pastry with a sweet ricotta filling. I could’ve eaten five, but we had to save room for lots more to come!
Next was a hot-pressed panini, followed by pali e’ riso, Sorrento’s version of a fried rice ball. We walked through town, learning about the local food culture while taking in views of Mount Vesuvius in the distance. One of my favorite stops was a family-run lemon grove, where we learned how limoncello is made. It was the perfect spot to snap a few photos before sipping on the good stuff!
Then the food just kept coming! There was buffalo mozzarella so fresh it practically melted, locally brewed craft beer, and a plate of pasta paired with regional wine. And just when we thought we couldn’t eat another bite, we wrapped things up with creamy, homemade gelato.
If you love food, this tour is the perfect way to experience Sorrento. Just be sure to show up hungry!
Taste your way through Sorrento and book this walking food tour here!
Related Read: Maximize your time and follow our 3-day Sorrento Itinerary! This includes some of these top activities and our favorite hidden gems!
Where to Stay in Sorrento, Italy
Now that you have your Sorrento itinerary planned, it’s time to find the perfect place to stay! Whether you’re looking for luxury with a view, a comfortable mid-range stay, or a budget-friendly option, there’s something for every traveler. To help you find the best fit, I’ve rounded up the top places to stay in Sorrento below!
Luxury – $$$
Palazzo Marziale is a stunning luxury stay in the heart of Sorrento. This elegant boutique hotel blends historic charm with modern comfort, offering beautifully decorated rooms and suites. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast, relax in the stylish lounge areas, and dine at the on-site restaurants. Plus, with its prime location near Piazza Tasso and the scenic waterfront, you’ll be perfectly situated to explore the best of Sorrento!
Prices vary depending on the time of year but usually start around €300 per night during the slow season, and €500 per night during the busy summer season. You can check prices and book this stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Mistral Luxury Suites is a fantastic mid-range option in Sorrento, offering stylish and modern accommodations in a central location. The suites are spacious and well-equipped, with some featuring balconies and gorgeous sea views. It is also just a short walk from the train station and Piazza Tasso, making it a great base for exploring the Amalfi Coast!
Prices usually range between €140 – €250 per night depending on the time of year. You can book this stay on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Ostello Le Sirene is a budget-friendly option in Sorrento, perfect for travelers looking for a central and affordable stay. The hostel offers both private rooms and dormitories, all with air conditioning. Plus, it’s just a short walk from the beach, and guests can enjoy discounts at a partner restaurant nearby!
Private rooms usually start at around €70 per night and dorm beds are around €40. You can reserve your room here on Booking.com!
For more options, see all of the hotels in Sorrento here!
Renting a Car in Italy
Renting a car in Italy is one of the best ways to explore the country beyond the cities—think charming Tuscan villages, dramatic Amalfi Coast drives, and hidden gems in the countryside. While Italy’s roads can be a little chaotic (especially in cities), with the right preparation, renting a car here can be an unforgettable and rewarding experience!
We always use Discover Cars when booking our rentals, and highly recommend them. They compare dozens of providers to find you the best rates, include important filters like “automatic transmission,” and offer affordable full insurance coverage. For more info, you can read our in-depth Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Italy
- Drive on the right: Italians drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left. Right turns on red are illegal, and you must often yield to vehicles coming from the right at intersections.
- Stay alert and confident: Italian driving can feel aggressive in cities—expect assertive drivers, scooters weaving through traffic, and liberal horn use (often just a form of communication). Stay calm and practice defensive driving.
- Insurance is a must: We highly recommend adding full coverage insurance when booking. Minor damage like scratches and dents is common, especially in cities, and Discover Cars’ full protection gives you peace of mind at a low cost!
- Mind the ZTL zones: Many city centers have restricted traffic zones called ZTLs. Entering without a permit can result in a fine. Check with your hotel and use GPS with ZTL alerts.
- Choose the right vehicle: Roads in Italy can be narrow and parking tight, so a compact car is usually best. Most rentals are manual, but if you need an automatic, you can easily filter for one when booking with Discover Cars.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Italy
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- You must be at least 18 years old, but renters under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Italy on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
That’s our complete guide on the best things to do in Sorrento! I hope you found a few unforgettable experiences to add to your trip here. This is such a gorgeous part of Italy – we didn’t want to leave!
Planning your dream trip? Let us help! We have blogs on destinations around the world or our Europe section might come in handy for your time in Italy. I also put a few popular blogs below!
How to Spend FIVE days on the Amalfi Coast, Italy: 5-Day Itinerary
10 Best Things to do in Naples, Italy