This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.
Dreaming of the perfect three days in Sorrento? We’ve mapped it all out for you.
Sorrento is a sunny clifftop gem that blends small-town charm with big coastal views. As frequent visitors, we’ve put together the perfect itinerary to help you experience the best of Sorrento, without feeling rushed. From lemon-scented lanes and colorful marinas to cooking classes and jaw-dropping coastal day trips, this town has a little something for everyone.
Whether you’re sipping espresso in Piazza Tasso or cruising past pastel villages on the Amalfi Coast, our step-by-step plan makes it all easy. We’ve tested the tours, sampled the food, and planned it all out so you don’t have to. Let’s make your Sorrento getaway effortless and unforgettable!
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 was this Sorrento farm experience! We learned about farm-to-table cooking, explored lemon and olive groves, and tasted our way through the day.
Check out the 2,000+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Itinerary Overview
Three days in Sorrento gives you just enough time for the perfect mix of local charm, coastal scenery, and delicious flavors. Perched above the Bay of Naples, this town is compact, walkable, and well-connected to the rest of the region.
You won’t need a rental car—most of the town can be explored on foot, and guided tours make it easy to venture further afield. Whether you’re here for lemon groves, colorful marinas, or postcard-perfect day trips, this itinerary balances iconic highlights with hands-on experiences and downtime to simply enjoy la dolce vita.
- Day 1: Start your morning at a café near Piazza Tasso before joining a small-group walking tour of Sorrento’s Old Town. Enjoy lunch at Nalù Trattoria Italiana, then spend the afternoon exploring sights like Chiostro di San Francesco and Villa Comunale at your own pace. In the evening, join a hands-on cooking class overlooking the sea.
- Day 2: Begin your day at Gentile Café before heading to the countryside for a half-day farm tour and lunch. Return to Sorrento for a stroll along Corso Italia, then sip an aperitivo in Piazza Tasso before dinner at Accènto. End the night with a scoop of gelato from Fresco Sorrento.
- Day 3: Choose either a full-day Amalfi Coast tour with stops in Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, or a guided tour to Capri and the Blue Grotto. Wrap up your final evening with a seafood dinner right by the water at Porta Marina.
Related Read: Still need to book a hotel? Check out our guide on the best places to stay in Sorrento!
Day 1
Breakfast – Cappuccino Sorrento
Start your first morning in Sorrento with a quick but satisfying Italian-style breakfast at Cappuccino Sorrento. Just a 4-minute walk from our 10 am tour meeting point, this casual café is the ideal stop for a cappuccino and a fresh cornetto or croissant. With shaded outdoor tables and a local vibe, it’s perfect for easing into the day without a rush.
We grabbed our coffee and pastry, soaked up the morning buzz, and still had time to wander a bit before the tour. The prices are great, the staff is friendly, and the coffee is exactly what you’d hope for in Italy—smooth, strong, and no-frills. It’s a simple, satisfying way to fuel up for the day ahead!
Learn about Sorrento on a walking tour
Landing in a new town can be disorienting, especially when you’re jetlagged, hungry, and trying to make sense of winding old streets. That’s exactly why we booked this walking tour on our first day, and it was the best way to start our trip. We recommend the 10 am–12 pm time slot, which gives you the morning to ease into the day with breakfast and still leaves the afternoon wide open for exploring.
We met our local guide, Tanya, near Piazza Tasso, and immediately felt at ease. She was warm, energetic, and clearly passionate about her hometown. Over the next couple of hours, she led us through charming alleys and sunlit squares, from the grand Cathedral of Sorrento to the peaceful Cloister of San Francesco, and even down to the old fishing village of Marina Grande.
The relaxed pace gave us time to take photos and ask questions, and we capped things off with a stop for gelato (or a sfogliatella, if you prefer). Not only did this tour help us get oriented and learn about Sorrento’s culture, but it also gave us a local perspective we never would’ve found on our own.
We loved every minute, and clearly, we’re not the only ones. Read hundreds of five-star reviews here and see why this tour has earned its outstanding reputation!
Book your spot here and start your Sorrento trip with confidence!
Lunch – Nalù Trattoria italiana
After the walking tour, we headed toward our next stop and passed Nalù Trattoria Italiana, a cozy, well-reviewed spot that felt like a lucky find. It’s right along the way, making it an easy and delicious choice for lunch without veering off track. The menu features Southern Italian classics made with care—think fresh seafood pasta, meatballs in rich tomato sauce, and crisp salads.
The staff was friendly and happy to share recommendations, and the whole place had a laid-back, local vibe. Just a heads-up: they’re closed on Tuesdays, so plan accordingly. We left full but not overly stuffed, ready to dive into the rest of the day.
Afternoon – Explore Sorrento on your own
After getting your bearings during the walking tour, take the afternoon to explore a few more highlights of Sorrento at your own pace. You may have passed some of these spots earlier, but now’s your chance to slow down, soak them in, and take a deeper look. Everything is walkable and easy to navigate now that you’ve had a proper introduction to the town.
- Chiostro di San Francesco – Just steps from the heart of town, this historic monastery is now a peaceful art and event space. Its cloistered courtyard, framed by vines and stone arches, is a quiet spot to relax and often features small exhibits or live music.
- Villa Comunale di Sorrento – A peaceful park with panoramic views over the Bay of Naples. It’s the perfect place to take a break, snap some photos, or just breathe in the sea air.
- Get panoramic views – Adjacent to the park is the Sorrento Lift, which brings you down to the marina (or back up) while offering stunning views of the Bay of Naples. It’s a fun, quick ride, but if you’re up for it, you can also take the stairs.
- Basilica Sant’Antonino – One of the most beloved churches in town, this small basilica is dedicated to Sorrento’s patron saint. Step inside to admire its quiet beauty and historic charm. It’s right on the way as you walk to your cooking class, so it’s an easy and worthwhile stop.
Evening – Learn how to cook like a local with a sea view
After a full day of sightseeing, there’s nothing better than unwinding with a seaside breeze and the smell of fresh tomato sauce simmering on the stove. That’s exactly what this hands-on cooking class delivers—an evening filled with food, laughter, and stunning coastal views.
We’ve done cooking classes before, but nothing quite like this. From the moment we arrived at the family home in Vico Equense, we felt like welcomed guests. Chef Cristiano greeted us with coffee and a quick tour of the garden, where many of the ingredients we’d be using were grown.
The setting was a cozy kitchen overlooking the coastline that felt straight out of a movie. We couldn’t stop peeking out the windows between chopping and stirring. The view was just that pretty!
The cooking was hands-on but easy to follow, even for beginners. We made eggplant parmesan, rolled out homemade gnocchi, and built the dreamiest tiramisu layer by layer. Cristiano kept it fun, relaxed, and just the right amount of instruction. By the time we sat down on the terrace to enjoy our creations, we couldn’t believe how good everything tasted.
We recommend booking the 5 to 9 pm time slot, which gives you a full afternoon to explore before winding down with a sunset view and a homemade feast. It’s the perfect way to end your first day in Sorrento!
Reserve this unforgettable culinary experience here and get FREE cancellation before you go!
Day 2
Breakfast – Gentile Cafè Sorrento
Let’s kick today off with breakfast at Gentile Cafè Sorrento. It’s a cozy little spot that opens early (7 am!) and is just a quick two-minute walk through a park to your first tour meeting point. It’s nothing super fancy, but it is exactly what you need before a full day of exploring. The coffee is solid, the service is quick, and the menu has all the essentials like pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and even a smoked salmon avocado croissant, which was a pretty great way to start the day.
You won’t be lingering here for hours, but that’s kind of the point. Grab a table outside if the weather’s nice, fuel up, and enjoy a relaxed bite before diving into Sorrento’s charm.
Morning – Visit a farm and taste locally made olive oil, limoncello, and wine
After breakfast, we kicked off our day with one of the most rewarding food experiences in the region. This Italian farm tour brought us to a fourth-generation family farm nestled in the hills outside Sorrento, where we didn’t just taste the food, we got to see how it’s made, right at the source.
Pickup was conveniently arranged near our hotel, and the short drive through the countryside offered a peaceful break from the bustle of town. Once we arrived, we were welcomed like family. The owners greeted us with warm smiles, handshakes, and a quick espresso before guiding us through their lemon and olive groves. The citrus scent was everywhere!
Plus, the hop-on, hop-off format meant we could explore different areas of the farm without a strenuous walk. Along the way, we learned how their olive oil is pressed, how honey is harvested, and how their wine and limoncello are made with traditional methods. Tasting everything fresh on-site made it all the more special.
We ended the tour with a home-cooked lunch on the terrace, made entirely from the farm’s organic ingredients. It was casual, welcoming, and filled with good conversation!
We recommend the 9:30 am to 1:30 pm slot but keep in mind it’s not available on Mondays, so plan accordingly. It’s easy to see why so many travelers rave about this tour—read the glowing five-star reviews here!
Check availability and book this top-rated Italian farm tour here!
Afternoon – Corso Italia
After lunch, head back into town and spend the afternoon exploring Corso Italia, Sorrento’s vibrant pedestrian-only shopping street. This lively stretch is lined with boutiques, artisan workshops, cafés, and gelaterias, making it just as fun for people-watching as it is for actual shopping.
You’ll find inlaid wood crafts, hand-painted ceramics, high-quality linen clothing, and locally made leather sandals—all perfect for souvenirs or treating yourself to something uniquely Italian. And of course, you’ll spot shelves of colorful limoncello at nearly every turn.
Depending on your pace (and shopping stamina), you might spend 30 minutes or a few hours here. There’s no rush! Stop for an espresso, sample a scoop of gelato, or just sit and take in the buzz of local life. It’s an easygoing way to enjoy the heart of Sorrento before the evening begins.
Apertivo – Piazza Tasso
As the afternoon fades into evening, head back to Piazza Tasso for an aperitivo, because nothing says “welcome to Italy” like a pre-dinner drink with a view. This lively square is surrounded by bars and cafés, so you can pick a spot that catches your eye. We ended up at Fauno Bar, one of the most popular places in town, and it didn’t disappoint.
Located right on the corner of the piazza, Fauno has tons of outdoor seating—perfect for people-watching while sipping a cold drink. They also serve little snacks (classic aperitivo style), and the atmosphere is upbeat but relaxed.
Whether you stay here or try one of the nearby spots, this is the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring. Just don’t fill up too much, dinner’s coming next.
Dinner – Accènto Restaurant Sorrento
After aperitivo, take a short five-minute stroll from Piazza Tasso to Accènto Restaurant Sorrento, one of Sorrento’s top-rated dinner spots—and for good reason. This cozy, modern trattoria delivers that perfect balance of refined Italian dishes without feeling overly fancy. The staff is welcoming, the portions are generous, and the seafood is as fresh as it gets.
We’d definitely recommend making a reservation, especially during the busy season, since this place fills up quickly (and once you taste the food, you’ll see why). The menu changes seasonally, but highlights include their lemon-scented sea bass, house-made pasta, and whatever special the chef is raving about that day.
It’s the kind of place where you end up staying longer than expected—lingering over dessert, soaking up the ambiance, and already dreaming about the next day on the Amalfi Coast.
Evening – Fresco Sorrento Gelato
No Italian evening is complete without gelato, and Fresco Sorrento is the perfect final stop. Just a quick 3-minute walk from Accènto, this little gelateria serves up creamy, flavorful scoops that are so worth the extra stroll.
They’ve got all the classics like pistachio, stracciatella, hazelnut, and a few unique seasonal flavors that rotate regularly. You can’t really go wrong, but if you’re feeling indecisive, just ask to try a sample or two before committing (the staff is super friendly). Grab a cup or cone and take your time enjoying it as you wander back through the quiet streets of Sorrento.
It’s the sweetest way to end your first day on the Amalfi Coast—gelato in hand, sea breeze in the air, and the buzz of Piazza Tasso just a few steps behind you.
Related Read: Looking for even more ideas? Check out our guide to the seven best things to do in Sorrento here for even more can’t-miss highlights to round out your trip!
Day 3
Option 1: Amalfi Coast Day Trip
For jaw-dropping views and postcard-perfect villages, this Amalfi Coast day trip is a no-brainer. We joined this small group tour from Sorrento and spent the day exploring Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello—each with a unique charm and vibe.
Right from the start at 8:30 am, we were thankful we weren’t driving those hairpin curves ourselves. Our guide shared stories, history, and local tips as we cruised past cliffs and sparkling sea views. In Positano, we had time to shop, wander the steep alleys, and sip espresso by the beach.
It’s one of those towns that looks too pretty to be real until you’re standing in it. We could’ve easily spent the whole day just exploring Positano’s stair-stepped streets and watching the waves from the shore.
The boat ride from Positano to Amalfi was a standout moment—seeing the coast from the water was pure magic. (Note: the boat transfer runs from May through October!) Then, in Amalfi, we visited the cathedral, sampled a Santa Rosa pastry, and browsed shops before heading to Ravello, where we splurged on a ticket to Villa Rufolo’s gardens and enjoyed peaceful views far from the crowds.
If you want to see the best of the Amalfi Coast without the hassle of planning or driving, this tour is a must! It strikes the perfect balance between guided sightseeing and free time to explore, with transportation, local insight, and scenic stops all taken care of.
This tour often sells out—book early to lock in your spot 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.
Option 2: Capri and Blue Grotto Day Trip
If Capri is on your bucket list (and it should be), this full-day tour makes visiting easy. We just showed up at the Sorrento port by 7:40 am, and everything else, from ferry tickets to transportation on the island, was taken care of.
We started with a breezy jetfoil ride across the water, followed by our first stop: the iconic Blue Grotto. It’s not always accessible (waves can close it), but we lucked out, and floating through that glowing sea cave was incredible. Sunlight poured in beneath the water, turning the entire cave an electric, otherworldly blue!
From there, we explored Villa San Michele, a historic cliffside villa with lush gardens and panoramic views, then headed up to Anacapri. After grabbing lunch (not included), we rode the Monte Solaro chairlift, and the views from the top were worth every cent—riding above the island felt like floating above a dream.
We finished in Capri town, enjoying a quick espresso in the main square before heading back to the port. The whole day was smooth, scenic, and surprisingly low-stress.
Capri can be chaotic if you go at it alone. This tour handled the logistics so we could just soak it all in. By the end of the day, we felt like we’d experienced the best of the island without the usual stress or guesswork.
Check out the glowing five-star reviews and book your spot here!
Dinner – Porta Marina Seafood
After a full day on the water and exploring Capri, dinner by the sea is the perfect way to wind down. Porta Marina Seafood sits right along the waterfront in Sorrento’s Marina Grande, about a 20-minute walk from the port where your tour ends. Depending on how you’re feeling, you can either head back to your hotel to freshen up or stroll straight there for an early dinner with a view.
This spot is a local favorite for ultra-fresh seafood in a relaxed, no-frills setting. It’s the kind of place where the menu changes based on what was caught that day, and the dishes are all about simplicity and flavor. The grilled fish, mussels, and house-made pasta are standouts, and the waterfront tables make it an extra special way to close out the evening!
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!
Related Read: If you’re continuing your travels, check out our guide on where to stay on the Amalfi Coast for a luxurious getaway!
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!
Sorrento is truly a dream vacation! Between easy access to the Amalfi Coast or Capri, and it’s charming streets, amazing food, and beautiful views – we couldn’t get enough. Follow this itinerary and I know you’ll have the best trip to Sorrento!
Before you go, check out our other Italy blogs. We have more city itineraries, top things to do, and guides on where to stay to help you plan your travels. Here are a few related blogs you can check out to get started – cheers!
Where to Stay in Sicily, Italy: 7 Areas & Hotels
6 Best Things to do in Positano, Italy