A Local's Guide to Sorrento, Italy

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Emilie Panzanaro
Curated By

Emilie Panzanaro

  • Sorrento

  • Beaches

  • Food & Wine

  • Slow Travel

  • Couples Travel

  • Honeymoons

  • local culture

Advisor - A Local's Guide to Sorrento, Italy
Curator’s statement

Sorrento holds a special place in my heart for its effortless blend of culture, warmth, and everyday beauty. Life there centers around shared meals, seasonal ingredients, and experiences that invite you to slow down and truly savor each moment. From the food to the people, everything feels intentional, welcoming, and deeply rooted in tradition. Having lived there, I fell in love with the way Sorrento makes even the simplest moments feel meaningful—and that’s what I love sharing with others.

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Where to stay in Sorrento

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Things to do in Sorrento

Sunset SUP tour with Sorrento SUP!

  • Regina Giovanna (Bagni della Regina Giovanna): An ancient Roman villa turned local favorite, where you can swim in a natural lagoon, wander historic ruins, and watch some of the most beautiful sunsets in Sorrento. It’s equal parts history, nature, and everyday Italian life.

  • Sorrento SUP: A guided kayak or stand-up paddleboard experience along Sorrento’s dramatic coastline, perfect for adventure lovers. The sunset tour is especially magical, offering a completely different perspective of the cliffs as the light fades.

  • Cooking classes at La Limonaia: Learn to prepare authentic Southern Italian dishes using the freshest local ingredients, surrounded by lemon trees. It’s a hands-on, joyful way to connect with the region through food, tradition, and storytelling.

  • Boat days with Nina’s Boats Sorrento: The most effortless and scenic way to experience the Sorrento and Amalfi Coasts. Skip the cliffside traffic and spend the day on the water with breathtaking views, hidden coves, and an unforgettable guide—Pietro makes every outing feel special.

  • Morning espresso & pastry in Piazza Tasso: Start the day like a local with a quick espresso and cornetto while watching Sorrento wake up. Simple, unhurried, and one of the best ways to soak in the rhythm of daily life.

  • Evening passeggiata through the Old Town: As the sun sets, stroll through Sorrento’s historic streets filled with music, conversation, and glowing storefronts. It’s a beautiful reminder that in Italy, the best moments are often the simplest.

  • Sant’Anna Beach Club: For a more effortless beach day, Sant’Anna offers a classic seaside club experience just steps from Sorrento’s center. With loungers, calm swimming areas, and an on-site restaurant serving fresh seafood and local favorites, it’s designed for pure relaxation. It’s the perfect choice when you want the beauty of the coast without the hike or planning—simply arrive, settle in, and enjoy the day.

Places to eat & drink in Sorrento

Soul & Fish

  • L’Antica Trattoria: A historic, family-run Sorrento staple known for its warm hospitality and timeless Southern Italian recipes. Dining here feels like stepping into a garden dinner party rooted in generations of tradition.

  • O’ Puledrone: A must for seafood lovers, especially the spaghetti alle vongole—easily some of the best in town. The family who owns the restaurant fishes every morning, so what’s on your plate was likely in the sea just hours earlier.

  • O’ Parrucchiano: One of Sorrento’s most iconic restaurants, famous for dining beneath fragrant lemon trees. It’s a beautiful blend of history, atmosphere, and classic dishes that feel quintessentially Sorrentine.

  • Basilico: The go-to spot for excellent pizza made with high-quality ingredients and a perfectly crisp crust. Casual, consistent, and loved by both locals and visitors.

  • The Radical: Ideal if you’re craving brunch or a more substantial breakfast than pastries and espresso. Creative dishes, good coffee, and a relaxed vibe make it a favorite for easing into the day.

  • Filou Club: A cozy piano bar with an intimate, old-school charm. Perfect for a relaxed evening drink, live music, and lingering conversations.

  • SHUB Speakeasy: Hidden, stylish, and atmospheric, SHUB is Sorrento’s answer to a true speakeasy. A great late-night option for creative cocktails and a more intimate crowd.

  • Bar Ercolano: Located right in the main square, this lively spot is known for its live music and energetic atmosphere. Ideal for people-watching and soaking up Sorrento’s nightlife.

  • English Inn—Secret Garden: A surprisingly great spot to catch any sports game you can imagine. The hidden garden setting makes it feel like a local secret, even on busy nights.

  • Bar Cornelia: A hidden gem tucked away on Sorrento’s back streets and beloved by locals. Known for its intricate, eclectic décor and intimate atmosphere, it’s the kind of place you stumble into once and never forget—perfect for a relaxed drink away from the crowds.

  • Ristorante Delfino: Set right on the water in Marina Grande, Delfino is a Sorrento classic where the sea is truly the star. Expect impeccably fresh seafood, traditional recipes, and postcard-worthy views—an ideal spot for a long, leisurely lunch or sunset dinner.

  • Soul & Fish: A creative seafood-focused dining experience that blends bold flavors with beautifully executed dishes. While the atmosphere is casual and welcoming, the menu is inventive and thoughtfully crafted, making it a standout for those who appreciate elevated, modern cuisine rooted in the sea.

Need to know

  • Sorrento is best enjoyed at a slower pace—leave space in your itinerary for long meals, spontaneous strolls, and unplanned moments.

  • Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as the town’s charm often involves cobblestone streets, stairs, and coastal paths.

  • Dinner runs late, with most restaurants filling up after 8 pm, so reservations are highly recommended, especially in peak season.

  • For day trips along the coast, boats are often faster and far more enjoyable than driving, helping you avoid traffic while taking in the scenery.

  • And finally, a few Italian phrases and an openness to local rhythms go a long way—warmth and hospitality are at the heart of life here.

Emilie Panzanaro

Travel Advisor

Emilie Panzanaro

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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Sorrento page.