Charming Sorrento, Roman emperors and casual tourists have marveled at this picturesque and character filled spot on Earth. The cobblestone streets, romantic promenade, incomparable vistas, the place is simply matchless where scenery is valued. And there’s a world of culture awaiting too, not to mention the mystique.
Situated on what amounts to a long cliff amid olive groves, Sorrento overlooks an azure sea, its old town still a center buzzing with activity and lively pursuits. Narrow Roman corridors lead past numerous touristic attractions, not the least of which are the many hotels and restaurants the town is so noted for. You see, Sorrento has always been a sort of stopping off point, or hub, for visitors to Pompeii, Mt. Vesuvius, the Bay of Naples, and of course, the Amalfi Coast. Walking down Via San Cesareo, the main street here, one cannot help but overhear ancient echoes of travelers past.
Among the fantastic sightseeing attractions, you will find here, Sedile Dominova is perhaps the most notable. Built in 1349, this wonderful little square still shows off its Baroque-era columns, and 16th century cupola. Then there is the Church of San Francesco, not to mention the nearby public gardens and incomparable views of Vesuvius, and the sea. Be sure not to miss the Roman Villa di Pollio, and especially the nearby fishing villages like Massa Lubrenese. You did come for the flavor, didn’t you?
Shopping the Sorrento Way
For that shopping itch, Sorrento offers its own brand of relief. Strolling down Via San Cesareo, the city’s main shopping street, specialty shop after specialty shop align themselves to take your bid for your money. Then there are the markets, and mercantile gurus of Sorrento, anything and everything you can imagine, from walnuts to wine and back again, can be found in abundance here. Also, remember, this is Italy, fashion and the designer are on every corner.
The whole of old Sorrento is, in fact, one gigantic shopping bazaar, when it comes down to it. You’ll find the best brands, right alongside custom made jewelry and pottery, art, crafts, like we said, everything. Other important streets and areas of Sorrento for shopping include; Corso Italia, Piazza Tasso and Piazza Antica. Gucci to good melons, need we say it again?
Wine, Women, and Food
Just before dark, visitors to Sorrento will note the locals beginning to line the sidewalk cafes, clubs, and restaurants of Centro Storico in preparation for the Summer nightly festivities here. With a terrace every ten meters, Sorrento has to be categorized as a town that likes the moonlight. Pretty Italian girls stroll along past the glassy gazes of starry eyed suitors. You remember the drill. Sorrento is a town of great romance, and of people with a fun loving spirit. There’s not end to the great nightclubs and bars - not to mention the fine restaurants.
When you get hungry, and you will, Sorrento has myriad dining choices. From the sandwich shops and touristy eateries of central Sorrento and Corso Italia, to classier accommodations on the harbor like Il Buco, the old saying “something for everyone” applies here too. Pizzeria’s, pubs, even delivery are all represented. The only difference being, this is Sorrento.
Nightlife, beach bathing, mountain hiking, sightseeing, a romantic interlude, family fun, Sorrento offers is a great and historic place to vacation, or even just stop over. For those wanting something a bit different, or just in search of famous Sorrento cheese, there are no disappointments here.
Main attractions: Vesuvius, Piazza Tasso, Teatro Tasso, Museo Correale di Terranova, Pompeii, Herculaneum, Amalfi , San Francesco, Amalfi Drive, and many others.
Currency: Euro (€)
Official language: Italian
Area: 9 km2 (3.5 sq mi)
Population: 16,547
Electricity:
- Voltage: 220-240 Volts (U.S./Canada are 110-120 Volts)
- Primary Socket Type: Italian
- Multi-voltage appliances (laptops, etc): Plug adapter
- 110-120V electronics: Plug adapter + step-down transformer
- Hair dryers, curling irons, etc.: Plug adapter + voltage converter
Other places to see & things to do: Positano, Duomo, Museo Bottega della Tarsia Lignea, Marina Grande, and more.
Images courtesy: mls559, Wikipedia, Bruce Tuten,
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