Sorrento

Being described as 'a jewel of the Amalfi Coast' raises expectations somewhat. But this civilised old resort town has carried this accolade for years and is used to it. She perches comfortably on the side of a broad stretch of pine-clad cliff next to the Amalfi Drive. Leaving the honour of keeping lookout across the Bay of Naples to a set of famously luxurious hotels - obviously some of the best places to stay in Sorrento! - from which guests can view Mount Vesuvius, Capri and Naples as they dine on the terraces.

What not to Miss

Warm and colourful, the old city walls enclose a wealth of treasures:

• Sorrento's Duomo is impressive, it has a fresco on the outside, a triple tiered bell tower, elegant but unusual columns and a clock.
• The Chiesa di San Francesco has lovely Arabic influenced architecture and famously lovely cloisters which host a world class program of concerts in the summer.
• The Correale Museum has a rich assortment of arts and crafts, with an especially notable clock collection, embroidery display and Greek and Roman artefacts.
• Sorrento makes a good base for exploring the peninsular, Pompeii and the other nearby archaeological sites and Capri.
• Beautiful and historic, Sorrento is also a resort town. So there are plenty of local souvenir shops selling the lacework, ceramics and marquetry that people have been bringing back for centuries. There are also mellow, sunlit piazzas to ponder in, bustling markets to nose about in, chic little boutiques to overspend in and a seemingly endless choice of heavenly local eateries.

As you'd imagine the city is hugely popular especially during the peak summer months, so if you want to bag yourself a bed in one of the best places to tay in Sorrento, do yourself a favour and book early! Otherwise, plan your visit for quieter months, when the streets will be less crowded, but the location no less beautiful.

For the Best Views

• The Yacht Club Capo Cervo Suites is a fantastic hideout overlooking the port with just three rooms/ suites, all decorated with antiquities recovered from local shipping fleets. It feels like you’re staying in a cabin at sea.
• The Villa Eliana is outside Sorrento, but its views of pretty Sorrento and the gulf beyond mean it deserves inclusion. Originally built in the 60s as a private vila for the wife of a Neapolitan ship-builder, the house has fab. retro architecture, modern decor and just six rooms.
• Also outside of town, but with views of Sorrento, the Villa Sabrina Relais was built in 1866 as a private residence and is now a secluded nine room hotel .with an elegant terrace restaurant serving local Italian cuisine. There are sea views.

For luxury and romance

• If you like the sound of those 'famously luxurious hotels' then book the Bellevue Syrene. Once a private residence, this palace has been romantically refurbished so is now a palace for many. There are rambling terraces with breathtaking views, marble floors, vaulted ceilings, private pools and a private beach… Ideal if you're planning a romantic break.
• For sheer luxury you can't beat Capo la Gala. Five stars and set into the cliff face this 22 room hotel has a hanging sea terrace, plenty of private balconies and offers a very thorough set of spa treatments. The Michelin star restaurant means it's also one for foodies.
• The Villa dei D’Armiento is just along the coast from Sorrento, a large white, converted mansion once home to a nobleman. Decorated with flair these seven rooms are definitely boutique and very chic. There’s a garden with a lovely pool and you’re just a short stroll from the beach.
• The Grand Hotel Cocumella is a chic and charming mid-sized hotel on the outskirts of town. There are spectacular ocean views and the hotel is surrounded by quiet gardens, plus a choice of three restaurants.

For style

• For those who prefer something chic and boutique, one of the best places in Sorrento is Masion la Minervetta. With only 12 rooms decorated with a nautical theme, this hotel is fun, funky, has wonderful views and feels like a home from home. Only 15 minutes walk from the centre of town, this is also perfect if you want to be in the heart of things.
• The Palazzo Marziale is a traditional townhouse with 10 colourfully decorated rooms with a retro but elegantly Italian vibe. Close to local cafes and restaurants, they have a great cafe in house.
• Maison Tofani has been carefully converted from a splendid 18th century townhouse in the heart of Sorrento and is now a 12 rooms design hotel with a great seafood restaurant.

For families

• One of the best places to stay in Sorrento for families is the Grand Hotel La Medusa. It has great views of Vesuvius from the huge pool terrace and is comfortable and elegant. With rooms starting from £100 a night it's also a good option if you're on a budget.
• Perfect for anyone who can afford it, the beautiful Bell Epoque era Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria has a fabulous spot overlooking the gulf with a selection of 91 rooms and suites - some of a very generous size, plenty of history and a romantic restaurant.

For the Beach

• The Palazzo Montefusco is a boutique guesthouse in the historic part of Sorrento with five contemporary rooms and a private stretch of beach just for hotel guests!
• The Palazzo Jannuzzi Relais is just a short stroll from the beach on the postcard-perfect Piazza Tasso. There are 12 rooms, decorated in cheery yellow - some with private balconies.

Great Location

• Veru B&B is a welcoming three room B&B in the centre of town close to the Cross Italia. You have everything you need for a great night’s sleep in these stylish, modern European rooms.

Great Value

• The six room Villa Oriana Relais is nestled in citrus groves just minutes from the centre of Sorrento and has panoramic views of the gulf and the surrounding countryside. The rooms are bright and traditional and have private patios. They start from around £55 per night.
• The Relais Correale Rooms & Garden is another six room property just outside town, though this time a converted farmhouse surrounded by a beautiful garden and olive groves. The decor is chic and airy and there’s a lovely sun terrace. Situated 11 minutes from the beach.
• The Palazzo Abagnale is an ultra-modern guesthouse close to the main square with 14 rooms - doubles, triples and quads. There’s a pretty Mediterranean garden and a delicious buffet breakfast. Rooms start from around £80 per night.

For an Apartment or Villa

• If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private villa we recommend you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Naples Airport is Sorrento’s closest airport, from which there is a good, regular bus service. Alternatively you can catch a taxi down to the hydrofoil port and sail across the bay, or take a taxi all the way. You can also arrive via rail or by water missing Naples out completely if you’re not coming from that direction.
• If you want to hire a car - which we strongly advise if you’re staying in Sorrento and you want to see more of the Amalfi Coast - we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars.
• Even in wet winter Sorrento still gets eight hours of sunshine a day! That’s what a Mediterranean climate will do for you. Summer is hot and dry and spring and autumn are very pleasant. Summer is peak time for visitors. If you want to swim in the sea try September or October, if you’re just looking for sunshine then May will be beautiful.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to include the best places to stay on the Amalfi Coast,
• Or our Guru’s recommendations for the best hotels for views on the Amalfi Coast,
• Or consider nearby Positano?
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.