Sunsets, Sirens and Sorrento

In Greek mythology, Sorrento was home to the sirens, who lured passing sailors onto the rocks with their beautiful songs. And it still pulls in the visitors today – though today it’s the panoramic views, sunshine, delicious food and laid-back atmosphere that do the luring. I can still remember my first visit to Sorrento six years ago, I fell in love and couldn’t wait to go back.
It’s probably the most popular vacation spot on the Neapolitan Riviera, so you can’t exactly call it an undiscovered gem. But although it might be a bit touristy in spots, you can’t help being charmed by the town.

Here are my top tips for what to do in Sorrento

Wander the backstreets - These medieval alleyways twist and turn past trattorias, bars and shops. Forget the map and keep walking and you never know what you might discover – a hidden church, a flower-filled garden, a fantastic gelateria. The last time I was there I found one with a swing inside.

Catch a Sorrento Sunset - Head to the Villa Communale Park for the best views in Sorrento, looking out across the bay towards Vesuvius. Sorrento’s cliffside setting is one of its biggest charms. And when the sun starts to go down, the bustle of Sorrentine life halts for a few minutes as people gather along the cliffside to watch the sky start to turn red and the sun dip into the sea.

Feast on Local Produce - Food and drink are an important part of life in Sorrento. The volcanic soil in this part of Italy produces tasty produce like olives, tomatoes, peaches, cherries and oranges. These are used in delicious simple dishes like caprese salad with ripe tomatoes, basil and buffalo mozzarella, wafer-thin pizzas, spaghetti vongole with clams, and Delizia al Limone – cream-covered lemon cakes. I’ll stop my mouth is watering. You get the picture.

Take a Day Trip - The Bay of Naples has so much to see, and Sorrento’s prime location right in the middle of it all make it a great place to get out and explore the region on day trips. To the North is Pompeii and Herculaneum. To the East is the Amalfi Coast or you can cross the Bay and go to the glamour islands of Capri or Ischia.