Sorrento Holidays

Enjoy the vibrant culture and beauty of Sorrento

The Spirit of Sorrento is always welcoming. Find lemon-lined streets and old-world traditions. As artisans sell their handcrafted wares and ceramic goods. Take a trip to the ancient ruins of Pompeii or experience one of the most famous coastlines in the world on an Amalfi coast drive.

Sorrento holidays bring you the delights of small-town coastal Italy in close proximity to the bustling city of Naples. Breathing in the lemon-scented air in the cliff-top surroundings of the town, you can gaze across the Bay of Naples to the city with Mount Vesuvius in the background. Couples can enjoy the small-town feel of Sorrento while getting lost in the backstreets, and trying out local specialities including pizza and limoncello in street side restaurants and cafés. Family holidays to Sorrento are filled with beaches, ferry rides to Naples and exploring the nearby Amalfi Coast. The more adventurous can hike up to the summit of Vesuvius or spend time in vibrant Naples.

Sorrento holidays offer a heady mix of tourist-friendly resorts and a still traditional Italian coastal town. It has all the amenities you could wish for, as well as catering for families, couples and the more adventurous. It retains its artisanal crafts, and is filled with small shops specialising in ceramics, limoncello and leather goods. The aromas of fresh pasta, pizza, lemons and tomatoes permeate the air as you stroll around the quaint streets filled with restaurants and cafés.

Your plans, our expertise

Start planning your Citalia holiday by getting in touch with one of our Personal Travel Planners.

Lines open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 to 17:30 (Wednesdays from 9:30), Bank Holidays 10:00 to 16:00.

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Call us on 01293 765055

Discover the best of Sorrento

Travelling with Citalia, you know you're in expert hands. Our years of experience as a leading Italian travel specialist will help you enjoy your Sorrento holiday to the full.

With Citalia, you will discover the best that Sorrento holidays and its surroundings have to offer. Visit romantic spots such as the Regina Giovanna, a lagoon nestling between the cliffs where you can go for a late afternoon swim and dive into the turquoise waters. Visit the Marina Grande, where you'll find a beach perfect for relaxation, or pay a visit to Nonna Emilia's café perched on the seafront and grab a limoncello or glass of local wine and relax as you take in the views. After a day of exploration, visit the clifftop park known as Villa Comunale di Sorrento, where you can find a bench and enjoy the beautiful panoramic views as the sun sets over the tranquil Bay of Naples.

Sorrento is still a lively fishing port and no visit here would be complete without eating at least one seafood meal. The best place to do this is one of the restaurants owned by the fishermen's cooperative which can be found dotted around the harbour. Here, you can be assured of the freshest seafood while also benefiting the local community as you dine in beautiful surroundings along the harbour.

Things to do in Sorrento

Sorrento is, in many ways, a typical Italian coastal town and has the charm you would expect from such an idyllic location. It’s the perfect place to use as a base for exploration on your Italian holiday, with so much to see and do around Sorrento.

Ferries depart from Sorrento to the famous island of Capri daily. The journey takes around 25 minutes and will take you to an island made famous by the Roman emperors Augustus and Tiberius. The equally famous Amalfi Coast, with its thirteen picturesque towns, is only a short journey away. For a lively city full of culture, take a trip into the heart of the city of Naples. Trains leave Sorrento every twenty minutes or so, and the journey takes around 45 minutes.

The more adventurous can take a hike up Mount Vesuvius, the volcano which famously destroyed Pompeii and Herculaneum. The two cities are located less than an hour from Sorrento by train. Let the Italy adventure holiday begin! Alternatively, hire a car and explore the beautiful Campanian countryside with its mountains, cliffs and citrus orchards.

Things to do HerculaneumSpend half a day exploring and learning all about Herculaneum, the second city to be destroyed by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79AD (the first being Pompeii). Amble around the Italian ruins with a knowledgeable guide, as they tell you all the stories and facts about the town, once a summer resort for wealthy Romans.Find out more about Herculaneum

Things to doDine at O'Parrucchiano Restaurant O'Parrucchiano’s is a name of renown in the restaurant world, carrying with it some weighty heritage that rivals the best restaurants in Italy.Find out more about O'Parrucchiano Restaurant

Things to doPiazza Tasso and the Historic CentreIf you ask most people who have visited Sorrento for advice on what to do there, they’ll probably tell you to stop for coffee or a bite to eat in Piazza Tasso – undoubtedly the heart of this bustling coastal town.Find out more about Piazza Tasso

Things to doPompeiiThe devastating eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD buried this unsuspecting town in the heavy volcanic ash that helped to preserve the Roman ruins for centuries. Today, Pompeii is probably one of the best places in the world to step back into Roman times.

Things to doThe Cloisters and Villa ComunaleVisit the historic 14th century cloisters of San Francesco. Take in the stunning historic architecture and amazing views of the Bay of Naples.Find out more about the Cloisters and Villa Comunale

Things to doSample the LimoncelloA small glass of something sweet and fragrant and zesty, Italian Limoncello is a must after your sensational meal. Italy is all about simple food done right, and the Limoncello is no different, a simple yet fragrant Sorrento holiday classic.Find out more about sampling Limoncello

Things to doVisit the Amalfi CoastNot all destinations are created equal, and the spectacular Amalfi Coast is a tangible example of this. Stretching for just 34 miles, this jaw-dropping slither of Italy is perhaps the country’s most beautiful, dominated by soaring ocean cliffs and extraordinarily pretty seaside towns scattered along its length.Find out more about the Amalfi Coast

Things to doVisit CapriThere’s so much to do on the glamorous Capri island, a day may not seem like enough. A highlight is visiting the Blue Grotto, a series of caves which are navigated by a small row boat where the waters are illuminated a brilliant blue.Find out more about Capri

Discover Sorrento’s historyThis seaside town is a land of mysteries, traditions and legends. Many civilisations have lived in Sorrento, from the Etruscans to the Greeks, dating the town back over 2,000 years. Its origins are Roman, although the Greek influences are still visible today. In 79 AD, Sorrento was damaged by an earthquake caused by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. This was the same volcano that destroyed the nearby city of Pompeii. Holidays in Sorrento are full of historic adventure.

Excursions and experiences in and around Sorrento

Experience more of Italy by adding an excursion to your holiday in Sorrento. Below is a selection of our most popular group excursions in this area.

In addition we can also arrange private tours and experiences tailored to your individual requirements.

To pre-book please call our Personal Travel Planners on 01293 765055*.

/holidays/italy/campania/sorrento/naples-street-food/A Taste of NaplesDiscover the different foods Naples has to offer.

/holidays/italy/campania/sorrento/capri-anacapri-sorrento-excursion/Capri & AnacapriA full-day trip to Capri, with guided tours and free time to explore.

/holidays/italy/campania/sorrento/herculaneum-excursion/HerculaneumA guided tour of the well-preserved archaeological ruins of Herculaneum.

/holidays/italy/campania/sorrento/ischia-excursion/Ischia and La Mortella GardensTour the lush island of Ischia and explore its famous Mortella Gardens.

/holidays/italy/campania/sorrento/pizza-making-class-excursion/Pizza making class in SorrentoLearn to make the Italian dish - Pizza!

/holidays/italy/campania/sorrento/pompeii-and-herculaneum-excursion/Pompeii & HerculaneumA full-day tour that takes you around the remains of the Roman towns buried by Vesuvius.

/holidays/italy/campania/sorrento/pompeii-and-vesuvius-excursion/Pompeii & VesuviusVisit the ruined city of Pompeii, then climb its destroyer, Mount Vesuvius.

/holidays/italy/campania/sorrento/pompeii-excursion-sorrento/Pompeii ExcursionHalf-day tour to the archaeological ruins of Pompeii.

/holidays/italy/campania/sorrento/positano-and-amalfi-small-group-excursion/Positano and Amalfi Small Group Excursion by BoatA guided tour along Italy’s most famous coastline, with free time in its prettiest towns.

/holidays/italy/campania/sorrento/private-street-food-walking-tour/Private Street Food Walking Tour of SorrentoSavour the flavours of Sorrento on a private street food walking tour.

/holidays/italy/campania/sorrento/private-tour-of-the-amalfi-coast/Private Tour of the Amalfi CoastSoak up the atmosphere of the pretty Amalfi Coast with a private tour.

/holidays/italy/campania/sorrento/vesuvius-vineyard-select/Vesuvius Vineyard SelectClimb up to the crater of Mount Vesuvius, followed by lunch and a tasting at a vineyard that grows Lacryma Christi wine.

/holidays/italy/campania/sorrento/vintage-fiat-500-amalfi-coast-adventure/Vintage Fiat 500 Amalfi Coast AdventureDive into an unforgettable coastal journey aboard a vintage Fiat 500.

Tour Inspiration

Sorrento & the Bay of Naples Small Group Escorted Tour

At a glance

Enjoy a walking tour of charming Sorrento and its Italian delicacies
Exclusive to Citalia
Explore the picturesque Amalfi Coast and its famous towns
Maximum group size: 18
Stay in a grand hotel overlooking the Bay of Naples
Visit the ancient city of Pompeii and see the magnificent peak of Mount Vesuvius
Visit the island of Capri

8 days from £1889 per person

ATOL Protected

Find out more about Sorrento & the Bay of Naples tour

Sorrento Specialities Everyone loves Italian food, and often one of the first things we think of is pizza. The city of Naples is credited with being the birthplace of this famous dish, with references to pizza going back as far as the 10th Century. What better place to enjoy a freshly baked, thin crust pizza than its home area? Perfect dough smothered in rich tomato sauce, authentic Mozzarella and herbs baked in a hot, wood-fired oven and eaten al fresco is a must in this part of the world.

Sorrento Specialities

Limoncello is synonymous with Sorrento. It is a liqueur made from the zest of Sorrento lemons which is steeped in alcohol, usually grappa, until the oils are released from the zest. This yellow liquid is then mixed with syrup to produce limoncello, and is typically served as an after-dinner drink. In other areas, such as the nearby Amalfi coast, it is also served chilled.

Sorrento Specialities Frittura di Paranza is a dish combining small fish, such as anchovies, with medium sized fish, like cod or hake, and shrimp, which are then deep fried in olive oil. The shrimps are cooked whole, including heads, and the delicious, crispy fish is served in a basket with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of salt. Washed down with a glass or two of the local wine, nothing says 'Sorrento' more than this dish.

Sorrento Multi Centre Holidays

Take a look at our suggested itineraries for inspiration, or call our Personal Travel Planners on 01293 765055* for a bespoke multi-centre.

11 day suggested trip

Rome and Sorrento

From £1445 per person

ATOL Protected

Immerse yourself in the history of Pompeii
Island hop or explore the spectacular Amalfi Coast
Visit the top sights of Rome, the Eternal City
Up to £200 off when you book before January 31st 2025

Find Out More About Rome and Sorrento

8 day suggested trip

Sorrento and Capri

From £1449 per person

ATOL Protected

Drive along the spectacular Amalfi Coast
Explore Sorrento’s lively main square
See the stylish streets of Capri
Up to £200 off when you book before January 31st 2025

Find Out More About Sorrento and Capri

View all multi centres

Our top Sorrento hotels

Recommended

Neapolitan Riviera, Sorrento

Imperial Hotel Tramontano

A traditional hotel with leafy gardens, private swimming pool and terrace
Situated in the heart of the historic centre with stunning views
Authentic Neapolitan cuisine served in the sea-facing restaurant

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Recommended

Neapolitan Riviera, Sorrento

Grand Hotel Capodimonte

Hillside location facing out over the Bay of Naples
A stone’s throw from the bustling heart of Sorrento

Find Out More

Recommended

Neapolitan Riviera, Sorrento

Grand Hotel De La Ville

Nestled in the centre of historic Sorrento
Offers a luxurious roof terrace looking out over the Bay of Naples

Find Out More

Recommended

Neapolitan Riviera, Sorrento

Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria

Central location in the heart of Sorrento
Majestic views across the Bay of Naples

Find Out More

Recommended

Neapolitan Riviera, Sorrento

Grand Hotel Riviera

Stunning clifftop location with spectacular views over the Bay of Naples
A lift down to the sea, with a private bathing platform where you can soak up the sun

Find Out More

Recommended

Neapolitan Riviera, Sorrento

Plaza

Modern hotel minutes from Piazza Tasso, Sorrento’s main square
Contemporary and eco-friendly accommodation with deluxe amenities

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View all Sorrento hotels

Flight Information

The closest airport to Sorrento is Naples (NAP), which is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes from Sorrento. Direct flights to Naples airport (NAP) are available from Birmingham, Bristol, East Midlands, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, London Gatwick, London Luton, London Stansted, Manchester and Newcastle and take approximately 2 hours 45 minutes.

When to go

Most people head to Sorrento in summer, when July and August offer very warm temperatures. Hotel room and flight availability can be limited, so we recommend booking early if you can. You’ll also get pleasant Sorrento weather with plenty of sunshine in spring and autumn – plus you’ll find fewer crowds. Some hotels in Sorrento stay open in the winter too, as the weather is relatively mild.

Visa Information

At the current time, British citizens do not require a visa to visit Italy.

Tipping

Whilst tipping isn’t embedded into Italian culture it is always appreciated as an acknowledgement of good service. Nowadays people generally round up a bill in a bar or cafe and leave 5-10% extra on a restaurant bill. Taxi bills are usually also rounded up.

On guided tours/excursions, it is customary to leave a token of appreciation for the driver and guide.

On small group escorted tours, it is customary to leave a token of appreciation for the driver and guide at the end of the tour.

Introduction to languages

The official language of Italy is Italian. English is widely spoken too, so getting by is easy.

Our recommendations

Insider tips from our well travelled team

Erin Bridewell

O Parrucchiano restaurant in Sorrento is a beautiful place to dine, either indoors or al fresco among the lemon trees and fairy lights. I would highly recommend the cannelloni, which was actually invented there – the owners will be more than happy to tell you the story.

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Sorrento Holidays

Enjoy the vibrant culture and beauty of Sorrento

Your plans, our expertise

Discover the best of Sorrento

Things to do in Sorrento

Excursions and experiences in and around Sorrento

Sorrento & the Bay of Naples Small Group Escorted Tour

Sorrento Multi Centre Holidays

Rome and Sorrento

From £1445 per person

Sorrento and Capri

From £1449 per person

Our top Sorrento hotels

Imperial Hotel Tramontano

Grand Hotel Capodimonte

Grand Hotel De La Ville

Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria

Grand Hotel Riviera

Plaza

Flight Information

When to go

Visa Information

Tipping

Introduction to languages

Our recommendations

Erin Bridewell

What our customers think