Teetering on top of dramatic sheer cliffs under a ceiling of deep turquoise skies, I automatically fell in love with this lemon soaked paradise as my car rolled into charming Sorrento. Perched along the Sorrentine Peninsula Coast, the city overlooks the glistening bay of Naples with cliffs separating the town from its busy marinas.
As it was my first time visiting this magical city I opted to stay in the heart of Sorrento, perfect for those who wish to be within walking distance of the area’s gorgeous main attractions. Around 10 minutes from my hotel was the real beating pulse of Sorrento, Piazza Tasso. Filled with beautiful and colourful shops, multiple restaurants and bars which are perfect for a glass of prosecco and a spot of people watching as well as carriage rides, this really is the best spot to get a feel for the city.
Created in 1800, this busy intersection of streets is named after the poet Torquato Tasso. Just along from the square you will find Sorrento’s historic old town which is full of stunning architecture, flowers cascading down walls, winding cobblestone lanes, shops and lively restaurants.
In the heart of the old town is Via San Cesareo, one of the main pedestrianised shopping streets making it perfect for tourists strolling at a leisurely pace around the maze of lanes.
The first thing I noticed is how it is teeming with life, attracting both tourists like myself and locals.
Filled with artisan shops, restaurants and limoncello makers I couldn’t help but treat myself to a beautifully handmade leather bag, tasting the freshly made liquors and dipping down the enticing side streets.
It’s almost impossible to come away from Via San Cesareo without coming away with a few souvenirs and a bottle or two of limoncello.
When wandering around Sorrento, one thing that will become clear almost immediately is that they really love lemons. From biscuits and liquors to clothes and local cuisine, there really are lemons everywhere.
The cheerful citrus adorns every piece of women’s clothing so much so I had to get in the spirit and buy my very own lemon inspired top.
You most definitely will see gorgeous lemon trees everywhere, I even had my dinner one night in a magical lemon grove.
I was concerned that going in June would mean I would be bumping elbows with tourists on every twist and turn. However, although it was busy with visitors there was always room to enjoy the city at your own pace and get a table at restaurants without booking.
Sorrento is often regarded as one of Europe’s best seaside towns however those coming here for a relaxing holiday by the beach will be disappointed.
Perched upon clifftops, Sorrento itself does not have a main beach but rather pockets of coves that mostly belong to beachclubs or hotels. There is a small area that has free public access but the sunbed and parasol will set you back 20 euros.
I wasn’t too bothered by this but was very grateful our hotel had a pool which was a welcoming relief from the baking June heat which saw highs of 38C.
Sorrento is in an attractive position for a day trip with Capri, Positano and Pompeii all a short hop away.
From the picturesque Port of Marina Grande I took two day trips to Positano and Capri and most certainly will be back in the near future to take in the views from Mount Vesuvius and explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum.