Amalfi Coast Tour Guide Roberto Pollio’s Insider Guide to Sorrento

Roberto pushes back against the idea that Sorrento is merely a gateway to nearby A-list destinations such as Capri, Pompeii, and the Amalfi Coast, and encourages travelers to linger long enough to experience the city’s quieter side. He suggests striking out past the town’s main Piazza Tasso to stroll the narrow lanes of the historic center, pausing to savor the Villa Comunale park and Cloister of Saint Francis. “Most people stop for a quick photo and move on, but it’s worth slowing down there,” he says. “The view over the Bay of Naples is beautiful, especially around sunset, and the cloister has a peaceful atmosphere that feels very different from the busier parts of town.”

After exploring the old town, follow Roberto’s recommendation to head for the surrounding hills and coastline. Drive or hike up to Sant'Agata sui Due Golfi to admire the Bay of Naples and the Bay of Salerno stretching out on either side of the peninsula, or relax over a seafood feast in Marina di Puolo, which seems largely untouched by tourism. Meanwhile, hiking enthusiasts can set their sights on the Baia di Ieranto, where pristine protected countryside and views of Capri await.

Related: Visiting Sorrento for the First Time? Here’s What To See and Do

There are three must-sees in Sorrento for visitors interested in delving deeper into the town’s history and culture, according to Roberto. Begin with the city walls, originally constructed during ancient times and largely rebuilt in the 16th century to protect Sorrento from Saracen pirates. Afterward, move on to the Correale di Terranova Museum, which houses a collection of Neapolitan art, antique furnishings, and archaeological treasures inside a historic villa. (And don’t skip the museum’s garden, with its citrus trees and sweeping sea views.)

Finally, head to Bagni della Regina Giovanna, a picturesque lagoon surrounded by the ruins of a 1st-century BC Roman villa just outside Sorrento. One of the most unique spots along the coastline, this hidden cove also has a scandalous past. “Legend has it that Queen Joanna of Naples used to bring her secret lovers here,” explains Roberto. Be sure to bring your swimsuit, as these crystalline waters are a magical spot for a dip.

Though this seaside city is a popular summer destination, Roberto suggests visiting during the quieter seasons. “Winter here has a very special atmosphere—lights everywhere, concerts, local traditions, and a slower pace that feels more authentic,” he says. “And if you happen to be here during religious celebrations, like Holy Week before Easter, you can witness beautiful processions that are deeply rooted in local tradition and still very meaningful to residents.”

During the summer, local sagre festivals held in the surrounding villages offer a glimpse of life on the Sorrentine peninsula. Roberto explains that these are generally organized by the townspeople and celebrate the hyperlocal culture and cuisine; many are held to honor the patron saint on or near the annual feast day.

The subject of Sorrentine cuisine is particularly close to Roberto’s heart, and his advice is simple: Eat where locals eat and don’t rush your meals. He suggests trying classic local dishes, including gnocchi alla sorrentina, eggplant parmesan, and homemade cannelloni. These are simple recipes, but reflect the type of specialties routinely served around the family table. Caprese salad is always a must, made with local mozzarella and tomatoes. “Our tomatoes are sweeter, bigger, and full of flavor,” Roberto insists. He also urges you to leave room for an artisanal gelato or a beloved delizia al limone (a sponge cake layered with lemon-infused custard).

For the best seafood, there’s only one place to head in Roberto’s book: the trattorias that line the waterfront in the former fishing hamlet of Marina Grande. “Sitting by the water and eating fish caught that same morning is one of those simple experiences you remember,” he explains. Cap off your seafood feast like a local with an icy glass of limoncello liqueur, made from Sorrento’s heirloom lemons, or the lesser-known nocillo (walnut liqueur).

Sorrento’s old town is the ideal base for first-time visitors, says Roberto, and puts you at the heart of the action. You can easily walk to all the local sights, and reach outlying draws from Mt. Vesuvius and Naples to the islands of Ischia and Capri by public transportation or with tours that include transfers.

Meanwhile, the neighboring town of Sant’Agnello sees far fewer tourists, so it offers a more residential and relaxed feel with the same spectacular seaside views. Just slightly farther along the coast, Massa Lubrense is also perfect if you’re hoping to book a private villa surrounded by lush greenery overlooking the bay. (Who isn’t?)

Slow your pace and try to add a bit of spontaneity into your visit rather than simply ticking the sights off your must-see list, advises Roberto. “Sorrento is a place that reveals itself slowly, and you notice more when you’re not rushing […] It’s in the smell of lemons after the rain, the sound of church bells in the afternoon, fishermen repairing their nets, old ladies chatting from balconies, and kids playing football in the little streets until late. That’s the Sorrento I love sharing with travelers.”