15 of the Top Things To Do in Sorrento Per Viator Travelers

What?: The historic center is a charming warren of shop-lined lanes and excellent eateries, and a walking food tour that covers the top sights and bites is one of the best Sorrento activities to get your bearings. Admire must-see places in Sorrento including the main Piazza Tasso, atmospheric Chiostro di San Francesco, ornate Basilica di Sant’Antonino, and lush Villa Comunale di Sorrento gardens, all while snacking on local specialties at bustling shops and markets along the way.

When?: Most food shops, markets, and eateries are open all day, so food tours are generally offered in the morning and afternoon.

What one reviewer said: “Excellent food tour showing the best of Sorrento’s food offerings, along with a very knowledgeable guide who seems to be well respected in the area. Make sure you are hungry as you will be full by the end. We also appreciated some snippets of the history of the city.” LeeAnn_S, October 2024

What?: Sorrento has a dramatic coastline with soaring cliffs and spectacular views. Set sail with a boat tour that skirts the peninsula, taking in Sorrento landmarks from the water, including Marina Grande, the Baths of Queen Giovanna (Bagni Regina Giovanna), Punta del Capo, and Mitigliano Beach (Cala di Mitigliano). Most day cruises drop anchor for time to swim and snorkel off the coast.

When?: Sorrento boat tours run from the morning through dusk. Choose a daytime cruise for the best swimming and snorkeling, or a sunset departure for a romantic cruise.

What one reviewer said: “Nico, our captain, was a great host! They met us promptly. Service was excellent! We recommend this service.” Daniel_K, May 2024

What?: Set less than an hour from Sorrento, the ancient city of Pompeii is a must-see attraction for any Sorrento itinerary. Choose a tour that includes round-trip transport to the archaeological site and a guided visit, or hop on the Circumvesuviana train and meet your tour guide directly at the site entrance. Both types of tours typically include skip-the-line tickets for hassle-free admission.

When?: Pompeii is open daily all year round. Time your visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak midday temperatures.

What one reviewer said: “What a great excursion! Luisa met us in the AM and gave us very enjoyable info as we drove from Sorrento to Pompeii. She handed us off to our archaeology guide and accompanied us throughout the tour. Our guide was incredible.” Darla_H, November 2024

What?: Often outshone by the more famous ruins at Pompeii, Herculaneum Archaeological Park (Parco Archeologico di Ercolano) is smaller and less crowded but equally enthralling. An ideal alternative for travelers who want to avoid the crowds—and for families with small children—a tour of this superb site can even be paired with Pompeii for a full-day immersion into ancient history.

When?: Herculaneum is open daily. Like Pompeii, it offers little respite from the midday heat, so visit in the morning or late afternoon during the summer months.

What one reviewer said: “Very interesting place. Very knowledgeable guide. We choose Herculaneum over Pompeii as it is smaller and more manageable for an older person. Would definitely recommend it.” geoffrey_p, February 2025

What?: Neapolitan pizza is the only true pizza according to locals, and Sorrento is the ideal spot to learn the secrets behind creating an authentic pie. Join a pizza cooking class to try your hand at kneading and tossing the dough, then top it off with traditional ingredients and bake it in a wood-fired oven. End your lesson by enjoying the fruit of your labors paired with local wines and limoncello.

When?: Pizza classes are typically offered in the late morning and end with lunch, or in the late afternoon and end with dinner. Arrive hungry to enjoy a meal of your own making.

What one reviewer said: “This was absolutely one of the best experiences we had on our trip … It’s just a wonderful way to spend an evening. We continue to talk about how much we enjoyed the experience and would not hesitate to do it again.” Patricia_C, March 2025

What?: Italy’s most iconic stretch of coastline sits just on the other side of the Sorrentine Peninsula, and A-listers Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello are a breeze to visit. Explore during a driving tour that stops at the top coastal towns with free time to explore at your leisure. Some excursions also include highlights such as the Emerald Grotto and Praiano.

When?: Day trips to the Amalfi Coast from Sorrento generally depart in the morning and return to Sorrento in the late afternoon. Opt for an early start to maximize sightseeing time.

What one reviewer said: “Our driver was wonderful! His knowledge of the area was very helpful … The coast is out of this world gorgeous. A photo opportunity is everywhere, it’s all stunning!” Pamela_W, November 2024

What?: The peak of Mt. Vesuvius looms above the Bay of Naples and dominates the horizon from as far as Sorrento. Still active today, this massive volcano famously erupted in AD 79, burying the city of Pompeii in ash and debris. Join an excursion to the crater’s edge with a hiking guide or explore the slopes on horseback for an equally scenic but less challenging tour.

When?: The Mt. Vesuvius National Park is open daily from early morning; closing time changes according to season, so check the park’s website for updated schedules.

What one reviewer said: “Great for first time riders and kids! The guides are great and very knowledgeable about the region! You get to go through private vineyards in the Vesuvius park.” Natasha_f, Derrick_W, April 2024

What?: Captivating and chaotic, Naples is one of the most fascinating cities in Italy. The busy historic center can be overwhelming on your own, so visit with a guide to cover the main attractions in just a few hours. This leaves you with plenty of time to sightsee, shop, and dine before heading back to Sorrento.

When?: Tour Naples in the morning so you can take a break for lunch, then spend as much time as you’d like exploring independently in the afternoon.

What one reviewer said: “Francesca was our local walking guide and was very knowledgeable, sophisticated and flexible. We enjoyed all the sites we came upon and her effervescent enthusiasm for her beloved Napoli. We got a good lay of the land for further exploration on our own with greater confidence and our own enthusiasm as a result. Well done.” Charles_M, October 2024

What?: Sorrento is a VIP beach destination, but its surrounding hills are dotted with family-run farms producing everything from heirloom lemons to artisan cheese. Take a break from your Sorrento sightseeing with a farm visit and culinary experience to sample farm-fresh products right from the source.

When?: Farm visits generally include a light lunch or dinner, and are offered in the late morning or early evening.

What one reviewer said: “This is an excursion not to miss! We had an excellent tour of the farm and their operations and it was very impressive—from their “no waste” practices to family history and methods. They invited us into their home where we had a fantastic several course meal with all ingredients from the farm. This was truly an unforgettable experience!” Gina_B, November 2024

What?: Arguably Italy’s most exclusive island, Capri has been the playground for the rich and famous since the Roman Emperor Tiberius built his pleasure palaces here. Tours to the island take off from the Sorrento Cruise Port (Sorrento Terminal Crociere) by private boat and generally include a cruise around the island with a stop at the Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra), plus time on land to take in the sights, browse the boutiques, and sip on drinks in the chic Piazzetta.

When?: Capri day trips generally set off in the morning and return to Sorrento by late afternoon.

What one reviewer said: “Loved this cruise! Experience Capri island, swim in the water, friendly and experienced captain … Family loved this excursion!” Christine_s, March 2025

What?: Towering above the coast, Mt. Faito is set far from the crowds that overrun other Sorrento tourist spots and offers lush slopes for hiking and off-road tours. Take in sweeping views over the Bay of Naples to one side and the Amalfi Coast to the other, pass tiny mountain hamlets and quiet churches, and dine in a rustic traditional restaurant.

When?: With its cooler temperatures, Mt. Faito is ideal for visiting in the torrid summer months.

What one reviewer said: “An absolute must! Get away from the crowds, see spots only known by locals, and enjoy the most amazing views. Our guide was amazing and truly cared about us having the best experience.” Jonny_M, August 2024

What?: Pompeii steals the limelight, but the volcanic area that hugs the opposite side of Naples is an under-the-radar paradise for archaeology buffs. Get off the tourist track and marvel at wonders most visitors miss with a Phlegraean Fields day trip that covers highlights including the Baths of Baia, ancient Greek city of Cuma, Solfatara volcanic crater, and the Macellum of Pozzuoli (Temple of Serapis).

When?: Each of the archaeological sites in the Phlegraean Fields has its own opening hours, so tour itineraries vary according to the date booked.

What one reviewer said: “The ruins surrounding Naples are amazing. The first Greek city outside of Greece was at Cuma. So fun to visit the site. Baia, the Baths, and Amphitheater in Pozzuoli were awesome … It was a fun adventure.” Darren_M, March 2024

What?: Though southern Italian wines aren’t as famous as those from Tuscany or Piedmont, Campania is home to several wine-producing areas that are worth a visit. Explore the terraced vineyards backing the Amalfi Coast or head inland to Irpinia for a day of touring and tasting in tiny boutique wineries. Join a tour with organized transportation, so you can sample various wines without having to appoint a designated driver.

When?: Explore Campania wineries from spring through fall when they are open to visitors; many of the smaller wineries close their tasting rooms during the quiet winter season.

What one reviewer said: “A two hour drive to grassy mountains with very good wines in beautiful cantinas. Very special for wine lovers with views and loads of tasting.” Elizabeth_S, March 2024

What?: Before the Romans colonized southern Italy, the Greeks left their mark here with vibrant cities and wow-worthy temples. Stand in wonder before three of the most remarkable at the Archaeological Park of Paestum (Parco Archeologico di Paestum), about a 2-hour drive from Sorrento. Round out your Paestum guided tour with a stop at a nearby buffalo farm for a mozzarella cheese tasting plus lunch.

When?: Paestum opens daily in the morning, but closing hours change according to season—check the official website in advance of your visit.

What one reviewer said: “Mario was fantastic. Very clear English and his knowledge and insight was fantastic. He had a true passion for the history.” Jason_D, Aug 2024

What?: The cliff-top trail that skirts the Amalfi Coast is known for its divine views, which have earned it the name the Path of the Gods (Sentiero Degli Dei). Set off along this route with a guide to ensure a safe hike and learn about the coastline’s flora and fauna as you walk. Path of the Gods day trips often include transportation, letting you avoid the hassle of getting to and from the trail by public bus.

When?: Long stretches of the trail do not have shade, so most hiking excursions set off in the early morning to avoid walking under the midday sun.

What one reviewer said: “Our guide Nino set a very reasonable pace for the entire group to enjoy the spectacular scenery along this hike. The break midway for lunch at the shepherds hut was timely and delicious. He openly shared his obvious passion for the local flora and fauna and I would highly recommend this hiking adventure.” Maryanne_W, March 2025