The network of cobblestone streets known as Sorrento Historic Town has its origins in distant antiquity. The central artery, Via San Cesareo, still follows the route of the Decumano Massimo, the main street of the Roman city, which was in turn built over the earlier Greek settlement. Subsequent eras, from medieval Gothic and Byzantine to Neapolitan Baroque, have all left their mark on the architecture of this town on the cliffs, whose narrow lanes were designed to shade shopkeepers and their customers from the blazing heat of the sun.Sorrento Historic Town is a charming place to while away the hours, wandering past ancient palaces, lively street markets, artisan workshops and aromatic trattorias. Start from Piazza Tasso, named for the Renaissance poet Torquato Tasso who is best known for his epic La Gerusalemme liberata (Jerusalem Delivered). Tasso’s sister’s house can still be seen nearby. This lively square dating from 1866 is the beating pulse of the city.In the historic quarter you will find many interesting religious buildings in contrasting styles, such as the Chiesa di San Francesco, the church of the Madonna Addolorata and the sanctuary of the Madonna del Carmine. The Basilica of St Antonio houses the remains of the patron saint of Sorrento in its crypt, while Sorrento Cathedral dates from the 11th century and is famous for its three-tiered bell tower and nave paintings by Nicola Malinconico and Giacomo del Po. Find out more about the local technique of intarsia inlay, which features on the choir stalls, at the Museo Bottega, an 18th-century palace housing a fine collection of inlaid furniture and objets d’art.No visit to Sorrento Historic Town would be complete without a spot of shopping, so head for Via San Cesareo to browse among the boutiques, stalls and workshops for local crafts, fashions and leatherware, tasty regional delicacies, citrus products and quirky souvenirs. Then put the finishing touches to your day of discovery with a tasty meal at one of the lively restaurants that line the narrow lanes around Piazza San Antonino, before strolling to Villa Comunale park to watch the sun set over the Bay of Naples.
Sorrento Historic Centre Travel Guide
Popular places to visit
Piazza Tasso
Soak up the atmosphere of Sorrento’s main square, where modern life meets ancient history around every corner.
Sorrento Lift
Built into the cliffs of Sorrento, this elevator provides quick access from the city’s beaches and marina to the Old Town.
Deep Valley of the Mills
This overgrown and abandoned ravine recounts a fascinating story of daily life in old Sorrento.
Villa Comunale Park
Explore the lovely green spaces of Villa Comunale Park and enjoy the boating in Sorrento. Wander through the seaside and beautiful beaches in this romantic area.
Sorrento Cathedral
Decorative chapels and a dazzling collection of frescoes by notable Italian artists beautify the interior of this 15th-century religious monument.
Piazza Sant'Antonino
Find out about the history of Sorrento when you take a trip to Piazza Sant'Antonino. Wander through the seaside and beautiful beaches in this romantic area.
Activities
Amalfi Coast: Positano, Amalfi & Ravello Guided Tour
Day Trip to Capri, Anacapri and Blue Grotto with a Small Group
Small Group Tour of Capri & Blue Grotto from Naples and Sorrento
Our pick of the best Sorrento Historic Centre Hotel Deals
Reviewed on 22 May 2024
Reviewed on 21 May 2024
Reviewed on 23 Apr. 2024
Reviewed on 21 May 2024
Reviewed on 20 May 2024
Reviewed on 23 May 2024
Other neighbourhoods around Sorrento Historic Centre
Sorrento City Centre
The fantastic nightlife and breathtaking beach views are just a few highlights of Sorrento City Centre. Make a stop by Piazza Tasso or Piazza Sant'Antonino while you're exploring the area.
Priora
Some popular features of Priora include its seaside views and restaurants. If you're in the mood to explore farther, Piazza Tasso or Villa Fiorentino are worth checking out in the surrounding nearby area.
Capo di Sorrento
If you're spending some time in Capo di Sorrento, La Pignatella Beach and Baths of Queen Giovanna are top sights worth seeing.