One Week in Sorrento: An Itinerary for Foodies and Culture Lovers
So Sorrento is not only a beautiful coastal town, it is a food and culture paradise.
The first time I travelled there I immediately fell in love thanks to the way each turn seemed to whisper a story to me, whether it was through an air filled with the scent of citrus or the call of history echoing off ancient stones.
This one-week journey is for those who cannot resist an authentic Italian plate and immersing themselves in local traditions.
From secret trattorias to stunning landmarks, it’s the ultimate guide to soaking in all that Sorrento has to offer.
Day One: The Old Town of Sorrento and Local Flavors
Morning: Get to Know the Heart of Sorrento
Start with a walk around the Old Town, where cobbled streets can lead to delightful surprises.
Piazza Tasso, the bustling town square, is then a short walk in one direction and the artisan shops are situated on the streets in another.
Look for a local café for your first taste of real Italian coffee – it’s a life game changer, I promise.
Afternoon: Visit a Limoncello Factory
Lemons are Sorrento’s claim to fame, so a tour of a limoncello factory is a must.
Discover how this iconic digestif is made while you taste some for yourself.
Add some pastries from a local baker to really experience the flavors of the area.
Evening: Dinner at Ristorante Donna Sofia
Finish your day with dinner at Ristorante Donna Sofia, a little treasure dedicated to the actress Sophia Loren.
The atmosphere is romantic and the dishes, including the seafood risotto, are positively unforgettable.
Day 2: The Amalfi Coast and the Culinary Gems of Sorrento
Morning: Hit the Road for an Amalfi Coast Road Trip
Hit the road early for a drive along the Amalfi Coast, one of the most picturesque driving routes in Italy.
When you stop in Positano, be sure to explore its pastel-colored houses (Image credit: Jimi Dziuban / Danita Delimont) and lounge on the beach.
Once there, have some fresh croissants and Italian coffee for a light breakfast at a café that looks out over the sea.
Afternoon: Sorrento Cooking Class
Return to Sorrento and dive into the Italian culinary arts.
Attend a local cooking class, where you’ll master classics such as gnocchi alla Sorrentina and a traditional dessert like tiramisu.
It’s an experience that is hands-on and teaches you not just recipes, but the love and stories behind them.
Evening: Aperitivo and Chill
And wrap up the day with an aperitivo — a pre-dinner drink with light snacks.
Grab a seat at Sedile Dominova, a history-laden open-air loggia ideal for people-watching.
Top it off with olives, bruschetta and the liveliness of Sorrento’s nighttime bustle.
Day 3: The Charms of Capri and Coastal Delights
Morning: Take a ferry to Capri and the Blue Grotto
Take a morning ferry to the glamorous island of Capri.
Start exploring with a boat tour of the Blue Grotto, an enchanting sea cave where sunlight creates a brilliant electric-blue glow.
It’s a memorable experience you will not forget to be enraptured by the graceful ways of nature.
Afternoon: Capri Town and Local Cuisine
Stroll the upmarket streets of Capri Town, filled with boutiques and local artisans.
For lunch, you’re advised to try raviolo Caprese, a dish found only on the island, made with ricotta and marjoram and served in a light tomato sauce.
Head on over for a scoop of gelato while you explore the lush Gardens of Augustus, which boasts stunning views.
Evening: Watch the sunset at Marina Piccola
For a dinner at sunset, go to Marina Piccola, the quieter side of the island.
Seafood here is mind-bogglingly fresh — grilled fish, say, or a plate of spaghetti alle vongole.
With the waves softly crashing and the sun sinking below the horizon, it’s a perfect way to end your day.
Day 4: Historical Gems of Pompeii and Sorrento
Morning: Explore Pompeii
Visit Pompeii, the rest of the ancient city skipped in time thanks to Mount Vesuvius.
Meander the incredibly preserved streets, past the Forum and the amphitheater, picturing life as it was 2,000 years ago.
And do pack comfortable shoes, because there’s a lot to see and dig up here.
Afternoon Museo Correale di Terranova
Head back to Sorrento to explore its past at the Museo Correale di Terranova.
This museum’s storied collection features a jewel box of local art, artifacts and antiques that contribute to a rich tapestry of the region’s cultural history.
It’s a quiet place to relax and develop your interest in Sorrento’s deep history.
Evening: A Romantic Dinner at L’Antica Trattoria
End the day with dinner at L’Antica Trattoria, one of Sorrento’s most beloved restaurants.
The garden setting is magical, and their pastas — including the linguine with clams — celebrate Italian flavors in a big way.
Uncork a glass of wine and take in the evening at a leisurely pace.
Day 5: Marina Grande and Natural Wonders
Morning: Rest at Marina Grande
Start your day at Marina Grande, Sorrento’s delightful fishing village.
Breakfast by the sea (there is nothing better, my friends, than watching the fishermen bring in their daily catch over a warm sfogliatella pastry).
The colorful boats and peaceful scene are ideal for a sunrise start to the day.
Afternoon: Swim at Bagni della Regina Giovanna
A very short hike will take you to Bagni della Regina Giovanna, a secluded natural pool surrounded by ancient Roman ruins.
Take a picnic and bathe in the sparkling blue waters in sublime tranquility.
It’s a seldom-discovered gem that gives you the feel of a private escape.
Evening: Casual Pizza Night
To eat, you must try authentic Neapolitan pizza at Pizzeria da Franco, a local favorite.
The freshness of the ingredients paired with the wood-fired crust is a simple perfection.
Day 6: Ravello’s Grace, Sorrento’s Nightlife
Morning: Day Trip to Ravello
Begin your day with a drive to Ravello, a fairytale-like hilltop village on the Amalfi Coast.
Visit Villa Rufolo, a 13th-century villa with-gloriously manicured gardens and expansive views of the coastline.
Wander slowly along the verdant paths — it’s tempting to get lost in the tranquil beauty here.
Afternoon: Lunch with a View
Feast on lunch at a terrace restaurant such as Villa Maria, where fresh-from-the-farm products take centre stage in dishes like risotto made with lemon.
Exquisite food with beautiful views will render this meal memorable.
Before you return to Sorrento, don’t miss Villa Cimbrone — where you’ll find the renowned Terrace of Infinity.
It would not be an exaggeration to say that standing on this terrace feels like floating above the Mediterranean, with endless blue as far as the eye can see in every direction.
Nightcap: Sorrento’s Lively Nightlife
When you return to Sorrento, immerse yourself in its buzzing nightlife.
You might begin with drinks at a nearby wine bar, like Vineria Bollicine, to taste local wines and prosecco.
Afterward, stroll up Corso Italia, absorbing the energy of the throngs of early evening strollers.
If the spirit moves you, stop by Fauno Notte Club for a fun, dancing-filled evening of live music.
DAY 7: A Relaxing Goodbye in Sorrento
Morning: Wake Up, Watch the Sun Rise, Get Coffee
Get real early for a sunrise walk along the Sorrento coast.
The golden morning light creates a painting with the cliffs and the sea, making for a magical start to your last day.
Afternoon: Shopping and local bites
Spend your last afternoon browsing Sorrento’s lovely shops.
You can pick up local art such as hand-painted ceramics, limoncello and artisanal leather goods — great mementos of your trip.
For lunch, stop in at a trattoria for one last plate of pasta with a glass of chilled white wine.
Experience Sorrento — this is your opportunity to relax and contemplate.
Night: Last supper with a skyline.
Spend your week’s end with a memorable dinner overlooking the Bay of Naples.
Refined dishes and sweeping views at restaurants like il Buco or Bellevue Syrene provide the ideal backdrop for a farewell meal.
Raise a glass to the amazing memories you created while in Sorrento and enjoy your last Italian meal.
