Sorrento :: A Charming Town Along the Coast of Italy

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Sorrento is not an actual part of the Amalfi Coast or Capri although many people associate all three together. 

However, Sorrento is a dazzling destination that stands alone in its renown. Charming as the day is long this beautiful little town won’t disappoint.

The Town

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Charming as you can imagine, Sorrento is more than I expected. I immediately felt welcome in this homey atmosphere. The many cobbles and steps in this quaint village put a smile on my face everywhere we went.

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The people are so friendly, used to tourists they really go out of their way to speak in their broken English so that you can understand them. They are more than delighted to show you the way and make their town a place to which you will want to return again and again.

I would have loved to include a photo of some of the townspeople but that is something apparently frowned upon. So I just got this of a clerk in a shop who was so sweet and so helpful as she gave a demonstration on how to use ingredients and spices. Oh and it smelled so good!

Sorrento Cathedral

This unassuming church is located in the heart of town dating back to the 10th-12th centuries.

It isn’t until you enter that its beauty unfolds. For example, the central ceiling is completely painted on cloth. What a gorgeous church!

San Francesco of Assisi Church 

The history of this church dates back to the 8th century and is intimately linked to that of the monumental complex which, besides a convent/monastery, includes a wonderful 14th century Cloister and is still as of today  inhabited by friars. This splendid location is where musical events of the summer take place.

The Markets

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We wandered through the charming streets and outdoor markets, tried nespola or loquat (the fruit of the medlar tree, akin to a miniature sweet apple) and picked up several spice packets at a cute little shop called Nino & Friends for souvenirs to bring home.

The Food

We enjoyed a plate of real Italian spaghetti. We had to, right? We stopped in at Bar Ristorante 2000 (Campitello Matese, Sorrento) that seemed to cater to more to locals.

Oh my goodness the sauce. It was indescribable. Apparently the absolutely wonderful flavor comes from the pomodoro di Sorrento. What an amazing sauce!

While enjoying our meal we were accompanied by the distant sound of a nearby accordion player. They certainly know how to set the atmosphere for a memorable time on your way to the Italian Amalfi Coast! This is definitely a place I want to return one day and maybe stay longer and eat more of this amazing Italian food!

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And what is a trip to Italy without having some gelato and wonderful Italian espresso? If you don’t, did you really go to Italy?

The Shopping

As we wandered through the streets we came upon charming and more charming areas. Sorrento is a terrific shopping destination. The main shopping streets in town are the Corso Italia and Via San Cesareo.

Here you will find endless boutiques selling custom sandals, carved woodwork, hand-painted ceramics as well as everything made from the Sorrento lemons.

Piazzo Torqato Tasso

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Named after the 17th-century poet in this square you’ll experience the hub of the city and the perfect spot for you to grab a light lunch while you enjoy people watching and drink in all the Italian charm of Sorrento.

 The Limoncello

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We also came upon and tasted their world renowned limoncello liqueur made from locally grown limoni zest of. Well, I didn’t actually have the liqueur as a drink but instead opted to taste it inside the fancy chocolates we found in a cute little shop called Sapori & Colori which is actually a limoncello factory which sells this typical product of Sorrento. If ever find yourself on the Amalfi Coast you must stop in. They give out samples of every product they sell so you can taste before you buy. And I certainly did buy.

Location of Sapori & Colori :: Via S. Cesareo, 57, 80067 Sorrento NA (click here for map)

Side note :: I thought it would be of interest to include information about how the these special Femminello St. Teresa (also known as Sorrento or Sfusato) lemons came about. Although it is thought that lemons and Italy just naturally go together, few people realize that lemon trees are not local to Italy. As the story goes they were originally brought over from India or China.

Due to the cooler winter mediterranean temperatures growing them here takes special care so they built what is known as lemon houses. The giant structures a bit like glass-less terraced greenhouses are left open during the hot summer months allowing the lemon trees to flourish and fruit in the sun’s heat. As the air begins to cool in autumn and winter, the limonaia can be covered with wooden struts that slot into the top of the structure.

Apparently their discovery of successful lemon growth led them to sell them throughout Europe. Limoncello has since become the second most popular liqueur in Italy after Campari.

 The Views

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Sorrento sits on a picturesque cliff overlooking and making dramatic views over the Bay of Naples. It is certainly a must-see city while traveling through the southwest region of Italy. Known as the land of colors, traditions, mysteries, and legends make for some interesting tales. By casting their spell and causing you to fall in love with the coast, you will return again!

Marina Grande

Marina Grande is a small fishing village nestled into this charming nook famous for its wooden boats of all different colors. An adorable little marina that makes a great view from the top of the hill. Despite being a wonderful resort the Port of Marina Grande has maintained its rustic charm, original identity and sense of community, and it makes a wonderful photo op!

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I have got to say that Sorrento is every bit as adorable as I read about on the travel websites. But even though I sort of knew what to expect this little town really exceeded all of my expectations. There are many words I could use to describe Sorrento but charming definitely stands out above the rest.

The nearest airport to Sorrento is Naples which is about 30 miles away so a short drive. We didn’t spend any time in Naples because it is such a big city :: we immediately headed for Amalfi. And we are so glad we did!