Sorrento

Sorrento is a resort town on cliffs at the western end of the Sorrentine peninsula, in Campania, Italy, about 50 km south of Naples. The most direct route is the Circumvesuviana Sorrento-line train from Napoli Garibaldi to the Sorrento terminus on Corso Italia, about 65-75 minutes for roughly EUR 5 one way, with trains every 20-30 minutes. In season, hydrofoils from Molo Beverello take about 35-40 minutes for roughly EUR 14-18, operated by companies such as NLG and Alilauro. In town, the main square is Piazza Tasso, from which the old centre's lanes lead to Via San Cesareo, lined with shops selling limoncello, inlaid wood and lemon products. The Chiostro di San Francesco is a small cloister used for exhibitions and weddings, the Villa Comunale park has a cliff-top terrace over the bay, and the Marina Grande fishing harbour on the western side has simple seafood restaurants and a quieter atmosphere than the main port at Marina Piccola. From Marina Piccola, ferries run to Capri, and SITA Sud buses continue along the coast to Positano and Amalfi. A suggested one-day arc is to arrive in the morning, walk the old centre and Villa Comunale, have lunch at Marina Grande, spend the afternoon on a lemon-grove visit or a swim from a pier platform, and take the train back in the early evening before the commuter crowds build. April-October is the best season, and the Circumvesuviana is crowded in summer, so an early start helps and bags should be watched closely. Return train costs about EUR 10, and the hydrofoil about EUR 28-36 return. Food stops include gnocchi alla sorrentina, a baked dish with tomato and mozzarella, fresh seafood and lemon desserts. Sorrento also works as a base for Pompeii, Capri and the Amalfi Coast, but a dedicated day here suits visitors who want an easy, scenic and walkable town.