Famous for its lemons and seaside cliffs, the coastal town of Sorrento looks out towards Naples and the famous Mount Vesuvius from its own peninsula. Capri and Pompei are a short trip away, while the Amalfi Coast stretches along the other side of the promontory. And yet this small town owes its popularity to so much more than a convenient location. A stroll around Piazza Tasso reveals a charming historic centre that attracted so many Grand Tour travellers of the 17th- and 18th-century, blessed as it is with stunning sea views and – more recently – artisan shops and local restaurants.
The Romantic era has left a rich heritage of magnificent villas and 19th-century palaces. Today many of these buildings have been reimagined as accommodation options, spanning everything from budget to high-end. But be of little doubt, no matter what your choice, a shot of refreshing limoncello served on a panoramic terrace awaits you.
From €157/ night
An elegant villa perched on the cliff of Sorrento, Villa Silvana offers a prime location and dreamlike views of the Bay of Naples. Panoramic terraces and leafy gardens blend in with the Mediterranean colours found throughout the interiors, which accommodate modern rooms complete with a wide range of facilities. These might include a private terrace or a Jacuzzi, such as in the 52-sq.mt. suite spread over two floors. The harbour sits directly below the villa, and docking is one of the exclusive services available.
From €72/ night
Hotel Rivoli opened in 2008 in a fully-renovated 13th-century palazzo in the historic centre of Sorrento. Once a monastery, this small hotel today offers bright spaces and modern guest rooms. Its surroundings are dotted with artisan stores and workshops, making this an ideal choice for exploring all that the charming streets of Sorrento have to offer. The town’s beaches are also within easy reach, as well as the harbour linking Sorrento to the other jewels of the Amalfi coast. Each morning guests can tuck into a hearty buffet breakfast served in the on-site dining room.
From €140/ night
Hotel Plaza offers an approach to hospitality that’s focused on innovation and eco-friendly practices. The rooms and communal spaces are fitted with energy-saving systems and sustainable materials, such as natural hemp serving as a thermal and acoustic insulator. Open from April to October, the terrace hosts a skybar and an infinity pool, ideal for enjoying lunchtime snacks or cocktails and live music at night. Breakfast is prepared using locally-sourced ingredients and includes everything from homemade cakes to a Full English. Another perk is that as soon as they’ve booked their stay, guests can customise their experience through a dedicated ‘MyPage’ online service.
From €76/ night
Surrounded by an olive grove, Hotel Villa Fiorita overlooks the Gulf of Naples from the slopes behind Sorrento. Some of the guest rooms come with a balcony affording sea views, while others look out onto the hotel’s garden. An on-site restaurant serves authentic Neapolitan cuisine in a panoramic hall, while a terrace and solarium (open from April to October) provide a peaceful ambience and views over Sorrento. It takes about 15 minutes to reach the town centre by car, and a free shuttle service is available.
From €140/ night
This four-star hotel takes its name from the temple of Minerva which used to stand on a nearby promontory. What we see today is the upgrade of a historic boarding house of Sorrento, now boasting original architecture characterised by large windows, bright spaces and panoramic terraces. The guest rooms have a classic Mediterranean style, each featuring exclusive details and unique character. A bar and a swimming pool are located on the rooftop, while the restaurant serves up contemporary cuisine inspired both by local culinary traditions and international dishes.
