Our Favorite Hotels in Sorrento
– Five-star: Excelsior Vittoria
• 4-One 4-star option is Maison La Minervetta
• 3-star hotel: Del Mare
• For couples: Bellevue Syrene
• Accommodations for Families: The Hilton Palace
• Best outdoor pool area: Hilton Palace
• Another option with a wonderful view is Grand Cocumella.
Where is Sorrento?
Sorrento is an enchanting town located in southern Italy. It sits on the northern side of the Sorrentine Peninsula with views over the Gulf of Naples to Mount Vesuvius. The beautiful Amalfi Coast lies to the south side of the Peninsula around a 40-minute drive away to the town of Positano along winding mountain roads. Pompeii and Naples can also be reached within 45 and 75 minutes respectively by car. The island of Capri is a short 20-minute ferry ride from Sorrento.
What is Sorrento known for?
Although its central location makes it a popular base for exploring the region, Sorrento possesses numerous historic and natural attractions worthy of a visit. Most of these sights are found in the Centro Storico (Historic Center). Here lies the Church and Cloister of San Francesco, a exquisite 14th century Baroque gem erected atop a seventh century monastery using ruins of pagan temples with an open garden at its core. The Villa Comunale gardens are directly next door. The notable Sorrento Cathedral sits on Corso Italia, the principal shopping road passing through the center. The Museo Bottega della Tarsia Lignea is a charming museum focused on Sorrento`s traditional wood inlay art. Piazza Tasso is the main square of the city, bordered by eateries and bars. Behind the square lies the Vallone dei Mulini, a gorge carved by two rivers and the overgrown remnants of a 13th century flour mill (a compelling view yet inaccessible to visit). First time visitors should stay in the Centro Storico. Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria is our preferred hotel here
Are there beaches in Sorrento?
Most of Sorrento sits high above the sea on top of a sheer cliff. At the base of the cliff is a string of beaches, the ferry port (Marina Piccola), and a little fishing “village” (Marina Grande). Marina Piccola is on the east end of Centro Storico, and is the main port of the city with regular ferry departures to Positano, Capri, Naples, and Ischia. From Marina Piccola, walk west to find a series of beaches and beach clubs stretching for about 500 meters. The westernmost beach, Bagni Salvatore, is known for its ruins of an ancient Roman bath carved into the base of the cliff. Farther west, on the other side of Centro Storico, Marina Grande has a wide, sandy beach that is free to the public. Accessible from the center via a long but picturesque stairway, this beach tends to be less crowded than the central beaches. Visitors will find some kayak rentals, small boat tour operators, and a clutch of family-run seafood restaurants owned by local fishermen set on the shore or on the piers.
What else is near Sorrento?
East of Centro Storico (past Piazza Tasso and Vallone deil Mulini) is the City Center, which remains home to many historic buildings, like the one housing the Museo Correale di Terranova with Neapolitan paintings, ceramics, archaeological discoveries as well as more modern amenities like the train station. Even farther east (about one km from Piazza Tasso), Sant’Agnello is a small town with eating places and cafes catering to local tastes. The area has few hotels and stays primarily an area for locals although the stunning sea views and relaxed atmosphere are starting to attract more visitors. The area has gorgeous outlooks to Vesuvius and Sorrento as well as a train station, La Marinella Beach and the Frantoio Gargiulo olive farm (olive oil tastings available).
What is the primary mode of transportation in Sorrento?
The entirety of Sorrento can be navigated on foot, though moving from the cliff edge to the harbor or beaches necessitates using staircases or public elevators. Having a car would prove rather problematic here. Additionally, the unique cliffside landscape renders bus transportation within the city itself not very practical. Buses work well for longer trips, such as traveling from Marina Grand to the train station or from Sorrento to Positano, however walking will nearly always be faster for destinations within town. There are train stations located in the City Center and Sant’Agnello with routes to Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Naples. To arrive at the Amalfi Coast by rail, a transfer is needed in Naples to reach Vietri sul Mare, the sole town there with a train station. Taking the ferry is the best way to reach Positano, the closest town on the Amalfi Coast, requiring around an hour. The bus from Sorrento to Positano is a tad faster but much more crowded with few seats available and generally unpleasant if you happen to have to stand for the entire route. Ferry tickets can be bought at the kiosks at the port or online from Ferryhopper.com. Train passes to Naples, Pompeii, or Herculaneum can be purchased at the train station or online at EAV. To continue on to Vietri sul Mare or Salerno, a second ticket can be bought at the station or online from Trenitalia. However, don’t obtain your second train ticket until your first train has left on time; tickets are refundable in the case of delays, but recovering the funds is not an enjoyable process. Bus tickets can be bought before your ride at tobacco shops (tabaccherie), newspaper stands, souvenir shops, cafes, and bars. You cannot buy bus tickets onboard the bus).
16 Best Hotels in Sorrento
1. Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria – Luxury
Hotel phone: +39 081 877 7111
This historic 5-star hotel has been a iconic landmark in the city center since 1832. It offers luxury amenities like an indoor heated pool and world-class spa. Diners can enjoy flavors from Michelin quality dining to relaxed poolside fare across its three restaurants and bars. Complimentary breakfast is served daily with live piano music. Additional activities range from wine tastings and cooking demonstrations to boat excursions on their private yacht. Spacious guest rooms feature marble baths while most afford furnished terraces or French balconies, with approximately half providing scenic water views. Premier suites offer unique nuances such as clawfoot tubs or onsite pianos. Some historic suites have preserved their original decor since hosting renowned guests like Enrico Caruso, Luciano Pavarotti, and Princess Margaret. Family guests can benefit from facilities like a dedicated children`s pool, playground, and expandable room configurations. Its prime location overlooks the ferry terminal at the edge of the historic city center adds to the appeal.
2. Bellevue Syrene – Luxury
Hotel phone: +39 081 878 1024
This upscale boutique hotel is refined in its atmosphere and details. Situated on a cliff overlooking the Gulf of Naples, it occupies an aristocratic villa constructed in 1750 and offers captivating ocean vistas. Accommodations range from standard guest rooms to spacious one and two-bedroom suites, most with private terraces allowing panoramic water perspectives. Several suites include luxury amenities such as an indoor hot tub or pool. The pinnacle Lord Astor Suite has an exclusive outdoor hot tub as well as an indoor jetted bathtub. Throughout the day, complimentary refreshments like snacks, wine, and prosecco are provided in the lounge. Substantial buffet breakfasts are a part of room rates. The hotel is ideally positioned within walking distance of Naples` historic center amid leafy plazas, near noteworthy attractions explored on foot in under five minutes, including a cloister and dining/shopping along with transport to the harbor and beaches.
3. Grand Hotel Cocumella – Luxury
Hotel phone: +39 081 878 2933
This former 16th century Jesuit monastery has been beautifully transformed into a luxury hotel that blends history with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a variety of recreational activities including swimming in the semi-Olympic sized pool or playing tennis. A private sandy beach is accessible via a boardwalk and connects to a sundeck jutting out over the sea. Additionally, the on-site wellness center provides complimentary access to a sauna, steam room, and jacuzzi for relaxation and renewal. Other leisure pursuits involve strolling through the rose and vegetable gardens where guests may pick fresh ingredients to incorporate into their meals. Cooking classes showcase Neapolitan cuisine while cruises aboard an historically restored 1880s ketch sailboat offer picturesque views of the coastline. Several culinary options cater to varying tastes with a gourmet Mediterranean restaurant, casual poolside pizzeria set among orange trees, and fusion space blending Japanese and local flavors. Guest rooms exhibit a harmonious blend of classic and contemporary design elements, often highlighting the area`s tradition of decorative woodwork. Most have private oceanview patios while some possess frescoed ceilings, tile floors, or two-level floorplans. Magnificently situated above Marinella Beach in the village of Sant’Agnello, the hotel provides convenient access to both Sorrento town center roughly 1 kilometer away and the train station connecting to Naples and Pompeii archaeological site within the same distance.
4. Maison La Minervetta – Luxury
Hotel phone: +39 081 877 4455
This artwork-focused boutique hotel situated near the coast has merely 13 ocean view lodgings. Roughly halfway down the dramatic cliffside staircase sits an oversized Jacuzzi with a scenic viewpoint and sun terrace ideal for relaxation. A lavish breakfast spread is included complimentary each morning while a smaller appetizer buffet is available in the evenings. Due to its unique architecture, each room differs in attributes. All contain bathtubs, some with hydrotherapy functions, and some with separate showers. Most feature floor-to-ceiling or wall-to-wall windows; two include private balconies or terraces. The quiet location rises above the fishing community of Marina Grande, around a 15-minute walk into the Centro Storico. Reaching the beach may be somewhat daunting requiring about 300 steps down the private pathway.
5. Grand Hotel La Favorita – Luxury
Hotel phone: +39 081 878 2031
Upscale hotel situated downtown, steps away from the Museo Bottega della Tarsia Lignea, Piazza della Vittoria, Cloister of San Francesco, the cathedral, and elevator to the beaches and port—complete with a rooftop aquatic facility. Guest rooms exhibit traditional regional motifs like maiolica tiles, wooden inlaid furniture, and frescoed ceilings. All accommodations have private balconies, while higher-end and deluxe rooms have segregated showers and bathtubs and junior suites include jetted baths and more expansive balconies with sun loungers. The rooftop provides panoramic perspectives over the sea and city alongside a heated pool and light fare station. Below, a refined eatery and upmarket bar serve nearby-sourced Italian classics.
6. Lorelei Londres – Luxury
Hotel phone: +39 081 1902 2620
This boutique hotel perched upon cliffside terrain delights guests with beach club access, a pair of outdoor hot tubs amidst the gardens, and unobstructed ocean perspectives. Highly rated contemporary Mediterranean cuisine can be sampled all day in the Michelin-starred restaurant or seafood and sushi bar, with breakfast items included in accommodations prices. All lodging units incorporate personal balconies or patios, with the exception of two, and many feature soaking bathtubs. Certain chill-inducing standard and junior suites provide ample terraces housing private outdoor jacuzzis. Conveniently positioned in the city center opposite a sizable playground area, near the Correale di Terranova Museum, and circa a 10-minute stroll to the historic downtown core.
7. Parco dei Principi – Luxury
Hotel phone: +39 081 878 2858
Set within an expansive botanical preserve with private beach access and seasonal saltwater pool, this historic luxury hotel primarily dates to the 18th century while meticulously preserving mid-20th century renovations. Each individually styled guest room serves as a tasteful time capsule reflecting the original 1962 architecture and design through unique tile patterns and custom wall art. All offer patio or balcony surroundings taking in sea or garden views. Fine dining with cliffside panoramas alongside casual Mediterranean beachside fare complement bars at the lobby and pool areas. Daily breakfast is part of room rates and 24-hour in-room dining is accessible. The romantic hilltown setting lies a brief walk or complimentary shuttle ride from the train station and Sorrento city center.
8. Palazzo Marziale – Luxury
Hotel phone: +39 081 807 4406
Nestled in the historic city center, this refurbished 15th century palace welcomes guests as a boutique hotel near a renowned monastery and park. Antique furnishings, marble washrooms with terracotta or hardwood floors, and rooms featuring frescoes or French balconies preserve the heritage property`s charms. The spacious Executive Suite spans over 100 square meters including an interior courtyard. A complimentary breakfast buffet is provided daily for guests.
9. Hilton Sorrento Palace – Luxury
Hotel phone: +39 081 878 4141
Perched on a hillside south of the historic city center, this luxurious resort commands impressive ocean and coastal views. A brief 15-minute walk transports guests to the heart of the old town. Amenities include interconnected swimming pools along with sections dedicated for children, an indoor heated pool, tennis courts and a tranquil citrus grove. Families will appreciate services like the seasonal kids club for ages 4-12, playground and suites accommodating up to four guests with adjoining rooms that can be combined. Diners can sample a variety of cuisines daily from traditional Italian to contemporary Japanese plus casual BBQ, pizza and poolside cocktails. Living quarters vary in size, layout and vistas but all rooms and suites include minibars, coffeemakers and most with private balconies overlooking the scenery.
10. Cristina – Midrange
Hotel phone: +39 081 878 3562
Hilltop lodging highlighting an open air swimming pool, eatery, 24-hour bar, wellbeing focus, and remarkable sea sees. All rooms have private washrooms, refrigerators, and balconies. Situated on the western edge of Sant’Agnello, he lodging sits one km from the train station with courses to Pompeii and Naples. A benevolent shuttle transports visitors to and from Sorrento’s town focus.
11. Relais Villa Giusso – Midrange
Hotel phone: +39 081 802 4847
Historic farmhouse-turned-accommodation located 12 km from Sorrento’s Piazza Tasso, just outside the coastal town of Vico Equense. The property has a working farm, restaurant, complimentary breakfast, private bathrooms in each guest room, sea and garden views from the terrace, and free on-site parking.
12. Hotel Del Mare – Midrange
Hotel phone: +39 081 878 3310
Situated within the charming fishing village of Marina Grande, this friendly hotel offers scenic sun terrace views and colorful guest rooms decorated with pottery tiles sourced from the nearby town of Vietri sul Mare. Amenities include private bath facilities and showers, with some rooms adding private balconies overlooking the sea. Family rooms sleep up to four guests comfortably. A complimentary breakfast buffet is provided daily in a dining area carved directly into the cliffside setting. Guests can also enjoy light refreshments served throughout the day in the lobby lounge area. The prime beachfront location places the hotel steps away from sandy shores, beach clubs, and several superb local seafood eateries. The historic Centro Storico district lays within a pleasant 10-minute walk.
13. Hotel Nice – Midrange
Hotel phone: +39 081 878 1650
Moderate-priced hotel in the City Center just a brief couple of minutes on foot from Piazza Tasso and Sorrento Station and within blocks of many shops, eateries, and coffee shops. The front desk is open 24 hours and a rooftop terrace features panoramic city perspectives. A free continental breakfast buffet is offered daily.
14. Ulisse Deluxe Hostel – Budget
Hotel phone: +39 081 877 4753
Budget accommodation offers standard rooms, dormitories, and apartments, plus an on-site bar and eatery. Situated on the western edge of Centro Storico, around 500 meters from the cathedral. Guests receive discounted access to the gymnasium, swimming pool, and spa in the same building.
15. Sorrento Relais – Budget
Hotel phone: +39 081 877 4834
Modern guesthouse in the City Center near the Correale Museum and less than 10 minutes on foot from Sorrento train station and Piazza Tasso. A breakfast buffet is included. All seven rooms feature private bathrooms and minibars. Small pets are allowed for a fee.
16. Camping Nube D’Argento – Budget
Hotel phone: +39 081 877 4834
Eclectic property featuring a campground and individual cabins with kitchenettes and private bathrooms. Amenities include free on-site parking, a restaurant, two bars, a market, and a playground. Set on the west side of Centro Storico approximately 800 meters to the cathedral, one km to Marina Grande and Piazza Tasso, and about 1.5 km to the Sorrento train station.
