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When you think about travelling to Italy, you always think of Venice, Rome, Milan or Florence. But overlooking the Bay of Naples is a hidden gem of a town, Sorrento. Relatively unknown to the outside world, Sorrento offers an enthralling escape to the Amalfi Coast and is a growing tourist destination. And the most amazing part is the location of the town. Perched on top of a plateau opening out to the picturesque views of Bay of Naples, Mt. Vesuvius and the Isle of Capri, Sorrento is picture-perfect. If you are planning to visit the town for the first time, here are the free things to do in Sorrento.
Top 8 Free Things to Do in Sorrento
- Piazza Tasso
- Villa Communale
- Baths of the Queen Giovanna
- Chiostro di San Francesco
- Vallone dei Mulini
- Punta Campanella Marine Reserve
- Sorrento Cathedral
- Museum Correale
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1. Piazza Tasso
Named after the poet Torquato Tasso, Piazza Tasso is the main square in Sorrento. Thanks to the central location of the square, you are provided easy access to the surrounding bars, shopping centres, & restaurants. In the evening, Piazza Tasso buzzes with tourists and local crowd, making it an ideal place to people watch. Full of life, Piazza Tasso is one of the best places to be in Sorrento.
Address: Piazza Torquato Tasso, 80067 Sorrento NA, Italy
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2. Villa Communale
Villa Communale is a compact-sized, free public garden high above the sea. Sitting on top of a cliff, the lofty park offers sweeping views of the Bay of Naples and Mt. Vesuvius. Planning a visit to the park? Make sure to take your cameras along to capture the scenic beauty. Save your breath by using the elevator to Villa Communale and the perfect time to visit the park is either during sunrise or sunset.
Address: Via S. Francesco, 80067 Sorrento NA, Italy
3. Baths of the Queen Giovanna
Safely guarded by rocky cliffs and natural greenery, the emerald green pool of the Baths of Queen Giovanna is one of the hidden gems in Sorrento. Walk downhill from Cape Sorrento waving bye to the aromatic grapevine & orange trees to reach this exclusive bathing spot. The refreshing dip beneath the limestone cliffs is all the remedy you need for your overworked soul. Do pack a picnic when you are going.
Address: Traversa Punta Capo, 14, 80067 Sorrento NA, Italy
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4. Chiostro di San Francesco
Chiostro di San Francesco is a beautiful courtyard in Sorrento. Enveloped by charming bougainvillaea, Chiostro di San Francesco is an architectural wonderland. The hidden gem of an attraction is a quiet oasis and the elegant setting of the courtyard will lighten your spirits. Built over the 7th-century monastery ruins, Chiostro di San Francesco also serves as a venue for weddings, concerts, and art gallery.
Address: Via S. Francesco, 12, 80067 Sorrento NA, Italy
5. Vallone dei Mulini
As you walk along Via Fuorimura, you will be treated with an unusual sight – Vallone dei Mulini. Already on Via Fuorimura but not found the valley yet? Have a peek down and there it will be. The historic valley which was formed as a result of a volcanic eruption that happened 35,000 years ago is an incredible sight. While there is no access to the Vallone dei Mulini, it is a great spot to click photographs of.
Address: 80067 Sorrento, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy
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6. Punta Campanella Marine Reserve
A lover of nature? Punta Campanella Marine Reserve is totally for you. Unadultered by the external world, Punta Campanella Marine Reserve offers the best of nature and the Italian coastline is something like you have never seen before. Journey across the rich Mediterranean vegetation in the reserve and do make it a rule to dive into the clear waters.
Address: Area naturale marina protetta Punta Campanella, Italy
7. Sorrento Cathedral
Dedicated to Saints Philip and James, Sorrento Cathedral in the heart of the city is a striking place to be in. The Roman Catholic cathedral which was initially built in the 11th century was rebuilt in the 15th century in Romanesque style and the fascinating facade was recently added in the 20th century. Airy in nature with a three-tiered bell tower, Sorrento Cathedral is famous for its choir.
Address: Via Santa Maria della Pietà, 44, 80067 Sorrento NA, Italy
8. Museum Correale
Tucked within a Patrician villa, Museum Correale is a top museum in Sorrento. The idyllic museum situated on the outskirts of the city is a great respite from the usual sights in the city. Inside the museum are a collection of ceramics, furnishings, clocks, and medieval artefacts. Wander around the garden decorated with citrus grove, soak in the breathtaking views of the Gulf of Naples, and check out the art collection.
Address: Via Correale, 50, 80067 Sorrento NA, Italy
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Want to try all these out in Sorrento? Check out exciting Italy packages for you to escape.