Sorrento is a very beautiful city located on the coast of southern Italy. The city is known for their lemons and their stunning views. The history and tradition is rich and worth visiting, but you do not want to explore Sorrento wrong. This mini guide will help you get to know the essentials of Sorrento to make the most out of your time.
Getting around Sorrento and navigating transportation
Sorrento is a very walkable city. Ditch the heels and bring sandals. The elevated cobblestone roads will do wonders for your legs but not your shoes. The accessibility of public transportation makes Sorrento a prime location to explore other cities. Busses, taxis, trains, and ferries operate all throughout the day.
By Busses:
There are two buses: SITA Buses and EAV Buses. SITA buses are blue and run to the Amalfi Coast while the EAV buses are red and orange and run throughout the city of Sorrento. They connect the city to nearby areas like Marina Grande and Massa Lubrense. Bus tickets can be bought at the Tabbachi store, newsstands, or at the station. Tickets start at 1.20€. Bus tickets must be validated prior to boarding the bus.
By Taxis:
Taxis are located throughout the city. They can be found at the train station, the port, or at Piazza Tasso. Many taxis prefer cash but will accept cards. Double check before the ride starts.
By Trains:
Circumvesuvianan is the train that runs from Naples to Sorrento. It makes stops at Pompeii and Herculaneum. Tickets are purchased at the station. The Sorrento station includes both staffed booths and digital kiosks for ticket purchases. The booths are cash only.
By Ferries:
There are many ferries to choose from to reach Naples, the Amalfi Coast, and Capri. Ferries depart from Marina Piccola located at 80067 Sorrento, Metropolitan City of Naples. Tickets can be purchased online or at the kiosks at the port.
Dealing with Money
Cash is your friend. Many markets prefer cash and it is easy to negotiate the price. You don’t want to get international fees on a 2€ charge. While many places accept cards, not every place accepts American Express, plan accordingly.
ATMS
Avoid Euronet at all costs, it is a tourist trap. Go to bank ATMs for better rates. When dealing with an international ATM, it will ask if you want to decline or accept the conversion rate. Decline, decline, decline! It will not cancel the transaction, it will reject their conversation.
Cultural Shocks
Us Americans are used to a lot of ice in our drinks, that is not standard here. You will get a few ice cubes and more drinks; not all ice and no drink.
Most places will not have air conditioning. They might have a fan inside but prepare to be hot. Bring a handheld or electronic fan.
Servers will not rush you out or chase you for the bill. Dining is meant to be enjoyed and appreciated not scarfed down.
Cappuccinos are meant to be enjoyed in the morning. They are not meant to be ordered after a full meal because milk affects digestion.
Italy is very eco-friendly; bring reusable bags
Local Etiquette
Sorrento is a very traditional city. There are numerous churches located around that are worth visiting. It’s best not to walk through the city center with a swimsuit and dress appropriately when visiting churches.
Do not keep your passport on you unless you are leaving Italy but do keep a copy of your ID on your phone. There is a chance you could get stopped from the police and if that happens it’s best to have some identification on you.
The sun is strong in Sorrento, sunscreen is important.
People live here. Their homes are in Sorrento, be respectful.
Sorrento may be small, but it leaves a big impression. Whether you’re here for a short visit, or a long stay it’s a place that is very easy to fall in love with, especially if you’re prepared.
