Sorrento - Campania

A visit to the Amalfi Coast is everyone's dream. Who can resist its crystalline waters, sunny days and delectable food? Sorrento is one of our favorite tourist attractions here. The charms of Sorrento are many, from the picturesque streets of the old city adorned by patrician villas, to the Marina Grande, a traditional fishing harbor and popular destination for a stroll.

History
Sorrento is located on a flat shelf of land with cliffs descending to the Bay of Naples. In the 1700s Sorrento was named "La Gentile," or the gentle, due to the mild climate and unmatched beauty of the surrounding landscape. In ancient times it was called Surrentum, linked to the myth of the mermaids, "sirene" in Italian, who are believed to live in the area.

Sights
Sorrenti is a sea town but is not flanked by a seaside walk, meaning that to go the beach you must descend from the hillside. Facing the sea from Tasso Square, located in the center of town, there is a stairway that descends to the Marina, and those who don't enjoy walking can take a bus that leaves from the same square. The square is dedicated to Torquato Tasso, the famous Italian poet who was born in the city in 1544. His statue embellishes the square which also hosts the statue of Saint Antonio, the patron saint of Sorrento. A site that should not be missed is the Museo Correale of Terranova which showcases an interesting collection of Greek, Roman and medieval marble statues, porcelain objects, luxurious Neopolitan furniture and paintings by both Italian and foreign masters. Even during the winter Sorrento has much to offer; the program Sorrento Inverno organizes concerts, exhibits, guided tours, and film screenings that are held outdoors during the winter months

Tips
The city is packed with tourists during the summer months, so we recommend you make your reservations months in advance. The prices range from high to very high, and some hotels actually charge more than their established prices. It is always better to ask to see the official price list. Eating well in the local restaurants can be done at reasonable prices, and we recommend that you order local specialties like Gnocchi alla Sorrentina, not the British food that is served almost everywhere. Sorrento is indeed a favorite destination of British tourists, not only Italians.

Transporation
The city can be reached by train, bus or ferry from other points on the Amalfi coast.

Links: http://www.triestetourism.it