Sitting midway in the Mediterranean is Italy and in particular Sorrento, which anchors the northern
end of the dramatic Amalfi Coast.
Sitting atop a sheer cliff above the Azure sea, arriving into Sorrento is very picturesque, so cameras
at the ready! There’s no docking facility here, so all ships anchor off-shore and you are tendered
ashore. Once on land, there are distinctive orange and blue buses that will take you into town
perched above (only € 1.50), or take the walk…it’s not too bad.
Your biggest dilemma of the day is quite simply what to do, as there are so many choices. Turn left
and you’ll be invited to enter into the world of the Roman Empire, specifically that of Pompeii and
Herculaneum. Both these cities were buried beneath the lava, mud and ash from the cataclysmic
eruption of Mt. Vesuvius. Pompeii is the most famous, offering one of the finest glimpses into
everyday Roman life, however many would suggest that although smaller, Herculaneum is the
better site. Take a tour, as you need a guide to ignite your imagination here, or if you prefer
independence, there is a train from Sorrento (take the orange bus).
Turn right, you’ll be drawn into a world of incredible scenic beauty and Italian chic as you navigate
the stunning Amalfi Coast drive to towns such as Positano, Amalfi & Ravello that seemingly appear
to be cascading down, covered in bougainvillea, to the sea. Taxis can be hired on an hourly basis,
although they’re expensive and your ship will offer a tour. There’s fine shopping, restaurants, and a
rabbit warren of alleys to stroll in search of the perfect gelato, or hit one of the crowded beaches.
Back at the dock, you could take one of the fast ferries to the island Capri, once a playground for
the Roman elite. Capri is crammed shoulder to shoulder with day visitors, but there’s impressive
shopping, splendid restaurants and awesome scenic vistas. Not forgetting Sorrento itself, discover
alleyways teeming with shopping treasures offering souvenirs to higher end boutiques, and there
are restaurants and cafes where you can grab pizza and pasta, or Caruso, my favourite.
Roger’s Quick Tips
Best Months: May-Sep
Don’t Miss: The Amalfi Drive
Tour or Not: Either, whichever is best value
Sightseeing: Pompeii, Herculaneum, Positano, Amalfi
Food: Gelato, Limoncello, Pizza (origin Naples), Buffalo
Mozzarella
Language: Italian
Shopping: Ceramics, everything lemon, shoes
Cash or Card: Credit Card and Euro
