Sorrento Peninsula
Latest page update: 17 January 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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By now you'll know where Sorrento is but the other towns and places on the Sorrento Peninsula around it aren't quite as famous and deserve some exploration.
There are dozens of little towns and villages each with their own characteristics, ranging from seaside resorts to hillside retreats and even some mysterious islands. Here we've listed some of the main destinations and if you click on the relevant photos below you'll find more in-depth information and photos. |
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META
Meta is a quiet coastal town on the Sorrento Peninsula. Renowned for its sandy beaches and picturesque views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, Meta is a popular destination for relaxation and exploration.
The town has a rich history, with origins dating back to Roman times, reflected in its ancient architecture and traditions. Sights include the Basilica di Santa Maria del Lauro, an impressive baroque church, and Marina di Meta, a scenic waterfront area with colourful fishing boats and inviting cafes. Meta's tranquil atmosphere and proximity to Sorrento, Positano, and Pompeii make it an ideal base for exploring the area. |
VICO EQUENSE
Vico Equense, a picturesque town on the Sorrento Peninsula in the is perched on cliffs overlooking the Bay of Naples. Known for its breathtaking views of Mount Vesuvius and the sea, the town combines natural beauty with historical charm.
Vico Equense has ancient roots, with evidence of Roman and Etruscan settlements. Major sights include the Church of Santissima Annunziata, a cliffside Gothic church offering stunning panoramas, and the Giusso Castle, a historic fortress. The town is also famous for its thermal springs and traditional pizza by the metre. |
SANT'AGNELLO
Sant'Agnello is a coastal town on the Sorrento Peninsula. Nestled between Sorrento and Piano di Sorrento, it offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius.
Known for its tranquil charm, Sant'Agnello has a rich history, with ancient Roman origins evident in local ruins. Key sights include the Church of Santi Prisco e Agnello, featuring a striking baroque facade, and Marinella Beach, a secluded spot perfect for relaxation. The Villa Crawford, once home to American author Francis Marion Crawford, adds cultural significance. Its proximity to Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast makes Sant'Agnello an ideal base for exploration. |
PIANO DI SORRENTO
Piano di Sorrento is a picturesque town on the Sorrento Peninsula. Located near Sorrento, it combines coastal beauty with historical charm.
The town's history dates back to ancient Roman times, reflected in its archaeological sites and historic villas. Major sights include the Basilica di San Michele Arcangelo, a stunning baroque church, and Villa Fondi de Sangro, which houses an archaeological museum and offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Naples. Marina di Cassano, the town’s charming harbour, is perfect for enjoying local seafood and scenic walks. |
MASSA LUBRENSE
Massa Lubrense is a picturesque town located at the tip of the Sorrento Peninsula. Overlooking the Gulf of Naples, it offers stunning views of Capri and the Amalfi Coast.
Known for its serene beauty and lush olive groves, Massa Lubrense has ancient origins, with traces of Roman and Greek settlements. Major sights include the charming Marina della Lobra, the medieval Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie with its ornate baroque interiors, and the natural wonder of Punta Campanella, a protected marine area. With its various areas of interest, Massa Lubrense is worth the time to investigate. |
Marina di Puolo
Marina di Puolo is a quaint fishing village located on the Sorrento Peninsula. Nestled between Sorrento and Massa Lubrense, it offers a serene escape with its crystal-clear waters and pebble beach.
The village has a history rooted in ancient Roman times, evident in nearby ruins and its enduring maritime traditions. Marina di Puolo is renowned for its peaceful ambiance, traditional seafood restaurants, and stunning views of Mount Vesuvius across the Bay of Naples. Its tranquil setting, rustic charm, and proximity to the bustling attractions of Sorrento make it a hidden gem of the local area. |
Marina della Lobra
Marina della Lobra is a picturesque fishing village located in Massa Lubrense. Overlooking the Gulf of Naples, this tranquil harbour is steeped in history and local tradition.
The village is named after the Sanctuary of Santa Maria della Lobra, a 16th-century church with beautiful frescoes and a serene atmosphere. Marina della Lobra is a hub for fishermen and offers a glimpse into authentic coastal life. Its waterfront is lined with colourful boats, quaint eateries, and breathtaking views of Capri and Mount Vesuvius. |
NERANO
The Bay of Nerano is a tranquil coastal retreat renowned for its crystal-clear waters and stunning natural beauty.
Nestled between Massa Lubrense and the Amalfi Coast, the bay is famous for Marina del Cantone, a picturesque beach lined with traditional restaurants serving fresh seafood and the local specialty, spaghetti alla Nerano. The area boasts a rich history linked to ancient fishing traditions and Roman influence. Nearby, visitors can explore hiking trails leading to the Punta Campanella Marine Reserve and the breathtaking Path of the Gods. |
MARINA DI EQUA
Marina di Equa is a quiet bay located in Vico Equense. Overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, this picturesque area is known for its clear blue waters and tranquil atmosphere.
The bay has historical significance as an ancient Roman harbor, with remnants of its maritime past still visible. Key attractions include the small fishing harbour, scenic beachfront, and waterfront restaurants serving fresh local seafood. Nearby, the historic Church of Santissima Annunziata offers stunning views of the coastline. Marina di Equa’s combination of natural beauty, history, and authentic charm makes it a peaceful retreat on the Sorrento Peninsula. |
Sant'Agata sui Due Golfi
Sant'Agata sui Due Golfi is a picturesque hilltop village. Its name reflects its unique position overlooking both the Gulf of Naples and the Gulf of Salerno, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
With ancient origins, the town is steeped in history and tradition. Key sights include the 17th-century Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, renowned for its intricately inlaid altar, and the nearby archaeological ruins of Villa Romana. The village is also a gateway to hiking trails, such as those in Punta Campanella Natural Reserve. Known for its tranquility and culinary excellence, Sant'Agata is a delightful hilltop retreat. |
Li Galli
The Li Galli Islands, also known as "Le Sirenuse," are a small archipelago located in the Bay of Naples, off the Amalfi Coast between Positano and Capri. This cluster of three islands--Gallo Lungo, La Rotonda, and La Castelluccia—is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking beauty.
Steeped in Greek mythology, the islands are said to be the home of the sirens who lured sailors with their enchanting voices. They were used as a lookout point during ancient times; today, the islands are privately owned and inaccessible to the public, but their stunning scenery can be admired during boat tours. |
Bay of Jeranto
The Bay of Jeranto is a pristine natural gem near the village of Nerano. Part of the Punta Campanella Marine Protected Area, it offers breathtaking views of Capri and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
The bay was once used for limestone extraction during Roman times, and remnants of old quarries are still visible. A scenic hiking trail starting in Nerano leads visitors through olive groves and Mediterranean scrub to this tranquil spot. With its unspoiled beauty and historical significance, the Bay of Jeranto is a serene retreat for nature and history enthusiasts. |
San Montano
The Bay of San Montano is a serene and picturesque spot near Massa Lubrense. Nestled amidst lush Mediterranean vegetation and rocky cliffs, the bay offers crystal-clear waters and a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for swimming and relaxation.
Steeped in history, the area has connections to ancient Roman times, with nearby ruins and pathways hinting at its historical significance. The bay is also close to the Punta Campanella Marine Protected Area, known for its rich biodiversity and hiking trails. With its natural beauty and peaceful surroundings, the Bay of San Montano is a hidden gem on the Sorrento Peninsula. |