Yes, it's true. Italy's seaside town of Sorrento is best visited on a sunny day. But if the skies open during your visit, here are some indoor activities to keep you dry:
Visit the Correale Museum
Sorrento's most important museum is located in the former aristocratic residence of the noble Correale di Terranova family, and is surrounded by a large garden with a citrus grove. There is a collection of archaeological finds and porcelain, but just as interesting are the original furnishings and decor from the palazzo still on display, including imposing carved wooden cabinets and inlaid tables, Murano glass, antique fabrics and majolica tiles.
Hours and Tickets
- Tues - Sat: 9:30am - 6:30pm
- Sun and holidays: 9:30am - 1:30pm
- Mon: closed
- Tickets: EUR 8
Visit the Tarsia Lignea Museum
This museum holds an important collection of examples of inlaid wood. This art is one of Sorrento's most traditional crafts, and was at its height during the years of the Grand Tour when travellers from across Europe would purchase pieces of inlaid wood furniture and decorations from local artisans. The museum has an antique and contemporary wing, and often holds demonstrations or courses in the art of inlaying wood.
Hours and Tickets
- Daily: 10am - 6:30pm (5pm from Nov to March)
- Tickets: EUR 8
Go Shopping!
Sorrento is full of shops selling souvenirs and local products. The most traditional local products and handicrafts in Sorrento are:
- Inlaid wood objects
- Limoncello lemon liqueur
- Handmade leather sandals
The shops are concentrated around the areas between Corso Italia and Via San Cesareo
Take a Cooking Lesson
A number of cooking schools have opened in Sorrento over the last few years, a few located right in the center of town. Some accept last minute bookings for their classes, so if the weather takes a turn for the worst, you can pop into a lesson and spend a few hours learning how to make some of the most traditional Italian dishes from Sorrento.
Tour the Churches
Sorrento's churches are all beautiful and worth a visit. The most breathtaking in the Basilica of Sant'Antonino, dedicated to the city's patron saint and located in the center. The crypt holds a moving collection of votive objects.
Visit a Limoncello Workshop
Just outside Sorrento along the peninsula highway, you can visit Sorrento Excellence: a complex where the headliner is the delightful limoncello workshop. Take a free guided visit of the workshop, taste the artisan limoncello, and spend time browsing in the shop that stocks the best artisan food and crafts from the peninsula.
Sorrento Excellence - Limoncello Factory
Not enough? Take a day trip to a nearby sight... Naples' archaeological museum is world class and should not be missed, for example!