Sorrento vs. Positano: 8 Reasons Why Sorrento Is Better than the Amalfi Coast for Families
Booking a trip to the Amalfi Coast and not sure where to stay? While Positano is the best and most popular destination for the views and food, it is a little difficult to get around with the traffic if you're traveling with children. Instead of staying in the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento is the next best place to say and the perfect base for your trip to see the Coastal views of Italy. Here are 8 reasons why you should choose Sorrento instead of Positano if you're traveling with (or without) your family.
1. Better Transportation Access
Sorrento is far more accessible than Positano. It’s directly connected to Naples by train (Circumvesuviana), bus, and ferry, making it easier to reach without navigating winding coastal roads. From Sorrento, you can also easily hop on ferries to Capri, Naples, or even the Amalfi Coast. The Naples airport is also about an hour away so easy to get to when booking a private car. Be aware that ride-sharing services are generally not used in this area, so be sure to book your transportation directly through your hotel or get the bus schedule before booking your tickets to main attractions like Pompeii. You don't need to rent a car if you're planning on visiting the Amalfi Coast; the ferry takes you directly there.
*Tip: Get to the ferry port early, as the ferries only run every few hours. The last one to return to Sorrento is around 6 pm, and after that, you'll be stuck trying to find a ride back.
2. More Budget-Friendly
Positano can be eye-wateringly expensive, especially in peak season. Sorrento offers a range of accommodations from charming B&Bs to luxury hotels at a fraction of the price. Dining, shopping, and activities are also generally more affordable. Where to stay: Maison Lovino a boutique hotel in city center or anywhere in the Piazzo Tasso area.
3. Larger and Less Steep
While Positano is undeniably beautiful, its steep staircases and narrow paths can be tiring, especially if you're traveling with a stroller or have mobility issues. Sorrento is more spread out, flatter, and walkable, making it more comfortable for exploring.
4. Closer to Top Attractions
Sorrento is a central hub for visiting must-see sites like Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius, Capri, and even Naples. Many guided tours start in Sorrento, saving you time and hassle. If you're planning on visiting Pompeii, you can book a guided tour to pick you up from the designated bus stop, which is a quick walk if you plan on staying in the main square.
5. More Dining Options
Sorrento boasts a vibrant food scene with everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to family-run trattorias. You’ll find authentic Neapolitan pizza, fresh seafood, and, of course, world-famous limoncello. If you walk through the tiny streets behind the main square, you'll find a collection of cute cafes and restaurants.
Places to try:
For brunch, lunch and dinner: Fauno Bar
For sandwiches: Twins Gourmet
For pizza: Pizzeria Aurora- here you can go to the pickup window and watch how they make the pizzas, a cute way to spend time with your kids while you wait for your food
6. More Shopping Opportunities
Sorrento is a great place for shopping, offering everything from local crafts and handmade leather goods to designer fashion and fine ceramics, often at better prices than you’ll find in Positano. You can also find jewelry here and can bargain a bit to get a good deal.
7. Beautiful But Less Crowded Beaches
Though neither Sorrento nor Positano is known for sprawling beaches, Sorrento’s beach clubs and swimming platforms offer spectacular views with less crowding, especially in the shoulder season.
8. Longer Season & More Amenities
Sorrento stays lively for more months out of the year compared to Positano, which is highly seasonal. Many hotels, restaurants, and shops in Positano close in the off-season, whereas Sorrento remains active almost year-round.
