We are planning a one night trip to Naples/Pompeii/Paestum. Should we stay in Sorrento or Naples? Thanks for the help all. Everyone on the helpline is great!
Posted by
Dallas, TX, usa
323 posts
We stayed in Sorrento and took the train into Naples to go to the archeological museum.
We loved the hub-bub of Naples so much we went back for a second day trip. But we both said Naples was wonderful for its food, and the the feel of a large Italian city, but we were glad we stayed in Sorrento.
We also bought the pass that got us into Pompeii and Herculaneum (I wouldn't miss Herculaneum if I were you) and all the train rides on the Circumvesuviano.
Jerry and Stelly
Posted by
Seattle, WA, USA
7737 posts
As you are probably about to discover, this is a repeated question on this board that can lead to some heated exchanges. My impression is that most American tourists who have stayed in Naples recommend staying in Sorrento instead. (Put me in that camp - We absolutely loved Sorrento.) That said, there are some very fierce defenders of Naples who say that it gets an undeserved bum rap.
A lot of it depends on your tolerance for what is sometimes euphemistically referred to as "grittiness", which Naples has in spades. My own experience is that we regretted staying in Naples and wish we had stayed instead in Sorrento. (Your own mileage may vary.)
Posted by
Burke, Virginia, USA
16 posts
I only passed through naples...so i might not be giving it a fair shake but...
I LOVED Sorrento and the Amalfi coast. Breathtaking scenery, relaxing beaches and cafes....LOVED it!
I'm going back again this year for more...
Posted by
San Francisco/Marin County
9436 posts
We love Sorrento as well...but one night? You need at least 3 or 4 nights to make it worthwhile, imo.
Posted by
Bay Area
3551 posts
I vote for Sorrento!
It is the place most tourists wish they had stayed longer, me included. You will see how great it is. AHHHH, Sorrento.
Posted by
Austin, TX, USA
492 posts
We prefer Sorrento too. We like to wind down in the evenings and Naples is less conducive to a good wind down for us. We wouldn't think twice about going into Naples again for a site, but to stay, we prefer Sorrento.
Posted by
Dallas, TX, USA
1170 posts
On my next visit to the area, I will definitely see Naples, but just for the day. Sorrento is such a great jumping off point for day trips as it is very centrally located in the area. Points of interest radiate in every direction from Sorrento, so using it as a base would be wise.