Though a relatively small city, Sorrento in Italy's Campania region has achieved a name for itself as a holiday destination. Its selection of museums and culturally interesting buildings, fine restaurants and its proximity to other fascinating destinations along the Amalfi coast all help to draws the crowds.

Summertime sees gorgeous weather in Sorrento and holidaymakers flock here to enjoy lazy hours soaking up the sun on the beach or more active ones engaging in a variety of outdoor activities, such as water sports or hiking. Family visitors enjoy the relaxed and distinctly vacation-oriented atmosphere as well as a good selection of attractions suited to all ages.

Sightseeing possibilities and cultural excursions are plentiful, with everything from fascinating museums examining the city’s history to splendid old churches and cathedrals demonstrating a variety of Italian architectural styles. Not to be missed are the nearby ancient Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum, both of which are easily reached from Sorrento by hire car.

The city centre is home to a wealth of shopping opportunities, with its narrow, winding streets hiding some genuine gems. After exploring, you can relax with a strong Italian coffee at any of a myriad of cafés or sit down to something more substantial at one of the city’s excellent restaurants.

With visitors arriving in their thousands from May through late September, Sorrento experiences significant demand for accommodation. The city caters well to this demand with an excellent selection of hotels, among which are several establishments operated by international chains such as Hilton and the Grand. Booking online in advance is the best way to secure the hotel of your choice.

Sorrento doesn’t have its own airport, but the busy Naples International Airport is only about an hour away. Trains run regularly between Naples and Sorrento, but a hire car also makes light work of the journey. Public buses are on hand for getting around Sorrento, while boats offer transportation along the Amalfi coast and trains connect with other major cities in Campania.

Sorrento experiences a temperate climate with four fairly distinct seasons and an absence of temperature extremes or severe rainfall. Summers are warm and winters are mild to cool, while spring and autumn are typically transitional seasons. November and December are the wettest months of the year and June and July are the driest.

The summer season is the best time of year to visit Sorrento, especially in July and August when the mercury climbs into the mid-20s (°C), offering ideal conditions for sunbathing or sightseeing. Spring and autumn are cooler, but daytime temperatures are still warm enough for short sleeves, while a sweater or light jacket is usually necessary in evenings and early mornings.

If you’re from a cold country, you won’t find the winter in Sorrento unpleasant in terms of temperature so a holiday at this time of year is a possibility.