Type: Charming Towns, Free Time, Scenic Coastal Drive, Shopping
Length: 8-9 Hours (traffic pending)
Walking: Medium
Mobility: Folding wheelchair OK, some sites may be inaccessible (advance notice required)
Guide: Drive Guide
Language: English

Sorrento Shore Excursion - The focus of this tour is the beauty of the Amalfi Coast. You visit the charming seaside town of Sorrento before traveling leisurely along the famous Amalfi Coast including stops in Positano and Amalfi.

After meeting your driver guide they bring you to the old town of the charming seaside town of Sorrento. You have time to explore the tiny pedestrian lanes lined with caf̩es and shops. The warm Italian sun makes the area perfect for growing lemons which are used to make the local liqueur limoncello. Make sure you sample the many lemon flavored ice creams, candies or liqueurs while you are here. Sorrento sits on the Gulf of Naples and is not technically a part of the Amalfi Coast, but for most visitors, it is the jumping off point to that famous area.

From here you'll begin your drive along the Amalfi Coast which stretches about 50 miles from the tip of the Sorrento Peninsula to the city of Salerno. The coast line is famous for its amazing views of quaint fishing villages and luxury hotels that cling to the cliffs above the sparkling blue sea. With each hairpin turn of the road you'll be astonished by another vista. You'll drive the most popular and dramatic portion of the coastline from Positano to Amalfi.

Your next stop is the town of Positano which is one of the most popular resort towns in the world. Narrow streets which are sometimes no more than staircases are lined with shops and caf̩es leading from the main road to the beautiful beaches below. In the distance are views of the Galli islands. There are several hiking trails that afford dramatic views, including the "pathway of the gods." The main sight in town is the 13th century Byzantine painting, "The Black Virgin" which can be seen in the Church of Santa Maria Assunta.

Later you stop in the town of Amalfi, which legend says, was created by Hercules to be the most beautiful setting possible for the final resting place of a beautiful nymph he loved. History tells us that the Romans built the town in the 5th century AD. Enjoy the many caf̩es and shops that are near the town square and take a peak in the 11th century cathedral which houses the crypt of Saint Andrea, the town's patron saint. Notice the Oriental touches in the architecture that are common here including the often photographed bell tower and stone arches that look as if they were made of lace.

After a delightful day exploring these world class resort cities you return to Sorrento.