Sorrento sits high on the cliffs overlooking the Bay of Naples, with Mount Vesuvius across the water. It's a gateway to the Amalfi Coast and a classic Italian resort town in its own right, famous for its lemon groves and limoncello, and the scent of citrus seems to fill the air.

Wander the historic center's narrow lanes, browsing shops filled with inlaid wood, ceramics and lemon everything. Relax in the peaceful cloister of San Francesco, peer down into the overgrown ruins of the Valley of the Mills, and watch the sunset from the Villa Comunale gardens. Sorrento's biggest advantage is its location. It's a convenient base for day trips to the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, a ferry ride to glamorous Capri, and drives or boat trips to Positano and Amalfi. It's also easier to reach and often more affordable than staying on the Amalfi Coast itself.

Sorrento is about an hour from Naples by car or train and is a stop on some Mediterranean cruises. I'll plan your hotel, transfers, ferries and day trips so you can explore the whole region easily.