Mamma Mia, it’s family time!
With a fascinating history, a stunning coastline and, of course, incredible food, Sorrento is the perfect location for some mother/son bonding
not for anyone with a fear of heights.
Before we returned to the mainland, our boat took us through the famous Faraglioni rocks of Capri. The middle one is also referred to as the tunnel of love and our guide tells Mark it’s good luck to kiss your loved one as you drive through the arch — a trip he will have to make again without his mother.
Naples is another easy day trip from Sorrento. We took the cheaper option for less than €4 each to the city centre on a crowded train that takes about 75 minutes.
Mark had been on the route before and treated me to the ticket. But I made an executive decision later in the day to return by hydrofoil. The leisurely 35-minute trip with gorgeous sea views was a little more expensive, at €13 per ticket, but well worth the upgrade.
Bustling with charm, we enjoyed lunch in Naples’ Spanish Quarter, as Vespas whizzed by. Prices are more reasonable in Italy’s third largest city and Mark was able to tip me off on plenty of bars where you can get an Aperol Spritz for €2.50 during happy hour.
A Napolese highlight is to visit the murals of Diego Maradona, whose spirit is kept alive by fans of the city’s Napoli football club.
Expect to stumble across some architectural gems such as the Piazza Plebiscito or Castle dell Ovo — all are in close proximity to the port. Mark and I found time to do a bit of shopping on the Via Toledo and bagged a couple of bargains before returning to Sorrento.
Night times we spent in the cafes and bars where peoplewatching is a favourite pasttime. Age is just a number here with all generations enjoying café life in harmony.
It’s worth noting that cash is still king when it comes to getting taxis around Sorrento and expect to pay up to €20 for a three-minute journey in the evenings.
We found something for all ages to share and enjoy in Sorrento and it is the ideal base to explore all that the Amalfi coast has to offer.