Sorrento is a base, not a beach town. Most days you're on a ferry to Capri, a bus along the Amalfi Coast road or the train to Pompeii. So the things that matter are motion sickness tablets, shoes for stairs and a bag for a wet swimsuit, not a big suitcase of outfits.
Sorrento weather by month
Daily high and low (°C), and days with rainSee the numbers
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | 14°C57°F | 14°C57°F | 16°C61°F | 18°C64°F | 22°C72°F | 27°C81°F | 31°C88°F | 30°C86°F | 26°C79°F | 22°C72°F | 18°C64°F | 15°C59°F |
| Low | 8°C46°F | 8°C46°F | 10°C50°F | 11°C52°F | 15°C59°F | 20°C68°F | 23°C73°F | 22°C72°F | 19°C66°F | 16°C61°F | 12°C54°F | 9°C48°F |
| Rain days | 16 | 10 | 14 | 12 | 16 | 7 | 4 | 8 | 8 | 13 | 15 | 11 |
Season by season
Winter
December–FebruaryHighs of 14–15°C (57–59°F) and lows of 8–9°C (46–48°F), so it's mild, but wet. January brings 16 rain days. Many hotels and ferry routes slow down or close in winter, so check before you book, and pack a warm layer and a rain jacket.
Spring
March–MayHighs run 16–22°C (61–72°F), lows 10–15°C (50–59°F). Rain days stay high, with 16 in May. Ferries start running more often in spring. Layers and a rain shell beat a heavy coat.
Summer
June–AugustHighs of 27–31°C (81–88°F) and lows of 20–23°C (68–73°F), with only 4 to 8 rain days a month. July is the hottest and driest. Pompeii has little shade, so go early with water, and expect crowds on every ferry and bus.
Autumn
September–NovemberSeptember is warm at 26°C (79°F) with 8 rain days, still swimming weather. October cools to 22°C (72°F) and the rain picks up, reaching 15 days in November. It's quieter, and a good time for the Path of the Gods and Pompeii without the summer heat.
What to bring to Sorrento
0 of 21 packed- Dramamine Less Drowsy ChewablesHealth & Safety
The bus along the Amalfi Coast road is all hairpin turns, and one chewable taken before you board gives up to 24 hours of relief, so it can cover the ferry back too, no water needed.
- Nite Ize RunOff Waterproof Packing CubeBags & Luggage
A wet swimsuit after a swim at Marina Grande goes in here, so it doesn't soak everything else on the ferry home.
- Crocs Classic ClogFootwear & Shoe Care
Rocky beaches, swim ladders and wet ferry decks are exactly what these foam clogs are for.
- Hydro Flask 24 oz Wide Mouth Bottle with Flex Straw CapWater Bottles & Hydration
Keeps water cold for 24 hours, which you'll need on a 31°C (88°F) July afternoon in Pompeii.
- Bearwind S40 Portable Handheld Turbo FanTech & Power
A handheld fan helps in a packed summer bus or ferry queue when highs hit 30°C (86°F).
- Pacsafe GO Anti-Theft Tech CrossbodyDocuments & Security
Lockable zips and a wire-reinforced strap help keep your phone and passport safe on the crowded train to Pompeii and Naples.
The EU plug fits Italy's common C and F sockets, and it charges your phone and camera at once.
Clothing
- Swimsuit · 2
- Light summer clothes · 4 setsJuly highs reach 31°C
- Light scarf or shawlCover shoulders in churches
- Long pants or skirt · 1Cover knees in churches
- Light jacket · 1January and May have 16 rain days
- Sun hat
Footwear
- Walking shoes with grip · 1 pairLots of stairs, plus Pompeii's uneven stones
Gear
- Compact umbrella
- Quick-dry towelRocky beaches and ferry swims
- Sunglasses
Health and toiletries
- Sunscreen
- Basic medications
Documents and money
- Passport
- Ferry and train tickets
What shoes should you pack for Sorrento?
Walking shoes with grip for Sorrento's steep lanes, the stairs down to Marina Grande and the uneven stones at Pompeii. Bring water shoes or clogs for the rocky, pebbly beaches and the swim ladders at the beach clubs. Leave flimsy flip-flops for the pool.
What do people wear in Sorrento?
Relaxed resort style: linen, sundresses, light shirts and shorts. People dress up a little for dinner along Corso Italia. Churches expect covered shoulders and knees, and swimwear stays at the beach.
What plugs does Sorrento use?
Italy uses type C, F and L sockets at 230V. A universal adapter's EU plug fits C and F sockets, which are common, but not the three-pin type L. Check your chargers say 100-240V.
Tours and things to do in Sorrento
Packed and ready? Browse guided tours, day trips and tickets for Sorrento.
What should you leave at home for Sorrento?
A big rolling suitcase. Sorrento's streets, ferries and steps make it a pain. Pack light enough to carry your bag up a flight of stairs.
Packing for Sorrento: questions people ask
What should I wear in Sorrento in summer?
Light linen and cotton, sun protection and good walking shoes. July highs reach 31°C (88°F), and Pompeii has very little shade.
What should I wear in Sorrento in October?
Light layers and a rain jacket. October highs are 22°C (72°F) with about 13 rain days.
Do I need water shoes in Sorrento?
They help. Most beaches around Sorrento are rocky or pebbly, and many beach clubs have ladders into the sea.
Will I get carsick on the Amalfi Coast road?
Many people do. The road is narrow and full of hairpin turns, so take motion sickness tablets before the bus if you're prone to it.
What should I wear to Pompeii?
Sturdy shoes, a hat and light clothes, plus plenty of water. The ancient streets are uneven stone and there's little shade.
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