Is Sorrento safe? An honest guide for visitors
Short answer
Sorrento is a safe, relaxed resort town, and walking around the centre at night is normal. The realistic risks are pickpocketing on the crowded Circumvesuviana train and in busy places, overpriced fish dinners, and heat and steep steps in summer. Violent crime against visitors is rare.
The real risks
Pickpocketing on the Circumvesuviana
The train between Naples, Pompeii and Sorrento is crowded and has a reputation for petty theft. Keep bags zipped and in front, and phones out of back pockets.
Crowds on ferries and buses
Busy ferry gangways, SITA bus queues in Positano and the Capri funicular are good places for thieves. Watch your belongings.
Fish priced by weight
At seafront restaurants, ask for the weight and the total price before the fish is cooked.
Restaurant touts and photo menus
Around Piazza Tasso and Corso Italia. Walk a few streets away or go down to Marina Grande.
Steep steps and sea
Steps down to the marinas and rocky swimming spots such as the Bagni della Regina Giovanna are slippery. Wear proper shoes and swim only in calm sea.
Summer heat at Pompeii
Little shade and highs of about 30–31°C in July and August. Start at opening time and carry water.
Areas and times to take care
The centre of Sorrento, Marina Grande and Marina Piccola are calm and safe in the evening. Take normal city precautions in Naples, especially around the main station, if you pass through on the way to or from the airport.
Getting around safely
Taxis in Sorrento are expensive; agree the fare first or ask for the meter. Private transfers from Naples airport cost about €100–130 per car, and direct airport buses about €10–13. Ferries do not sail in rough sea, so check before a Capri or Amalfi day. Driving on the Amalfi Coast road in summer is slow and stressful; buses and ferries are easier.
Solo and women travellers
Sorrento is easy for women travelling alone, with a compact, busy centre and plenty of families and couples around in the evening. Usual precautions apply on the crowded trains and in bars late at night, and it is best to agree taxi prices before getting in.
Health, water and heat
Tap water is safe to drink. In July and August highs average about 30–31°C, so carry water, use sunscreen and avoid the middle of the day at Pompeii and on Vesuvius. On the Vesuvius crater path, wear proper shoes: it is gravel and has little shade. EU visitors should carry an EHIC; others should have travel insurance.
Official travel advice
Check your government's advice before you travel — it is updated when things change.
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Common questions
Is Sorrento safe for tourists?
Yes. The main risks are pickpocketing on the Circumvesuviana train and in crowds, and overpriced fish dinners.
Is the Circumvesuviana safe?
It is used by many visitors every day, but it is crowded and pickpocketing is common. Keep bags in front and zipped.
Can you drink the tap water in Sorrento?
Yes, tap water is safe to drink.