Marina Grande
Via del Mare, Sorrento, Campania, 80067
Marina Grande is Sorrento’s historic fishing harbor at the foot of the cliffs, beaming with pastel‑colored houses, local seafood restaurants, and the tiny Church of Sant’Anna, overlooking the water. It’s a vibrant, authentic hamlet where locals still fish from the harbor and mend their nets by hand just steps from sunbathers along the beach. Diners enjoy sunset views and fresh fish and seafood from the small, family-run restaurants at the seaside.
The Basics
Connected to the historic center of Sorrento by a stone staircase, Marina Grande is best explored on foot. Escape the crowds in central Sorrento for a few hours at a waterfront restaurant or on the volcanic sand beach. Located adjacent to bustling Marina Piccola where ferries and cruise ships dock, Marina Grande has a rustic charm that seems worlds away from the busy port next door.
Things to Know Before You Go
Ferries and private boat tours depart from Marina Piccola, just to the east along the Sorrento Coast. To get from one port to the other, go uphill to the center of Sorrento and back down the cliff on foot or by bus on the other side.
For visitors with limited mobility, taking a taxi or private transfer from the center of Sorrento to Marina Grande is the best option as the walk is steep and the public buses are not always accessible.
A few hours in Marina Grande provides a perfect break for kids, who love to watch the fishing boats come and go and play on the adjacent beach.
How to Get to There
From Piazza Vittoria in central Sorrento, walk along the lane that skirts Hotel Bellevue Syrene to the stairs that lead downhill to Marina Grande. Buses also connect Piazza Tasso in Sorrento with Marina Grande.
When to Get There
Italy's southern coastline is very crowded in summer, so visiting in the slower spring or fall months is strongly recommended. Visit the Church of Sant’Anna on the Sunday after her Saint’s Day (July 26) to participate in the festivities with song, dance, and fireworks; on other nights of the year, the sunset over the water is festive enough.
Marina Piccola in Sorrento
The Marina Grande fishing village is adjacent to Sorrento's Marina Piccola, the main transportation hub for ferries to and from the Bay of Naples, the Amalfi Coast, the island of Capri, and other destinations in Campania. Take the ferry for a day trip to Capri to see the Faraglioni and the Blue Grotto; during the summer months, ferries also run to Positano and Amalfi, where you can catch a local bus up to Ravello. To visit Mount Vesuvius and Pompeii, take the Circumvesuviana train from the station in central Sorrento.
Ways to explore
Marina Grande can be visited independently or as part of guided Amalfi Coast or Capri boat tours. If you arrive on a boat, you’ll disembark right into this lively waterfront community packed with restaurants, shops, and local charm. Walking tours of Sorrento allow you to discover its history and architecture—and often its culinary delights. Most full‑day Amalfi or Capri tours include a scenic boat stop here, giving you time to stretch your legs and enjoy seaside views before continuing your journey.
Accessibility
The harbor is reached either by steep steps or a sloping road, which can make access difficult for those using strollers or wheelchairs.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Camera, light jacket, cash for waterfront meals or souvenirs
What to wear
Comfortable walking shoes for walking on cobblestones and uneven terrain
Not allowed
Drones
Amenities
Restrooms, beach access, cafés, seafood restaurants
Address
Located at the base of Sorrento’s cliffs below Piazza Tasso, Marina Grande is easily added to coastal tours or solo itineraries. Most travelers access it on foot, by bus, or as a stop on boat tours departing the marina.
Driving
Driving is rare, and most parking is available in upper Sorrento. If driving, you’ll need to park near the town center and walk down via Corso Italia or Via Marina Grande.
Public transportation
EAV’s Bus Line D runs between Piazza Tasso and Marina Grande every 15–20 minutes. Tickets cost about US$2–4 for the 5-minute ride. Walking downhill takes about 10 minutes; the return trip is a steep uphill journey.
Best times to visit
The best time to visit Marina Grane is in early evening, when the golden-hour light reflects on the water and fishermen bring their catch ashore.
Best days to visit
Marina Grande is lively every day, but weekdays tend to be quieter; weekends and summer evenings can feel busy with day‑trippers and boat-tour groups.
Best months to visit
Visit in late spring through early fall to enjoy warm weather and vibrant harbor life. If possible, come in May or June when crowds are lighter.
Special events
The Sant’Anna festival takes place in late July, culminating with a spectacular fireworks show on the final night.
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