Sorrento may be a prime jumping-off point to explore the best of the surrounding region, but the town itself is worth at least a half day of your attention. Join a walking tour to stroll the maze of narrow pedestrian lanes fanning out from central Piazza Tasso in the old town lined with tiny shops selling leather goods, linen beachwear, and any lemon-themed souvenir imaginable. Or take a break from the crowds at the quiet Correale di Terranova Museum.

The beaches along the Sorrentine Peninsula are top attractions. Beach clubs line the waterfront at the foot of Sorrento’s cliff, but there are also spectacular stretches for swimming and relaxing along the coastline outside of town that offer crystalline waters and panoramic views of the Bay of Naples across to Mt. Vesuvius and the city of Naples. Dive into the remains of a Roman villa at the Baths of the QueenGiovanna (Bagni della Regina Giovanna); a popular stop on boat tours.

Capri sits just off the tip of the Sorrentine Peninsula. It takes less than 30 minutes to cruise across the bay to the island, so taking a jaunt to Capri tops the list of Sorrento travel tips for newcomers. Ferries between Sorrento and the Marina Grande port on Capri run regularly each day. Once you’ve disembarked, you can join an island tour by land or sea to cover the highlights. Alternatively, opt for a group or private boat tour directly from Sorrento to skip the hassle of taking a ferry.

Every Sorrento travel itinerary for newcomers should include at least one excursion into the serene countryside. There are a wide variety of options for exploring the foothills and slopes of Mt. Faito and the trails along the coast as far as Punta Campanella. Hike, bike, or join an ATV tour of Mt. Faito; cycle along the coastline with stops to sample local food and wine or skirt the waterfront on foot. You can also scale the cliff faces to take in views of the bay from above.

Among the most popular destinations is the UNESCO–listed stretch of seaside known as the Amalfi Coast. Public transportation between Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast can be tricky, as buses are slow and overcrowded, and ferries can be suspended if the weather takes a turn. The best way to explore the coast in one day is with a private car tour or small-group minivan tour that includes stops in the blockbuster towns of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, plus a scenic drive along the coastal highway.

Break up your sightseeing and sunbathing with an authentic experience in the kitchen, and learn how to make pizza. There are lots of pizza-making experiences along the Gulf of Naples, including straightforward hands-on workshops to more elaborate classes that also include farm visits, olive oil and limoncello tastings, and even a pizza plus tiramisu lesson to combine two crowd-pleasers. The best part about it is you get to feast on your piping-hot pizza at the end of the lesson.

The ancient Roman ruins of Pompeii are one of Italy’s many cultural treasures and the archaeological site is an easy excursion from Sorrento. Hop on the Circumvesuviana rail line that runs directly from Sorrento to Pompeii, or book a tour that includes private transportation to bypass the heat and crowds on the train. Regardless of how you arrive, be sure to visit these sprawling excavations with a guide to avoid getting lost and get a better understanding of life in ancient Rome.

The hills of southern Italy have been covered in terraced vineyards for centuries, and you can still sip excellent local wine in the area. One of the most interesting things to do in Sorrento for beginners is to discover the area’s wine-making history and culture with a cellar tour and tasting. Set off with a driver and guide to explore the wineries of Irpinia, sample volcanic varieties on the slopes of Mt. Vesuvius, and visit the small producers of Avellino.

Sorrento lives in the shadow of its limelight-stealing neighbor, the historic port city of Naples. When you’ve had your fill of exploring Sorrento as a first-time tourist, set your sights on the spectacular culture and cuisine of Naples. Spend a day exploring the city’s vibrant historic center on a walking tour, marvel at the world-class collection in the National Archaeological Museum, and feast on specialties from pizza to sfogliatine pastries with a street-food stroll.