Italy or Bust — Our Post-Pandemic Family Adventure

By 2022, after two years of being stuck at home (with three hormonal teenagers climbing the walls), we were practically buzzing with the need to escape. This wasn’t just wanderlust — it was survival. So, after a family “strategy session” that involved snacks, sarcasm, and a dash of bribery, we took a vote. The result? A minor miracle: a 5–0 unanimous decision for Italy.

Technically, Callan had the final say since this was her post–high school graduation trip, but for once, the stars aligned — no tiebreaker needed. Italy won by landslide enthusiasm.

The plan checked every box:

Bryan, our resident history geek, was thrilled by the idea of following in the footsteps of emperors.
I couldn’t wait to chase art, architecture, and cappuccinos across the country.
Callan was ready to see the Renaissance come to life beyond her textbooks.
Jake had gladiator tunnels on the brain (naturally).
And Max? He was laser-focused on the Amalfi Coast — specifically, beaches, boats, and the legendary Blue Grotto.

And just like that, our Italian adventure began to take shape. After countless hours of online research (and more gelato debates than I’d like to admit), we mapped out our 14-day itinerary:
3 days in Venice, 4 in Florence, 4 in Rome, and 3 in Sorrento.

And just like that, our Italian adventure began to take shape. After endless research (and far too many family debates about gelato flavors), we pieced together our dream itinerary:
3 days in Venice, 4 in Florence, 4 in Rome, and 3 in Sorrento.

Trains became our transport of choice — quick, easy, and blissfully free of Italian parking drama. We booked Airbnbs near each city’s center, snagged flights, and started filling the calendar with must-see sights, meals, and memories in the making.

So here we are — ready to share the magic, the laughter, the minor meltdowns, and the pure joy of exploring Italy as a family of five.

Spoiler alert: It did not disappoint. Even with the occasional teenage mood swing, Italy delivered in spades — and the Amalfi Coast? Absolute showstopper.

Trip Snapshot: Italy with Teens

Travelers: Bryan, Heidi, Callan (17), Jake (16), and Max (13)
When: Summer 2022 — post-COVID, post-chaos, and 100% ready for adventure
Destinations:

Venice – 3 days of gondolas, gelato, and getting gloriously lost
Florence – 4 days of art, architecture, and pasta-fueled exploration
Rome – 4 days of ruins, history, and Colosseum-sized excitement
Sorrento – 3 days of sunshine, sea views, and lemon everything

Getting Around: Rail travel between cities — easy, reliable, and way less stressful than driving (trust us).
Accommodations: Airbnbs within walking distance to city centers and train stations
Goals: To squeeze every ounce of culture, history, and gelato into 14 days — and maybe sneak in a few family selfies without anyone making a weird face

Destination Snapshot: Sorrento

Italy was full of unforgettable moments—Venice, Florence, Rome, and the Amalfi Coast each left their mark on our family adventure. But in this post, we’re diving into one of the dreamiest stretches of shoreline on the planet: the Amalfi Coast. Picture dramatic cliffs tumbling into turquoise waters, pastel towns clinging to the rocks, lemon groves perfuming the air, and that blissful sense that life here just runs at a slower, sunnier pace.

The region includes the lively town of Sorrento, the glamorous cliffside beauty of Positano, the historic town of Amalfi, the serene and scenic Ravello, and just across the bay—the legendary island of Capri. To get to Sorrento, we boarded a Trenitalia train from Rome to Naples, where the vibe instantly shifted from ancient grandeur to coastal anticipation. From Naples, we hopped on the Circumvesuviana line, a local train that winds its way down to Sorrento—past lemon groves, seaside villages, and even the legendary ruins of Pompeii.

We actually debated hopping off at Pompeii to explore the site (how often do you get to see an entire ancient city frozen in time?), but after a week and a half of nonstop walking through Italy’s major cities, our feet staged a protest. So, we stayed on board and decided to save the ancient ashes for another trip. At that point, all we wanted was to reach Amalfi paradise: sunshine, sparkling blue water, and the slower pace we’d been dreaming about since Venice.

During our time in Sorrento, we packed in plenty of adventure—from a full day of boating (complete with a dreamy stop at the Isle of Capri) to a long, lazy lunch in a lemon grove, and a private guided tour of the coastal towns of Amalfi, Ravello, and Positano. Along the way, we’ll share our favorite family-friendly tips, hidden gems, and the little surprises that made this stretch of Italy one of the highlights of our entire trip.

For the full story of our Italian adventure, check out our Italy Travel Overview (coming soon!). And if you’re curious about the other stops, don’t miss: Exploring Venice with Teenagers: Tips, Sights, and Quirky History, Exploring Florence with Teenagers: Climbing Domes and Chasing Carbs, and Exploring Rome with Teenagers: History, Scooters, and Gelato.

Pro Tip: If you want to tour Pompeii on your way south to the Amalfi Coast, you can safely store your luggage in lockers at the Pompeii train station, making it easy to explore the ruins without hauling your suitcases through ancient history.

Where We Stayed in Sorrento

For our stay along the Amalfi Coast, we spent *a lot* of time debating which town to call home base. In the end, Sorrento was a clear winner, and here’s why . . .

Technically, Sorrento sits on the Gulf of Naples, not the Amalfi Coast itself, but it turned out to be the perfect choice. Why? Location, location, location. With train connections, a ferry port, and easy access to the coastal towns, Sorrento made day trips a breeze—no need to tackle the winding cliff roads or stress about parking. It’s also more budget-friendly than its glamorous neighbors and has plenty of restaurants, shops, and gelaterias to keep everyone happy. Plus, unlike the steep, stair-filled towns of Positano and Ravello, Sorrento is actually walkable—a big win when you’re traveling with teens (or anyone not keen on a daily leg workout).

Our next dilemma: beachfront or hilltop with a view? Being from Florida, beaches weren’t exactly new territory, so we decided to swap the sand for scenery. We booked a two-bedroom family apartment at Residence Le Terrazze, perched high above town. The payoff? Unreal panoramic views of Sorrento, the Gulf of Naples, and Mount Vesuvius that made every morning coffee and evening sunset feel postcard-worthy.

The property was a family-friendly gem—a peaceful retreat after the whirlwind pace of Venice, Florence, and Rome. It offered free parking, a swimming pool with loungers, a garden and small library, and even a playground for younger guests. Best of all, there was a restaurant right next door and a complimentary shuttle that dropped us at Piazza Antiche Mura in the center of town (since walking down the hill, and especially back up, would’ve been a full cardio session).

We absolutely loved our stay here. It had that rare mix of serenity, scenery, and convenience—exactly what we needed to recharge before our next round of adventures.

Pro tip: If you’re torn between Sorrento and one of the Amalfi towns, base yourself in Sorrento for better transportation, wider hotel choices, and a calmer (but still charming) vibe—and save the Amalfi cliffs for day trips.

Getting Around the Amalfi Coast

Getting around the Amalfi Coast can feel like an adventure, but in Sorrento it’s surprisingly easy. We used the free hotel shuttle from Residence Le Terrazze to get down to the town center each day. From there, everything in Sorrento is walkable, from the charming cafés and shops to the marina.

No car needed (or recommended). The coastal roads are famously narrow, winding, and perched on cliffs that make even confident drivers break a sweat. Parking is scarce (and expensive) in the small towns, so save yourself the headache and leave the driving to someone else.

For exploring beyond Sorrento, you’ve got options:

By sea: Hop on a boat or ferry tour to visit the neighboring Amalfi Coast towns—it’s the most scenic and relaxing way to travel.
By land: You can take a guided land tour or hire a private driver, which is what we did. Our guide whisked us along the coast to Amalfi, Ravello, and Positano, sharing local stories, secret viewpoints, and restaurant tips along the way.
To Capri: There’s only one way to reach the legendary Isle of Capri—by boat or ferry, of course. Cruising across the sparkling blue water to the island is an experience in itself.

In short, whether you travel by foot, ferry, or friendly driver, getting around the Amalfi Coast is part of its charm—equal parts scenic, relaxing, and unforgettable.

Circumvesuvian Serenade:‍ ‍Our train ride from Naples to Sorrento on the Circumvesuviana line set the perfect tone for the final leg of our Italian adventure. We were serenaded by a lively quartet (two accordions, a saxophone, and a conga), whose cheerful tunes had us grinning from ear to ear. Of course, they were playing for tips, but we were more than happy to contribute; the music practically had us dancing in our seats. Definitely not your typical commute on the Brightline back in Florida!

Activities & Excursions in Sorrento

Sorrento may be your home base, but it’s also your gateway to adventure. From seaside strolls to island-hopping and cliffside dining, every day offered a new mix of relaxation and wow moments. Here’s what we did during our time along the Amalfi Coast:

Sightseeing in Sorrento

After unpacking and claiming our spots in the apartment (because obviously the best room is a matter of national debate), we hopped on the shuttle down to Sorrento for our grand debut on the Amalfi Coast. This town knows how to steal the spotlight—bright, busy, and buzzing with life. Our kids loved it instantly: shops, scooters zipping by, gelato every fifty feet, and enough photo ops to fill an entire camera roll before lunch.
We strolled through **Villa Comunale Park**, where the views of the Bay of Naples were so jaw-dropping they made us forget we were sweating.

Then it was down to Marina Grande for lunch—because when the seafood is caught that morning, you don’t ask questions, you just grab a table by the water and order everything. After our seaside feast, we rolled ourselves back to the apartment for an afternoon of serious poolside lounging (a vacation skill we’ve mastered).

Dinner was a short shuttle ride away in the neighboring village of Sant’Agata sui Due Golfi, where we ate at the wildly quirky Bar Orlando—part restaurant, part art exhibit, part fever dream. Let’s just say it deserves its own headline in the Food & Dining section.

We wrapped up the evening on our terrace, watching the sky fade into cotton-candy pinks and golds while the twinkling lights of Sorrento sparkled below. Between the views, the laughter, and the lingering scent of lemon trees, it was the perfect first night on the Amalfi Coast.

Pro Tip: To keep teens engaged in Sorrento, mix a little history with a lot of downtime—think Roman ruins in the morning, limoncello mocktails by the marina in the afternoon.

Boating Day to Capri & Blue Grotto

In the morning, our adventure began right at our doorstep—literally. The team from **Lubrense Boats** arrived promptly at our apartment, ready to whisk us away for a day at sea.

After a short drive to the marina, we boarded our boat and set off along the Sorrento coastline—limestone cliffs tumbling into aquamarine water, sun glinting off the surface like scattered glass. Our first sight was the Marciano Waterfall, a delicate stream of water cascading directly into the sea.

From there, we headed toward the world-famous Blue Grotto, arriving just in time to watch an entire armada of rowboats jockeying for position like gondoliers at rush hour. To enter, we had to pay a separate admission fee (apparently Neptune runs a tight business), then carefully climb down from our tour boat into a smaller wooden skiff. The opening to the grotto was so small we had to lie flat as our guide yanked us through the entrance with a rope. It felt like entering a secret underwater kingdom, and what awaited inside was pure magic. The sunlight, sneaking in through a hidden crevice below the waterline, bounces off the limestone floor and turning the cave into an ethereal lagoon. Ancient Romans supposedly used the grotto as a private spa, and honestly, we get it—it’s the most luxurious cave bath imaginable.

After our enchanting voyage inside the grotto, we rejoined our main boat and continued our tour of Capri’s coastline: the White Grotto, the Green Grotto, and the Punta Carena Lighthouse. Each stop came with its own personality - some moody, some understated, and all unapologetically gorgeous. Our guide shared local history and island folklore along the way, much of which seemed suspiciously theatrical, but highly entertaining nevertheless!

Then came the showstopper: the Faraglioni. These three towering limestone stacks rise straight out of the sea like nature’s own Stonehenge. Legend says that couples who kiss while sailing under the arch will stay together forever—so Bryan and I made sure to lock lips right on cue, much to the collective groan of our kids. (Worth it.)

We stopped twice for swim and snorkeling breaks, diving into the Tyrrhenian Sea’s crystal waters to search for exotic fish and colorful sea life. The cool water felt refreshing under the Coastal Italian sun, and we splashed and played in sea until the crew told us it was time to move on to the grand finale . . .

We completed our circle of the island and docked at the glamorous Isle of Capri, where we had four hours to explore. Callan and I did a little window shopping along Via Camerelle, home to every designer label imaginable. The prices, however, reminded us that we’re better suited for “looking” than “luxury purchasing,” so we made our way back down to the Marina Piccola to join the boys for swimming, sunbathing, and cocktails by the water.

We had a lite lunch at the marina, then climbed back aboard our boat and began the cruise home. As the sun began to dip, the crew passed around small glasses of limoncello, Capri’s signature liqueur, its bright citrus bite perfectly echoing the mood of the day. With drink in hand and hair dancing in the breeze, we watched the sun melt into the horizon and the Sorrento marina come back into view. We were sun-soaked, salt-kissed, and blissfully suspended in the kind of day you never want to end. Easily one of our family’s favorite days in Italy.

Pro Tip: Bring a swimsuit, sunscreen, and zero expectations of staying dry. Sea spray is part of the charm (and the hairstyle).

Tour of the Amalfi Coast

For our land-based adventure, we traded sea spray for serpentine roads and hired a private driver to guide us through the dreamlike trio of **Positano**, **Amalfi**, and **Ravello**. Seatbelts were mandatory—not just for safety, but to keep us from tumbling sideways on those famously narrow, twisting coastal roads. Every bend seemed to reveal a new cliffside drama: pastel villages clinging to rock faces, hairpin turns that made us gasp, and photo stops so stunning they could’ve been movie backdrops. One such photo stop was at a a rock formation shaped uncannily like the **Virgin Mary**. Even nature on the Amalfi Coast has flair for the dramatic!

Pro Tip: Book a small-group or private tour with a local driver. Leave the hairpin turns for the experienced drivers while you take in the view out the window. Bonus: the locals know all the best photo stops, lemon groves, and ceramic shops that the big bus tours just blow right past!

Positano

Positano looks picturesque in photos, yet somehow it looks even better in real life. The town tumbles down the hillside in a cascade of pastel sun-washed houses, winding cobblestone lanes, and that signature walkway draped in hot pink **bougainvillea** that looks like it was designed purely for Instagram (and maybe it was).

The town is full of interesting little boutiques selling everything from hand-painted ceramics to breezy linen dresses that scream “I’m on the Amalfi Coast.” Callan and I loved poking around in the shops—each one seemed to have its own vibe and story. We found authentic southern Italian wares, local limoncello, and even some gorgeous sandals handmade right in front of us by a smiling artisan who looked like he’d been doing it for decades.

Down by the Spiaggia Grande (the main beach), cafés spill onto the sand with Aperol spritzes in hand and music floating in the air. There’s something about Positano that feels both effortlessly chic and totally relaxed—like it knows it’s beautiful but doesn’t need to try too hard. Whether you’re sipping espresso at Le Sirenuse, wandering the Path of the Gods, or just people-watching from a shaded terrace, Positano has a way of making you want to slow down, take a deep breath, and stay just a little longer.

Pro Tip: If you’re short on time in Positano, skip the climb (your calves will thank you) and take the main walkway down to the beach instead. You’ll pass the cutest boutiques and outdoor cafes and walk under a pink bougainvillea-covered alley. Don’t forget to take some pics!

Amalfi

Amalfi is the dazzling **“Pearl of the Mediterranean”**, and honestly, the nickname undersells it. The town gleams with ivory-colored buildings that cascade down the hills like a marble waterfall, all capped with warm terracotta roofs that look like they were frosted by the sun itself.

On our way to Amalfi, we made a quick stop at Ceramiche Bar, where shelves overflowed with hand-painted treasures. We couldn’t resist a set of teal Limoncello cups, each one adorned with vibrant yellow lemons—tiny, cheerful souvenirs that perfectly captured the Amalfi spirit.

The first thing we noticed when we arrived in Amalfi was the panoramic view of the coastline - turquoise sea, dramatic cliffs, and just enough chaos from vespas and church bells to remind you this is real life. Callan and I loved wandering the vibrant streets, which hum with the scent of lemon blossoms and espresso. We ducked into Antichi Sapori d’Amalfi, a charming little shop bursting with hand-bottled limoncello, citrus soaps, and every lemon-themed thing imaginable. The air smelled like sunshine and sugar, and the shopkeeper insisted we try a sample of his family’s secret-recipe limoncello (for “research purposes,” of course). It was the perfect Amalfi moment—sweet, zesty, and just a little bit mischievous.

The heart of town beats in Piazza Duomo, a lively swirl of cafés, gelato stands, and souvenir shops. There’s no better people-watching spot. Bryan planted himself at Pasticceria Pansa, one of Italy’s oldest pastry shops, happily sampling lemon delizia while declaring himself a “student of the local cuisine.” He was right to take his studies seriously.

We stepped into the magnificent Cathedral of Saint Andrew (Duomo di Amalfi), and it truly stopped us in our tracks. Its striking black-and-white striped façade looks like something plucked from a medieval fairytale, and the grand staircase leading up to it could double as a movie set. Inside, golden mosaics shimmer across the vaulted ceilings, and the crypt below—where Saint Andrew’s relics rest—is a peaceful, candlelit space that feels worlds away from the bustle outside.

Amalfi with teens? Surprisingly perfect. There’s history for the curious, shopping for the stylish, and beaches for those who just want to tan and toss pebbles into the surf. Add in lemon gelato, pizza by the slice, and cliffside selfies that rack up serious social points, and everyone leaves happy.

Pro Tip: In Amalfi, start your visit early—before the tour buses roll in—and head straight to the Piazza Duomo while it’s still quiet. You’ll have the cathedral steps (and your photos) blissfully crowd-free. Then reward yourself with a cappuccino and a lemon pastry at Pasticceria Pansa—it’s practically a rite of passage.

Ravello

Then we wound our way **up and up and up** to Ravello, a peaceful hilltop village that feels like it’s floating above the rest of the world. By the time we reached the top we were equal parts carsick and captivated, but one look around and it was totally worth the climb.

Once in Ravello, it was easy to see why artists, writers, and romantics have been escaping here for centuries. The town exudes quiet sophistication, with sweeping terraces, cobblestone piazzas, and gardens that seem to tumble right into the clouds. Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo are the crown jewels—lush estates with storybook gardens and views so impossibly vast you half expect to see the edge of the earth. We strolled through Villa Cimbrone’s Terrace of Infinity, where marble busts keep stoic watch over the coastline, and even Callan fell silent (a true Ravello miracle).

The main piazza is a charming swirl of cafés and boutiques—Caffè Calce was our favorite for people-watching and a quick espresso fix, while La Vecchia Cantina tempted us with lemon ravioli and sea views worth lingering over. Every corner seemed to hum with soft music, tinkling cups, and the faint scent of jasmine.

We ended our day with lunch at Giuliana’s View, a hidden gem perched high above the coastline. Its rooftop garden was a Mediterranean dream—terracotta pots overflowing with geraniums, lemon trees shading our table, and that hypnotic blue horizon stretching forever. As we lingered over our last Italian meal, the afternoon sun warmed the tiles beneath our feet and the sea sparkled far below. It felt like the perfect grand finale—a graceful, sun-drenched farewell to Italy’s most enchanting coastline.

Pro Tip: Ravello rewards the unhurried. Skip the schedule and just wander. Every turn leads to another jaw-dropping view, secret garden, or lemon-scented café. Don’t miss Villa Cimbrone’s Terrace of Infinity—it’s where the sky and sea forget where one ends and the other begins.

Food & Dining in Sorrento with Teens

Sorrento is a paradise for food lovers of all ages, and with teens in tow, it’s the perfect mix of casual bites, Instagram-worthy treats, and unforgettable meals. The town’s culinary scene is vibrant, colorful, and utterly delicious, and we made sure to sample the best it had to offer—sometimes more than once!

Breakfast Spots

Mornings in Sorrento start with the simple pleasures of Italian cafés. Bar Rita is a local favorite for a quick espresso and a cornetto (Italian croissant). Teens will love the Nutella-filled version, while adults can enjoy the more classic almond or cream-filled pastries. Pasticceria Monica, tucked just off the main square, is another must-stop; their lemon ricotta tartlets are so light and fresh, they practically vanish before you even sip your cappuccino. Locals recommend pairing your pastry with a cappuccino or a freshly squeezed orange juice to get that full Amalfi Coast start-of-day vibe.

Lunch Spots

For lunch, casual spots are key when exploring with teens. Ristorante Tasso serves up generous portions of pasta and pizza in a lively atmosphere. Try the gnocchi al limone—a Sorrento specialty that balances the bright local lemons with pillowy soft potato gnocchi. La Cantinaccia del Popolo, with its rustic décor and friendly staff, is great for sharing platters of bruschetta, cured meats, and fresh mozzarella, making it easy for everyone to taste a little bit of everything. Teens loved the simplicity of a Margherita pizza here while we adults couldn’t get enough of the fresh seafood salads.

Dinner Spots
When evening rolled around, our crew of hungry travelers (a.k.a. three teens with bottomless appetites) was ready to put Sorrento’s dinner scene to the test. Dining here is never dull—one night you’re sitting under lemon trees straight out of a fairy tale, the next you’re chatting with a bar owner about a cat that used to smoke cigarettes. Between Callan’s quest for the perfect pasta (verdict: gnocchi Sorrentino), the boys’ ongoing pizza Olympics, and Bryan’s self-appointed role as “seafood quality control,” every meal turned into its own mini adventure. Here are our favorite dinner spots that served up amazing food, unforgettable stories, and plenty of laughs along the way.

Bar Orlando - Winner for Quirkiest 🎩

This eccentric little gem in nearby Sant’Agata sui Due Golfi feels like stepping into someone’s colorful living room—walls lined with local artwork, shelves bursting with oddities, and an energy that instantly makes you smile.

We had the pleasure of chatting with the owner, Signor Orlando, who told us the story of the famous courtyard statue: a cat holding a cigarette in its mouth. His father, Alfredo, opened the bar in 1945 and even staged a show where Jolly the Smoking Cat was the star. Signor Orlando was so excited he dashed off to fetch postcards for us, showing Jolly in all his cigarette-holding glory.

When Callan voiced concerns about the cat’s health, Orlando reassured us that while Jolly held the cigarette in his mouth, he never inhaled. It was quite the icebreaker to start our evening!

Dinner at Bar Orlando is small but carefully curated. We loved the squid ink pasta and the fresh Caprese salad, both simple but packed with flavor. Callan was entertained by the playful décor, Bryan enjoyed the unexpected flavors, and the boys were equal parts horrified and fascinated by the story of the smoking cat. It was a quirky, unforgettable start to our evening.

Giuliana’s View - Winner for Best View 👀

Perched high above the coastline in Ravello, this rooftop garden restaurant is a feast for the eyes as much as the stomach. The menu leans Mediterranean with fresh seafood, lemon risotto, and grilled fish, all paired with crisp local white wines (or sparkling lemonade for teens). We lingered over lunch here, mesmerized by the sun sparkling off the Tyrrhenian Sea. Teens were blown away by the sheer drama of the view, Bryan appreciated the fresh, flavorful seafood, and I loved the garden ambiance.

Marina Grande - Best Seafood Winner 🐟

This seaside restaurant right on the beach serves up the freshest catches of the day. Try the linguine alle vongole (clams) or the fritto misto—perfect for sharing. Teens enjoyed watching the fishing boats come and go, Bryan raved about the perfectly cooked fish, and I loved the casual, authentic harbor vibe.

O’ Parrucchiano La Favorita – Winner for Most Authentic 🍋

This restaurant is housed in a historic building with lemon trees shading the courtyard and feels like a living piece of Sorrento’s culinary history. Menu highlights include gnocchi alla sorrentina, eggplant parmigiana, and homemade limoncello. We all agreed it felt like eating in a Sorrento home. Our kids enjoyed the fun garden setting, Bryan savored the traditional recipes, and I appreciated the dedication to local ingredients and history.

Pro Tip: Skip the “safe” choices and dive into the local specialties—think anything featuring those famous Amalfi lemons. Pair it with a glass of crisp local white wine (or sparkling lemonade for the teens) and always, always leave room for delizia al limone—the coast’s signature lemon dessert that tastes like sunshine in cake form.

Tips for Families Traveling to Sorrento With Teenagers

Traveling with teenagers along the Amalfi Coast is a bit like juggling gelato cones—slightly chaotic, occasionally messy, but absolutely worth it. Sorrento is a dream destination for families with teens because it blends history, adventure, and plenty of downtime. The trick is finding that sweet spot between structured activities and laid-back fun, so everyone, from the selfie-obsessed to the seafood-skeptical, stays happy.

1. Mix adventure with chill time. Yes, guided tours are great for soaking in history and culture, but teens need breaks from “information mode.” Balance days of sightseeing (think Pompeii or Capri) with lazy afternoons by the pool or beach. We found that a morning tour followed by lunch and a swim worked wonders for everyone’s mood.

2. Give them some freedom (within reason). Letting teens explore a bit on their own gives them a taste of independence and makes them way more enthusiastic travelers. We used the buddy system and allowed 30-minute increments of solo exploration before checking in. The kids loved wandering Sorrento’s narrow lanes, finding souvenir shops, and practicing their Italian. Honestly, they learned more about the local culture in those unscripted moments than from any guidebook.

3. Encourage culinary courage. Southern Italy’s cuisine is full of surprises—fresh seafood, lemon everything, and dishes you won’t find anywhere else. We made a family rule: everyone had to try at least one food outside their comfort zone. Some loved it (hello, octopus salad), others not so much, but the point was to try. It’s a great way to model open-mindedness and curiosity.

4. Let them be your travel photographers. Hand over the camera (or their phone) and watch their creativity bloom. Teens have a knack for finding quirky angles, funny moments, and unexpected beauty. Plus, they’re more invested when they’re part of documenting the trip, and you’ll end up with photos that aren’t all selfies.

5. Prepare for motion (lots of it). The Amalfi Coast roads are famously curvy, so pack motion-sickness remedies if your crew is prone to queasiness. And remind them—this is not the moment for scrolling TikTok in a moving car/van.

6. Chase sunsets together. The Amalfi Coast sunsets are pure magic. We made it a nightly ritual to pause, take in the view, and recap our favorite part of the day. It became a simple, grounding tradition that even the teens didn’t roll their eyes at, too much.

Traveling with teens in Sorrento isn’t just about sightseeing - it’s about giving them the freedom to discover, the courage to try new things, and the chance to fall in love with a place on their own terms. With a little flexibility (and a lot of gelato), you’ll all come home with shared memories, and maybe even fewer eye rolls than expected.

Sorrentine Family Favorites

“ My favorite day in southern Italy was the boating day. The water was a deep, refreshing blue—a perfect break from all the walking, heat, and ancient ruins we’d seen earlier in the trip. I’m glad we ended with the beach instead of starting there; it was the perfect way to unwind before heading back home. “
- Bryan

“ My favorite day in southern Italy was the boat tour along the coast of Capri. We Floridians have a saying, ‘there’s no bad day on a boat,’ and that assertion held true for Italy. The sun, blue water, mild temps, entertaining boat captain, swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and a beach break — it was the perfect day. Everyone was happy and got along. Parenting bliss.”
- Heidi

“ My favorite day on the Amalfi Coast was definitely our boating day on the Tyrrhenian Sea. The water had a dozen different shades of blue—like a painting you’d only see in a museum, but this time I could actually touch it. It was gorgeous and super relaxing. Part of me wanted to just close my eyes and soak it all in, but the other part didn’t want to miss a single thing, so I just kept staring."
Callan, 17 yo

“My favorite day down south was definitely our boating day. Hanging out on the beach in Capri was awesome—there were massive yachts, little fishing boats, and people everywhere just swimming and having fun. The whole vibe was super chill. I loved being out on the water, swimming with my family, no schedule, no rush—just pure relaxing and fun.” - Jake, 16 yo

“ My favorite day while we were staying in Sorrento was definitely our boating day. The best part was when the boat stopped near these amazing rock formations in the middle of the sea—we got to climb them and jump off! It was super fun and such a rush. The beaches back home, like New Smyrna and Daytona, are great, but they don’t have anything like that—just sand. This was way more exciting and felt like a real adventure.”
- Max, 13 yo

Family Travel Rating for Sorrento:

🎉 Fun: 4/5
If your idea of fun involves lemon everything, jaw-dropping cliffs, and hairpin turns that make your kids gasp “Are we supposed to be this close to the edge?”, then you’ve found your playground. Between boat rides to Capri, gelato pit stops every 50 feet, and swimming in turquoise coves, there’s plenty to keep everyone smiling (and slightly sticky).
🧘‍♀️ Ease: 2/5
Let’s just say the Amalfi Coast didn’t get the memo about strollers or straight roads. And parking? Ha! Narrow roads, endless stairs, and scarce parking make it better suited for families with a bit of travel grit. But if you can roll with the chaos (and the occasional uphill climb), the payoff is worth it.
💰 Cost: 3/5
The lemons may grow wild, but nothing else is cheap. Between cliffside hotels, boat rides, and pizza “with a view” that somehow costs double, you’ll feel your wallet slimming down faster than your gelato melts. Still… those views are basically priceless, right?
🌴 Relaxation: 4.5/5
Once you’ve conquered the logistics, it’s pure magic. Sun-drenched terraces, lazy lunches, the sound of the sea — it’s the kind of place where even your kids might stop bickering long enough to say, “This is awesome.” Cherish that moment - it’s rare!

Final Verdict

Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast lived up to every bit of its hype—and then some. Between the glittering sea, cliffside towns, and plates of lemon-scented perfection, it’s a destination that hits all the senses. Our crew found the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and jaw-dropping scenery. Whether you’re chasing culture, cuisine, or just quality family time, the Amalfi delivers it all—with a side of sunshine and just the right dash of chaos.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Ideal Ages: 8+. You’ll want kids old enough to handle winding roads, long walks, and afternoon sun without having a full-scale meltdown. Teens will love the adventure vibe — little ones might just love the lemon sorbet and boat rides.

🗓️ Ideal trip length: 3-4 days. Long enough to explore Sorrento, dip into Amalfi or Positano, and squeeze in a boat day — but short enough to leave you wanting just one more plate of pasta by the sea.
⛔ Skip Amalfi Coast if you prefer . . . your vacations smooth, predictable, and free of drama. This isn’t a plug-and-play family resort — it’s gorgeous, chaotic, and gloriously imperfect. If hairpin turns, steep stairs, and a bit of beautiful chaos make you twitch, consider somewhere flatter (and calmer). But if you thrive on adventure with a view, buckle up — you’ll be hooked.