Sorrento is undoubtedly one of the most iconic destinations in Italy and with good reason. Striking the perfect balance between upscale elegance and a mellow, relaxed vibe, it’s no wonder people flock to this beautiful town. It offers convenient proximity to explore Campania’s most popular destinations like Naples, Capri, and the Amalfi Coast. But Sorrento’s lure goes beyond its prime geographic position, stunning scenery, and delicious food; it’s a magnet for shoppers in search of locally-made artisanal treasures. From pottery and papier mâché, to coral jewelry, leather, and perfumes, there’s no shortage of options. So whether you’re a shopaholic or simply appreciate a souvenir or two, you won’t want to miss this curated guide of where to shop in Sorrento!
Atmosfera
For Fine Neapolitan Art, This is Where to Shop
Neapolitan artists have an inherent talent when it comes to capturing the beauty of their region. One can really feel the love and pride these artists have for the landscape that surrounds them. I first stumbled upon Atmosfera after dining at a nearby restaurant and was captivated by their outdoor display of art. Inside, the store promises just as much beauty with a wide selection of wall art available for purchase. Here, one will find Neapolitan classics like pulcinella masks and the region’s iconic red corno, which is believed to be a talisman of good luck; the perfect gift to give to anyone in need of some extra fortune. But perhaps my favorite of their offerings is their selection of papier-mâché clocks and wall art, many of which depict local landscapes like the sun setting over Mount Vesuvius or the famed faraglioni rocks of Capri. If you’ve wondered where to shop in Sorrento for fine art, look no further than this boutique; it won’t disappoint.
Carthusia
Your Stop for the Fragrance of Southern Italy
Anyone who’s ever been to Sorrento, Capri, or the Amalfi Coast, is familiar with that signature scent of freshness that seems to linger in the air; a fragrant blend of citrus and marine notes that is especially present in hotel soaps and bodycare products. Those looking to bring home these iconic scents should make a stop at the Carthusia boutique. You’ll find this shop on the posh Corso Italia — the town’s main thoroughfare. It carries a gamut of the brand’s products, including perfumes, body lotions, skincare, and shower gels, all with the signature smells of Southern Italy. They even have a gentlemen’s barber line! Meanwhile, for those who want to bring the fragrance of Sorrento and the nearby islands to their home, the Carthusia brand even has home products like linen sprays and diffusers. Make sure to visit this boutique if you want to keep the spirit of your Southern Italian getaway alive long after returning home.
Sorrento New Style
A Must-Visit When Deciding Where to Shop in Sorrento for Jewelry
Tucked around the corner from the bustling Via San Cesareo is Sorrento New Style, a boutique that sells tasteful jewelry that embodies the town’s elegant coastal spirit. Family-owned and operated by a husband and wife team, Luigi and Anna, this place is a one-stop shop. It carries everything from red coral necklaces, earrings, and bracelets, to turquoise, pearls, and even fine gold and silver. At Sorrento New Style, one can find both artisanally-made products and popular big brands like UnoAErre and Boccadamo, for women and men alike. But the absolute showstopper of their inventory has to be their cameos, which are handmade by Anna herself! With great creativity and precision, she keeps this local tradition alive by making custom cameos at reasonable prices. Sorrento New Style also offers international shipping, meaning you can send your precious mementos back home without having to worry about packing them in your luggage. If you’re in the market for a memorable piece of jewelry for yourself or a loved one, this is the store to visit when in Sorrento!
L’Artigiano Sorrentino
Where to Shop in Sorrento for Fine Italian Leather
When most think of where to shop for fine Italian leather, Tuscany is the first region that comes to mind. But to the delight of genuine leather lovers, Sorrento is home to L’Artigiano Sorrentino, a storied leather brand that dates back to 1964. Today it’s home to not one, but four locations in the heart of the centro storico, meaning there’s no way of missing out on fine Italian apparel. They carry a wide range of products made in both Campania and Tuscany, using a number of dying techniques and materials. From purses, wallets, and backpacks to custom-cut belts and jackets, there’s something for every style and budget. And anyone looking to pick up on some classy, but inexpensive souvenirs to gift their loved ones back home, should make a visit to this boutique for their quirky keychains. Made with fine genuine leather, they come in a variety of shapes and sizes, all in the area’s iconic symbols like the Neapolitan red corno and lemons. For your fix of fine Italian fashion, L’Artigiano Sorrentino is a must-visit.
Sorrento È
Where to Shop in Sorrento for Authentic Italian Pottery
Italy is home to a treasured tradition of handmade, hand-painted ceramics known as maiolica and Campania is one of the country’s regions best known for its production of this artform. For those looking to source authentic Italian pottery, Sorrento È is a top pick. Carrying a curated collection of artisanal maiolica – sourced both locally and elsewhere in Italy – this shop has an inviting presence. Passersby are immediately greeted with an assortment of brightly colored merchandise, many of which bear the area’s famed lemon-themed designs, including plates, cups, and kitchen utensils. Best of all, Sorrento È offers international shipping, meaning shoppers can purchase ceramic pieces of any size without the hassle of fitting it into their luggage. Meanwhile, those who have limited space at home or are perhaps not ready to make an investment in hand-painted pottery, should consider purchasing a Christmas ornament instead. Not only are they a great souvenir that will evoke memories of an unforgettable trip, they also make great gifts for the holidays. Lastly, this shop also offers pottery from Sicily, which is reputed for its ornate designs, making this a great one-stop shop on one’s itinerary when visiting Sorrento.
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