Marina Grande (Big Marina), Sorrento (must see)

Despite its name, Marina Grande, or “Big Marina,” is actually smaller than Marina Piccola. Rather than being a transport hub, it is a fishing village and a destination in itself. As you walk through the marina, you will find restaurants and bars serving fresh seafood, small hotels, and even a local church. The area has preserved a sense of rustic charm, making it feel like a little world tucked away from the bustle of Sorrento’s main streets.

The marina lies in a protected nook of the Amalfi Coast, secluded by a rocky promontory. Local tradition says this was once the site of a Roman villa belonging to Marcellus, the nephew of Emperor Augustus. As you stroll along the waterfront, notice the small details that reflect its pre-industrial life. At sunset, fishermen pull in their nets, prepare their boats for the next day, and go about daily routines that have changed little over the centuries. Watching this is a way to experience the rhythms of a Sorrento that existed long before tourism became the town’s main industry.

Walking through Big Marina, you will see how it maintains a balance between community life and hospitality for visitors. Small shops and trattorias line narrow streets, while paths along the water offer calm places to pause and enjoy the view. This is a living village, not just a scenic stop, so take time to absorb the sounds, smells, and everyday life that give Big Marina its distinctive character. By the time you leave, you will understand why many visitors feel it is one of Sorrento’s most authentic corners.