Sorrento is a sun-drenched treasure on Italy's Amalfi Coast, famous for its clifftop views, lemon groves—and heavenly gelato. Whether you're cooling off after a beachfront stroll or rounding out a wonderful meal, gelato is a must. Here are three places in which you can get the best scoops in Sorrento (from my experience), along with how to spot the real deal and avoid the tourist traps.

Image Credit: Kyle Hinkson from Unsplash

3. Gelateria Primavera: Big, Bold, and Famous

Located on Corso Italia, Gelateria Primavera is one of the most visited (and photographed) gelato spots in Sorrento. With its wall of celebrity portraits and its staggering list of options (typically 60+ flavors), it's hard to miss. While popularity renders its tourists, Primavera has built its rep on consistency, generous portions, and easily found mainstays.

The flavor can be hit-or-miss in terms of quality, especially with the more experimental options, but their fruit sorbets are surprisingly good, especially when it is summer and the fruit is in top condition. The lemon and strawberry sorbets are typically favorite hits, thanks to the ingredients.

It's not a secret gem—but it's part of the Sorrento gelato scheme. You will want to stop if you just so happen to be walking by.

Tip: Opt for seasonal fruit as flavors or classic Italian ones like hazelnut, stracciatella, or fior di latte for the best experience.

Image Credit: ROMAN ODINSTOV from Pexels

Take the Quiz: What’s Your Perfect Summer DIY Project?

Ready to get crafty? Find out which DIY project you should take on this summer!

2. David Gelateria: a Local Favorite

A short walk from Piazza Tasso, David Gelateria, family-owned, flies low beneath the radar compared to more popular shops—but those who are in the know swear by it. With a reputation for keeping things old-fashioned with traditional procedures and fresh daily batches, this family-run establishment serves up traditional and creative flavors with style.

The individuals here are cheerful and willing to share samples, and all they want to do is assist you in finding your perfect mix. Their dark chocolate is thick and rich, the kind that lingers on the palate, and almond and ricotta tasting gives you a true southern Italian taste. For a true local flavor, try a sample of walnut and fig when it is in season.

Tip: Try their "limone di Sorrento" sorbet, made with local lemons and as refreshing as a sea breeze.

Image Credit: Alana Harris from Unsplash

1. Raki: Eco-friendly & Artisanal Experiences

Tucked away just off the busy Via San Cesareo (as well as many other locations around the area), Raki is a haven for gelato purists. The tiny, artisanal store boasts organic, all-natural ingredients and quality over quantity. You won't find two dozen flavors here—a carefully selected dozen or so, maybe—but each one is rich, intense, and thoughtfully considered.

What sets Raki apart is its dedication to odd and beautiful pairings—cinnamon-ginger, rose petal, or local fig, for instance. Their pistachio is a revelation: so nutty, never too sweet, and made with real Bronte pistachios from Sicily. And if you spot their signature lemon-basil sorbet available, don't hesitate—it's summer in a cone.

Tip: Arrive early or mid-afternoon to avoid the line. Raki doesn't try to be popular—it tries to impress those seeking depth and integrity of flavor.

Image Credit: kimba Howard from Wikimedia Commons

Lemon Sorbet: Sorrento's Signature Scoop

No Sorrento gelato tour is complete without a spoonful of lemon sorbet. Why? Limone di Sorrento, a sweet-skinned lemon type grown in the hilly orchards that follow the coastline, is world famous here. These lemons have strong scents and just the right touch of sweetness, so they have the perfect mix of sweetness and sour.

These lemons as a sorbet unleash a bright, zesty burst of flavor that's as tart as it is refreshing—a natural ice in the Mediterranean sun. It isn’t gelato, but it is heaven in a lemon!

What to Avoid in Gelato

Sorrento is every gelato aficionado's dream town, but too many options make it easy to become a victim of the tourist trap of settling for less-than-prime gelato. Here's four ways to help you steer clear of the bad gelato and seek out the good stuff.

Image Credit: Lama Roscu from Unsplash

1. Bright and Neon Colors

Gelato with artificial coloring usually means that the ingredients are cheap. Right, proper gelato is more in accordance with nature-inspired, muted colors. Electric pink or bright green gelatos are usually red flags, particularly with pistachio or fruit flavors.

Image Credit: Alessio Damato from Wikimedia Commons

2. High and Overflowing Displays

One of the sure signs of good gelato is the way it's displayed. The last time you looked at gelato stacked high in neat uniform humps, it was probably out too long, and this can result in it getting stale. Additionally, it can also mean that the gelato is filled with too much air. Good gelato should have a slightly sunken appearance that indicates it's just been prepared and refrigerated.

Image Credit: Yun Huang Yong from Wikimedia Commons

3. Many Gelato Options

Variety, though enticing, is rarely a good thing if a gelateria has more than 40-50 items on offer. That is likely to mean they're probably employing artificial flavorings or ready-made mixtures. Genuine gelaterias care more about quality than quantity. Buy smaller-sized menu items where all the flavours have been considered.

Image Credit: Nellie Adamyan from Unsplash

4. Icy or Frosty Textures

True gelato should be creamy and smooth, with a thick, velvety texture. If your gelato is too icy or frosty, it's a sign that it has not been made or stored well. Also, watch out for overly watery gelato—it should hold its shape in the cone.

The Final Scoop

With these tips in hand, your quest for the perfect gelato in Sorrento is sure to be a delicious adventure. So go forth, explore the charming streets, and indulge in the authentic flavors of this Italian gem. Buon appetito!