Bagni della Regina Giovanna Sorrento
A hidden natural pool and ancient Roman ruins on the Sorrentine coast, perfect for a scenic swim.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Bagni della Regina Giovanna Sorrento
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hidden natural pool and ancient Roman ruins on the Sorrentine coast, perfect for a scenic swim.
"This is heaven, a secluded beach with ancient Roman ruins only a 30 min walk out of Sorrento town."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The path can be rocky; comfortable shoes are a must for the walk down and around the site.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
There are no shops or facilities at the beach, so pack enough water and snacks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Natural Swimming Pool
Main Grotto
A stunning natural pool enclosed by cliffs, once a Roman villa's bathing spot. Perfect for a refreshing dip.
Ancient Roman Ruins
Surrounding cliffs
Explore the remnants of a Roman villa, adding a historical layer to this beautiful coastal escape.
The Sea Archway
Connecting pool to sea
Swim through this iconic archway to reach the open sea, offering a unique and exhilarating experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for This Hidden Gem
What to Pack for Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The path can be rocky; comfortable shoes are a must for the walk down and around the site.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
There are no shops or facilities at the beach, so pack enough water and snacks.
⏰ Go Early to Beat Crowds
Arrive before 9 AM to enjoy the natural pool with fewer people.
🚗 Parking Available
If driving, there's a car park at the start of the path, but it fills up quickly.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The path can be rocky; comfortable shoes are a must for the walk down and around the site.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
There are no shops or facilities at the beach, so pack enough water and snacks.
⏰ Go Early to Beat Crowds
Arrive before 9 AM to enjoy the natural pool with fewer people.
🚗 Parking Available
If driving, there's a car park at the start of the path, but it fills up quickly.
🚌 Easy Bus Access
Take bus 008 from Sorrento center; it drops you near the entrance.
🥽 Swim Through the Arch
Experience swimming from the natural pool to the open sea through the archway.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bagni della Regina Giovanna is praised for its unique natural swimming pool and historical Roman ruins, offering a picturesque escape. Visitors appreciate the scenic walk and the opportunity to swim through a sea archway. However, it can get very crowded, and the rocky terrain and lack of facilities are noted drawbacks.
"Bagni della Regina Giovanna is an interesting spot with beautiful views and a natural swimming pool carved into the rock. The place itself is picturesque and unique. The best way is to take a bus from Sorrento and then walk about 15 minutes to reach the beach. In the high season, it gets very crowded, which makes it hard to fully enjoy. Worth visiting once for the views and history, but not a place I would rush back to."
Kamil Osiecki
"Beautiful swimming spot easily accessible by a the 008 bus (€2 per person) from Sorrento center and then a short 10-15 minute walk down from the bus stop. The walk isn’t strenuous or too inclined, and is manageable in flip flops. Be aware that there isn’t much of a beach but you can find a couple flat rocks to relax on. We found it super crowded with people coming down the stairs but not having anywhere to sit at the bottom, creating a lot of congestion. Maybe it’s better to go earlier in the morning when the masses haven’t arrived. Once you’re in, you can swim through the ancient archway through to the ocean side of the swimming hole. You can do some cliff jumping here; it’s probably about 10 meters high. The day we went there was a lot of surge so some trash was washing through into the ‘beach’ side so we preferred drifting on the ocean side a lot more. Near the cliff jumping spot are a couple leveled places to lie down and sun tan or picnic with a great view of the cliffs of Sorrento! Enjoy and remember to buy some water at the shop at the beginning of the path down to the beach, there aren’t any shops, toilets or facilities down there."
Sam Brink
"A local who lives in the U.S. now recommend this spot to us. It took a bus and a 15 minute walk, but it was our second best day in Sorrento. It was busy, but not packed. A few tourists but a lot of locals. We felt like locals. We bought sandwiches in town, wine, and made a day of it. Highly recommend!
Be respectful and take your trash out."
Zach
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Bagni della Regina Giovanna by taking the local bus 008 from Sorrento center, which drops you off near the entrance. From there, it's a pleasant 15-20 minute walk downhill. Alternatively, you can drive and park at the designated car park, but it fills up fast.
Yes, there is a car park available at the beginning of the path leading to the seaside. However, it's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, as it can get full quickly.
Yes, it's a scenic walk of about 30-40 minutes from Sorrento town. This walk offers beautiful coastal views and is a great way to experience the surroundings.
The address is Traversa Punta Capo, 80067 Sorrento NA, Italy. This will help you navigate using GPS or map applications.
The walk is generally manageable, taking about 15-20 minutes from the bus stop. The final steps down to the water can be a bit tricky, especially in flip-flops, but it's not considered strenuous.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Bagni della Regina Giovanna is free to enter. You can enjoy the natural pool and Roman ruins without any admission cost.
As it's a natural site, there are no official opening or closing hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
No, tickets are not required as the site is free to access. However, arriving early is recommended to avoid crowds.
Unfortunately, there are no facilities such as restrooms, changing rooms, or showers available at Bagni della Regina Giovanna. It's advisable to use facilities before you arrive.
Yes, the site is accessible year-round. However, the best time for swimming and enjoying the views is during the warmer months, typically from spring to early autumn.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
You can swim in the natural pool, explore the ancient Roman ruins, sunbathe on the rocks, and swim through the sea archway to the open ocean. It's a unique blend of history and natural beauty.
Yes, the natural pool offers clear, calm waters perfect for swimming. You can also swim out to the sea through a natural archway. +1
While there isn't a traditional sandy beach, you can sunbathe on the flat rocks surrounding the natural pool. These spots offer great views.
The natural pool is generally calm, but supervision is essential. The rocky terrain and the passage to the sea might be challenging for very young children or those not comfortable with water.
Expect a rocky beach and uneven terrain. The path down can be a bit tricky, and the area around the pool is made up of rocks, not sand.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the natural pool with its archway, the ancient Roman ruins, and the panoramic sea views. The golden hour light can create stunning photographic opportunities.
Drone photography can offer spectacular aerial views of the natural pool, the coastline, and the Roman ruins, showcasing the unique landscape.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for capturing the beauty of Bagni della Regina Giovanna without too many people in your shots.
Yes, you can freely take photos of the Roman ruins scattered around the site, adding a historical dimension to your pictures.
There are no specific restrictions mentioned for general photography. However, always be mindful of other visitors and respect the historical nature of the site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Packing plenty of water and snacks is crucial, as there are no facilities on-site. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must for everyone to navigate the rocky paths safely. Consider visiting during less crowded times, like early mornings on weekdays, to make the experience more enjoyable for the whole family.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Instead of buying expensive meals, pack a picnic with local produce from Sorrento's markets. This not only saves money but also allows you to enjoy a meal with a spectacular view. The natural beauty and historical significance of the site provide a rich experience without a hefty price tag.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Timing is crucial for the best shots. Early mornings and late afternoons, during the golden hours, offer soft, flattering light and fewer crowds, allowing for unobstructed compositions. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views and a waterproof camera or housing if you plan to photograph while swimming. Drone photography can also yield breathtaking aerial perspectives of this unique coastal gem.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Queen Giovanna
This fusion of natural beauty and ancient history makes Bagni della Regina Giovanna a truly unique destination. Visitors can swim in the same waters that Queen Giovanna is rumored to have enjoyed, surrounded by the remnants of a bygone era. The site offers a glimpse into both the natural wonders of the Sorrentine coast and the opulent lifestyle of ancient Roman elites.
Navigating the Terrain and Access
For those arriving by car, a parking area is available at the start of the path. However, this parking can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons. The terrain around the pool itself is rocky, not sandy, so don't expect a traditional beach setup. Instead, you'll find flat rocks that serve as natural sunbathing spots, offering stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and the sea.
It's important to note that there are no facilities like restrooms or changing rooms directly at the site. Visitors are advised to come prepared with all necessary supplies, including plenty of water and snacks, as there are no vendors on-site.
Experiencing the Natural Pool and Sea
A truly memorable experience is swimming through the natural archway that connects the grotto to the open sea. This passage allows you to venture out into the Mediterranean, offering a different perspective of the coastline and the impressive cliffs. Be aware that the sea conditions can vary, and it's always wise to assess the water before venturing out.
While there isn't a sandy beach, the flat rocks surrounding the pool provide ample space for sunbathing and picnicking. These spots offer fantastic vantage points to admire the scenery and relax after a swim. Some visitors even mention the possibility of cliff jumping from a nearby spot, adding an adventurous element for thrill-seekers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit