Hotel Il Faro

This hotel is ideally situated directly at the port, offering unparalleled convenience for guests planning excursions to nearby islands like Capri, Positano, and Amalfi, making it a signature feature for sightseers and explorers. Its prime waterfront location provides stunning sea views and a vibrant atmosphere, appealing to couples seeking a romantic getaway and families looking for easy access to boat tours. While many guests praise the hotel's cleanliness and the helpfulness of its staff, some note inconsistencies in room comfort and service. To make the most of your stay, be prepared for the uphill journey to the main town, utilizing the public lift or bus, and manage expectations regarding the variety of breakfast offerings.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features a popular rooftop pool and bar that offer spectacular views, particularly at sunset, providing a relaxing escape for many guests. However, a significant number of visitors express disappointment over the sunbed charge at the pool, finding it an unexpected additional cost. While some rooms are described as spacious, many guests report the absence of a fridge or minibar, and coffee/tea making facilities, which is a common point of feedback. The air conditioning system receives mixed reviews, with some finding it ineffective or noisy, while others report it working well. Wi-Fi connectivity is generally available, though some guests experienced intermittent issues. An elevator is available within the hotel, assisting with luggage.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on cleanliness is generally positive, with many rooms described as spotless and well-maintained by housekeeping. However, some reviews mention isolated issues such as mold in bathrooms, stains on bedding, or general wear and tear. Room size varies significantly, with some guests enjoying spacious accommodations, often with a balcony and beautiful views, while others found their rooms to be very small or "tight." The beds receive mixed comments, with some finding them comfortable and others describing them as hard or lumpy. Noise levels are a recurring concern, stemming from the port area, street traffic, and sometimes poor soundproofing between rooms, impacting sleep quality for some. The bathroom facilities are also inconsistent, ranging from modern and spacious to tiny with drainage issues.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast service garners mixed reviews. Many guests find it substantial and appreciate the barista-style coffee made to order, along with a good selection of pastries, eggs, and cold cuts. However, a notable portion of feedback describes the breakfast variety as lacking, with some items perceived as basic, stale, or of low quality, particularly the cereals and some sweet options. The adjoining restaurant is frequently praised for its delicious food, including pizza and seafood, and guests appreciate the offered discount. The rooftop bar is noted for its pleasant atmosphere and views, though the cost of drinks is often highlighted as being on the higher side compared to local establishments.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location directly opposite the port is a major advantage, offering immediate access to ferries for day trips to Capri, Positano, and Amalfi. It is also conveniently close to the beach. However, reaching the main city center of Sorrento involves navigating a significant number of stairs or a steep uphill walk, which some guests found challenging. Fortunately, a public lift and a local bus service are available nearby for a small fee, providing easier access to the upper town. Parking is available but is often described as expensive and difficult to manage due to the area's layout. The vibrant port setting can lead to some noise from early morning activities.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel receive varied feedback, with many guests praising their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentive service, particularly the breakfast and rooftop bar teams. They are often commended for assisting with tour bookings and providing local information. However, some guests report encountering unhelpful or indifferent front desk staff, leading to frustration, especially during check-in or when addressing room issues. Housekeeping is consistently noted for daily cleaning and fresh towels. While some requests, like extra pillows or AC fixes, are handled promptly, others, such as complaints about room conditions or specific amenities, are sometimes met with less responsiveness.

Additional Information
A frequently mentioned point of contention is the sunbed charge at the rooftop pool, which many guests find unexpected and an unnecessary additional cost, despite being hotel residents. The hotel's soundproofing is a concern for some, as noise from adjacent rooms, hallways, and the bustling port area can be audible. Guests should also be aware that the air conditioning operation might be centrally controlled, with some reporting it being turned off at certain times. The hotel offers a restaurant discount for guests at its adjoining eatery, which is a popular benefit. Some guests noted that the hotel's policies, such as requiring room keys to be left at reception, felt unusual or inconvenient.