This Month we get to know Hilton Sorrento Palace:
What was your motivation to join ICCA?
Our motivation to join ICCA was driven by our commitment to expanding our presence in the international meetings and events industry.
As a leading conference hotel in Southern Italy, we believe that being part of a global network like ICCA offers unparalleled opportunities to connect with industry professionals, share knowledge, and stay updated on the latest trends.
Joining ICCA also reflects our dedication to excellence in hosting international conferences and our desire to continuously grow our reach in the global MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) market.
Moreover, Hilton Sorrento Palace is proud to offer ICCA members an exceptional congress venue, and we look forward to the opportunity of welcoming many of them to our property.
Tell us your story. How did Hilton Sorrento Palace get started?
Hilton Sorrento Palace, originally named Sorrento Palace, opened its doors on April 30, 1981.
The Hotel was strongly desired by Mr Giovanni Russo: his dream was to build a big Congress Centre in the wonderful setting of Sorrento!
Hotel originally counted 410 guestrooms, 3 Auditorium and 9 meeting rooms.
Over the years, the Hotel underwent several renovations to meet growing demands and evolving guest needs.
In 1985, the desire for a dedicated exhibition space led to the construction of the impressive Nettuno Ballroom, spanning 1,200 square meters, conveniently located near the main Sirene Auditorium — also 1,200 square meters and capable of accommodating up to 1,500 delegates in a theatre-style layout!
In 2001, the Hotel began an exciting new chapter, joining the esteemed Hilton family and continuing its legacy as a premier destination for both business and leisure.
What sets Hilton Sorrento Palace apart?
What truly sets Hilton Sorrento Palace apart is the unique combination of world-class conference facilities and the stunning beauty of the Sorrento coastline.
Our property offers one of the largest and most versatile convention centres in Southern Italy, with panoramic views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius—an inspiring backdrop for any event.
We blend Hilton’s global standards of hospitality with warm, authentic Italian service, ensuring that every guest feels both valued and at home.
In addition, we offer expansive outdoor banqueting areas, perfect for hosting large-scale dining experiences under the Mediterranean sky.
Our strategic location also makes us a gateway to iconic destinations like the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, and Capri, transforming business trips into unforgettable experiences.
What is your favourite success story from your organisation?
One of our proudest success stories is hosting the 1st Global Youth Tourism Summit at Hilton Sorrento Palace, held from 27 June to 3 July 2022.
We were truly honoured to welcome young delegates from around the world for this ground-breaking event, organized in collaboration with the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).
During the opening ceremony, UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili highlighted the importance of the summit by stating: “The Global Youth Tourism Summit celebrates and promotes the role that young people will play in shaping our sector in the years to come.”
Adding even more significance to the occasion, Pope Francis offered his heartfelt support through a special message of blessings and greetings to the youth—future leaders of the global tourism industry.
The summit recognized young people as a powerful force for development and social change, with the potential to lead the way in driving sustainability across the tourism sector. Over the course of the event, participants engaged in a rich program of interactive activities, including webinars, workshops, roundtables, masterclasses, plenary sessions, cultural and sports activities, and even simulations of the UNWTO General Assembly.
Hosting such a meaningful, forward-thinking event at Hilton Sorrento Palace was not only a great honor—it was a reflection of our ongoing commitment to innovation, education, and the future of sustainable tourism.
What can we expect to see from Hilton Sorrento Palace in the future?
At Hilton Sorrento Palace, we are constantly evolving to meet the needs of the international meetings and events community.
In April 2024, we completed a full renovation of our entire room inventory, ensuring the highest levels of comfort and modern design.
Looking ahead, we are committed to continued investment in state-of-the-art facilities, enhanced sustainability practices, and innovative event solutions that seamlessly blend technology with authentic local experiences.
We are already planning further upgrades to our conference centre during the upcoming winter season.
Our goal is to strengthen our position as a premier conference destination in the Mediterranean, and we look forward to hosting more international events, building new partnerships, and providing exceptional service that reflects both Hilton standards and the unique charm of Sorrento.
Which trends do you see in the association meetings?
In recent years, we have observed several key trends shaping the future of association meetings.
There's a growing emphasis on sustainability and social responsibility, with organizers seeking venues that align with their environmental values.
Hybrid and tech-integrated formats continue to evolve, allowing for greater accessibility and engagement.
Additionally, there's an increasing demand for personalized experiences and destinations that offer a strong cultural identity—attendees want more than just a meeting; they seek meaningful, memorable connections.
As a venue, we are adapting to these trends by offering flexible solutions, sustainable practices, and authentic local experiences that enhance every event.
Can you name a challenge your organisation is currently facing?
One of the challenges we currently face is overcoming the perception that Sorrento is primarily a leisure destination rather than a fully capable host for large-scale conferences and events.
While the region is indeed known for its beauty and tourism appeal, Hilton Sorrento Palace is equipped with extensive meeting facilities, advanced technology, and the infrastructure needed for high-level international events.
Our goal is to shift this perception by showcasing the successful conferences we’ve hosted and highlighting the strategic advantages of combining business with an inspiring destination.