A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Albufeira vs. Sorrento for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Albufeira or Sorrento?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Albufeira or Sorrento? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Albufeira

Albufeira is a high energy, party hard, and vibrant resort town. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Sorrento

Sorrento is a historic, relaxing, and accessible small city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Albufeira and Sorrento: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Albufeira or Sorrento?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Albufeira. Although Albufeira and Sorrento are popular destinations, Albufeira has more sights and attractions for tourists. Albufeira is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Sorrento attracts visitors for its food, hiking, and shopping. Albufeira is more touristy than Sorrento and is known for its golden beaches and limestone cliffs. It is also well known for Praia da Falesia. Sorrento is famous for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast.

How is Albufeira different from Sorrento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Sorrento and Albufeira. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is the Food Better in Albufeira or Sorrento? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sorrento is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Albufeira is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Sorrento is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The food is world class and you'll find most Italian classics here including pizza, fine cheeses, and fresh seafood. Many visitors enjoy taking a pasta or pizza making class while they're in town. You'll also find Limoncello everywhere, made from the locally grown lemons, which are impressive in both their size and flavor. Also make sure you allow for plenty of stops at gelato shops.

Albufeira has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. As the largest resort town in the Algarve, the city also has the widest selection of restaurants. There are traditional options that serve up classic dishes like grilled sardines, as well as international restaurants with traveler favorites. As expected, you'll find a lot of seafood, but you'll also find inland influences from local farms in the area.

Is Albufeira or Sorrento Better for Nightlife?

Albufeira is renowned for nightlife. Also, Sorrento is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Albufeira is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It's probably the most infamous party destination in the Algarve and it won't disappoint. During the peak summer months you'll find the streets around the popular "Strip" filled with tourists and party-goers. There are hen and stag parties, backpackers, and drunken travelers out for a good time. The Strip has become so popular that there are now bars and clubs on the adjacent streets as well. If you're not staying in the area, you'll likely want to take a taxi, as it's a couple kilometers outside of the town center.

If you're looking for night time activities Sorrento has a few options to choose from. The city is known for its laid back atmosphere, but there are still a number of clubs where you can dance the night away. While the main city center has its share of bars and activities, some of the best known clubs are actually a bit outside of the city center. Many visitors dress to impress and don't show up until after midnight, which is when the party really starts.

Is Albufeira or Sorrento Better for Resorts?

Albufeira is renowned for its resorts. Also, Sorrento is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Albufeira is a world class resort vacation destination. As the largest resort town in the Algarve, you'll find a wide selection of hotels to choose from. Party-goers will want to stay near the Strip while families will prefer the old town or resorts in Olhos de Agua.

There are plenty of resorts in Sorrento to choose from. The city offers a wide selection of luxury and budget hotels, particularly in the Piazza Tasso area. Because of its accessibility, many people use it as a base for exploring the area, or stop off for a day or two in route to other towns.

Is Albufeira or Sorrento Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Albufeira is a great destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Sorrento is a small city with minimal options for its diving and snorkeling.

Albufeira is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are countless vendors who will take you by boat to explore the underwater world, either by snorkeling or scuba diving. The marine life is impressive and the water is generally clear.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Sorrento. There are snorkeling excursions that you can book in the area, but this is often an overlooked activity for many visitors.

Is Albufeira or Sorrento Better for Beaches?

Albufeira is renowned for its beaches. Also, Sorrento is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

Albufeira is considered to be a world-class beach destination. With their golden sands and blue waters, the beaches are world class. The area also has a diversity of beaches that are perfect for all types of vacationers. For water sports, head to Praia dos Alemaes but for relaxation and catching some rays check out Praia da Falesia. You'll find some interesting rock formations at Praia dos Olhos de Agua. One of the most convenient beaches to town is Praia dos Pescadores. For nightlife you'll want to head to Praia da Oura.

Sorrento offers a nice beach destination. The rugged coastline is filled with dramatic hills and rocky inlets that offer hidden beaches. Many of the most unique beaches can be challenging to access and the beaches closer to town get very crowded. Some of the best beaches in the area include Marina Piccola Beach, Regina Giovanna, and Puolo. Some beaches are public while others are private and come at a price.

Is Albufeira or Sorrento Better for Hiking?

Sorrento is a great destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Albufeira is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Sorrento. The area has a number of walking trails that you can explore. Many follow historic donkey trails that once connected the villages and today offer a well-established route with stunning views and pristine landscapes. The trails navigate the region's steep hills and offer a breathtaking look at the rugged coastline.

Many people include a hike when visiting Albufeira. There are countless coastal walks that are perfect for all skill levels. Many offers stunning views along the rocky coast and pass through natural settings. Popular trails in the area include Praia Grande Interpretation Trail and Paderne Castle Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Albufeira or Sorrento?

Sorrento is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Albufeira is a resort town with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Sorrento is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to the heart of the city around Piazza Tasso for the best shopping opportunities. You can simply enjoy window shopping or pop in one of the many local boutiques or larger European brand stores. Popular items to purchase include leather goods, Limoncello, and inlaid wood items.

Albufeira has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find most of the shops are geared toward souvenirs or beach items, particularly near the beach and marina. If you look hard you might find some nice ceramics or items made of cork.

Is Albufeira or Sorrento Better for Families?

Sorrento is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Albufeira is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Sorrento is a very kid-friendly small city. It makes a good base or first stop for families who want to enjoy the area. It's well connected with transportation and has all the kid approved foods you could need. The whole family will also enjoy taking a pasta making class or going for a swim in the Mediterranean. And make sure you allow plenty of time for everyone to eat their fill of gelato.

Albufeira offers lots of family activities. Despite it's reputation as a party-hard city, there are actually a lot of family-friendly activities in the area. Because it's the largest resort town in the Algarve, it also has the most activities to choose from, including theme parks, water parks, dolphin watching, ropes courses, go karting, and more. The best area's for families are in the old town or the most of the family-friendly resorts outside of town. Families should avoid staying near "the Strip."

Is Albufeira or Sorrento Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Albufeira and Sorrento make for a terrific place to visit.

Albufeira makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. For an active honeymoon or couple's retreat, this resort town has it all. Beautiful beaches, adventure-filled activities, a wild nightlife scene, and excellent resorts and restaurants all make for a memorable couple's getaway.

For those traveling as a couple, Sorrento has plenty to offer. This beautiful romantic destination is one of the world's top honeymoon areas. It's a small city that offers access to the many nearby destinations, so it makes a good base or gateway city for visiting places like Capri and the Blue Grotto as well as the Amalfi Coast. You can enjoy romantic hikes full of stunning views, explore by kayak, dine at romantic restaurants, or experience a one-of-a-kind farm tour. If you base yourself in Sorrento, you'll likely be doing a lot of day trips.

Is Albufeira or Sorrento Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Albufeira and Sorrento are terrific places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Albufeira. If you're looking for a party, then you found it. The area is a top pick for European holidays, so you'll find plenty of energy and activities around town. There are also golden beaches and a decent selection of hostels to choose from.

A large number of backpackers visit Sorrento, as it is a very popular resort town for budget travelers. Because its a small city with accessible transportation, you'll find a decent number of hostels that make it an affordable base for exploring the area. You can hit many nearby sights as day trips or use this as a first stop off point as you make your way along the coast.

Is Albufeira or Sorrento Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sorrento is a great destination for its public transit. However, Albufeira is a resort town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Sorrento can get you around easily. Buses travel around town and you can also visit nearby areas using the Circumvesuviana train line, EAV and Sita buses, Cooperativa Tasso minibuses, or one of the many ferry companies.

Public transit is mostly limited in Albufeira. There are regional buses and even trains, but do take note that many of the train and bus stations are a good distance outside of town.

Is Albufeira or Sorrento a more walkable city?

Sorrento is a great destination for its high level of walkability. However, Albufeira is a resort town with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Sorrento is a very walkable small city. The old town is fun to walk around and window shop, but bring good walking shoes as the area has a lot of hills.

Albufeira is generally not a very walkable resort town. Most people prefer to hire a car, but if your hotel is near the beach and you're ok with walking to restaurants, then you may be able to get away without one. If you hope to travel into the countryside at all then a car is necessary.

For even more information, also check out Is Albufeira Worth Visiting? and Is Sorrento Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sorrento or Albufeira?

How long in Albufeira or Sorrento?

Both Albufeira and Sorrento have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Sorrento has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Sorrento than Albufeira. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Sorrento than Albufeira. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Sorrento, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Sorrento than Albufeira. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Sorrento that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sorrento than Albufeira if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Sorrento.

One day in Albufeira or Sorrento?

The beautiful resort town of Albufeira offers nightlife and food. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find food and shopping around the small city of Sorrento. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Albufeira or Sorrento?

Albufeira is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the relaxing destination of Sorrento. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This small city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Albufeira or Sorrento?

Albufeira is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Albufeira, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find nightlife and food around the accessible small city of Sorrento. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this small city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this small city has to offer.

A week in Albufeira or Sorrento?

Albufeira is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Albufeira has to offer. This resort town offers something for everyone.

Sorrento is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sorrento, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best Adventure Tours to Italy, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Albufeira and Sorrento, we can see that Albufeira is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Albufeira Expensive? and Is Sorrento Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Albufeira or Sorrento?

Sorrento has a larger population, and is about 4% larger than the population of Albufeira. When comparing the sizes of Albufeira and Sorrento, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Albufeira or Sorrento?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Albufeira or Sorrento in the Summer?

Both Sorrento and Albufeira are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Albufeira in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Sorrento for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Albufeira is generally around the same temperature as Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Albufeira average around 25°C (78°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

In July, Albufeira usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Albufeira gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Albufeira or Sorrento in the Autumn?

Both Sorrento and Albufeira during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Albufeira for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Sorrento because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Albufeira is a little warmer than Sorrento in the autumn. The daily temperature in Albufeira averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Sorrento fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Sorrento gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Albufeira usually gets less rain in October than Sorrento. Albufeira gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Albufeira or Sorrento in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Albufeira and Sorrento. The winter months attract visitors to Albufeira because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Sorrento this time of year.

In the winter, Albufeira is a little warmer than Sorrento. Typically, the winter temperatures in Albufeira in January average around 11°C (52°F), and Sorrento averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Sorrento receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Albufeira usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Albufeira gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Albufeira or Sorrento in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Albufeira as well as Sorrento. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Albufeira this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sorrento for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Albufeira is generally a little warmer than Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Albufeira average around 15°C (60°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Albufeira usually gets less rain in April than Sorrento. Albufeira gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Sorrento and Albufeira