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

Should you visit Almeria or Sorrento?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Almeria and Sorrento. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Almeria

Almeria is a pristine, cultural, and historic region. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and nightlife.

Sorrento

Sorrento is a colorful, historic, and relaxing small city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and hiking.

Almeria and Sorrento: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Almeria or Sorrento?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sorrento than Almeria, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sorrento is better known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, shopping, and big city activities, while Almeria is more popular for its resorts, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Almeria is well known for its stunning beaches that feel pristine despite their popularity. Sorrento is well known for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast. Also, Sorrento is famous for Marina Grande and Marina Piccola.

How is Almeria different from Sorrento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Almeria and Sorrento offer a number of fantastic restaurants to choose from.

Eat your way through Almeria, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The food is focused on local, fresh ingredients with many traditional recipes that have been passed down for centuries. Popular dishes change with the seasons because they rely so heavily on local produce. Particularly during the winter months you'll find hearty stews like patatas en ajopollo and gurullos con conejo, which is prepared with rabbit. Sardines are also popular year round.

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.

Is Almeria or Sorrento Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Almeria or Sorrento has a better nightlife scene.

Almeria has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city's nightlife vibe is about enjoying a cold beer on a terrace with friends. The city has a laid back Mediterranean atmosphere and plenty of terraced bars along the main streets, particularly in old town. With mild temperatures year around, you'll find yourself spending time outside most evenings while you enjoy tapas and drinks with friends. Flamenco and bullfighting are also popular in the evenings.

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 Almeria or Sorrento Better for Resorts?

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

Almeria is a world class resort vacation destination. Stretched along the coastline you'll find many high end resorts with pools and nice atmospheres. There are all inclusive resorts as well as family-friendly and romantic options to choose from.

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 Almeria or Sorrento Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sorrento is a small city with a few options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Almeria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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

Almeria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Almeria or Sorrento Better for Beaches?

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

Almeria is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Outside of town you'll find kilometers of stunning coastline and beaches. There are pristine natural beaches that still feel undiscovered with beautiful long stretches of sand. One of the biggest resort areas is Roquetas de Mar.

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 Almeria or Sorrento Better for its Old Town?

Almeria is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Almeria is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is at the cultural heart of the city. It has the most energy during the evenings, as well as many museums and sights worth visiting.

Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Is Almeria or Sorrento Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Almeria and Sorrento, and they are very good.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Almeria. The area has stunning hikes that run along the coastline or into the beautiful interior countryside. For some of the area's best hikes head into Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park.

Many visitors go to Sorrento for the hiking trails. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Almeria or Sorrento?

Sorrento is a great destination for its shopping areas. However, Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Sorrento. 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.

Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Almeria or Sorrento Better for Families?

Both Almeria and Sorrento are very good family-friendly destinations.

Almeria is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The area has many beautiful beaches as well as waterparks, amusement parks, and fun activities like sailing and water sports. There's also a very impressive fort that the kids will enjoy exploring.

Sorrento is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Is Almeria or Sorrento Better for Couples?

Sorrento is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Almeria is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Sorrento is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Almeria is a great region if you're traveling as a couple. Nature lovers and beach enthusiasts will find this to be the perfect romantic getaway. There are many outdoor activities and places to immerse yourself in nature. A highlight of a trip is a visit to Crystal Cave.

Is Almeria or Sorrento Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sorrento is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Almeria is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Sorrento is a very popular small city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Almeria is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There's plenty of affordable accommodation to choose from as well as all kinds of activities that backpackers will enjoy. If you like nature and enjoy spending time outside, then this is your place.

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

Sorrento is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Almeria is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Sorrento. 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.

While Almeria offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are a number of bus lines that run through Almeria city and to Cabo de Gata.

Is Almeria or Sorrento a more walkable city?

Sorrento is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Almeria is a region with minimal options for its walkability.

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

Almeria is generally not a very walkable region. While there are many beautiful walks in the area, if you want to truly explore, you'll likely want to have access to a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Sorrento or Almeria?

How long in Almeria or Sorrento?

Both Almeria and Sorrento have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sorrento than in Almeria. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Almeria, and 3-7 days is enough time in Sorrento.

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

Couples should spend more time in Sorrento than Almeria. 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 Almeria 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 Almeria or Sorrento?

The beautiful region of Almeria offers food and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Sorrento, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This small city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Almeria or Sorrento?

Almeria is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this region makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Almeria, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Sorrento, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Almeria or Sorrento?

Almeria is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Sorrento is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sorrento has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Almeria or Sorrento?

Almeria is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This region offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sorrento. In Sorrento, you'll find shopping and nightlife. One reason most visitors come is for the food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best 10-Day Tours from Barcelona, The Best Adventure Tours to Italy, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Almeria and Sorrento, we can see that Sorrento is more expensive. And not only is Almeria much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Almeria would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Almeria and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Sorrento would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Sorrento than you might in Almeria.

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

Which is Bigger, Almeria or Sorrento?

Almeria has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Sorrento. When comparing the sizes of Almeria 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 Almeria 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 Almeria or Sorrento in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Almeria is around the same temperature as Sorrento. Typically, the summer temperatures in Almeria in July average around 26°C (78°F), and Sorrento averages at about 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Sorrento. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Almeria. Almeria usually receives more sunshine than Sorrento during summer. Almeria gets 343 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Almeria or Sorrento in the Autumn?

Both Sorrento and Almeria during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Almeria because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Sorrento this time of year.

In October, Almeria is generally a little warmer than Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Almeria average around 20°C (68°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Almeria. In the autumn, Almeria often gets more sunshine than Sorrento. Almeria gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun.

Sorrento gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Almeria usually gets less rain in October than Sorrento. Almeria gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Almeria or Sorrento in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Almeria and Sorrento. The cuisine are the main draw to Almeria this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sorrento for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Almeria is much warmer than Sorrento in the winter. The daily temperature in Almeria averages around 13°C (55°F) in January, and Sorrento fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Almeria usually receives more sunshine than Sorrento during winter. Almeria gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

Sorrento receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Almeria usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Almeria gets 27 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Almeria or Sorrento in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Almeria as well as Sorrento. Many travelers come to Almeria for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Sorrento in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Almeria is a little warmer than Sorrento. Typically, the spring temperatures in Almeria in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Sorrento averages at about 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Almeria this time of the year. In the spring, Almeria often gets more sunshine than Sorrento. Almeria gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun.

Almeria usually gets less rain in April than Sorrento. Almeria gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Sorrento and Almeria