A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Annecy vs. Sorrento for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Hiking

Should you visit Annecy or Sorrento?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Annecy and Sorrento can help you decide which place is right for you.

Annecy

Annecy is a stunning, breathtaking, and quaint alpine town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Sorrento

Sorrento is a relaxing, accessible, and laid back 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. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Annecy and Sorrento: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Annecy or Sorrento?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sorrento. Although Annecy and Sorrento are popular destinations, Sorrento has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sorrento is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Annecy attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Annecy is more touristy than Sorrento and is popular for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. Sorrento is famous for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast. It is also well known for Marina Grande and Marina Piccola.

How is Annecy different from Sorrento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Annecy or Sorrento?

Annecy is a alpine town with good options for its museums and landmarks. However, Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

Annecy is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The old town and lakefront setting is what brings the tourists, but there are several unique landmarks around town as well. Palais de l'Île is the most photographed spot in the old town. Also worth visiting are Musée-Château d'Annecy, Eglise Saint-Maurice, and Cathédrale Saint-Pierre.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at amazing restaurants in both Annecy and Sorrento.

Annecy has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Fresh caught fish and local French specialties make this town a wonderful culinary destination. The old town is filled with restaurants, cafes, and markets where you can enjoy local ingredients. There are many local dishes to try with some of the most popular being Tartiflette, Raclette, and Gratin de crozets. Fondue is also popular. You'll find cheese is a common component in many dishes.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Sorrento is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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 Annecy or Sorrento Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find nice options in both Annecy and Sorrento.

If you're looking for night time activities Annecy has a few options to choose from. There are bars and pubs to visit with one of the most popular bar-hopping streets being Rue Sainte-Claire.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Sorrento. 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 Annecy or Sorrento Better for Resorts?

Sorrento is a great small city for its luxury resorts. However, Annecy is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Sorrento. 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.

Annecy is not a resort destination.

Is Annecy or Sorrento Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sorrento is adequate for its diving and snorkeling. However, Annecy is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Annecy is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Annecy or Sorrento Better for Beaches?

Sorrento is very good for the beache. However, Annecy is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Sorrento to enjoy the beach. 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.

Annecy is not a beach destination.

Is Annecy or Sorrento Better for its Old Town?

Annecy is renowned for its historic old town. However, Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Annecy is one of the most recognized in the world. This is among the most beautiful old towns in Europe. It sits along the banks of Lake Annecy and the water integrates beautifully into the setting.

Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Is Annecy or Sorrento Better for Hiking?

You'll find superb hiking in both Annecy and Sorrento.

Many visitors go to Annecy for the hiking trails. There are a range of hikes just out of town that cover all ability levels. There are flat, waterfront strolls as well as more strenuous mountain treks. La Tournette is one of the most famous hikes in the area. Other options include Circuit des 3 Croix de Sevrier and Gorges du Fier.

Sorrento is a popular spot for hiking. 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 Annecy or Sorrento?

Sorrento is a great small city for its shopping opportunities. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its shopping areas.

Sorrento is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Annecy to go shopping. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Is Annecy or Sorrento Better for Families?

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Annecy or Sorrento.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Annecy is very family-friendly. Families can enjoy getting out on the lake by renting a boat or going for a swim. Check out Wibit Water Park or let the kids play at Leisure Center Orange Montisel. There's also a great playground for kids right by the waterfront. Hiking and exploring are also fun for the whole family.

Sorrento is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Annecy or Sorrento Better for Couples?

Both Annecy and Sorrento are amazing destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Annecy has plenty to offer. It's a romantic French mountain town with beautiful scenery and a wonderful lake. Couples can enjoy outdoor activities or wandering through one of the best old towns in the region. The beauty and natural setting make this a wonderful couples destination.

Sorrento has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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 Annecy or Sorrento Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sorrento is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Sorrento is extremely popular 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Annecy. It's a world class mountain destination that attracts families and vacationers, but there aren't as many hostels around town as backpackers would like.

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

Sorrento is a great small city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its public transit.

Sorrento has some very good public transit options. 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.

Annecy has a few public transit options. The Sibra public transport system offers buses that travel through Annecy and around the lake, stopping at many towns along the way.

Is Annecy or Sorrento a more walkable city?

Annecy and Sorrento are superb when it comes to walkability.

Annecy is a very walkable alpine town. The old town is filled with pedestrian streets that are perfect to explore on foot.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Sorrento or Annecy?

How long in Annecy or Sorrento?

Both Annecy 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 Annecy. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Annecy, and 3-7 days is enough time in Sorrento.

Families should spend more time in Sorrento than Annecy. 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 Annecy. 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 Annecy 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 Annecy or Sorrento?

Annecy is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Sorrento. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Annecy or Sorrento?

Annecy is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this alpine town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Annecy, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Sorrento is a great place to explore. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Annecy or Sorrento?

Annecy is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sorrento. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Annecy or Sorrento?

Annecy is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 alpine town offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the relaxing destination of Sorrento. This small city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Annecy and Sorrento, we can see that Annecy is more expensive. And not only is Sorrento much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Sorrento would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Sorrento 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 Annecy would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Annecy than you might in Sorrento.

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

Which is Bigger, Annecy or Sorrento?

Annecy has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Sorrento. When comparing the sizes of Annecy 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 Annecy or Sorrento?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Annecy or Sorrento in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Annecy as well as Sorrento. Many travelers come to Annecy for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Sorrento in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Annecy is generally around the same temperature as Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Annecy average around 22°C (71°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sorrento. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Annecy this time of the year. In the summer, Annecy often gets less sunshine than Sorrento. Annecy gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 313 hours of full sun.

Annecy usually gets more rain in July than Sorrento. Annecy gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Annecy or Sorrento in the Autumn?

Both Sorrento and Annecy are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Annecy in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Sorrento for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Annecy is cooler than Sorrento in the autumn. The daily temperature in Annecy averages around 14°C (56°F) in October, and Sorrento fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Annecy usually receives less sunshine than Sorrento during autumn. Annecy gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sorrento. In October, Annecy usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Annecy gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Annecy or Sorrento in the Winter?

Both Sorrento and Annecy during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Annecy for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Sorrento because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Annecy can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Annecy is much colder than Sorrento. Typically, the winter temperatures in Annecy in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Sorrento averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Annecy often gets less sunshine than Sorrento. Annecy gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 115 hours of full sun.

Sorrento gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Annecy usually gets less rain in January than Sorrento. Annecy gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Annecy or Sorrento in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Annecy and Sorrento. The spring months attract visitors to Annecy because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Sorrento this time of year.

In April, Annecy is generally cooler than Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Annecy average around 11°C (53°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Annecy usually receives less sunshine than Sorrento during spring. Annecy gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Annecy usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Annecy gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Sorrento and Annecy