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

Should you visit Antalya or Sorrento?

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

Should I visit Antalya 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.

Antalya

Antalya is a relaxing, luxurious, and historic vacation spot. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Sorrento

Sorrento is a historic, relaxing, and accessible 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. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Antalya and Sorrento: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antalya or Sorrento?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Antalya than Sorrento, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Antalya is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Sorrento is more popular for its food and big city activities. Antalya is more touristy than Sorrento and is popular for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. Also, Antalya is famous for Hadrian's Gate. Sorrento is well known for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast.

How is Antalya different from Sorrento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Antalya is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Antalya. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Sorrento is an amazing small city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Antalya makes for a great culinary experience. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

Is Antalya or Sorrento Better for Nightlife?

Antalya is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Sorrento is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Antalya know how to have a good time. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

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 Antalya or Sorrento Better for Music?

Antalya is a vacation spot with good options for live music. However, Sorrento is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Antalya. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Sorrento is not a live music destination.

Is Antalya or Sorrento Better for Resorts?

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

Antalya is a world class resort vacation destination. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

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 Antalya or Sorrento Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Antalya is a vacation spot with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Sorrento is a small city with minimal options for its diving and snorkeling.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Antalya. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

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 Antalya or Sorrento Better for Beaches?

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

Antalya is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

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 Antalya or Sorrento Better for its Old Town?

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

Antalya is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Is Antalya or Sorrento Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Antalya and Sorrento both have excellent trails.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Antalya. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Antalya or Sorrento?

Antalya is renowned for shopping. Also, Sorrento is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Antalya is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

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.

Is Antalya or Sorrento Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Antalya or Sorrento.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Antalya. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

Sorrento is 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 Antalya or Sorrento Better for Couples?

Sorrento is an amazing small city to visit for couples. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Sorrento makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Couples visit Antalya frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.

Is Antalya or Sorrento Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sorrento is an amazing small city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Sorrento, as it is a very popular small city 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Antalya. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.

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

Visitors will find excellent public transit in both Antalya and Sorrento.

Antalya offers a very effecient public transportation network. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation 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.

Is Antalya or Sorrento a more walkable city?

Sorrento is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Antalya is somewhat walkable. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Sorrento or Antalya?

How long in Antalya or Sorrento?

Both Antalya 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 Antalya. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Antalya, and 3-7 days is enough time in Sorrento.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antalya than Sorrento 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 Antalya.

One day in Antalya or Sorrento?

The beautiful vacation spot of Antalya offers scuba diving and snorkeling 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.

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 Antalya or Sorrento?

Antalya is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this vacation spot makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Antalya, 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 Antalya or Sorrento?

Antalya is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Antalya, five days is sufficent for most. 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 Antalya or Sorrento?

Antalya 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 vacation spot 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 in Turkey, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Turkey, The Best Adventure Tours to Italy, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Antalya and Sorrento, we can see that Sorrento 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 Antalya Expensive? and Is Sorrento Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Antalya or Sorrento?

Antalya has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Sorrento. When comparing the sizes of Antalya 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 Antalya 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 Antalya or Sorrento in the Summer?

Both Sorrento and Antalya during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Antalya in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Sorrento for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Antalya is a little warmer than Sorrento. Typically, the summer temperatures in Antalya in July average around 28°C (83°F), and Sorrento averages at about 23°C (74°F).

In Sorrento, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Antalya. In the summer, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Sorrento. Antalya gets 376 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 313 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets less rain in July than Sorrento. Antalya gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Sorrento in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Antalya and Sorrento. Most visitors come to Antalya for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, 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.

In October, Antalya is generally a little warmer than Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 21°C (69°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Antalya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Sorrento during autumn. Antalya gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Sorrento receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Antalya usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Antalya gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Antalya or Sorrento in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Antalya as well as Sorrento. The winter months attract visitors to Antalya because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Sorrento this time of year.

Antalya is a little warmer than Sorrento in the winter. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 11°C (51°F) in January, and Sorrento fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Sorrento. Antalya gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 115 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sorrento. Antalya receives a lot of rain in the winter. Antalya usually gets more rain in January than Sorrento. Antalya gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Sorrento in the Spring?

Both Sorrento and Antalya are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Antalya this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sorrento for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Antalya is a little warmer than Sorrento. Typically, the spring temperatures in Antalya in April average around 16°C (62°F), and Sorrento averages at about 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Sorrento during spring. Antalya gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Antalya usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Antalya gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Sorrento and Antalya