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

Should you visit Basel or Sorrento?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Basel or Sorrento, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Basel

Basel is a beautiful, vibrant, and historic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Sorrento

Sorrento is a accessible, laid back, and colorful 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 shopping, nightlife, and food.

Basel and Sorrento: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Basel or Sorrento?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sorrento. Although Basel and Sorrento are popular destinations, Sorrento has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sorrento is very popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Basel attracts visitors for its museums and historical sights. Sorrento is more touristy than Basel and is known 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. Basel is famous for its many museums and its nice old town.

How is Basel different from Sorrento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Basel 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 Basel. The city is filled with history. Head to Minster Hill to see the beautiful historic church and Münsterplatz. There are also several unique museums around town including Jean Tinguely Museum, the Paper Mill Museum, the Historical Museum, and the Museum of Art.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Sorrento is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Basel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Food around town can be expensive, but there are some outdoor markets where you can buy fruit and a bratwurst for a reasonable price. The city is known for its breads, soups, and pastries, which are all delicious.

Is Basel or Sorrento Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are nice in both Basel and Sorrento.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Basel. The city's nightlife comes alive as the sun sets. There are bars, pubs, and dance clubs that stay active until the early morning hours.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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 Basel or Sorrento Better for Resorts?

Sorrento is notable for its resorts. However, Basel is not a resort destination.

Sorrento is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

Basel is not a resort destination.

Is Basel or Sorrento Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sorrento is a moderate small city for its diving and snorkeling. However, Basel is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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

Basel is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Basel or Sorrento Better for Beaches?

Sorrento is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Basel is not a beach destination.

Sorrento has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Basel is not a beach destination.

Is Basel or Sorrento Better for its Old Town?

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

Basel is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town is fun to explore on foot with its quaint streets and meandering alleys. The beautiful architecture and ornate fountains give the area a unique personality. On the hottest days you may even see locals swimming in some of the fountains.

Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Is Basel or Sorrento Better for Hiking?

Sorrento is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Basel is not a hiking destination.

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.

Basel is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Basel or Sorrento?

Both Basel and Sorrento are high quality shopping destinations.

Basel is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The old town is filled with shops that you can wander through as you explore. Popular shopping streets include Freie Strasse and the area around Marktplatz, where you'll find boutique shops and interesting trinkets. You can also head to the city's oldest department store - Manor.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Is Basel or Sorrento Better for Families?

Basel and Sorrento are both high quality destinations for the whole family.

Basel is a very kid-friendly city. The city has an impressive zoo, a really unique toy museum, as well as Aquabasilea with its pools and slides. It's also compact enough that little legs can explore and enjoy everything that it has to offer. If the weather's warm, head for the river to cool off.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Sorrento. 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 Basel or Sorrento Better for Couples?

Sorrento is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

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.

Basel is a good city for couples to visit. Nice restaurants, interesting museums, and several great spas make this a nice place for a romantic trip.

Is Basel or Sorrento Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sorrento is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Sorrento. 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.

Basel is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a few hostels and a really useful City Pass that make this city an option for backpackers and budget travelers. It's also a major transit center so accessibility is convenient. If you're traveling around Europe by train, you'll likely pass through Basel at some point.

Is Basel or Sorrento Better for Students?

Basel is a great destination for students. However, Sorrento is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Basel. The University of Basel brings in international students from around the world. The city makes a nice base for exploring Europe, but it's also a bit expensive which can be challenging on a student income.

Sorrento is not popular with students.

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

Both Basel and Sorrento offer high quality public transit options.

Basel has some very good public transit options. Trams and buses make it easy to get around town.

The public transit in Sorrento can get you to most places 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.

Is Basel or Sorrento a more walkable city?

Basel is renowned for its walkability. Also, Sorrento is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Basel on foot is easy. The old town and most of the major attractions are easily accessible on foot.

Sorrento is a very walkable 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Sorrento or Basel?

How long in Basel or Sorrento?

Both Basel 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 Basel. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Basel, and 3-7 days is enough time in Sorrento.

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

The beautiful city of Basel offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Sorrento, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this accessible destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the food. This small city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Basel or Sorrento?

Basel is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city 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 Basel, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sorrento. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Basel or Sorrento?

Basel 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 fun place to experience. In Sorrento, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Basel or Sorrento?

Basel is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

In Sorrento, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this historic destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best Bicycle Tours in Switzerland, The Best Adventure Tours to Italy, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Basel and Sorrento, we can see that Basel 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 Basel would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Basel 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 Basel Expensive? and Is Sorrento Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Basel or Sorrento?

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Basel and Sorrento. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Basel this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sorrento for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Basel is generally around the same temperature as Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Basel average around 21°C (70°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sorrento this time of the year. In Basel, it's very sunny this time of the year. Basel usually receives less sunshine than Sorrento during summer. Basel gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Basel usually receives more rain than Sorrento. Basel gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Basel or Sorrento in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Basel as well as Sorrento. Many travelers come to Basel for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Sorrento in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Basel is cooler than Sorrento in the autumn. The daily temperature in Basel averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Sorrento fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Basel often gets less sunshine than Sorrento. Basel gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sorrento. Basel usually gets less rain in October than Sorrento. Basel gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Basel or Sorrento in the Winter?

Both Sorrento and Basel are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Basel in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Sorrento for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Basel can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Basel is much colder than Sorrento. Typically, the winter temperatures in Basel in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Sorrento averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Basel usually receives less sunshine than Sorrento during winter. Basel gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sorrento. In January, Basel usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Basel gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Basel or Sorrento in the Spring?

Both Sorrento and Basel during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Basel for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Sorrento because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Basel is generally cooler than Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Basel average around 12°C (53°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Basel often gets less sunshine than Sorrento. Basel gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun.

Basel usually gets more rain in April than Sorrento. Basel gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Sorrento and Basel