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

Should you visit Brussels 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 Brussels 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.

Brussels

Brussels is a multicultural, historic, and cosmopolitan city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Sorrento

Sorrento is a colorful, historic, and relaxing small city. 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 food, beaches, and hiking.

Brussels and Sorrento: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Sorrento?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Brussels. Although Brussels and Sorrento are both popular with visitors, Brussels has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Brussels is more popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Sorrento is known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Sorrento is more touristy than Brussels and is known for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast. Brussels is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also home to La Grand Place (Grote Markt).

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Brussels different from Sorrento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Brussels 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 Brussels. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Sorrento is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Sorrento, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Brussels has a huge number of terrific restaurants. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

Is Brussels or Sorrento Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Brussels and Sorrento.

Brussels has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

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 Brussels or Sorrento Better for Resorts?

Sorrento is well known for its resorts. However, Brussels is not a resort destination.

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.

Brussels is not a resort destination.

Is Brussels or Sorrento Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sorrento is a small city with a few options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Brussels 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.

Brussels is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Brussels or Sorrento Better for Beaches?

Sorrento is a good destination for its beaches. However, Brussels is not a beach destination.

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.

Brussels is not a beach destination.

Is Brussels or Sorrento Better for its Old Town?

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

Brussels is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.

Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Is Brussels or Sorrento Better for Hiking?

Sorrento is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Brussels is not a hiking destination.

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.

Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Sorrento?

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

Brussels is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.

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 Brussels or Sorrento Better for Families?

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

Brussels is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops around town.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Sorrento is very family-friendly. 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 Brussels or Sorrento Better for Couples?

Sorrento is renowned for romance. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Brussels is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.

Is Brussels or Sorrento Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sorrento is renowned for backpackers. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Sorrento is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

Many backpackers visit Brussels. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

Is Brussels or Sorrento Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over to stay in Brussels. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

Sorrento is not popular with students.

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

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

Brussels has a great public transit system. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

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.

Is Brussels or Sorrento a more walkable city?

Brussels and Sorrento both are very good when exploring on foot.

Brussels is very walkable. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

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 Brussels Worth Visiting? and Is Sorrento Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sorrento or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Sorrento?

Both Brussels 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 Brussels. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 3-7 days is enough time in Sorrento.

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

Brussels is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

The beautiful small city of Sorrento offers nightlife and food. 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.

A weekend in Brussels or Sorrento?

Brussels 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 Brussels, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Sorrento 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.

Five days in Brussels or Sorrento?

Brussels is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Brussels, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Sorrento is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sorrento, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Brussels or Sorrento?

Brussels is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. 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.

Sorrento is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sorrento has to offer. This small city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best Adventure Tours to Italy, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Brussels 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 Brussels Expensive? and Is Sorrento Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Sorrento?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Sorrento. When comparing the sizes of Brussels 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 Brussels 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 Brussels or Sorrento in the Summer?

Both Sorrento and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Brussels for the city activities 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.

Brussels is cooler than Sorrento in the summer. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Sorrento fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Sorrento. Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Sorrento during summer. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Brussels usually receives more rain than Sorrento. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Brussels or Sorrento in the Autumn?

Both Sorrento and Brussels during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Brussels because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, 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 the autumn, Brussels is cooler than Sorrento. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Brussels in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Sorrento averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Sorrento. Brussels gets 114 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. Brussels usually gets less rain in October than Sorrento. Brussels 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 Brussels or Sorrento in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Brussels in the winter. In January, Brussels is generally much colder than Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 3°C (38°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Sorrento during winter. Brussels gets 49 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, Brussels usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Brussels or Sorrento in the Spring?

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

Brussels is cooler than Sorrento in the spring. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 10°C (49°F) in April, and Sorrento fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Sorrento. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets less rain in April than Sorrento. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Sorrento and Brussels