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

Should you visit Budapest 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 Budapest and Sorrento can help you decide which place is right for you.

Budapest

Budapest is a historic, authentic, and bustling city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums.

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.

Budapest and Sorrento: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Budapest or Sorrento?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Budapest. Although Budapest and Sorrento are popular destinations, Budapest has more sights and attractions for tourists. Budapest is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Sorrento attracts visitors for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Budapest is famous for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Hungarian Parliament Building. Sorrento is famous for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast.

How is Budapest different from Sorrento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Budapest 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 Budapest. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Sorrento is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Sorrento has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Budapest or Sorrento Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Budapest know how to have a good time. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

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 Budapest or Sorrento Better for Resorts?

Sorrento is great for its luxury resorts. However, Budapest 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.

Budapest is not a resort destination.

Is Budapest or Sorrento Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sorrento is adequate for its diving and snorkeling. However, Budapest 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.

Budapest is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Budapest or Sorrento Better for Beaches?

Sorrento is very good for the beache. However, Budapest 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.

Budapest is not a beach destination.

Is Budapest or Sorrento Better for its Old Town?

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

Budapest is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Is Budapest or Sorrento Better for Hiking?

Sorrento is great for hiking. However, Budapest is not a hiking destination.

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.

Budapest is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Budapest or Sorrento?

If you're looking to go shopping, Budapest and Sorrento both offer plenty of superb spots.

Budapest is well-known for its shopping. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

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.

Is Budapest or Sorrento Better for Families?

Sorrento is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Budapest is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

Is Budapest or Sorrento Better for Couples?

Sorrento is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Sorrento has plenty to offer. 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.

Budapest is a very popular place to visit for couples. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

Is Budapest or Sorrento Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Budapest and Sorrento are amazing places to visit.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Budapest is extremely popular for backpackers. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other travelers.

Sorrento is a very popular 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.

Is Budapest or Sorrento Better for Students?

Budapest is renowned for students. However, Sorrento is not popular with students.

Budapest is a very popular city for students. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

Sorrento is not popular with students.

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

Budapest 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.

Budapest has a great public transit system. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

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 Budapest or Sorrento a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Budapest on foot is easy. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

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 Budapest Worth Visiting? and Is Sorrento Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sorrento or Budapest?

How long in Budapest or Sorrento?

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

Families should spend more time in Sorrento than Budapest. 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 Budapest. 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 Budapest 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 Budapest.

One day in Budapest or Sorrento?

Budapest is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

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 Budapest or Sorrento?

Budapest 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 Budapest, 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 Budapest or Sorrento?

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

Budapest 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.

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 10-Day Tours from Budapest, The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest, The Best Adventure Tours to Italy, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Budapest and Sorrento, we can see that Sorrento is more expensive. And not only is Budapest much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Budapest would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Budapest 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 Budapest.

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

Which is Bigger, Budapest or Sorrento?

Budapest has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Sorrento. When comparing the sizes of Budapest 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 Budapest 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 Budapest or Sorrento in the Summer?

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

In July, Budapest is generally around the same temperature as Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Budapest average around 21°C (70°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 Budapest this time of the year. In the summer, Budapest often gets less sunshine than Sorrento. Budapest gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 313 hours of full sun.

Budapest usually gets more rain in July than Sorrento. Budapest gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Budapest or Sorrento in the Autumn?

Both Sorrento and Budapest are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Budapest in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, 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.

Budapest is cooler than Sorrento in the autumn. The daily temperature in Budapest averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Sorrento fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Budapest usually receives less sunshine than Sorrento during autumn. Budapest gets 152 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, Budapest usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Budapest gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Budapest or Sorrento in the Winter?

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

Budapest can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Budapest is much colder than Sorrento. Typically, the winter temperatures in Budapest in January average around -1°C (31°F), and Sorrento averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Budapest often gets less sunshine than Sorrento. Budapest gets 61 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. Budapest usually gets less rain in January than Sorrento. Budapest gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Budapest or Sorrento in the Spring?

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

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

Budapest usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sorrento during spring. Budapest gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Budapest usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Budapest gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Sorrento and Budapest