A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Catania vs. Sorrento for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Nightlife

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

Catania

Catania is a youthful, fun, and historic port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

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. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Catania and Sorrento: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Catania or Sorrento?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Catania. Although Catania and Sorrento are popular destinations, Catania has more sights and attractions for tourists. Catania is very popular for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights, while Sorrento attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, shopping, and impressive beauty. Catania is famous for its fun nightlife scene, many beaches, and easy access to Mt. Etna. It is also well known for Mount Etna. Sorrento is famous for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast.

How is Catania different from Sorrento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Catania is a port city with good options for its museums and landmarks. However, Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

Catania is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are many examples of beautiful architecture around town including Basilica Cattedrale Sant'Agata and Monastero dei Benedettini. You can also visit Castello Ursino. The main square in town is Piazza del Duomo.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Catania and Sorrento offer amazing local cuisine and restaurants.

Catania has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city's food scene is excellent. Dishes are influenced by both the sea and the land, and you'll find a large and popular street food setting. If you're sampling the street food, make sure you try the arancino (rice balls). Pasta dishes are also popular and many use a variety of cheeses. You'll also find plenty of fresh vegetables incorporated into 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 Catania or Sorrento Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Catania know how to have a good time. The city has a reputation for its great nightlife scene that spreads beyond Sicily. The large student population and popularity with tourists mean you can find a party most nights of the week. There are many bars and clubs to check out, many of which are found in the old town center.

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 Catania or Sorrento Better for Resorts?

Sorrento is notable for its resorts. However, Catania 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.

Catania is not a resort destination.

Is Catania or Sorrento Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sorrento is a moderate small city for its diving and snorkeling. However, Catania 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.

Catania is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Catania or Sorrento Better for Beaches?

Catania and Sorrento are nice choices for a beach vacation.

Many people head to Catania to enjoy the beach. The best time to visit the beach is between April and October. There are sandy beaches to the south of town that span a few kilometers and beaches to the north tend to be rocky. Many beaches are also accessible by public transit.

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.

Is Catania or Sorrento Better for its Old Town?

Catania is a port city with good options for its historic old town. However, Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Catania to see the historical old town. The old town is a bit small. At its center is Piazza Duomo and you'll find many activities and attractions in the area.

Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Is Catania or Sorrento Better for Hiking?

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

Catania is a popular spot for hiking. Many people visit Mt. Etna as a day trip. You can take the bus to Sapienza Refuge to begin your climb. While it's a doable hike for many people, it can be steep and requires some determination. Unless you're a very experienced hiker, a guide is a must as the trail disappears for large sections. There are also buses and cable cars that take people up sections of the mountain.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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 Catania or Sorrento?

Sorrento is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its shopping areas.

Sorrento is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Catania has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city has a number of shopping malls where you can pick up anything you may need or might have forgotten. Check out Catania Shopping Center or Etnapolis.

Is Catania or Sorrento Better for Families?

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

Catania is a very kid-friendly port city. There's a toy museum as well as the Polo Tactile Multimedia Museum which kids and adults alike will enjoy. A highlight of a visit to the city is a trip up Mt. Etna, which can be done either by hiking, bus, or cable car. The city also has many plazas, gardens, and parks that kids will enjoy exploring. Another fun activity is to spend the day at the beach.

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 Catania or Sorrento Better for Couples?

Sorrento is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit 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.

Catania is a good port city for couples to visit. With interesting architecture, a pleasant urban beach, and plenty of outdoor space, this is a nice couples destination.

Is Catania or Sorrento Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sorrento is very popular for backpackers. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Catania. There's a large number of hostels around town and the city is generally affordable, so backpackers often enjoy spending some time here. There's also a great social scene.

Is Catania or Sorrento Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over to stay in Catania. This is a university town with a very social atmosphere. Students love the wide variety of activities around town as well as the frequent night time parties.

Sorrento is not popular with students.

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

Both Catania and Sorrento offer superb public transit options.

The public transit in Catania can get you around easily. There are many buses around town that offer access to most places. If you drove you can park and take Line 504M to the historic center. You can also take a bus from Piazza Giovanni XXIII to Rifugio Sapienza if you're going to Mt. Etna. It leaves every morning at 8:15 and returns at 4:30 in the afternoon. The city also has a metro, which has one line and ten stops.

Sorrento offers a very effecient public transportation network. 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 Catania or Sorrento a more walkable city?

Catania and Sorrento both are superb when exploring on foot.

Catania is a very walkable port city. Many of the city's main sights are close together in the center of town, making them easy to access 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 Catania Worth Visiting? and Is Sorrento Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sorrento or Catania?

How long in Catania or Sorrento?

Both Catania 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 Catania. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Catania, and 3-7 days is enough time in Sorrento.

Couples should spend more time in Sorrento than Catania. 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 Catania 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 Catania or Sorrento?

The port city of Catania offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. 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 Catania or Sorrento?

Catania is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Catania, 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 Catania or Sorrento?

Catania 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.

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 Catania or Sorrento?

Catania 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 port city 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Catania or Sorrento?

Catania has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Sorrento. When comparing the sizes of Catania 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 Catania 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 Catania or Sorrento in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Catania and Sorrento. Many travelers come to Catania for the beaches, the hiking, 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, Catania is generally a little warmer than Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Catania average around 26°C (79°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 Catania, it's very sunny this time of the year. Catania usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sorrento during summer. Catania gets 325 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Catania usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Catania gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Catania or Sorrento in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Catania as well as Sorrento. Many visitors come to Catania in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. 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.

Catania is a little warmer than Sorrento in the autumn. The daily temperature in Catania averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Sorrento fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Catania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sorrento. Catania gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sorrento. Catania receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Catania usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Sorrento. Catania gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Catania or Sorrento in the Winter?

Both Sorrento and Catania are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Catania 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.

In the winter, Catania is a little warmer than Sorrento. Typically, the winter temperatures in Catania in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Sorrento averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Catania usually receives more sunshine than Sorrento during winter. Catania gets 153 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, Catania usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Catania gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Catania or Sorrento in the Spring?

Both Sorrento and Catania during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Catania because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Sorrento this time of year.

In April, Catania is generally a little warmer than Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Catania average around 15°C (58°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Catania. In the spring, Catania often gets more sunshine than Sorrento. Catania gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun.

Catania usually gets less rain in April than Sorrento. Catania gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Sorrento and Catania