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

Should you visit Corfu or Sorrento?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Corfu 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.

Corfu

Corfu is a stunning, natural, and breathtaking island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

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. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Corfu and Sorrento: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Corfu or Sorrento?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sorrento. Although Corfu and Sorrento are popular destinations, Sorrento has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sorrento is very popular for its big city activities, while Corfu attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Corfu is famous for its charming villages, gorgeous beaches, and pristine landscape. Sorrento is famous 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.

How is Corfu different from Sorrento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Foodies will find both Corfu and Sorrento both to be first-rate destinations.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Corfu is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The island's local dishes are heavily influenced by the surrounding areas. You'll find similarities to Greek and Venetian dishes as well France and Mediterranean flavors. Common ingredients include wine, garlic, cloves, cinnamon, and allspice and several traditional dishes that you should try include pastitsado (red wine stew), sofrito (garlic seasoned beef), and veal fricando (roasted veal).

Many restaurants in Sorrento have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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 Corfu or Sorrento Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Corfu know how to have a good time. It's a large island that attracts a number of students, so you can expect a party during the summer months. The most popular areas for nightlife are Kavos, Ipsos, Kontokali, and Sidari. You'll also find clubs in many of the resorts and there are often all night parties even during the off seasons.

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 Corfu or Sorrento Better for Resorts?

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

Corfu is a world class resort vacation destination. The diversity of resorts, from family-friendly to romantic or all-inclusive, means there really is something for everyone. There are also a number of villages so you can find a location that perfectly lines up with your needs.

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 Corfu or Sorrento Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Corfu is a great destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Sorrento is a small city with minimal options for its diving and snorkeling.

Corfu is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is large enough that it has a number of spots to choose from. One of the most beautiful is Afionas, in Port Timone. It's only accessible by boat or a 45 minute hike. Paleokastritsa is a more accessible snorkeling and dive area with facilities and luxury villas where you can stay. For scuba diving, you can also head to Agni, but the busy boat traffic means it's not the best place for snorkeling.

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 Corfu or Sorrento Better for Beaches?

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

Corfu is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The island is known for its stunning beaches which offer a diversity of settings ranging from family-friendly to natural or party-focused. The most famous beach resort area is Paleokastritsa but other nice places include Pelekas, Agios Gordis, and Glyfada. On the western side of the island you'll find mostly long sandy beaches and on the eastern side you'll find more pebble beaches.

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 Corfu or Sorrento Better for Hiking?

Corfu is renowned for its hiking experiences. Also, Sorrento is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Around Corfu visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The stunning natural beauty of the island means you'll find some of the most breathtaking hikes in the Greek Isles. From the lush green rolling hills to the striking blue waters, there are many places to soak up this island's idyllic setting. The island is also rich in plant life and you'll find more than 30 species of orchids here. Popular hiking trails include Vlacherna Trail (good for beginners and families), Mount Pantokrator Trail (the most challenging on the island), and Old Town Hiking Trail which takes you through the history of the area.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Corfu or Sorrento?

If you're looking to go shopping, Corfu and Sorrento both offer plenty of high quality spots.

Corfu is well-known for its shopping. You'll find most of the shops concentrated in Corfu Town. Popular items to purchase include leather goods, jewelry, ceramics, and items made from olive wood.

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 Corfu or Sorrento Better for Families?

Corfu is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Sorrento is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Corfu is an extremely popular island to visit for families. Because it is so beautiful with amazing beaches, it makes an ideal destination for kids and adults. There are many places where kids can swim as well as a number of great activities for everyone. The whole family will enjoy glass bottom boat rides, horseback riding, and even a visit to the popular Hydropolis Waterpark. There are also a huge number of kid-friendly resorts around the island.

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 Corfu or Sorrento Better for Couples?

Corfu and Sorrento are both first-rate to visit as a couple.

Corfu has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's idyllic natural setting and stunning beaches make this a truly romantic island. It's a favorite honeymoon destination for newlyweds from around the world. There are luxury hotels and resorts that have spas, pools, and fine dining options. Whether you're looking for a place to relax or a more adventurous experience, you'll find it all here.

Sorrento is a great island for couples, as it 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.

Is Corfu or Sorrento Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sorrento is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Corfu is not as popular, but is still a nice island for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Sorrento is extremely popular 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.

Corfu is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. The island is a favorite, particularly during the crowded summer months. There are a number of hostels where backpackers can stay and an active nightlife if that's your style. There are also quiet and more peaceful settings if you want to escape the crowds.

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

Corfu and Sorrento both offer high quality public transit to get you around.

The public transit in Corfu can get you around easily. There's a decent public bus system on the island. The blue buses stay near Corfu Town while the green buses go further around the island.

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 Corfu or Sorrento a more walkable city?

Corfu and Sorrento are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Corfu is a very walkable island. It's easy to walk around Corfu Town, and if you plan to spend most of your time at the beach there's really no need for a car.

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 Corfu Worth Visiting? and Is Sorrento Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sorrento or Corfu?

How long in Corfu or Sorrento?

Both Corfu and Sorrento have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Corfu has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Corfu than Sorrento. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Corfu, and 3-7 days is enough time in Sorrento.

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

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

One day in Corfu or Sorrento?

The beautiful island of Corfu offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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, 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 Corfu or Sorrento?

Corfu 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.

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 Corfu or Sorrento?

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

Corfu is a great place to explore. 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 Corfu has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

In Sorrento, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this relaxing 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens, The Best 10-Day Tours from Athens, The Best Adventure Tours to Italy, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Corfu or Sorrento?

Corfu has a larger population, and is about 63% larger than the population of Sorrento. When comparing the sizes of Corfu 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 Corfu 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 Corfu or Sorrento in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Corfu as well as Sorrento. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Corfu this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Sorrento for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Corfu is generally around the same temperature as Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Corfu average around 25°C (76°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 Corfu this time of the year. In the summer, Corfu often gets more sunshine than Sorrento. Corfu gets 358 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 313 hours of full sun.

Corfu usually gets less rain in July than Sorrento. Corfu gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Corfu or Sorrento in the Autumn?

Both Sorrento and Corfu are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Corfu for the hiking trails, 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.

Corfu is around the same temperature as Sorrento in the autumn. The daily temperature in Corfu averages around 18°C (65°F) in October, and Sorrento fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Corfu usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sorrento during autumn. Corfu gets 178 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. It's quite rainy in Corfu. In October, Corfu usually receives more rain than Sorrento. Corfu gets 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Corfu or Sorrento in the Winter?

Both Sorrento and Corfu during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Corfu in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Sorrento for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Corfu is a little warmer than Sorrento. Typically, the winter temperatures in Corfu in January average around 10°C (49°F), and Sorrento averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Corfu often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sorrento. Corfu gets 112 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in Corfu. Corfu usually gets more rain in January than Sorrento. Corfu gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Corfu or Sorrento in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Corfu and Sorrento. Most visitors come to Corfu for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Sorrento because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Corfu is generally around the same temperature as Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Corfu average around 14°C (58°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Corfu usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sorrento during spring. Corfu gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Corfu usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Corfu gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Sorrento and Corfu