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

Should you visit Geneva 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 Geneva 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.

Geneva

Geneva is a professional, classy, and diverse city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. 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.

Geneva and Sorrento: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Geneva or Sorrento?

Both Sorrento and Geneva have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Geneva 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 Geneva and is known for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast. Geneva is popular for its role as a global hub for the United Nations, the Red Cross, and the World Health Organization.

How is Geneva different from Sorrento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Geneva 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 Geneva. Famous sights and landmarks include the spectacular Water Jet, St Pierre Cathedral, and the Palais des Nations. There are also impressive art and history museums in the city.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Sorrento is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Geneva 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.

Geneva has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city has an amazing mix of traditional Swiss restaurants as well as diverse ethnic options. Traditional dishes include fondue and raclette, both of which involve the decadent Swiss cheese.

Is Geneva or Sorrento Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Geneva or Sorrento has a better nightlife scene.

Geneva has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. During the day the city is all business, but at night the professionals, interns, students, and NGO workers all come together to enjoy a drink at a bar or dance at one of the city's diverse clubs.

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 Geneva or Sorrento Better for Resorts?

Sorrento is a great destination for its resorts. However, Geneva 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.

Geneva is not a resort destination.

Is Geneva 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, Geneva 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.

Geneva is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Geneva or Sorrento Better for Beaches?

Sorrento is a good destination for its beaches. However, Geneva 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.

Geneva is not a beach destination.

Is Geneva or Sorrento Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Geneva to see the historical old town. The Old Town offers a number of charming streets where you can wander as well as historical buildings including St. Pierre Cathedral.

Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Is Geneva or Sorrento Better for Hiking?

Sorrento is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Geneva 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.

Geneva is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Geneva or Sorrento?

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

Geneva is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Famous for its posh shops and luxury brands, this city is a popular shopping destination. From chic boutiques to deluxe toy stores, you'll find something for everyone. In particular, the city is known for its Swiss watches, Swiss Army knives, chocolate, and wine.

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 Geneva or Sorrento Better for Families?

Sorrento is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Sorrento is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Geneva offers lots of family activities. This diverse city has a number of chocolate shops, toy stores, and parks where kids can play. They'll be impressed by the Water Jet and there are few places where you can swim in the lake when the weather is warm.

Is Geneva or Sorrento Better for Couples?

Sorrento is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Geneva 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.

Geneva makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Wandering Old Town, sampling Swiss chocolate, and enjoying one of the many ethnic restaurants around town all make for great date activities. Fondue in a traditional restaurant is also a not to be missed experience.

Is Geneva or Sorrento Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sorrento is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Geneva is a city with minimal options 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.

Geneva is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city is often overlooked by backpackers as it is pretty expensive. Many hotels cater to the business traveler crowd, but there are a few hostels to choose from.

Is Geneva or Sorrento Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over to stay in Geneva. The University of Geneva attracts many international students and the city is quite diverse. It feels like a mixing bowl of cultures, so students will feel very welcomed and comfortable here.

Sorrento is not popular with students.

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

Geneva 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.

Geneva has a great public transit system. The very comprehensive system includes trams, buses, and boats.

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 Geneva or Sorrento a more walkable city?

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

Geneva is very walkable. Most areas where visitors spend their time can be easily explored 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 Geneva Worth Visiting? and Is Sorrento Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sorrento or Geneva?

How long in Geneva or Sorrento?

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

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

Geneva is a big city with plenty to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Sorrento. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Geneva or Sorrento?

Geneva 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Geneva, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Sorrento is a great place to explore. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Geneva or Sorrento?

Geneva is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that shopping 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sorrento. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Geneva or Sorrento?

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

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the laid back destination of Sorrento. This small city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Switzerland, The Best Adventure Tours to Switzerland, The Best Adventure Tours to Italy, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Geneva or Sorrento?

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

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

Geneva is around the same temperature as Sorrento in the summer. The daily temperature in Geneva averages around 22°C (71°F) in July, and Sorrento fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Sorrento. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Geneva. Geneva usually receives less sunshine than Sorrento during summer. Geneva gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Geneva usually receives more rain than Sorrento. Geneva gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Geneva or Sorrento in the Autumn?

Both Sorrento and Geneva during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Geneva because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, 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, Geneva is cooler than Sorrento. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Geneva in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Sorrento averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Geneva often gets less sunshine than Sorrento. Geneva gets 127 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. Geneva usually gets less rain in October than Sorrento. Geneva gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Geneva or Sorrento in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Geneva in the winter. In January, Geneva is generally much colder than Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Geneva average around 4°C (39°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Geneva usually receives less sunshine than Sorrento during winter. Geneva gets 62 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, Geneva usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Geneva gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Geneva or Sorrento in the Spring?

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

Geneva is cooler than Sorrento in the spring. The daily temperature in Geneva averages around 11°C (53°F) in April, and Sorrento fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Geneva often gets less sunshine than Sorrento. Geneva gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun.

Geneva usually gets less rain in April than Sorrento. Geneva gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Sorrento and Geneva