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

Should you visit Lillehammer or Sorrento?

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

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

Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a sporty, natural, and adventure-filled city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food.

Sorrento

Sorrento is a accessible, laid back, and colorful 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 shopping, nightlife, and food.

Lillehammer and Sorrento: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Lillehammer or Sorrento?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sorrento. Although Lillehammer and Sorrento are both popular with visitors, Sorrento has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Sorrento is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Lillehammer is known for its skiing, museums, and small town charm. Sorrento is more touristy than Lillehammer and is known for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast. It is also home to Marina Grande and Marina Piccola. Lillehammer is popular for its winter sports and role as host for the 1994 Winter Olympics.

How is Lillehammer different from Sorrento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Lillehammer or Sorrento Better for Skiing?

Lillehammer
Sorrento

Lillehammer is a great destination for winter skiing. However, Sorrento is not a skiing destination.

Lillehammer is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. There is both downhill skiing and cross country skiing in the area. There are five alpine centers that offer skiing for everyone from beginners to the world's elite. There are also 2,300 kilometers of cross country ski trails. The region is known for its long and reliable winter with great ski conditions.

Sorrento is not a skiing destination.


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

Lillehammer
Sorrento

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

Lillehammer is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of sights that are related to the city's role as host of the 1994 Olympics. Check out the Norwegian Olympic Museum, Lysgårdsbakkene Ski Jumping Arena, and the Lillehammer Olympic Bobsleigh and Luge Track. Also make sure you visit the Maihaugen Open-Air Museum.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lillehammer
Sorrento

Sorrento is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Lillehammer has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Local food traditions date back centuries and you'll find a combination of simple recipes and elaborate menus. Dishes often include fish or local meat such as elk. There are also soups such as kål, which are made with bacon, meat, potatoes, and barley.

Is Lillehammer or Sorrento Better for Nightlife?

Lillehammer
Sorrento

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

Lillehammer has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There is a lively atmosphere with many bars, clubs, and pubs around town.

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 Lillehammer or Sorrento Better for Resorts?

Lillehammer
Sorrento

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

Sorrento is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

Lillehammer is not a resort destination.

Is Lillehammer or Sorrento Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lillehammer
Sorrento

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

Lillehammer is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lillehammer or Sorrento Better for Beaches?

Lillehammer
Sorrento

Sorrento is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Lillehammer is not a beach destination.

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.

Lillehammer is not a beach destination.


Is Lillehammer or Sorrento Better for Hiking?

Lillehammer
Sorrento

Lillehammer and Sorrento are both places where visitors can find high quality hiking trails.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Lillehammer. You'll find many hikes that take you through the alpine setting and the pristine landscapes. You can enjoy breathtaking views and strolls through nearby national parks.

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 Lillehammer or Sorrento?

Lillehammer
Sorrento

Sorrento is well known for shopping. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Sorrento is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lillehammer. You'll find a number of shopping centers that have retail stores selling clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

Is Lillehammer or Sorrento Better for Families?

Lillehammer
Sorrento

Lillehammer and Sorrento are both high quality destinations for the whole family.

Lillehammer is a very family-friendly place to visit. The town has many winter and adventure sports that are great for the whole family. You can visit the Olympic Park, or spend the day at Hunderfossen Familiepark, which is one of the original amusement parks in the country. You can also visit Jorekstad Waterpark, go hiking in the summer, or skiing in the winter.

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 Lillehammer or Sorrento Better for Couples?

Lillehammer
Sorrento

Sorrento is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Sorrento has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Lillehammer is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The skiing and other winter activities are great for winter sport enthusiasts. During the summer months there's hiking and other outdoor fun.

Is Lillehammer or Sorrento Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lillehammer
Sorrento

Sorrento is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Lillehammer 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.

Lillehammer is a good city to visit for backpackers. There's some camping and other affordable accommodation for backpackers in the area.

Is Lillehammer or Sorrento Better for Students?

Lillehammer
Sorrento

Lillehammer is a city with good options for students. However, Sorrento is not popular with students.

Lillehammer is popular with students. The city has a number of students and offers some great entertainment activities. The cost of living can be high though.

Sorrento is not popular with students.


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

Lillehammer
Sorrento

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

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Sorrento. 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.

While Lillehammer offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains and buses throughout the region.

Is Lillehammer or Sorrento a more walkable city?

Lillehammer
Sorrento

Sorrento is well known for its walkability. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Sorrento is very walkable. The old town is fun to walk around and window shop, but bring good walking shoes as the area has a lot of hills.

Lillehammer is a somewhat walkable place. There are some pedestrian streets and pedestrian-friendly areas in town.

For even more information, also check out Is Lillehammer Worth Visiting? and Is Sorrento Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sorrento or Lillehammer?

How long in Lillehammer or Sorrento?

Both Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Lillehammer, and 3-7 days is enough time in Sorrento.

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


  • How many days in Lillehammer or Sorrento? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lillehammer 2-4 
    Sorrento 3-7

One day in Lillehammer or Sorrento?

The city of Lillehammer offers museums and skiing. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the relaxing small city of Sorrento. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the food. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Lillehammer or Sorrento?

Lillehammer 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 spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lillehammer, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic destination of Sorrento. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This small city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Lillehammer or Sorrento?

Lillehammer is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the historic small city of Sorrento. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Lillehammer or Sorrento?

Lillehammer is a great place to explore. 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 city offers something for everyone.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Sorrento. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the food. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this small city.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway, The Best Adventure Tours to Italy, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Sorrento or Lillehammer?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Lillehammer is $102, while the average daily cost in Sorrento is $150. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Lillehammer and Sorrento in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lillehammer $61
    Sorrento $96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lillehammer $122
    Sorrento $192
Compare Hotels in Lillehammer and Sorrento

Looking for a hotel in Lillehammer or Sorrento? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Lillehammer


Hotels in Sorrento


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Lillehammer Hotel Prices and Sorrento Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lillehammer $3.92
    Sorrento $8.10

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Sorrento

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Sorrento are as follows:


  • Local Bus Ticket
    $4.50
  • Ferry to Capri (Round Trip)
    $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sorrento

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Sorrento:

  • Aurora car service Transfers from Sorrento to Naples / viceversa: $83
  • From Positano/Praiano: Private 1-Way Transfer to Sorrento: $214
  • From Path of The Gods Hiking & Transfer with Guide: $80
  • From Positano and Amalfi Boat Trip with Transfer: $149
  • From Private One-Way Transfer to Amalfi or Ravello: $197
  • From Private One-Way Transfer to Naples: $171
  • From Private One-Way Transfer to Positano: $134
  • Full Day Guided Tour in Capri by Boat with Transfer: $119
  • God's Path Guide & Transfers included!!: $196
  • Naples Airport (NAP): Private One-Way Transfer from Sorrento: $235
  • Naples: Private transfer to Sorrento one way: $235
  • Naples: Transfer to Sorrento visit Pompeii Along the way 2H: $155

Is it cheaper to fly into Lillehammer or Sorrento?

Prices for flights to both Sorrento and Lillehammer change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Lillehammer $35
    Sorrento $41

Typical Food Prices in Sorrento

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Sorrento:


  • Pizza
    $6.43
  • Sitdown Dinner (for Two)
    $46
  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    $23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sorrento

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Sorrento.

  • Private Virtual Cooking Class from Sorrento : $33
  • Amalfi Coast Cooking Class and Wine Tasting: $48
  • Sorrento Art & Food Tour on Breathless 'Views Village: $50
  • Pizza Making Class at Tirabusciò Cooking School: $64
  • Pizza Making Class: $64
  • Sorrento Pizza Making: $65
  • Pizza Making Course: $70
  • Dinner in Sorrento with Love, Laugh and Spaghetti: $70
  • Pizza School Experience from Sorrento: $71
  • Farm Visit with Pizza Lesson, Wine, and Limoncello: $75
  • Pizza School with Wine and Limoncello Tasting in a Local Farm: $76
  • Private Cooking Class in Sant'Agnello: $76

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lillehammer $16
    Sorrento $35

Tours and Activities in Lillehammer

Here are a few actual costs in Lillehammer for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Maihaugen Open-Air Museum, Lillehammer. Entry Ticket: $15

Typical Entertainment Prices in Sorrento

Here are a few typical costs in Sorrento for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Chair & Umbrella at Beach
    $11
  • Bike Rental (24 Hours)
    $21
  • Scuba Diving (Single Dive)
    $48
  • Blue Mini Cruise
    $24

Tours and Activities in Sorrento

Here are a few actual costs in Sorrento for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Capri: Boat Tour, Priority Tickets & Blue Grotto (Optional): $26
  • Private tour of limoncello igp with tasting by the sea: $27
  • Pompeii Express Tour by Train from Sorrento: $32
  • Lemon Garden Tour with Marmalade Tasting: $32
  • Guided Walking Tour and Limoncello Tasting: $37
  • 3 Hour Walking Tour of Sorrento with Local Food Tasting: $39
  • Sorrento Lemon Tour: $43
  • Kayak tour from Sorrento to Bagni Regina Giovanna: $44
  • Sorrento Lemon Tour and tasting of local products: $44
  • Inlaid wood Factory Tour: $44
  • From Positano and Amalfi Day Cruise: $48
  • Skip-the-Line Pompeii Express Tour by Train: $49

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lillehammer $12
    Sorrento $9.34

Typical Alcohol Prices in Sorrento

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Sorrento are as follows:


  • Bottle of Wine
    $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Sorrento

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Sorrento:

  • Walking Tour Wine Tasting and Typical Products in Sorrento Farm: $71
  • Campania wine tasting with traditional foods: $75
  • Sorrento Wine Tasting Experience with a Sommelier: $97
  • Sorrento Farm and Food Experience including Olive Oil, Limoncello, Wine tasting : $98
  • Small Group Sorrento Wine Tasting Experience with a Sommelier: $104
  • From Mount Vesuvius Tour with Lunch & Wine Tasting: $107
  • Wine Tasting Including Lunch: $108
  • Lemon, Olive Oil and Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch: $109
  • From Full-Day Pompeii & Wine Tasting Tour: $136
  • Full Day Small Group Pompeii Tour from Sorrento with Local Wine Tasting: $139
  • Pompeii Guided Tour & Wine tasting + Easy lunch: $185
  • Guided Tour of Pompei and Wine Tasting from Sorrento: $205


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

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


Which is Bigger, Lillehammer or Sorrento?

Lillehammer has a larger population, and is about 15% larger than the population of Sorrento. When comparing the sizes of Lillehammer 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.