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

Should you visit Lisbon or Sorrento?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Sorrento? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a stunning, picturesque, and colorful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Sorrento

Sorrento is a historic, relaxing, and accessible small city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Lisbon and Sorrento: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Sorrento?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lisbon than Sorrento, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lisbon is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Sorrento is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and hiking. Lisbon is well known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. Also, Lisbon is famous for Castelo de São Jorge. Sorrento is well known for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast.

How is Lisbon different from Sorrento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lisbon is renowned for its museums and landmarks. However, Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Lisbon that are not to be missed. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Lisbon and Sorrento can be an enjoyable experience.

For foodies, Lisbon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

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.

Is Lisbon or Sorrento Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is renowned for nightlife. Also, Sorrento is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Lisbon is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

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 Lisbon or Sorrento Better for Music?

Lisbon is renowned for live music. However, Sorrento is not a live music destination.

Lisbon is a world class music destination. The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Sorrento is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Sorrento Better for Resorts?

Sorrento is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Lisbon is not a resort destination.

Sorrento is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Lisbon is not a resort destination.

Is Lisbon or Sorrento Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sorrento is a decent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to 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.

Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lisbon or Sorrento Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Lisbon and Sorrento are notable choices.

Lisbon is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

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.

Is Lisbon or Sorrento Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is renowned for its historic old town. However, Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Lisbon is one of the most recognized in the world. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Is Lisbon or Sorrento Better for Hiking?

Sorrento is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Lisbon is not a hiking destination.

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.

Lisbon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Sorrento?

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

Lisbon is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

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 Lisbon or Sorrento Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Lisbon or Sorrento.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lisbon. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

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.

Is Lisbon or Sorrento Better for Couples?

Sorrento is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Sorrento makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Couples visit Lisbon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

Is Lisbon or Sorrento Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon and Sorrento are both terrific destinations for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Lisbon, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

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.

Is Lisbon or Sorrento Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over to stay in Lisbon. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Sorrento is not popular with students.

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

Lisbon 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.

Lisbon has a great public transit system. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

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 Lisbon or Sorrento a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Lisbon on foot is easy. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

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 Lisbon Worth Visiting? and Is Sorrento Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sorrento or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Sorrento?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon 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 Lisbon.

One day in Lisbon or Sorrento?

Lisbon 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.

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 Lisbon or Sorrento?

Lisbon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

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 Lisbon or Sorrento?

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

Lisbon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lisbon has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the relaxing 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 The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Adventure Tours to Italy, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Sorrento?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Sorrento. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon 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 Lisbon 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 Lisbon or Sorrento in the Summer?

Both Sorrento and Lisbon during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Sorrento for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Lisbon is around the same temperature as Sorrento. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lisbon in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Sorrento averages at about 23°C (74°F).

In Sorrento, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the summer, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Sorrento. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 313 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than Sorrento. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Sorrento in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Sorrento. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Sorrento because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 19°C (66°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Sorrento during autumn. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Sorrento receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisbon or Sorrento in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Sorrento. The winter months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Sorrento this time of year.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Sorrento in the winter. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Sorrento fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Sorrento. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 115 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sorrento. Lisbon receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lisbon usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Sorrento. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Sorrento in the Spring?

Both Sorrento and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sorrento for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Lisbon is a little warmer than Sorrento. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lisbon in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Sorrento averages at about 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Sorrento during spring. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Sorrento and Lisbon