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

Should you visit Lucerne 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 Lucerne 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.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a historic, vibrant, and scenic 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, museums, and nightlife.

Sorrento

Sorrento is a colorful, historic, and relaxing 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 food, beaches, and hiking.

Lucerne and Sorrento: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lucerne or Sorrento?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sorrento than Lucerne, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sorrento is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Lucerne is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights. Lucerne is well known for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. Sorrento is well known for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast. Also, Sorrento is famous for Marina Grande and Marina Piccola.

How is Lucerne different from Sorrento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lucerne 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 Lucerne. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Sorrento is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Lucerne offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

Is Lucerne or Sorrento Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Lucerne know how to have a good time. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

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 Lucerne or Sorrento Better for Resorts?

Sorrento is great for its luxury resorts. However, Lucerne 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.

Lucerne is not a resort destination.

Is Lucerne or Sorrento Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sorrento is adequate for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lucerne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Lucerne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lucerne or Sorrento Better for Beaches?

Sorrento is a good destination for the beach. However, Lucerne 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.

Lucerne is not a beach destination.

Is Lucerne or Sorrento Better for its Old Town?

Lucerne is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Lucerne is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Is Lucerne or Sorrento Better for Hiking?

Sorrento is great for hiking. However, Lucerne is not a hiking destination.

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.

Lucerne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lucerne or Sorrento?

If you're looking to go shopping, Lucerne and Sorrento both offer plenty of very good spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Lucerne. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

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.

Is Lucerne or Sorrento Better for Families?

Sorrento is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Lucerne is a family-friendly place to visit. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

Is Lucerne or Sorrento Better for Couples?

Sorrento is very popular for couples. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Lucerne is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

Is Lucerne or Sorrento Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sorrento is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Sorrento, as it is a very popular small city for 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.

Lucerne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Prices are high everywhere in the area but there are a few hostels that attract backpackers. It's also possible to find free activities like swimming in the lake or simply wandering around town. Prices at restaurants are very high, so you'll do best to pick up food at supermarkets and prepare your own meals. Because it's a larger city, there are options that you might not find in smaller towns around Switzerland.

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

Sorrento is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system 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.

Lucerne has a few public transit options. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

Is Lucerne or Sorrento a more walkable city?

Sorrento is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

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.

Lucerne is somewhat walkable. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.

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

Should I spend more time in Sorrento or Lucerne?

How long in Lucerne or Sorrento?

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

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

The beautiful city of Lucerne offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Lucerne or Sorrento?

Lucerne 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 visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lucerne, 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 Lucerne or Sorrento?

Lucerne 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.

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 Lucerne or Sorrento?

Lucerne is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best Adventure Tours to Italy, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Lucerne or Sorrento?

Lucerne has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Sorrento. When comparing the sizes of Lucerne 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 Lucerne 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 Lucerne or Sorrento in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lucerne as well as Sorrento. Most visitors come to Lucerne 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.

In the summer, Lucerne is around the same temperature as Sorrento. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lucerne in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Sorrento averages at about 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 Lucerne this time of the year. In the summer, Lucerne often gets less sunshine than Sorrento. Lucerne gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 313 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets more rain in July than Sorrento. Lucerne gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lucerne or Sorrento in the Autumn?

Both Sorrento and Lucerne are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Lucerne 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 October, Lucerne is generally cooler than Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 13°C (56°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Lucerne usually receives less sunshine than Sorrento during autumn. Lucerne gets 120 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. In October, Lucerne usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Lucerne gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lucerne or Sorrento in the Winter?

Both Sorrento and Lucerne during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lucerne this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Sorrento for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Lucerne in the winter. Lucerne is much colder than Sorrento in the winter. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Sorrento fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Lucerne often gets less sunshine than Sorrento. Lucerne gets 55 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. Lucerne usually gets less rain in January than Sorrento. Lucerne gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lucerne or Sorrento in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lucerne and Sorrento. Many travelers come to Lucerne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Sorrento in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Lucerne is cooler than Sorrento. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lucerne in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Sorrento averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Lucerne usually receives less sunshine than Sorrento during spring. Lucerne gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lucerne usually receives more rain than Sorrento. Lucerne gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Sorrento and Lucerne