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

Should you visit Lyon or Sorrento?

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

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

Lyon

Lyon is a historic, beautiful, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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. And you can't forget about the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Lyon and Sorrento: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lyon or Sorrento?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lyon. Although Lyon and Sorrento are popular destinations, Lyon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lyon is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Sorrento attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Lyon is famous for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. It is also well known for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Sorrento is famous for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast.

How is Lyon different from Sorrento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lyon 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 Lyon that are not to be missed. There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Lyon and Sorrento can be difficult as they are each first-rate in their own way.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Lyon is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Known as "the Gastronomic Capital of the World" this city stands above the rest when it comes to Michelin star restaurants (there are 17!), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. Favorite local dishes include pâté en croûte, rosette de Lyon, and saucisson brioché.

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 Lyon or Sorrento Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Lyon know how to have a good time. The city has enough diverse neighborhoods that you'll find a scene that is great for everyone. There are dance clubs, cocktail bars, and wine bars that meet every personality and style.

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 Lyon or Sorrento Better for Resorts?

Sorrento is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Lyon 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.

Lyon is not a resort destination.

Is Lyon or Sorrento Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sorrento is a moderate small city for its diving and snorkeling. However, Lyon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Sorrento. There are snorkeling excursions that you can book in the area, but this is often an overlooked activity for many visitors.

Lyon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lyon or Sorrento Better for Beaches?

Sorrento is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Lyon 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.

Lyon is not a beach destination.

Is Lyon or Sorrento Better for its Old Town?

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

The old town of Lyon is one of the most recognized in the world. This impressive old town climbs from the river into Fourvière Hill. It's a Renaissance era district with beautiful buildings and plenty of character. You can spend days wandering the quaint streets and popping in the world class restaurants.

Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Is Lyon or Sorrento Better for Hiking?

Sorrento is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Lyon is not a hiking destination.

Sorrento is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Lyon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lyon or Sorrento?

Both Lyon and Sorrento are high quality shopping destinations.

Lyon is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has many trendy markets, pedestrian shopping areas, and character-filled boutiques. From the charming shops in old town to the chic shopping streets, there are plenty of places to splurge around town.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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 Lyon or Sorrento Better for Families?

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

Lyon is a very kid-friendly city. The city has many kid-friendly museums including Musée des Confluences and the Cinema and Miniature Museum. There are also playgrounds, patisseries, and river cruises that you can enjoy as a family. Puppet shows are also fun, but do note that they're usually in French. While the restaurants are amazing for adults, it can be tricky to find a kid-friendly option with early opening hours that are convenient for little ones.

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.

Is Lyon or Sorrento Better for Couples?

Sorrento is an amazing small city to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

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.

Lyon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

Is Lyon or Sorrento Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sorrento is an amazing small city to visit for backpackers. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Sorrento. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Lyon. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and backpackers.

Is Lyon or Sorrento Better for Students?

Lyon is renowned for students. However, Sorrento is not popular with students.

Lyon is a very popular city for students. It is a very livable city with many fun cultural activities for students. There are many different entertainment options during the day, and during the evening there are plenty of places to hang out.

Sorrento is not popular with students.

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

Lyon 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.

Lyon has a great public transit system. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

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 Lyon or Sorrento a more walkable city?

Lyon and Sorrento both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Lyon is a very walkable city. The old town is particularly walkable, but the hills can make things a bit challenging. There are also a number of pedestrian streets around town.

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 Lyon Worth Visiting? and Is Sorrento Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sorrento or Lyon?

How long in Lyon or Sorrento?

Both Lyon 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 Lyon. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Lyon, and 3-7 days is enough time in Sorrento.

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

Lyon 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Sorrento. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Lyon or Sorrento?

Lyon 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 Lyon, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Sorrento is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Lyon or Sorrento?

Lyon is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lyon, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the colorful destination of Sorrento. This small city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Lyon or Sorrento?

Lyon 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the accessible small city of Sorrento. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, The Best Adventure Tours to Italy, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Lyon or Sorrento?

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lyon and Sorrento. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lyon this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Sorrento for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lyon is generally around the same temperature as Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Lyon average around 22°C (71°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sorrento this time of the year. In Lyon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lyon usually receives less sunshine than Sorrento during summer. Lyon gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lyon usually receives more rain than Sorrento. Lyon 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 Lyon or Sorrento in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lyon as well as Sorrento. Many travelers come to Lyon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, 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.

Lyon is cooler than Sorrento in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lyon averages around 14°C (56°F) in October, and Sorrento fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Lyon often gets less sunshine than Sorrento. Lyon gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sorrento. Lyon usually gets less rain in October than Sorrento. Lyon 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 Lyon or Sorrento in the Winter?

Both Sorrento and Lyon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Lyon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Sorrento for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Lyon can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Lyon is much colder than Sorrento. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lyon in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Sorrento averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Lyon usually receives less sunshine than Sorrento during winter. Lyon gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sorrento. In January, Lyon usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Lyon 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 Lyon or Sorrento in the Spring?

Both Sorrento and Lyon during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Lyon for the activities around the city 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, Lyon is generally cooler than Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Lyon average around 11°C (53°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

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

Lyon usually gets less rain in April than Sorrento. Lyon 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 Lyon