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

Should you visit Nantes or Sorrento?

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

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

Nantes

Nantes is a historical, beautiful, and vibrant city. 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 accessible, laid back, and colorful 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 shopping, nightlife, and food.

Nantes and Sorrento: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nantes or Sorrento?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sorrento than Nantes, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sorrento is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Nantes is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights. Sorrento is more touristy than Nantes and is popular for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast. Also, Sorrento is famous for Marina Grande and Marina Piccola. Nantes is well known for its castles and historical landmarks, local wine, and beautiful parks and gardens.

How is Nantes different from Sorrento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nantes 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 Nantes. The city is filled with historical monuments, particularly in the Bouffay District. Highlights include Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, Château des Ducs de Bretagne, and the Musée d'Arts de Nantes.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Nantes is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The region lends itself to unique flavors with a great mix of seafood from the Atlantic, freshwater fish from the Loire, and dairy from the surrounding countryside. The region is also famous for its wine. Local dishes that you should try include Filet de Sandre au Beurre Blanc (fresh fish in butter sauce), Crepes Bretonnes (breakfast crepes), and Le Canard Nantais (duck with Muscadet wine).

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 Nantes or Sorrento Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Nantes know how to have a good time. The large student population heavily influences the nightlife scene. You'll find a young vibe with a lot of bars and clubs to choose from, particularly around Île de Nantes.

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 Nantes or Sorrento Better for Resorts?

Sorrento is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Nantes 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.

Nantes is not a resort destination.

Is Nantes or Sorrento Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sorrento is a decent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Nantes 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.

Nantes is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nantes or Sorrento Better for Beaches?

Sorrento is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Nantes 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.

Nantes is not a beach destination.

Is Nantes or Sorrento Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Nantes to see the historical old town. The city's old town is in the Bouffay District and it is filled with half-timbered houses and a maze of streets and shops.

Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Is Nantes or Sorrento Better for Hiking?

Sorrento is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Nantes 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.

Nantes is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nantes or Sorrento?

Shoppers can find a variety of high quality stores in both Nantes and Sorrento.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Nantes. There are impressive shopping streets, boutique stores, and grand shopping malls. Make sure you check out Rue Crébillon, Passage Pommeraye, and the shops around the Bouffay District. Talensac Market is also a historical covered market that you can explore.

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 Nantes or Sorrento Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Nantes. It's filled with gardens, museums, and theme parks, making it a great combination of fascinating activities for adults and kids alike. Some of the top kid-friendly activities include a visit to Machine of the Isle of Nantes (both a theme park and a museum), seeing a show at Le Lieu Unique, or experiencing Naudières Park (a smaller theme park). Kids will also enjoy seeing Goulaine Castle or wandering around Jardin Extraordinaire or the Botanical Gardens.

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 Nantes or Sorrento Better for Couples?

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

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.

Couples visit Nantes frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There is a mix of both natural and historical beauty. Couples can enjoy a nice meal, stroll through one of the many parks and gardens, or even spend the day at the spa.

Is Nantes or Sorrento Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sorrento is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantes is lacking in good options 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.

Nantes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't as many hostels as you would expect in the area, so finding an affordable and social place to stay may be a bit challenging.

Is Nantes or Sorrento Better for Students?

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

Nantes is popular with students. There's a decent sized student population and the city has a welcoming atmosphere. It's also easy to get around with public transportation.

Sorrento is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find high quality public transit in both Nantes and Sorrento.

The public transit in Nantes can get you to most places easily. There are both trams and buses throughout the city that are operated by TAN (Transport de l'Agglomeration Nantaise).

Visitors to Sorrento can move around easily with public transportation. 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 Nantes or Sorrento a more walkable city?

Nantes and Sorrento are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Nantes is a very walkable destination. The city is very walkable. Both locals and tourists alike choose to walk in Nantes.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Sorrento or Nantes?

How long in Nantes or Sorrento?

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

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

The beautiful city of Nantes offers food and shopping. 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 Nantes or Sorrento?

Nantes 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 Nantes, 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 Nantes or Sorrento?

Nantes is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food 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 Nantes or Sorrento?

Nantes is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food 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 colorful 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 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, The Best Adventure Tours to Italy, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Nantes or Sorrento?

Nantes has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Sorrento. When comparing the sizes of Nantes 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 Nantes 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 Nantes or Sorrento in the Summer?

Both Sorrento and Nantes during the summer are popular places to visit. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nantes 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 the summer, Nantes is cooler than Sorrento. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nantes in July average around 19°C (67°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 Nantes. In the summer, Nantes often gets less sunshine than Sorrento. Nantes gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 313 hours of full sun.

Nantes usually gets more rain in July than Sorrento. Nantes gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nantes or Sorrento in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nantes and Sorrento. Many travelers come to Nantes for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, 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.

In October, Nantes is generally cooler than Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Nantes average around 13°C (56°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Nantes usually receives less sunshine than Sorrento during autumn. Nantes gets 141 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, Nantes usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Nantes gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nantes or Sorrento in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nantes as well as Sorrento. Many visitors come to Nantes in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Sorrento for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Nantes is cooler than Sorrento in the winter. The daily temperature in Nantes averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Sorrento fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Nantes often gets less sunshine than Sorrento. Nantes gets 72 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 115 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sorrento. Nantes usually gets less rain in January than Sorrento. Nantes gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nantes or Sorrento in the Spring?

Both Sorrento and Nantes are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Nantes for 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 the spring, Nantes is cooler than Sorrento. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nantes in April average around 11°C (51°F), and Sorrento averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Nantes usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sorrento during spring. Nantes gets 187 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nantes usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Nantes gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Sorrento and Nantes