A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Palermo vs. Sorrento for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Palermo or Sorrento?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Palermo and Sorrento can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Palermo

Palermo is a dynamic, fun, and colorful city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Sorrento

Sorrento is a laid back, colorful, and historic 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. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Palermo and Sorrento: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Sorrento?

Both Sorrento and Palermo have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Palermo is better known for its museums, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Sorrento is more popular for its food, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Sorrento is more touristy than Palermo and is known for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast. Palermo is well known for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture.

How is Palermo different from Sorrento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Palermo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of grand buildings and impressive architectural buildings that you should visit. The cathedral, the Norman Palace, and Cappella Palatina are among the best.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Sorrento is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Palermo. The islands long history and occupation by a range of different groups means that the cuisine is heavily influenced by many different cultures. You'll see influences from Phonecians, Greeks, Arabs and Normans. Local dishes include Pasta alla Norma (pasta and vegetables), Arancine (rice balls), and Cannoli.

Is Palermo or Sorrento Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Palermo know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene is surprisingly varied with everything from wine bars by the ocean to dance parties that flood into the street. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include the old town, Politeama, and Mondello.

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 Palermo or Sorrento Better for Resorts?

Sorrento is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Palermo is not a resort destination.

In Sorrento, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Palermo is not a resort destination.

Is Palermo or Sorrento Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is a city with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Sorrento is a small city with minimal options for its diving and snorkeling.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Palermo. The dive season lasts most of the year and there are many beautiful dive spots that are accessible from the city. The water is clear and there is a variety of flora and fauna to see.

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.

Is Palermo or Sorrento Better for Beaches?

Palermo is a great destination for its beaches. Also, Sorrento is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

The beaches at Palermo attract visitors from all over. The city has a number of beautiful beaches, some of which are accessible by public transit. Mondello is a popular option with beautiful views. Capo Gallo is a relaxing option on a nature reserve that is good for divers and nature lovers. Addaura is a lively beach with a number of clubs.

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.

Is Palermo or Sorrento Better for Hiking?

Sorrento is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Palermo 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.

Palermo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Sorrento?

Both Palermo and Sorrento are great shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Palermo. The city offers a mix of high end shopping streets as well as colorful markets that have the feel of a traditional bazaar. Whether you're looking for European brands or local merchandise, this city has an eclectic mix with something for everyone.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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 Palermo or Sorrento Better for Families?

Both Palermo and Sorrento are great to visit with kids.

Palermo is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has beaches where everyone can cool off and play in the relaxing waves. There's also a botanical garden and the fascinating Catacombs of the Capuchins. Kids will also enjoy exploring the many diverse markets throughout the city.

Sorrento is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Palermo or Sorrento Better for Couples?

Sorrento is very popular for couples. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Sorrento is a great small city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Palermo is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with fun adventures, unique markets, and relaxing beaches. It makes a great city escape for couples who enjoy spending time outdoors but also having access to an urban setting.

Is Palermo or Sorrento Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sorrento is very popular for backpackers. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Sorrento is a very popular small city to visit for backpackers. 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 backpackers visit Palermo. There are a decent number of affordable hostels around town as well as plenty of backpackers that keep the scene fun and social.

Is Palermo or Sorrento Better for Students?

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

Palermo is popular with students. It's an affordable student destination with a relaxing and laid back vibe. There's enough activity to keep it interesting without a high pressure setting.

Sorrento is not popular with students.

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

Sorrento is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Palermo is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Palermo. If you stick to the main city center then you can get around by city bus, but if you're headed anywhere else, you'll likely want to take a taxi or Uber.

Is Palermo or Sorrento a more walkable city?

Palermo and Sorrento both are great when exploring on foot.

Palermo is a very walkable destination. The city is walkable with a number of streets closed to cars and pedestrian only.

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 Palermo Worth Visiting? and Is Sorrento Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sorrento or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Sorrento?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Sorrento than Palermo. 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 Palermo 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 Palermo or Sorrento?

The city of Palermo offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Palermo or Sorrento?

Palermo 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. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Palermo, 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 Palermo or Sorrento?

Palermo 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 Palermo or Sorrento?

Palermo is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, 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.

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 Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Palermo or Sorrento?

Palermo has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Sorrento. When comparing the sizes of Palermo 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 Palermo 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 Palermo or Sorrento in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Palermo and Sorrento. The summer months attract visitors to Palermo because of the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sorrento this time of year.

In the summer, Palermo is around the same temperature as Sorrento. Typically, the summer temperatures in Palermo in July average around 25°C (76°F), and Sorrento averages at about 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sorrento this time of the year. In Palermo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Sorrento during summer. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Palermo usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Palermo or Sorrento in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Palermo as well as Sorrento. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Palermo this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Sorrento for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Palermo is generally a little warmer than Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 20°C (67°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palermo this time of the year. In the autumn, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Sorrento. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sorrento. Palermo usually gets less rain in October than Sorrento. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Sorrento in the Winter?

Both Sorrento and Palermo are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Palermo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Sorrento in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

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

Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Sorrento during winter. Palermo gets 133 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, Palermo usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Palermo or Sorrento in the Spring?

Both Sorrento and Palermo during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Palermo in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Sorrento for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Palermo is a little warmer than Sorrento. Typically, the spring temperatures in Palermo in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Sorrento averages at about 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Palermo. In the spring, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Sorrento. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in April than Sorrento. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Sorrento and Palermo