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

Should you visit Paris or Sorrento?

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

Should I visit Paris 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.

Paris

Paris is a beautiful, iconic, and bustling 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. 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. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Paris and Sorrento: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paris or Sorrento?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paris. Although Paris and Sorrento are both popular with visitors, Paris has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Paris is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Sorrento is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Paris is more touristy than Sorrento and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also home to The Eiffel Tower. Sorrento is popular for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Paris different from Sorrento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Paris 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 Paris that are not to be missed. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Paris or Sorrento Better for Theater?

Paris is renowned for theatre. However, Sorrento is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Paris that are not to be missed. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Sorrento is not a theatre destination.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Paris and Sorrento.

For foodies, Paris is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

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 Paris or Sorrento Better for Nightlife?

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

Paris is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

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 Paris or Sorrento Better for Music?

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

Paris is a world class music destination. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Sorrento is not a live music destination.

Is Paris or Sorrento Better for Resorts?

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

Paris is not a resort destination.

Is Paris or Sorrento Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sorrento is adequate for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Paris 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.

Paris is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paris or Sorrento Better for Beaches?

Sorrento is a popular place for its beaches. However, Paris is not a beach destination.

Sorrento is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Paris is not a beach destination.

Is Paris or Sorrento Better for Hiking?

Sorrento is great for hiking. However, Paris 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.

Paris is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Paris or Sorrento?

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

Paris is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

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 Paris or Sorrento Better for Christmas?

Paris is renowned for its Christmas activities. However, Sorrento does not offer Christmas activities.

Paris is a world class destination for shoppers. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Sorrento does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Paris or Sorrento Better for Families?

Paris is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Sorrento is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Paris is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Sorrento is very family-friendly. 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 Paris or Sorrento Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Paris and Sorrento make for a terrific place to visit.

Paris makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

For those traveling as a couple, Sorrento 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.

Is Paris or Sorrento Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Paris and Sorrento are terrific places to visit.

Many backpackers frequent Paris. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

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.

Is Paris or Sorrento Better for Students?

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

Paris is a very popular city for students. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Sorrento is not popular with students.

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

Paris 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.

Paris has a great public transit system. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use 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 Paris or Sorrento a more walkable city?

Paris and Sorrento are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Paris is very walkable. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

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 Paris Worth Visiting? and Is Sorrento Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sorrento or Paris?

How long in Paris or Sorrento?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Paris than Sorrento. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Paris that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

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

One day in Paris or Sorrento?

Paris is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

In Sorrento, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this relaxing destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the food. This small city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Paris or Sorrento?

Paris is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sorrento. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Paris or Sorrento?

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

Sorrento is a fun place to experience. In Sorrento, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Paris or Sorrento?

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

In Sorrento, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this relaxing destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-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 Paris and Sorrento, we can see that Paris 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 Paris would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paris 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 Paris Expensive? and Is Sorrento Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Paris or Sorrento?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Sorrento. When comparing the sizes of Paris 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 Paris 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 Paris or Sorrento in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Paris as well as Sorrento. Many visitors come to Paris in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Sorrento for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Paris is cooler than Sorrento in the summer. The daily temperature in Paris averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Sorrento fluctuates around 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 Paris this time of the year. In the summer, Paris often gets less sunshine than Sorrento. Paris gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 313 hours of full sun.

Paris usually gets more rain in July than Sorrento. Paris gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paris or Sorrento in the Autumn?

Both Sorrento and Paris are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Paris for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, 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 the autumn, Paris is cooler than Sorrento. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Paris in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Sorrento averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Paris usually receives less sunshine than Sorrento during autumn. Paris gets 127 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, Paris usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Paris or Sorrento in the Winter?

Both Sorrento and Paris during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Paris because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Sorrento this time of year.

The weather in Paris can be very cold. In January, Paris is generally much colder than Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Paris average around 5°C (40°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Paris often gets less sunshine than Sorrento. Paris gets 62 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. Paris usually gets less rain in January than Sorrento. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paris or Sorrento in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Paris and Sorrento. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Paris this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Sorrento for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Paris is cooler than Sorrento in the spring. The daily temperature in Paris averages around 11°C (52°F) in April, and Sorrento fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Paris usually receives less sunshine than Sorrento during spring. Paris gets 172 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Paris usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Paris gets 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Sorrento and Paris