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

Should you visit Porto or Sorrento?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Porto and Sorrento can help you decide which place is right for you.

Porto

Porto is a cosmopolitan, dynamic, and historic port city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. 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 relaxing, accessible, and laid back 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 hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Porto and Sorrento: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Porto or Sorrento?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Porto. Although Porto and Sorrento are both popular with visitors, Porto has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Porto is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Sorrento is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and shopping. Porto is popular for its authentic old town and the local port wine. It is also home to Cais da Ribeira. Sorrento is popular for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast.

How is Porto different from Sorrento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Porto 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 Porto. With such a long history, there are many landmarks and sights in the city. Popular attractions include the Clérigos Tower, Palácio da Bolsa, and Igreja de São Francisco.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Porto and Sorrento offer amazing local cuisine and restaurants.

Porto has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The area's cuisine combines the ocean setting with the agriculture of the surrounding area, so you'll enjoy both seafood dishes as well as fresh meats and vegetables. The area is also famous for its Port wines and red wines. There are plenty of cellar tours as well was waterfront seafood restaurants to choose from.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Sorrento is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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 Porto or Sorrento Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Porto know how to have a good time. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

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 Porto or Sorrento Better for Resorts?

Sorrento is a great small city for its luxury resorts. However, Porto is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Sorrento. 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.

Porto is not a resort destination.

Is Porto or Sorrento Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Porto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Porto or Sorrento Better for Beaches?

Sorrento is very good for its beaches. However, Porto is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Sorrento to enjoy the beach. 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.

Porto is not a beach destination.

Is Porto or Sorrento Better for its Old Town?

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

Porto is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Known as Porto Ribeira, the city's historic district is the most visited part of the town. It begins on the banks of the River Douro and climbs into the hills behind it.

Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Is Porto or Sorrento Better for Hiking?

Sorrento is a great small city for hiking. However, Porto 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.

Porto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Porto or Sorrento?

Sorrento is a great small city for shopping. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Porto offers some nice shopping areas. The city has both your standard shopping mall stores as well as local vendors and boutique shops.

Is Porto or Sorrento Better for Families?

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Porto or Sorrento.

Porto is a very family-friendly destination. The city has several cool museums including the interactive museum - The World of Discoveries. There are also parks, playgrounds, zoos, and aquariums that you can explore. For families that enjoy being outside, this is a great city. Kids will enjoy spotting street art, riding the funicular, and taking a cellar tour. If the kids need a break from the city, head to the beach for the day.

Sorrento is a very kid-friendly port city. 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 Porto or Sorrento Better for Couples?

Sorrento is very popular for romance. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its romantic activities.

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.

Porto is a very popular place to visit for couples. You can visit the palaces, enjoy shopping, or dine in a nice Portuguese restaurant. Take a cellar tour and sample port then catch a ride on the funicular. This city has plenty for couples to do on a romantic getaway.

Is Porto or Sorrento Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Porto and Sorrento are amazing places to visit.

Many backpackers frequent Porto. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

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 Porto or Sorrento Better for Students?

Porto is a great destination for students. However, Sorrento is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Porto. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

Sorrento is not popular with students.

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

Porto and Sorrento both offer superb public transit to get you around.

Public transit in Porto is fairly effecient and thorough. There is a metro system as well as a bus system. While the metro system does have six lines, most stations aren't close to the tourist attractions, so it likely won't be that helpful to visitors.

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 Porto or Sorrento a more walkable city?

Porto and Sorrento are superb when it comes to walkability.

Porto is very walkable. The city center is very compact with most of the sights within a short walk of each other. The area is also very hilly, so getting from place to place can require a bit of effort.

Sorrento is a very walkable port 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 Porto Worth Visiting? and Is Sorrento Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sorrento or Porto?

How long in Porto or Sorrento?

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

Families should spend more time in Sorrento than Porto. 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 Porto. 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.

One day in Porto or Sorrento?

Porto 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.

In Sorrento, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this accessible 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 Porto or Sorrento?

Porto is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port 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 Porto, a weekend is sufficent for most. 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 Porto or Sorrento?

Porto is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Porto, 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 Porto or Sorrento?

Porto is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 port 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Portugal, The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal, The Best Adventure Tours to Italy, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Porto or Sorrento?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Porto as well as Sorrento. Many travelers come to Porto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Sorrento in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Porto is cooler than Sorrento in the summer. The daily temperature in Porto averages around 21°C (69°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 Porto this time of the year. In the summer, Porto often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sorrento. Porto gets 308 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 313 hours of full sun.

Porto usually gets less rain in July than Sorrento. Porto gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Porto or Sorrento in the Autumn?

Both Sorrento and Porto are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Porto in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Sorrento for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Porto is around the same temperature as Sorrento. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Porto in October average around 17°C (62°F), and Sorrento averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Porto usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sorrento during autumn. Porto gets 184 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. It's quite rainy in Porto. In October, Porto usually receives around the same amount of rain as Sorrento. Porto gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Porto or Sorrento in the Winter?

Both Sorrento and Porto during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Porto for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Sorrento because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Porto is generally a little warmer than Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Porto average around 10°C (50°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Porto often gets more sunshine than Sorrento. Porto gets 124 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in Porto. Porto usually gets more rain in January than Sorrento. Porto gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Porto or Sorrento in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Porto and Sorrento. The spring months attract visitors to Porto because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Sorrento this time of year.

Porto is around the same temperature as Sorrento in the spring. The daily temperature in Porto averages around 14°C (56°F) in April, and Sorrento fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Porto, it's very sunny this time of the year. Porto usually receives more sunshine than Sorrento during spring. Porto gets 217 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

Porto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Porto usually receives more rain than Sorrento. Porto gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Sorrento and Porto