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

Should you visit Rouen or Sorrento?

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

Should I visit Rouen 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.

Rouen

Rouen is a relaxing, historical, and charming 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 historic, relaxing, and accessible 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 beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Rouen and Sorrento: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rouen or Sorrento?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sorrento. Although Rouen and Sorrento are popular destinations, Sorrento has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sorrento is very popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Rouen attracts visitors for its museums and historical sights. Sorrento is more touristy than Rouen and is known for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast. It is also well known for Marina Grande and Marina Piccola. Rouen is famous for its architectural history, historical monuments, and sense of culture.

How is Rouen different from Sorrento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Rouen is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll find the highest concentration of sights in the city's pedestrian zone. Highlights that you should check out include Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, Musée des Beaux-Arts, Abbatiale Saint-Ouen, and Aître Saint-Maclou.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Sorrento is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Sorrento is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Rouen has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are many local specialties found in town. Make sure you try the Passe Crassane, which is a French pear. The town is also known for its cheese, chocolate, and pastries.

Is Rouen or Sorrento Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are nice in both Rouen and Sorrento.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Rouen. You'll find wine bars, trendy cocktail bars, and local pubs where you can grab a drink.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Sorrento. 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 Rouen or Sorrento Better for Resorts?

Sorrento is notable for its resorts. However, Rouen 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.

Rouen is not a resort destination.

Is Rouen or Sorrento Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sorrento is a moderate small city for its diving and snorkeling. However, Rouen 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.

Rouen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rouen or Sorrento Better for Beaches?

Sorrento is a popular place for the beache. However, Rouen 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.

Rouen is not a beach destination.

Is Rouen or Sorrento Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Rouen to see the historical old town. The old town is where you'll find spectacular Gothic churches and the most charming streets.

Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Is Rouen or Sorrento Better for Hiking?

Sorrento is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Rouen 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.

Rouen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rouen or Sorrento?

Sorrento is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Sorrento is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Rouen has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Some of the city's best shopping is found along the Rue du Gros-Horloge in the old city center. You'll find independent boutiques and well as upscale vendors.

Is Rouen or Sorrento Better for Families?

Sorrento is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Sorrento is a very kid-friendly small 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.

Rouen is a family-friendly city. This beautiful city is filled with nice parks, free museums, and towers that offer views over the city. Kids will enjoy climbing the clocktower, eating pastries, or riding a bike around town.

Is Rouen or Sorrento Better for Couples?

Sorrento is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Sorrento makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Rouen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The beautiful city makes a great retreat for couples who enjoy good food and nice architecture. There are many hidden gems around town that make this a favorite French city for many couples.

Is Rouen or Sorrento Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sorrento is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Rouen is a mediocre city 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.

Rouen is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Backpackers may struggle to find a hostel with a social setting, but for those who make it here there are many beautiful things to see.

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

Both Rouen and Sorrento offer excellent public transit options.

Rouen has some very good public transit options. The city has two agencies that offer public transportation. Métro du Rouen is a tramway that runs north to south from Boulingrin in the north to Saint-Sever, where it branches off into two lines (one to Technopôle and one to Georges Braque). There are also buses and rail connections to town.

The public transit in Sorrento can get you to most places easily. 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 Rouen or Sorrento a more walkable city?

Rouen and Sorrento both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Rouen is a very walkable city. There are many parts of town that can easily be explored on foot.

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 Rouen Worth Visiting? and Is Sorrento Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sorrento or Rouen?

How long in Rouen or Sorrento?

Both Rouen 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 Rouen. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Rouen, and 3-7 days is enough time in Sorrento.

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

The beautiful city of Rouen offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Sorrento, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this historic 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 Rouen or Sorrento?

Rouen 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 Rouen, 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 Rouen or Sorrento?

Rouen 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 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 Rouen or Sorrento?

Rouen is a great place to explore. 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.

In Sorrento, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this historic 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, The Best Food and Culinary 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 Rouen and Sorrento, we can see that Sorrento is more expensive. And not only is Rouen much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Rouen would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Rouen 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 Rouen.

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

Which is Bigger, Rouen or Sorrento?

Rouen has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Sorrento. When comparing the sizes of Rouen 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 Rouen 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 Rouen or Sorrento in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Rouen and Sorrento. Many visitors come to Rouen in the summer for 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.

In July, Rouen is generally cooler than Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Rouen average around 17°C (63°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 Rouen, it's very sunny this time of the year. Rouen usually receives less sunshine than Sorrento during summer. Rouen gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Rouen usually receives more rain than Sorrento. Rouen gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Rouen or Sorrento in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Rouen as well as Sorrento. Most visitors come to Rouen for the shopping 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.

Rouen is cooler than Sorrento in the autumn. The daily temperature in Rouen averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Sorrento fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

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

It's quite rainy in Sorrento. Rouen usually gets less rain in October than Sorrento. Rouen gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rouen or Sorrento in the Winter?

Both Sorrento and Rouen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Rouen because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Sorrento this time of year.

The weather in Rouen can be very cold. In the winter, Rouen is much colder than Sorrento. Typically, the winter temperatures in Rouen in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Sorrento averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Rouen usually receives less sunshine than Sorrento during winter. Rouen 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, Rouen usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Rouen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Rouen or Sorrento in the Spring?

Both Sorrento and Rouen during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Rouen this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Sorrento for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Rouen is generally cooler than Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Rouen average around 9°C (48°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Rouen often gets less sunshine than Sorrento. Rouen gets 172 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun.

Rouen usually gets less rain in April than Sorrento. Rouen gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Sorrento and Rouen