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

Should you visit Sorrento or Amalfi?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Sorrento and Amalfi 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.

Sorrento

Sorrento is a laid back, colorful, and historic 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 nightlife, food, and beaches.

Amalfi

Amalfi is a charming, picturesque, and stunning town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Sorrento and Amalfi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sorrento or Amalfi?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Amalfi. Although Sorrento and Amalfi are popular destinations, Amalfi has more sights and attractions for tourists. Amalfi is very popular for its museums, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Sorrento attracts visitors for its resorts, shopping, and big city activities. Amalfi is more touristy than Sorrento and is known for its dramatic views, charming character, and excellent limoncello. It is also well known for the dramatic coastline. Sorrento is famous for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast.

How is Sorrento different from Amalfi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Amalfi is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The town is an attraction in and off itself. It's filled with charm and character and visitors spend much of their time simply walking around and soaking up the atmosphere.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at world-class restaurants in both Sorrento and Amalfi.

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.

Eat your way through Amalfi, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The town's access to the beautiful sea means that many dishes use a variety of seafood. Eggplant is also a common ingredient and you'll find everything from pastas to elegant desserts around town.

Is Sorrento or Amalfi Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Amalfi know how to have a good time. There's a good number of bars and clubs in town that often have live music or DJs. Alternatively, there are also clubs that dot the entire coastline.

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 Sorrento or Amalfi Better for Resorts?

Sorrento is well known for its resorts. However, Amalfi 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.

Amalfi is not a resort destination.

Is Sorrento or Amalfi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Amalfi is a town 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 Amalfi. You'll find snorkeling trips that take you along the coastline and stop at several places so you can take a peak at the underwater world.

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 Sorrento or Amalfi Better for Beaches?

Both Sorrento and Amalfi are considered to be nice beach destinations.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Sorrento. 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.

Amalfi offers a nice beach destination. The beaches tend to be pebbly and rocky. During the summer months they can get very crowded, but taking a swim is a great way to escape the heat for a bit.

Is Sorrento or Amalfi Better for its Old Town?

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

Amalfi is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The town is charming and filled with great shops and restaurants. It's the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere of the Amalfi Coast.

Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Is Sorrento or Amalfi Better for Hiking?

Both Sorrento and Amalfi are destinations which offer great hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Many visitors go to Amalfi for the hiking trails. The coastline is filled with great trails that offer stunning views. Hiking is a top way to see the natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast and catch a glimpse at some of the best beaches.

Is the Shopping Better in Sorrento or Amalfi?

Sorrento is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Amalfi has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find many great shops that sell everything from clothing to fine wine, local foods, or limoncello.

Is Sorrento or Amalfi Better for Families?

Sorrento is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Amalfi offers lots of family activities. The town is positioned in the middle of the Amalfi Coast, making it a great base for exploring the area. It's also one of the larger towns so you'll find more energy and things to do with kids, including the Museum of Paper.

Is Sorrento or Amalfi Better for Couples?

Both Sorrento and Amalfi are world-class destinations for a couple's getaway.

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.

Amalfi is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The Amalfi Coast is a world class honeymoon destination and couples will enjoy staying in the lively town of Amalfi. It's a quaint and beautiful town in the middle of everything, so you'll have access to all that the area has to offer.

Is Sorrento or Amalfi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sorrento is an amazing small city to visit for backpackers. However, Amalfi is not particularly known 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.

Amalfi is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The area has a couple of hostels around, but in general this is a difficult place to visit as a backpacker. There are SITA buses that offer transportation, and because the town is in the middle of the coastline, it offers decent access to everything.

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

Sorrento is well known for its public transit. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Sorrento can get you around 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.

While Amalfi offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The SITA buses offer transit between many of the towns along the Amalfi Coast.

Is Sorrento or Amalfi a more walkable city?

Amalfi is renowned for its walkability. Also, Sorrento is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Amalfi on foot is easy. It's a compact and charming town that is a bit flatter than some nearby villages so it's easy to explore on foot.

Sorrento is a very walkable small 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 Sorrento Worth Visiting? and Is Amalfi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Amalfi or Sorrento?

How long in Sorrento or Amalfi?

Both Sorrento and Amalfi have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Sorrento, and 2-7 days is enough time in Amalfi.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sorrento than Amalfi 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 Sorrento or Amalfi?

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.

The beautiful town of Amalfi offers museums and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

A weekend in Sorrento or Amalfi?

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.

Amalfi is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town 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 Amalfi, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Sorrento or Amalfi?

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.

Amalfi 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 Amalfi, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Sorrento or Amalfi?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the laid back 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.

Amalfi is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Amalfi has to offer. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Italy, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Sorrento and Amalfi, we can see that Amalfi 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 Amalfi would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Amalfi 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 Sorrento Expensive? and Is Amalfi Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Sorrento or Amalfi?

Sorrento has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Amalfi. When comparing the sizes of Sorrento and Amalfi, 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 Sorrento or Amalfi?

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 Sorrento or Amalfi in the Summer?

Both Amalfi and Sorrento are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Sorrento because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Amalfi this time of year.

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

It's quite sunny in Amalfi. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sorrento. Sorrento usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Amalfi during summer. Sorrento gets 313 hours of sunny skies, while Amalfi receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Sorrento usually receives around the same amount of rain as Amalfi. Sorrento gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Sorrento or Amalfi in the Autumn?

Both Amalfi and Sorrento during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Sorrento this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Amalfi for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Sorrento is generally around the same temperature as Amalfi. Daily temperatures in Sorrento average around 17°C (63°F), and Amalfi fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Sorrento often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Amalfi. Sorrento gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amalfi receives 189 hours of full sun.

Amalfi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Sorrento. Sorrento usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Amalfi. Sorrento gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sorrento or Amalfi in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Sorrento and Amalfi. Many travelers come to Sorrento for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Amalfi in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Sorrento is around the same temperature as Amalfi in the winter. The daily temperature in Sorrento averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Amalfi fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Sorrento usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Amalfi during winter. Sorrento gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Amalfi receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

Amalfi receives a lot of rain in the winter. Sorrento gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Sorrento usually receives around the same amount of rain as Amalfi. Sorrento gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Sorrento or Amalfi in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Sorrento as well as Amalfi. Many visitors come to Sorrento in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Amalfi for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Sorrento is around the same temperature as Amalfi. Typically, the spring temperatures in Sorrento in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Amalfi averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Sorrento often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Amalfi. Sorrento gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amalfi receives 189 hours of full sun.

Sorrento usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Amalfi. Sorrento gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Amalfi and Sorrento