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

Should you visit Sorrento or Bari?

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 Bari 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 colorful, historic, and relaxing 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. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and hiking.

Bari

Bari is a authentic, local, and cultural port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Sorrento and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sorrento or Bari?

Both Bari and Sorrento have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Sorrento is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Bari is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights. Sorrento is more touristy than Bari and is popular for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast. Bari is well known for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic.

How is Sorrento different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bari 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 Bari?

Bari 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 Bari. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. San Nicola is the main basilica in town and a popular tourist sight. The Castello is also a highlight, as is San Sabino.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at fantastic restaurants in both Sorrento and Bari.

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 Bari, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It's off-the-beaten-path vibe means that you won't find the overpriced tourist restaurants that have taken over more touristy cities. Instead you'll find locally owned pasta shops that cater to the town's residents. You can taste authentic Pugliese cuisine, which is centered around wheat and olive oil. Orecchiette is the local pasta and seafood is one of the most common staples.

Is Sorrento or Bari Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Bari know how to have a good time. The city really comes to life at night with many dance clubs, bars, and other fun venues. There's plenty of live music as well as jazz clubs and other local bars.

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 Bari Better for Resorts?

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

There are plenty of resorts in Sorrento to choose from. 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.

Bari is not a resort destination.

Is Sorrento or Bari Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sorrento is adequate for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Bari 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.

Bari is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sorrento or Bari Better for Beaches?

Both Sorrento and Bari are considered to be notable 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.

Bari offers a nice beach destination. There's a sandy beach that you can reach by bus outside of the city center. There are also many great beaches around Puglia if you're willing to take a day trip or travel a bit farther.

Is Sorrento or Bari Better for its Old Town?

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

Bari is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is filled with historic sights, mazelike streets, and great food. It's pedestrian-only and, because Bari is not as popular with tourists, it holds on to its authentic charm.

Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Is Sorrento or Bari Better for Hiking?

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

Bari is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sorrento or Bari?

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

Bari is a great destination for shopping. You won't find the souvenir shops that you find in more touristy cities, so if you take the time to do some shopping while you're in town, you can enjoy a truly authentic and cultural experience.

Is Sorrento or Bari Better for Families?

Both Sorrento and Bari are very good to visit with kids.

Sorrento is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Bari is very family-friendly. There are historical sites and castles to explore as well as the fun-filled Miragica amusement park. There's also an impressive underground city that will spark the kid's imagination. Other fun activities include visiting the nearby beaches, taking a kayak tour, or wandering around the old town.

Is Sorrento or Bari Better for Couples?

Sorrento is terrific for couples. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for romance.

Sorrento is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Bari is a nice destination for couples. The old town is filled with mazelike streets and the city has many unique activities that appeal to history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Is Sorrento or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sorrento is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Sorrento, as it is a very popular small city for budget travelers. 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Bari. There's plenty of hostels around town and the prices are usually very reasonable. Many backpackers pass through this port city on their way to Greece or other Adriatic destinations.

Is Sorrento or Bari Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over to stay in Bari. It's a great student city that offers access to many nearby Mediterranean destinations. There are also a number of historical sights within town that students can visit.

Sorrento is not popular with students.

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

Sorrento is a great small city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its public transit.

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.

Bari has a few public transit options. There are buses around town that are operated by the AMTAB.

Is Sorrento or Bari a more walkable city?

Sorrento and Bari both are very good when exploring on foot.

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.

Bari is a very walkable small city. The old town is pedestrian-only and best explored on foot. It's also about a 20 minute walk from the central train station.

For even more information, also check out Is Sorrento Worth Visiting? and Is Bari Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bari or Sorrento?

How long in Sorrento or Bari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Sorrento and Bari. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sorrento than in Bari. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Sorrento, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bari.

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

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

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Sorrento. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The port city of Bari offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Sorrento or Bari?

Sorrento is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Bari 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 Bari, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Sorrento or Bari?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the relaxing destination of Sorrento. This small city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Bari is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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.

A week in Sorrento or Bari?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the relaxing small city of Sorrento. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Bari 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.

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 Bari, we can see that Sorrento is more expensive. And not only is Bari much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bari would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bari 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 Bari.

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

Which is Bigger, Sorrento or Bari?

Bari has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Sorrento. When comparing the sizes of Sorrento and Bari, 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 Bari?

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 Sorrento or Bari in the Summer?

Both Bari and Sorrento during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sorrento this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bari for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Sorrento is generally around the same temperature as Bari. Daily temperatures in Sorrento average around 23°C (74°F), and Bari fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

In Bari, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Sorrento. In the summer, Sorrento often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bari. Sorrento gets 313 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun.

Sorrento usually gets more rain in July than Bari. Sorrento gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sorrento or Bari in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Sorrento and Bari. 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. Also, many visitors come to Bari in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Sorrento is around the same temperature as Bari in the autumn. The daily temperature in Sorrento averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Bari fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

Sorrento usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bari during autumn. Sorrento gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Sorrento gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Sorrento usually receives more rain than Bari. Sorrento gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Sorrento or Bari in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Sorrento as well as Bari. Many visitors come to Sorrento in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Bari for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Sorrento is cooler than Bari. Typically, the winter temperatures in Sorrento in January average around 8°C (47°F), and Bari averages at about 10°C (49°F).

In the winter, Sorrento often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bari. Sorrento gets 115 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun.

Sorrento receives a lot of rain in the winter. Sorrento usually gets more rain in January than Bari. Sorrento gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sorrento or Bari in the Spring?

Both Bari and Sorrento are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Sorrento for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Bari because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Sorrento is generally around the same temperature as Bari. Daily temperatures in Sorrento average around 13°C (55°F), and Bari fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Bari. Sorrento usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bari during spring. Sorrento gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Sorrento usually receives more rain than Bari. Sorrento gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bari and Sorrento