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

Should you visit Sorrento or Bologna?

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 Bologna 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 relaxing, accessible, and laid back 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. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Bologna

Bologna is a beautiful, fun, and historical city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Sorrento and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sorrento or Bologna?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sorrento than Bologna, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sorrento is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Bologna is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights. Sorrento is more touristy than Bologna and is known for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast. Also, Sorrento is famous for Marina Grande and Marina Piccola. Bologna is well known for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Sorrento different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bologna is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It has many historical and religious landmarks, active squares, and impressive museums including the Basilica of St. Petronius, St. Stephen Basilica, the Leaning Towers, and the Portico of the Madonna di San Luca.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at amazing restaurants in both Sorrento and Bologna.

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 Bologna, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Foodies will appreciate the city's well earned culinary reputation. Some people even consider Bologna to be a food capital in Italy. There are cooking classes and food tours around town, as well as many great restaurants that serve up local dishes. Visitors should try Tagliatelle with Ragu (now famously known around the world as Bolognaise), Tortellini in broth, and Mortadella (salami).

Is Sorrento or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Bologna know how to have a good time. The young population that is filled with international students means that the city has a fun and active nightlife scene. Some of the city's best neighborhoods for nightlife include Centro Storico, where the tourists hang out, the University District, which is perfect for students in their 20s, and Via dell'Indipendenza, which is popular for an upscale evening out.

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 Bologna Better for Resorts?

Sorrento is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Bologna 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.

Bologna is not a resort destination.

Is Sorrento or Bologna Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sorrento is a moderate small city for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Bologna 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.

Bologna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sorrento or Bologna Better for Beaches?

Sorrento is very good for the beach. However, Bologna 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.

Bologna is not a beach destination.

Is Sorrento or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

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

Bologna is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is filled with Terracota buildings, which give the city its nickname, La Rossa (The Red).

Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Is Sorrento or Bologna Better for Hiking?

Sorrento is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Bologna 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.

Bologna is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sorrento or Bologna?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bologna and Sorrento.

Sorrento is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Bologna is well-known for its shopping. The city hosts regular open-air markets where you can pick up local produce or local items. It is among the best shopping destinations in the region. For some of the city's best shopping, head to Piazza Maggiore, Mercato di Mezzo, Mercato delle Erbe, or Via Rizzoli.

Is Sorrento or Bologna Better for Families?

Sorrento is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Sorrento is known to be 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.

Bologna is a family-friendly small city. There are kid-friendly museums such as Museo Geologico Cappellini and the interactive history museum of Museo della Storia di Bologna. There's even a museum solely dedicated to gelato - Gelato at Carpigiani Museum. If your kids need a bit of time in nature, check out Dulcamara farm or the Botanic Garden. On the weekend you many be able to catch a show at Margherita's Puppet Theatre.

Is Sorrento or Bologna Better for Couples?

Sorrento is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Bologna is a nice destination for couples. With beautiful museums, interesting architecture. and lively squares, this is a great city for a couple's holiday. It's filled with romance, but it has less tourist crowds than some of Italy's more popular cities.

Is Sorrento or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sorrento is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Sorrento is a very popular small city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Bologna is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's not a popular as some of the other cities in Italy and Europe, but it still has a number of hostels and a good backpacker scene.

Is Sorrento or Bologna Better for Students?

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

Bologna is a very popular city for students. It's a top study abroad destination in Italy and is home to a few great universities including the well ranked University of Bologna. There are many great activities for students and a variety of fun places to explore.

Sorrento is not popular with students.

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

Sorrento is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Bologna has some public transit options. There is an efficient and reliable bus system.

Is Sorrento or Bologna a more walkable city?

Sorrento and Bologna both are superb 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.

Bologna is a very walkable small city. Most sights are always within a 30 minute walk, and the city itself is very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Sorrento?

How long in Sorrento or Bologna?

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

Families should spend more time in Sorrento than Bologna. 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 Bologna. 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 Bologna 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 Bologna?

In Sorrento, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This small city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful city of Bologna 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 Bologna?

In Sorrento, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Bologna 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bologna, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Sorrento or Bologna?

Sorrento is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sorrento has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Bologna 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 Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sorrento. In Sorrento, you'll find shopping and nightlife. One reason most visitors come is for the food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Bologna 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 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 comparing the travel costs between Sorrento and Bologna, we can see that Bologna 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 Sorrento Expensive? and Is Bologna Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Sorrento or Bologna?

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

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 Bologna in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Sorrento and Bologna. Many visitors come to Sorrento in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Bologna for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Sorrento is generally around the same temperature as Bologna. Daily temperatures in Sorrento average around 23°C (74°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bologna this time of the year. In Sorrento, it's very sunny this time of the year. Sorrento usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bologna during summer. Sorrento gets 313 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Sorrento usually receives more rain than Bologna. Sorrento gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Sorrento or Bologna in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Sorrento as well as Bologna. 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. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Bologna because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Sorrento is around the same temperature as Bologna in the autumn. The daily temperature in Sorrento averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Bologna fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Sorrento often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bologna. Sorrento gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bologna. Sorrento receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Sorrento usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Bologna. Sorrento gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sorrento or Bologna in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Bologna in the winter. In the winter, Sorrento is much warmer than Bologna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Sorrento in January average around 8°C (47°F), and Bologna averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Sorrento usually receives more sunshine than Bologna during winter. Sorrento gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Sorrento. In January, Sorrento usually receives more rain than Bologna. Sorrento gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Sorrento or Bologna in the Spring?

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

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

In the spring, Sorrento often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bologna. Sorrento gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun.

Sorrento usually gets less rain in April than Bologna. Sorrento gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Sorrento