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

Should you visit Sorrento or Dubrovnik?

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 Dubrovnik 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 historic, relaxing, and accessible 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 beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a coastal, historic, and charming coastal town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Sorrento and Dubrovnik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sorrento or Dubrovnik?

Both Dubrovnik 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 shopping and big city activities, while Dubrovnik is more popular for its museums, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Dubrovnik is more touristy than Sorrento and is popular for its well-preserved medieval old town that is surrounded by stone walls and has been the production sight for many major movies and television shows. Sorrento is well known for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast.

How is Sorrento different from Dubrovnik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik. The old town is a living museum that is filled with historic landmarks like the old town walls, the Dubrovnik Cathedral and Treasury, and Loggia Square.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at terrific restaurants in both Sorrento and Dubrovnik.

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 Dubrovnik, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Restaurants are usually locally-sourced with fresh produce and seafood. Traditional local dishes include black risotto (made with squid ink), pašticada (a beef dish), and various pasta dishes.

Is Sorrento or Dubrovnik Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Sorrento or Dubrovnik has a better nightlife scene.

Sorrento has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Dubrovnik has a few options to choose from. There are many bars around town that take advantage of the unique architecture of the city. There are far less clubs, but for a drink in a laid back setting, you'll find plenty of options.

Is Sorrento or Dubrovnik Better for Resorts?

If luxury resorts are your style, both Sorrento and Dubrovnik have excellent options.

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.

There are plenty of resorts in Dubrovnik to choose from. The old town is the most famous and charming part of the city, but you'll find most of the resorts spanning the coastline outside of town. Inside the old town there are a few boutique hotels and a number of rooms available for rent, but make sure you book early during peak seasons. For a resort, look outside of the old town with popular options including Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, the Hilton Imperial, and Rixos Premium.

Is Sorrento or Dubrovnik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Both Sorrento and Dubrovnik offer respectable scuba diving or snorkeling.

Sorrento has a few snorkeling spots. There are snorkeling excursions that you can book in the area, but this is often an overlooked activity for many visitors.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Dubrovnik. On clear days, snorkeling can be a fun activity, but the weather and visibility can vary so conditions are unpredictable. Buža is a popular snorkeling spot in town, but you can also organize tours to other areas.

Is Sorrento or Dubrovnik Better for Beaches?

Both Sorrento and Dubrovnik 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.

Dubrovnik offers a nice beach destination. The old town is the main appeal of the area, but there are several beaches that are nice for taking a swim or sunbathing. They are often pebbly, but the water is blue and the views are beautiful.

Is Sorrento or Dubrovnik Better for its Old Town?

Dubrovnik is renowned for its historic old town. However, Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Dubrovnik is one of the most recognized in the world. This walled old town is among the most famous in Europe. It's sits beautifully along the coast and it is pedestrian only. You can spend plenty of time exploring the historic lanes, popping in shops and restaurants, and soaking up the charming atmosphere.

Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Is Sorrento or Dubrovnik Better for Hiking?

Both Sorrento and Dubrovnik are destinations which offer excellent 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 Dubrovnik for the hiking trails. There are a number of hikes outside of town that take you along the dramatic coastal. The paths offer spectacular views back towards town or along the water.

Is the Shopping Better in Sorrento or Dubrovnik?

Sorrento is a great small city for its shopping areas. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town 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.

Dubrovnik is a great destination for shopping. The old town offers some nice boutique shops where you can buy designer clothes, jewelry, or trinkets.

Is Sorrento or Dubrovnik Better for Families?

Both Sorrento and Dubrovnik are excellent 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, Dubrovnik is very family-friendly. The city has nice beaches, beautiful hikes, and historic city walls that are fun to explore with kids. The food is also kid-friendly and the locals love meeting children.

Is Sorrento or Dubrovnik Better for Couples?

Both Sorrento and Dubrovnik are terrific 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.

Dubrovnik is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With its beautiful old town, nice beaches, and laid back atmosphere, this makes the perfect couple's getaway destination. Pop in a local restaurant and try the seafood before exploring the charming squares and historic buildings.

Is Sorrento or Dubrovnik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sorrento and Dubrovnik are terrific places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Sorrento is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Dubrovnik is extremely popular for backpackers. It's not hard to find a room in a local's home near old town at an affordable price. The food is delicious and affordable as well, and you'll find plenty of other backpackers in town to hang out with.

Is Sorrento or Dubrovnik 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, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its public transit.

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.

Dubrovnik has a few public transit options. There are 12 bus lines that connect all parts of the city with the city center.

Is Sorrento or Dubrovnik a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Dubrovnik on foot is easy. The old town is completely pedestrian-only and you can also explore the city's historic walls 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 Dubrovnik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dubrovnik or Sorrento?

How long in Sorrento or Dubrovnik?

In either Sorrento or Dubrovnik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Sorrento than Dubrovnik because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Sorrento, and 1-5 days is enough time in Dubrovnik.

Families should spend more time in Dubrovnik than Sorrento. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Dubrovnik, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dubrovnik than Sorrento 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 Dubrovnik.

One day in Sorrento or Dubrovnik?

You'll find food and shopping around the small city of Sorrento. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The beautiful coastal town of Dubrovnik offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Dubrovnik?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the historic destination of Sorrento. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This small city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Dubrovnik is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dubrovnik, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Sorrento or Dubrovnik?

You'll find nightlife and food around the laid back small city of Sorrento. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this small city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this small city has to offer.

Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik, 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 Dubrovnik?

Sorrento is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sorrento, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Dubrovnik is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal 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 2-Week Tours from Split, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Croatia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Sorrento and Dubrovnik, we can see that Sorrento is more expensive. And not only is Dubrovnik much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Dubrovnik would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik.

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

Which is Bigger, Sorrento or Dubrovnik?

Dubrovnik has a larger population, and is about 72% larger than the population of Sorrento. When comparing the sizes of Sorrento and Dubrovnik, 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 Dubrovnik?

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 Dubrovnik in the Summer?

Both Dubrovnik and Sorrento during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Sorrento for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Dubrovnik in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Sorrento is generally around the same temperature as Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in Sorrento average around 23°C (74°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Sorrento usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Dubrovnik. Sorrento gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sorrento or Dubrovnik in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Sorrento and Dubrovnik. Many visitors come to Sorrento in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Dubrovnik for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Sorrento is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Sorrento averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Dubrovnik receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Sorrento gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Sorrento usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Sorrento gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Sorrento or Dubrovnik in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Sorrento as well as Dubrovnik. Most visitors come to Sorrento for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Dubrovnik because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Sorrento is cooler than Dubrovnik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Sorrento in January average around 8°C (47°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 9°C (48°F).

It's quite rainy in Dubrovnik. Sorrento receives a lot of rain in the winter. Sorrento usually gets less rain in January than Dubrovnik. Sorrento gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 139 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sorrento or Dubrovnik in the Spring?

Both Dubrovnik and Sorrento are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Sorrento because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Dubrovnik this time of year.

In April, Sorrento is generally around the same temperature as Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in Sorrento average around 13°C (55°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dubrovnik. In April, Sorrento usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Sorrento gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dubrovnik and Sorrento