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

Should you visit Sorrento or Milan?

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 Milan 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. 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 nightlife, food, and beaches.

Milan

Milan is a cultural, trendy, and chic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Sorrento and Milan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sorrento or Milan?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Milan than Sorrento, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Milan is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Sorrento is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Sorrento is more touristy than Milan and is popular for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast. Milan is well known for its grand squares, dramatic architecture, and its leadership in the fashion world. Also, Milan is famous for Piazza del Duomo.

How is Sorrento different from Milan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Milan 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 Milan. The Milan Cathedral is the most famous landmark in the city, but other sights include Castello Sforzesco, Pinacoteca di Brera, and Sant'Ambrogio.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

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 Milan, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city has a mix of traditional dishes combined with modernized, trendy restaurants. You can try a new dish by a groundbreaking chef, or sample a long running favorite like risotto alla Milanese.

Is Sorrento or Milan Better for Nightlife?

Milan is renowned for nightlife. Also, Sorrento is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Milan is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city has a huge number of students and young professionals, which make it a fun place with an active nightlife. There are cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and relaxed pubs that you can chose from.

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 Milan Better for Music?

Milan is renowned for live music. However, Sorrento is not a live music destination.

Milan is a world class music destination. The diversity of music ranges from classical concerts to techno raves. Popular venues include Blue Note Milan, Santeria Social Club, and Spirit de Milan.

Sorrento is not a live music destination.

Is Sorrento or Milan Better for Resorts?

Sorrento is great for its luxury resorts. However, Milan 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.

Milan is not a resort destination.

Is Sorrento or Milan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Milan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sorrento or Milan Better for Beaches?

Sorrento is a small city with good options for the beach. However, Milan is not a beach destination.

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.

Milan is not a beach destination.

Is Sorrento or Milan Better for its Old Town?

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

The old town of Milan is one of the most recognized in the world. Known as the Centro Storic, this area is the most popular with tourists. It's where you'll find the most historic buildings and beautiful sights in the city.

Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Is Sorrento or Milan Better for Hiking?

Sorrento is great for hiking. However, Milan 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.

Milan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sorrento or Milan?

Milan is renowned for shopping. Also, Sorrento is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Milan is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Famous as the fashion capital of Italy, shopping is the thing to do here. There are many streets that are lined with the biggest designers in fashion. Make sure you check out Via Monte Napoleone, Via Della Spiga, and Corso Buenos Aires.

Sorrento is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Is Sorrento or Milan Better for Families?

Sorrento is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Milan is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Sorrento. 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.

Milan is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a science museum and a children's museum, MuBa, that is great for the kids. There are also a number of parks to explore as well as playgrounds where the kids and get out their energy.

Is Sorrento or Milan Better for Couples?

Sorrento is an amazing small city to visit for couples. Also, Milan is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Milan is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many beautiful buildings, excellent shopping, and romantic restaurants that make for a wonderful couple's getaway.

Is Sorrento or Milan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sorrento is an amazing small city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Milan is not as popular, but is still a nice 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 Milan. While not as popular with backpackers as some Italian city's, there are a number of hostels and great activities that are fun for visitors.

Is Sorrento or Milan Better for Students?

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

Milan is a very popular city for students. It is one of the more popular city's for international students in Italy. It is very livable with a lot of culture and a fun nightlife, so you're sure to have the experience of a lifetime.

Sorrento is not popular with students.

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

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

Milan has a great public transit system. Options include metro, bus, tram, and train lines.

Sorrento has some very good public transit options. 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 Sorrento or Milan a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Milan on foot is easy. In particular, the city center is walkable.

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 Milan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Milan or Sorrento?

How long in Sorrento or Milan?

In either Sorrento or Milan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Sorrento than Milan 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 Milan.

Families should spend more time in Sorrento than Milan. 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 Milan. 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 Milan 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 Milan.

One day in Sorrento or Milan?

In Sorrento, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this accessible 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.

Milan is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Milan?

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.

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

Five days in Sorrento or Milan?

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.

Milan is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Milan, 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 Milan?

In Sorrento, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this colorful 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Sorrento or Milan?

Milan has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Sorrento. When comparing the sizes of Sorrento and Milan, 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 Milan?

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 Milan in the Summer?

Both Milan and Sorrento during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Sorrento because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Milan this time of year.

In July, Sorrento is generally around the same temperature as Milan. Daily temperatures in Sorrento average around 23°C (74°F), and Milan fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Milan, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Sorrento. In the summer, Sorrento often gets more sunshine than Milan. Sorrento gets 313 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milan receives 250 hours of full sun.

Sorrento usually gets less rain in July than Milan. Sorrento gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Milan receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sorrento or Milan in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Sorrento and Milan. 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 Milan for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Sorrento is a little warmer than Milan in the autumn. The daily temperature in Sorrento averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Milan fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Sorrento usually receives more sunshine than Milan during autumn. Sorrento gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Milan receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Milan receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Sorrento gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Sorrento usually receives more rain than Milan. Sorrento gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Milan receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Sorrento or Milan in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Sorrento as well as Milan. Many travelers come to Sorrento for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Milan in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Milan can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Sorrento is much warmer than Milan. Typically, the winter temperatures in Sorrento in January average around 8°C (47°F), and Milan averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Sorrento often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Milan. Sorrento gets 115 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milan receives 119 hours of full sun.

Sorrento receives a lot of rain in the winter. Sorrento usually gets more rain in January than Milan. Sorrento gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Milan receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sorrento or Milan in the Spring?

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

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

Sorrento usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Milan during spring. Sorrento gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Milan receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Sorrento usually receives around the same amount of rain as Milan. Sorrento gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Milan receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Milan and Sorrento