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

Should you visit Sorrento or Naples?

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 Naples 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 accessible, laid back, and colorful 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 shopping, nightlife, and food.

Naples

Naples is a historic, authentic, and gritty city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Sorrento and Naples: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sorrento or Naples?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Naples than Sorrento, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Naples is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Sorrento is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Sorrento is more touristy than Naples and is known for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast. Naples is well known for its colorful atmosphere, long running history, and influence on world cuisine as the birthplace of pizza. Also, Naples is famous for Piazza del Plebiscito.

How is Sorrento different from Naples?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Naples 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 Naples. Most of the sights are concentrated in the city's historic center. The Naples Harbor is a gateway to the Mediterranean. Also worth visiting are the National Archeological Museum, Capodimonte Royal Palace, Castel Nuovo, and the Catacombs of San Gennaro.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at first-rate restaurants in both Sorrento and Naples.

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 Naples, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. As the birthplace of pizza, the city has a well known food reputation. Many local dishes, including an authentic Napoli pizza, use simple flavors such as olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes. The dishes are lighter than their northern counterparts and tomatoes are a very popular ingredient. In addition to the pizza, you should try Lasagna Al Forno Napoletana and Spaghetti Alla Vognole. Also check out a pizza making class.

Is Sorrento or Naples Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Naples know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene includes small bars, wineries, and dance clubs, but much of the energy and activity is actually focused on being outdoors. There is plenty of live music and many nightclubs are actually "disco bars" that are found tucked away in the city's historic center.

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 Naples Better for Resorts?

Sorrento is well known for its resorts. However, Naples is not a resort destination.

Sorrento is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

Naples is not a resort destination.

Is Sorrento or Naples Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sorrento is a small city with a few options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Naples is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Naples is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sorrento or Naples Better for Beaches?

Sorrento is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Naples is not a beach destination.

Sorrento has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Naples is not a beach destination.

Is Sorrento or Naples Better for its Old Town?

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

Naples is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Most of the city's tourist attractions are found in the historic center, which includes beautiful fountains, grand churches, and an impressive network of catacombs and caves.

Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Is Sorrento or Naples Better for Hiking?

Sorrento is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Naples is not a hiking destination.

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.

Naples is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sorrento or Naples?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Naples 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.

Naples is well-known for its shopping. There are shopping streets and districts that have boutique clothing vendors, high end brands, and major chains. There's plenty of diversity in the shopping scene and some of the best shopping areas include Via Toledo, the Chiaia District, and Poggioreale Market.

Is Sorrento or Naples Better for Families?

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

Naples offers lots of family activities. Despite its rough-around-the-edges reputation, the city actually has some fun kid-friendly activities. As the birthplace of pizza, a childhood favorite, eating is a kid approved activity. You can even try your hand at pizza making classes. Other fun kid-friendly activities include exploring the underground city, going to The Science Centre of Citta della Scienza, and running around Parco di Capodimonte.

Is Sorrento or Naples Better for Couples?

Sorrento is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Sorrento has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Naples is a great small city if you're traveling as a couple. Dining on pizza, wine tasting, or taking a cruise on the Gulf of Naples all make this city a great couples destination. There are also many romantic day trips in the area, so many couples use Naples as a base for exploring the region.

Is Sorrento or Naples Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sorrento is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Naples is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's more affordable than most of northern Italy, and it has plenty of hostels to choose from. The city makes a great stop for backpackers who want to see a different part of Italy. While not completely off the backpacker trail, Naples is not inundated with tourists the way some other Italian cities are.

Is Sorrento or Naples Better for Students?

Naples is a city with good options for students. However, Sorrento is not popular with students.

Naples is popular with students. It's a large city with a lot to see and do. Students also appreciate the many day trips that are available in the area.

Sorrento is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Sorrento and Naples.

Public transit in Sorrento is fairly effecient and thorough. 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.

Naples has some very good public transit options. There's a metro with two metro lines as well as four suburban train lines. There are also funiculars, regional trains, and ferries to the surrounding areas.

Is Sorrento or Naples a more walkable city?

Sorrento and Naples both are high quality 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.

Naples is a very walkable small city. The historic center is flat and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Naples or Sorrento?

How long in Sorrento or Naples?

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

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

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.

Naples 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 Naples?

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.

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

Five days in Sorrento or Naples?

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.

Naples 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 Naples?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic 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.

Naples 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 Naples, we can see that Sorrento 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 Naples Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Sorrento or Naples?

Naples has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Sorrento. When comparing the sizes of Sorrento and Naples, 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 Naples?

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 Naples in the Summer?

Both Naples and Sorrento are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Sorrento for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Naples because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

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

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

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

Should I visit Sorrento or Naples in the Autumn?

Both Naples and Sorrento during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Sorrento because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Naples this time of year.

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

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

Naples 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 Naples. Sorrento gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Naples receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sorrento or Naples in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Sorrento and Naples. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Sorrento this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Naples for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Sorrento is around the same temperature as Naples. Typically, the winter temperatures in Sorrento in January average around 8°C (47°F), and Naples averages at about 8°C (47°F).

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

Naples 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 Naples. Sorrento gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Naples receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Sorrento or Naples in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Sorrento as well as Naples. Many travelers come to Sorrento for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Naples in the spring for the activities around the city.

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

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

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

Typical Weather for Naples and Sorrento