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

Should you visit Sorrento or Rome?

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 Rome 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. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Rome

Rome is a ancient, archeological, and bustling 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 Rome: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sorrento or Rome?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Rome than Sorrento, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Rome is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Sorrento is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Rome is more touristy than Sorrento and is known for its iconic archaeological sites such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, as well as its gelato, Italian cuisine, and strong religious roots. Also, Rome is famous for The Colosseum. Sorrento is well known for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast.

The Colosseum

How is Sorrento different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rome is renowned for its museums and landmarks. However, Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Rome that are not to be missed. The historical sights around the city are among the most impressive in the world. Almost anywhere you look you'll find a notable landmark but some of the most famous include the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican, and the Roman Forum.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

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 Rome, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

Is Sorrento or Rome Better for Nightlife?

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

Rome is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. You'll find a huge concentration of bars and clubs in the Testaccio area. There are late night clubs with salsa dancing, merengue, and live DJ's spinning every type of music.

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 Rome Better for Music?

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

Rome is a world class music destination. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Sorrento is not a live music destination.

Is Sorrento or Rome Better for Resorts?

Sorrento is a great destination for its resorts. However, Rome 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.

Rome is not a resort destination.

Is Sorrento or Rome Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sorrento is a small city with a few options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Rome 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.

Rome is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sorrento or Rome Better for Beaches?

Sorrento is a small city with good options for the beach. However, Rome 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.

Rome is not a beach destination.

Is Sorrento or Rome Better for Hiking?

Sorrento is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Rome 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.

Rome is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sorrento or Rome?

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

Rome is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. For the biggest brand names, head to Via del Corso, which is near the Spanish Steps. Popular items to buy include Italian ceramics, shoes, leather goods, and jewelry.

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 Rome Better for Families?

Both Sorrento and Rome are great 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, Rome is very family-friendly. What kid wouldn't be thrilled to be surrounded by pizza and spaghetti restaurants? In addition to kid-friendly food options, there are also a number of great activities that the whole family can enjoy including exploring the Colosseum, taking a gladiator class, and eating gelato.

Is Sorrento or Rome Better for Couples?

Sorrento is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Rome is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Rome is a great small city if you're traveling as a couple. With many beautiful buildings, world class restaurants, and world renowned sights, this city makes a great romantic destination.

Is Sorrento or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sorrento and Rome are world-class 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, Rome is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpackers will find no shortage of hostels where they can stay, particularly near the main train station where accommodation is particularly cheap (but not always the best quality).

Is Sorrento or Rome Better for Students?

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

Rome is a very popular city for students. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.

Sorrento is not popular with students.

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

Rome 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.

Rome has a great public transit system. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

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 Rome a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Rome on foot is easy. You'll find many of the most popular sights in a compact area that's easily explored on foot. Do watch out for traffic, which can be a bit chaotic at times.

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 Rome Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rome or Sorrento?

How long in Sorrento or Rome?

Both Sorrento and Rome have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Rome has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Rome than Sorrento. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

One day in Sorrento or Rome?

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.

Rome is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Sorrento or Rome?

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.

Rome is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Sorrento or Rome?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic 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.

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

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the accessible 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.

Rome is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rome has to offer. 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 Rome, we can see that Rome 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 Rome would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Rome 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 Rome Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Sorrento or Rome?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 160 times larger than the population of Sorrento. When comparing the sizes of Sorrento and Rome, 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 Rome?

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 Rome in the Summer?

Both Rome and Sorrento are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Sorrento because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Rome this time of year.

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

It's quite sunny in Rome. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sorrento. Sorrento usually receives less sunshine than Rome during summer. Sorrento gets 313 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Sorrento usually receives more rain than Rome. Sorrento gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Sorrento or Rome in the Autumn?

Both Rome and Sorrento during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Also, many travelers come to Rome for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In the autumn, Sorrento often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Rome. Sorrento gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sorrento. Sorrento usually gets more rain in October than Rome. Sorrento gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sorrento or Rome in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Sorrento and Rome. Many travelers come to Sorrento for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Rome in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

Sorrento usually receives less sunshine than Rome during winter. Sorrento gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

Sorrento gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Sorrento usually receives more rain than Rome. Sorrento gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Sorrento or Rome in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Sorrento as well as Rome. 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 Rome for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rome. In the spring, Sorrento often gets less sunshine than Rome. Sorrento gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun.

Sorrento usually gets more rain in April than Rome. Sorrento gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rome and Sorrento