A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Toulouse vs. Sorrento for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Toulouse or Sorrento?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Toulouse and Sorrento 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.

Toulouse

Toulouse is a historic, vibrant, and friendly city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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.

Toulouse and Sorrento: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Toulouse or Sorrento?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sorrento than Toulouse, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sorrento is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Toulouse is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights. Sorrento is more touristy than Toulouse and is popular for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast. Also, Sorrento is famous for Marina Grande and Marina Piccola. Toulouse is well known for its impressive old town, many museums, and delicious local cuisine.

How is Toulouse different from Sorrento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Sorrento and Toulouse. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Toulouse or Sorrento?

Toulouse 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 Toulouse. There is a long running history with countless landmarks and museums. Highlights include Basilique Saint-Sernin, Place du Capitole, Muséum de Toulouse, and Fondation Bemberg.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Toulouse and Sorrento offer a number of world-class restaurants to choose from.

Many restaurants in Toulouse have been singled out for their culinary prowess. There are many unique regional recipes that make use of poultry, cold meats, and foie gras. Toulouse sausage, cassoulet, Poulet à la Toulousaine, and Foie gras d’oie are all popular local dishes.

Eat your way through Sorrento, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Is Toulouse or Sorrento Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Toulouse know how to have a good time. You'll find a large number of students in town so the nightlife scene is active and fun. For the most lively atmosphere head to Carmes, Saint-Cyprien, or Place Saint-Pierre.

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 Toulouse or Sorrento Better for Resorts?

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

Toulouse is not a resort destination.

Is Toulouse or Sorrento Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Toulouse is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Toulouse or Sorrento Better for Beaches?

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

Toulouse is not a beach destination.

Is Toulouse or Sorrento Better for its Old Town?

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

Toulouse is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is filled with terra-cota buildings and pedestrian walkways. The area flows out around the Capitole and is crossed by the Garonne.

Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Is Toulouse or Sorrento Better for Hiking?

Sorrento is great for hiking. However, Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Toulouse or Sorrento?

If you're looking to go shopping, Toulouse and Sorrento both offer plenty of great spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Toulouse. There are many great shopping districts around town including Place du Capitole, The Saint Georges district, and Rue Alsace Lorraine.

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.

Is Toulouse or Sorrento Better for Families?

Both Toulouse and Sorrento are great to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Toulouse. The city's known for its space industry so the La Cite de l’Espace (Space Museum) is a favorite attraction for kids and adults alike. You can also visit Aeroscopia, the airplane museum. La Halle de la machine is a truly unique and impressive playground. The city also has many other museums and outdoor spaces to explore.

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.

Is Toulouse or Sorrento Better for Couples?

Sorrento is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many beautiful parks, gardens, and walking paths. Make sure you take a stroll along the Canal du Midi and visit Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis. This is also a great city for visiting a spa.

Is Toulouse or Sorrento Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sorrento is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Toulouse is not a good destination 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.

Toulouse is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a major stop off for many backpackers in Europe so you won't find as many hostels as you do in other cities.

Is Toulouse or Sorrento Better for Students?

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

Toulouse is popular with students. You'll find a diverse student population with many international students.

Sorrento is not popular with students.

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

Sorrento is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Sorrento offers a very effecient public transportation network. 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.

Toulouse has a few public transit options. There are a large number of bus routes that travel both locally and regionally.

Is Toulouse or Sorrento a more walkable city?

Toulouse and Sorrento are great when it comes to walkability.

Toulouse is a very walkable destination. Within the city center it is very walkable and easy to explore 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Sorrento or Toulouse?

How long in Toulouse or Sorrento?

Both Toulouse and Sorrento have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sorrento than in Toulouse. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Toulouse, and 3-7 days is enough time in Sorrento.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sorrento than Toulouse 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 Toulouse or Sorrento?

The city of Toulouse offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

The beautiful small city of Sorrento offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Toulouse or Sorrento?

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

Sorrento is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Toulouse or Sorrento?

Toulouse 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.

Sorrento 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 Sorrento, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Toulouse or Sorrento?

Toulouse 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.

Sorrento is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sorrento has to offer. This small city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best Adventure Tours to Italy, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Toulouse and Sorrento, 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 Toulouse Expensive? and Is Sorrento Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Toulouse or Sorrento?

Toulouse has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Sorrento. When comparing the sizes of Toulouse and Sorrento, 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 Toulouse or Sorrento?

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 Toulouse or Sorrento in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Toulouse as well as Sorrento. The summer months attract visitors to Toulouse because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sorrento this time of year.

In the summer, Toulouse is around the same temperature as Sorrento. Typically, the summer temperatures in Toulouse in July average around 22°C (72°F), and Sorrento averages at about 23°C (74°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sorrento. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Toulouse this time of the year. In the summer, Toulouse often gets less sunshine than Sorrento. Toulouse gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 313 hours of full sun.

Toulouse usually gets more rain in July than Sorrento. Toulouse gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Toulouse or Sorrento in the Autumn?

Both Sorrento and Toulouse are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Toulouse this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sorrento for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Toulouse is generally around the same temperature as Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Toulouse average around 15°C (60°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Toulouse usually receives less sunshine than Sorrento during autumn. Toulouse gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sorrento. In October, Toulouse usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Toulouse gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Toulouse or Sorrento in the Winter?

Both Sorrento and Toulouse during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Toulouse for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Sorrento in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Toulouse is cooler than Sorrento in the winter. The daily temperature in Toulouse averages around 6°C (44°F) in January, and Sorrento fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Toulouse often gets less sunshine than Sorrento. Toulouse gets 88 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 115 hours of full sun.

Sorrento gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Toulouse usually gets less rain in January than Sorrento. Toulouse gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Toulouse or Sorrento in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Toulouse and Sorrento. Many visitors come to Toulouse in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Sorrento for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Toulouse is around the same temperature as Sorrento. Typically, the spring temperatures in Toulouse in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Sorrento averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Toulouse usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sorrento during spring. Toulouse gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Toulouse usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Toulouse gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Sorrento and Toulouse