A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Trieste vs. Sorrento for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Trieste 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 Trieste 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.

Trieste

Trieste is a diverse, cultural, and historic city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for beaches, 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.

Trieste and Sorrento: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Trieste or Sorrento?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sorrento than Trieste, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sorrento is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Trieste is more popular for its museums and historical sights. Sorrento is more touristy than Trieste 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. Trieste is well known for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage.

How is Trieste different from Sorrento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Trieste is a city with good options for its museums and landmarks. However, Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

Trieste is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Because Trieste was part of Austria for such a long stretch of time, you'll find that it looks different from many Italian cities. This is also evident in the different architectural and historic monuments around town. Major landmarks and sights include Piazza dell'Unità d'Italia, which is the largest square in the old part of the city, Miramare Castle, San Giusto Castle, Museum Riseria di San Sabba, and the Cathedral of San Giusto.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Sorrento is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Trieste offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. It's hard to pinpoint exactly how to categorize the local cuisine. It's been influenced by the city's Austro-Hungarian past and you'll find Austrian, Slovenian, and even Croatian flavors. The food scene is often overlooked for more famous Italian cities, but that doesn't mean there's not a lot to enjoy. Make sure you try jota (a bean, potato, and sauerkraut stew), calandraca (a salted meat stew), and gulasch alla triestina (a local twist on goulash. The city is also a coffee capital in Italy.

Is Trieste or Sorrento Better for Nightlife?

The notable nightlife scene is relatively similar in Trieste and Sorrento.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Trieste. While it's not known as a party destination, there is a laid-back nightlife scene that usually involves a late night enjoying drinks at a local bar with friends. Many establishments blur the café and bar concepts, but you'll find a number of lively bars west of Piazza Unità in the trendy Cavana neighborhood. There always seems to be something new in the area worth checking out.

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.

Is Trieste or Sorrento Better for Resorts?

Sorrento is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Trieste 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.

Trieste is not a resort destination.

Is Trieste or Sorrento Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sorrento is a decent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Trieste is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to 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.

Trieste is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Trieste or Sorrento Better for Beaches?

Both Trieste and Sorrento are considered to be notable beach destinations.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Trieste. The beaches tend to be pebbly, but they are a nice way to experience the sea. Locals still refer to it as "bathing" in the sea, a throwback to years past. The most common beach to visit is Ausonia, which is at the bottom of the Rive past the port of Sacchetta. Nearby are La Lanterna, also called Pedocin. This area still separates men and women in the bathing areas.

Sorrento offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Is Trieste or Sorrento Better for its Old Town?

Trieste is a city with good options for its historic old town. However, Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Trieste to see the historical old town. The old town highlights the diversity of cultures and influences from the city's past.

Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Is Trieste or Sorrento Better for Hiking?

Sorrento is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Trieste is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Trieste is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Trieste or Sorrento?

Sorrento is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Trieste or Sorrento Better for Families?

Both Trieste and Sorrento are great to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Trieste. The caves, adventure parks, and interactive museums all make for a fun family vacation. Make sure you check out Grotta Gigante, which will impress kids and adults alike. The Museum of Natural History has a collection of fossils that any dinosaur lover will appreciate, and Trieste Adventure Park is filled with ropes courses and ziplines. Finally, a visit to Miramare Castle will spark every child's imagination.

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 Trieste or Sorrento Better for Couples?

Sorrento is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Couples visit Trieste frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Visit the castles, cathedrals, and historic monuments, experience the atmosphere of the city's historic center, people watch in one of the grand piazzas, and watch the city light up at night. There are so many romantic sides to this cultural Italian city.

Is Trieste or Sorrento Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sorrento is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Trieste. It's often overlooked for more popular Italian city's but there is still a lot that this under-rated city has to offer. You'll also find hostels for every budget and a youthful energy that will bring the city to life.

Is Trieste or Sorrento Better for Students?

Trieste is a great destination for students. However, Sorrento is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Trieste. Italy attracts students from around the globe and this city is no exception. The city's diverse population and unique cultural opportunities make it a great place to study abroad or immerse yourself in university life.

Sorrento is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find great public transit in both Trieste and Sorrento.

Trieste offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are buses and trams to help you get around town.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Sorrento. 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 Trieste or Sorrento a more walkable city?

Trieste and Sorrento are great when it comes to walkability.

Trieste is a very walkable destination. It's a hilly city, but it's also very walkable.

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 Trieste Worth Visiting? and Is Sorrento Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sorrento or Trieste?

How long in Trieste or Sorrento?

Both Trieste 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 Trieste. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Trieste, and 3-7 days is enough time in Sorrento.

Families should spend more time in Sorrento than Trieste. 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 Trieste. 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 Trieste 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 Trieste or Sorrento?

The city of Trieste offers nightlife and food. 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.

In Sorrento, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This small city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Trieste or Sorrento?

Trieste 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Trieste, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Sorrento, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Trieste or Sorrento?

Trieste is a popular choice for travelers. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sorrento has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Trieste or Sorrento?

Trieste is a great place to explore. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sorrento. In Sorrento, you'll find shopping and nightlife. One reason most visitors come is for the food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, The Best Contiki Tours to Italy, The Best G Adventures Tours to Italy, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Trieste or Sorrento?

Trieste has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Sorrento. When comparing the sizes of Trieste 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 Trieste 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 Trieste or Sorrento in the Summer?

Both Sorrento and Trieste during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Trieste because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, 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, Trieste is around the same temperature as Sorrento. Typically, the summer temperatures in Trieste in July average around 24°C (75°F), and Sorrento averages at about 23°C (74°F).

In Sorrento, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Trieste. In the summer, Trieste often gets less sunshine than Sorrento. Trieste gets 288 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 313 hours of full sun.

Trieste usually gets more rain in July than Sorrento. Trieste gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Trieste or Sorrento in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Trieste and Sorrento. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Trieste this time of year. Furthermore, 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, Trieste is generally around the same temperature as Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Trieste average around 16°C (60°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Trieste usually receives less sunshine than Sorrento during autumn. Trieste gets 167 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Sorrento receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Trieste usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Trieste gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Trieste or Sorrento in the Winter?

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

Trieste is much colder than Sorrento in the winter. The daily temperature in Trieste averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Sorrento fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Trieste often gets less sunshine than Sorrento. Trieste gets 96 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 115 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sorrento. Trieste usually gets less rain in January than Sorrento. Trieste gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Trieste or Sorrento in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Trieste is around the same temperature as Sorrento. Typically, the spring temperatures in Trieste in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Sorrento averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Trieste usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sorrento during spring. Trieste gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Trieste usually receives more rain than Sorrento. Trieste gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Sorrento and Trieste