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

Should you visit Valencia or Sorrento?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Valencia or Sorrento, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Valencia

Valencia is a coastal, cultural, and historic coastal city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Sorrento

Sorrento is a accessible, laid back, and colorful small city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Valencia and Sorrento: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valencia or Sorrento?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Valencia. Although Valencia and Sorrento are popular destinations, Valencia has more sights and attractions for tourists. Valencia is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Sorrento attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and hiking. Valencia is famous for its rich cultural, world class museums, beautiful old town, and local cuisine (which includes paella). It is also well known for La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències. Sorrento is famous for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast.

How is Valencia different from Sorrento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Valencia 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 Valencia. The city is famous for its architecture and culture. Most of the main attractions are concentrated in Ciutat Vella and can be easily accessed on foot. Notable landmarks include La Lonja de Seda, Catedral de València, and Plaza de la Virgen. There are also several world class museums including Oceanogràfic de València and La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències de València.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Valencia and Sorrento can be difficult as they are each first-rate in their own way.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Valencia is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city is famous as the birthplace of paella, which is one of Spain's most famous dishes. Beyond the paella, there are a number of other amazing traditional dishes. Fideuà is similar to paella but made with noodles instead of rice. All i pebre is an eel and potato dish and clóchinas are tiny local mussels. For dessert make sure you try the flan de calabaza, which is pumpkin flavored. Many restaurants also have tapas that can be shared. Restaurants in the old town are charming and delicious, but out by the beaches the quality isn't as good.

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.

Is Valencia or Sorrento Better for Nightlife?

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

Valencia is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. Dinner starts late, so you can expect the nightlife to pick up even later. During the summer there are all night terrace parties and year round you'll find nightclubs filled from evening to dawn. If all night raves aren't really your thing, you'll also find plenty of local bars where you can hang out with friends in a more relaxed setting. The nightlife scene really is varied enough that there's something for everyone.

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 Valencia or Sorrento Better for Resorts?

Sorrento is well known for its resorts. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

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.

Valencia has a few great resort options. You can choose between staying near the old town (Ciutat Vella) or out by the beach. One of the best beach areas is El Cabanyal. It's still close enough in to be well connected by public transit but offers a great coastal vibe as well.

Is Valencia or Sorrento Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sorrento is a small city with a few options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Valencia 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.

Valencia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Valencia or Sorrento Better for Beaches?

Both Valencia and Sorrento have nice beaches worth visiting.

Valencia has a beach worth visiting. There are several urban beaches in town that are accessible by public transit. Many offer surprisingly long stretches of sand with wide beaches and plenty of activity. The beaches can get crowded during the summer months, but they are generally large enough to accommodate the crowds. La Malvarrosa Beach is one of the most popular because of its proximity to the city. El Saler Beach is further out and popular with the locals and Port Saplaya is a colorful area with shopping and beaches.

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.

Is Valencia or Sorrento Better for its Old Town?

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

The old town of Valencia is one of the most recognized in the world. For culture, history, and the majority of the city's attractions, you'll want to spend your time in Ciutat Vella (old town).

Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Is Valencia or Sorrento Better for Hiking?

Sorrento is well known for its hiking experiences. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

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.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Valencia. Most people miss out on the beautiful hikes through the nearby countryside, but if you venture out of town you can enjoy some beautiful walking trails. Many run along the coastline or pass through rolling hills. There is varied landscape in the area with pine forests, orange groves, and vineyards all common.

Is the Shopping Better in Valencia or Sorrento?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Sorrento and Valencia.

Valencia is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. As the third largest city in Spain, you'll find most designer brands around town. The main shopping street is Calle Colon where you'll find the well-known European brands mixed in with the lesser-known Spanish brands. For a more local experience head to Mercado Central where you'll find local produce, colorful seafood, and a unique foodie vibe.

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.

Is Valencia or Sorrento Better for Families?

Valencia and Sorrento are both high quality destinations for the whole family.

Valencia is a very kid-friendly coastal city. The city has some kid-friendly museums, an impressive zoo, and the largest aquarium in Europe (with its own dolphin show). Head to the Science Museum or simply wander around the museum complex. There are water activities and a beautiful futuristic style that attracts families and influencers with its photogenic atmosphere. There are also countless playgrounds of all sizes around town and a number of parks and outdoor spaces where kids can run around. There's a city park that runs through town and has playgrounds and bike trails. You can also spend a fun-filled day at the beach.

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.

Is Valencia or Sorrento Better for Couples?

Sorrento is an amazing small city to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Valencia is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. The city is filled with interesting culture, beautiful weather, and delightful cuisine. There are sandy beaches and luxury hotels that will make for an amazing romantic getaway. There are also many beautiful gardens and charming neighborhoods that you can explore. Couples can split a paella and sip sangrias in one of the many charming restaurants around town.

Is Valencia or Sorrento Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sorrento is an amazing small city to visit for backpackers. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Sorrento. 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 budget travelers and backpackers visit Valencia. It's often overlooked for more popular destinations, but this city has plenty to offer in the form of affordable accommodation and food as well as interesting sights.

Is Valencia or Sorrento Better for Students?

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

Valencia is a very popular coastal city for students. The city is young and vibrant with a lot of culture and beautiful neighborhoods. It's also well connected to the rest of Spain with a convenient central train station.

Sorrento is not popular with students.

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

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

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.

While Valencia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Public transit is available in the form of buses and a tram/metro system but the system isn't as comprehensive as it could be and much of the city is surprisingly dependent on cars.

Is Valencia or Sorrento a more walkable city?

Valencia and Sorrento both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Valencia is a very walkable coastal city. Walking is the best way to explore many parts of the city and you can walk from one side of the Ciutat Vella to the other in about 20 minutes. This area is where you'll find most of the city's main attractions. There are other neighborhoods that are a bit less pedestrian-friendly.

Sorrento is a very walkable destination. 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 Valencia Worth Visiting? and Is Sorrento Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sorrento or Valencia?

How long in Valencia or Sorrento?

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

Couples should spend more time in Sorrento than Valencia. 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 Valencia 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 Valencia or Sorrento?

Valencia is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Valencia or Sorrento?

Valencia is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal 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 Valencia, 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 Valencia or Sorrento?

Valencia 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 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 Valencia or Sorrento?

Valencia 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 coastal 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 G Adventures Tours to Spain, The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best Adventure Tours to Italy, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Valencia or Sorrento?

Valencia has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Sorrento. When comparing the sizes of Valencia 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 Valencia or Sorrento?

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 Valencia or Sorrento in the Summer?

Both Sorrento and Valencia are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Valencia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sorrento for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Valencia is generally around the same temperature as Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 25°C (76°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Sorrento. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valencia. Valencia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sorrento during summer. Valencia gets 303 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Valencia usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Valencia gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Valencia or Sorrento in the Autumn?

Both Sorrento and Valencia during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Valencia for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Sorrento in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Valencia is a little warmer than Sorrento in the autumn. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Sorrento fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

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

Sorrento gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Valencia usually gets less rain in October than Sorrento. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Sorrento in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Valencia and Sorrento. Many visitors come to Valencia in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Sorrento for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Valencia is a little warmer than Sorrento. Typically, the winter temperatures in Valencia in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Sorrento averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Sorrento during winter. Valencia gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

Sorrento receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Valencia usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Valencia or Sorrento in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Valencia as well as Sorrento. Most visitors come to Valencia for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Sorrento because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Valencia is generally a little warmer than Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 15°C (60°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valencia this time of the year. In the spring, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Sorrento. Valencia gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in April than Sorrento. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Sorrento and Valencia