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

Should you visit Venice or Sorrento?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Venice and Sorrento can help you decide which place is right for you.

Venice

Venice is a historic, beautiful, and romantic city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Sorrento

Sorrento is a relaxing, accessible, and laid back 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 hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Venice and Sorrento: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Venice or Sorrento?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Venice than Sorrento, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Venice is better known for its museums, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Sorrento is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and big city activities. Venice is more touristy than Sorrento and is popular for its many canals, famous gondolas, iconic architecture, romantic squares, and beautiful bridges. Also, Venice is famous for St. Mark's Basilica. Sorrento is well known for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast.

How is Venice different from Sorrento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Venice 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 Venice that are not to be missed. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Sorrento is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Venice is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Sorrento has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Venice offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. For the best dining experience, you should try to avoid the touristy restaurants that serve the typical pizza and pasta. Instead, find a local eatery that specializes in the region's traditional flavors like fish and vegetables.

Is Venice or Sorrento Better for Nightlife?

Sorrento is very good for its evening party scene. However, Venice is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

Most people don't head to Venice specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. If you want to party, your best option is to head to the Lido area where you'll find night clubs and bars. A better alternative for enjoying your evening is to order a late night meal and a glass of wine at a local restaurant in Venice.

Is Venice or Sorrento Better for Resorts?

Sorrento is great for its luxury resorts. However, Venice is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Sorrento. 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.

Venice is not a resort destination.

Is Venice or Sorrento Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Venice is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Venice or Sorrento Better for Beaches?

Sorrento is very good for the beach. However, Venice is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Sorrento to enjoy the beach. 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.

Venice is not a beach destination.

Is Venice or Sorrento Better for its Old Town?

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

The old town of Venice is one of the most recognized in the world. The city's historic area is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, colorful buildings, are world-renowned architecture, make this among the most recognized historic settings in the world.

Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Is Venice or Sorrento Better for Hiking?

Sorrento is great for hiking. However, Venice 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.

Venice is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Venice or Sorrento?

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

Venice is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.

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 Venice or Sorrento Better for Families?

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Venice or Sorrento.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Venice. Even for kids, visiting this city is all about soaking up the atmosphere and sense of place. It is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, historic buildings, gondolas, and plazas offer a special environment, even for kids who may be burned out from exploring cities. Attractions that appeal to kids include visiting the prisons at Doge's Palace, shopping for masks, and taking a ride on a gondola.

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 Venice or Sorrento Better for Couples?

Both Venice and Sorrento are amazing destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Venice has plenty to offer. With its many truly unique romantic experiences, this city makes for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Ride a gondola, get lost in the city, and enjoy pasta and music around town to make the experience unlike any other.

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.

Is Venice or Sorrento Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sorrento is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Venice is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Venice. Many backpackers stay just out of town to save a bit of money, but, even though it's not cheap, this city is well-established on the backpacker trail.

Is Venice or Sorrento Better for Students?

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

Venice is a very popular city for students. Because of its well-established reputation, this city attracts many international students for both semester and full length programs. There are many programs to choose between, and many students focus on the region's art, architecture, history, and language.

Sorrento is not popular with students.

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

Venice 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.

Venice has a great public transit system. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.

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 Venice or Sorrento a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Venice on foot is easy. Because it is small, it's easy to walk to all of the major tourist attractions.

Sorrento is a very walkable 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 Venice Worth Visiting? and Is Sorrento Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sorrento or Venice?

How long in Venice or Sorrento?

Both Venice and Sorrento have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Sorrento has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Sorrento than Venice. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Venice, and 3-7 days is enough time in Sorrento.

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

The beautiful city of Venice 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.

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.

A weekend in Venice or Sorrento?

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

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.

Five days in Venice or Sorrento?

Venice is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Venice, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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.

A week in Venice or Sorrento?

Venice is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Venice has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Venice and Sorrento, we can see that Venice 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 Venice would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Venice 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 Venice Expensive? and Is Sorrento Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Venice or Sorrento?

Venice has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Sorrento. When comparing the sizes of Venice 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 Venice 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 Venice or Sorrento in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Venice as well as Sorrento. Many travelers come to Venice for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Sorrento in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Venice is around the same temperature as Sorrento. Typically, the summer temperatures in Venice in July average around 23°C (73°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 Venice this time of the year. In the summer, Venice often gets less sunshine than Sorrento. Venice gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 313 hours of full sun.

Venice usually gets more rain in July than Sorrento. Venice gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Venice or Sorrento in the Autumn?

Both Sorrento and Venice are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Venice in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Sorrento for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Venice is generally cooler than Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Venice average around 14°C (57°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Venice usually receives less sunshine than Sorrento during autumn. Venice gets 134 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, Venice usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Venice gets 67 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Venice or Sorrento in the Winter?

Both Sorrento and Venice during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Venice for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Sorrento because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Venice can be very cold during winter. Venice is much colder than Sorrento in the winter. The daily temperature in Venice averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Sorrento fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Venice often gets less sunshine than Sorrento. Venice 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. Venice usually gets less rain in January than Sorrento. Venice gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Venice or Sorrento in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Venice and Sorrento. The spring months attract visitors to Venice because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Sorrento this time of year.

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

Venice usually receives less sunshine than Sorrento during spring. Venice gets 154 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Venice usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Venice gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Sorrento and Venice