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

Should you visit Dublin or Sorrento?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Dublin 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.

Dublin

Dublin is a fun, laid-back, and friendly city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Dublin travel costs.

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 Sorrento is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Sorrento travel costs.

Dublin and Sorrento: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dublin or Sorrento?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dublin. Although Dublin and Sorrento are popular destinations, Dublin has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dublin is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, and historical sights, while Sorrento attracts visitors for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Dublin is famous for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness. It is also well known for The Guinness Storehouse. Sorrento is famous for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast.

How is Dublin different from Sorrento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dublin 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 Dublin. There are a number of museums around town including the National Museum of Ireland, the Little Museum of Dublin, and the National Gallery of Ireland.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Sorrento is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Sorrento is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Dublin has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

Is Dublin or Sorrento Better for Nightlife?

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

Dublin is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. Temple Bar is where you'll find the greatest concentration of pubs and nightlife. The city is among the friendliest and most welcoming, and this is seen even in the vibe around town at night.

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 Dublin or Sorrento Better for Music?

Dublin is a great destination for live music. However, Sorrento is not a live music destination.

Dublin has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

Sorrento is not a live music destination.

Is Dublin or Sorrento Better for Resorts?

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

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.

Dublin is not a resort destination.

Is Dublin or Sorrento Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Dublin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dublin or Sorrento Better for Beaches?

Sorrento is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Dublin is not a beach destination.

Sorrento has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Dublin is not a beach destination.

Is Dublin or Sorrento Better for its Old Town?

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

Dublin is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. On the south side of the River Liffey are three different historic parts to the city. The Medieval Quarter is the oldest. To the east is Temple Bar, and further east is the Georgian Quarter.

Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Is Dublin or Sorrento Better for Hiking?

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

Dublin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dublin or Sorrento?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Sorrento and Dublin.

Dublin is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Grafton Street to see a number of brand name and local shops. It's a pedestrian street that is fun to wander around.

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 Dublin or Sorrento More Beautiful?

Sorrento is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Dublin is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Sorrento is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city offers spectacular views of Mount Vesuvius as well as a scenic waterfront. You can stop by one of the many cafes around town and soak up the quintessential Italian atmosphere.

Dublin is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Dublin or Sorrento Better for Families?

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

Dublin is a very kid-friendly city. Explore the waterways with the viking splash, learn about the vikings at the museum Dublina, or visit any of the other kid-friendly museums around town, or see a show at The Gaiety.

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 Dublin or Sorrento Better for Couples?

Sorrento is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Dublin 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.

Dublin is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway for couples.

Is Dublin or Sorrento Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sorrento is terrific for backpackers. Also, Dublin 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 Dublin. There are a number of popular backpacker hostels around town. The pub scene is also popular with the young crowd.

Is Dublin or Sorrento Better for Students?

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

Dublin is popular with students. While student accommodation can be a bit expensive in town, the nightlife and social aspect of living in the city center makes it well worth it.

Sorrento is not popular with students.

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

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

The public transit in Sorrento can get you around easily. 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 Dublin offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Dublin or Sorrento a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Dublin on foot is easy. Because it is so compact and flat, it is easy to explore the city center on foot.

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 Dublin Worth Visiting? and Is Sorrento Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sorrento or Dublin?

How long in Dublin or Sorrento?

Both Dublin 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 Dublin. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Dublin, and 3-7 days is enough time in Sorrento.

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

The city of Dublin offers museums and nightlife. 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 Dublin or Sorrento?

Dublin 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 Dublin, 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 Dublin or Sorrento?

Dublin is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dublin, 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 Dublin or Sorrento?

Dublin is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the laid back 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 Walking Tours in Ireland, The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland, The Best Adventure Tours to Italy, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Dublin and Sorrento, we can see that Dublin 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 Dublin Expensive? and Is Sorrento Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Dublin or Sorrento?

Dublin has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Sorrento. When comparing the sizes of Dublin 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 Dublin 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 Dublin or Sorrento in the Summer?

Both Sorrento and Dublin are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dublin 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, Dublin is generally cooler than Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Dublin average around 16°C (60°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Sorrento. Dublin usually receives less sunshine than Sorrento during summer. Dublin gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Sorrento receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Dublin usually receives more rain than Sorrento. Dublin gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Dublin or Sorrento in the Autumn?

Both Sorrento and Dublin during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Dublin for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, 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.

Dublin is much colder than Sorrento in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dublin averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Sorrento fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Dublin often gets less sunshine than Sorrento. Dublin gets 97 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. Dublin usually gets less rain in October than Sorrento. Dublin gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dublin or Sorrento in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Dublin is cooler than Sorrento. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dublin in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Sorrento averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Dublin usually receives less sunshine than Sorrento during winter. Dublin gets 56 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, Dublin usually receives less rain than Sorrento. Dublin gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Dublin or Sorrento in the Spring?

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

In April, Dublin is generally much colder than Sorrento. Daily temperatures in Dublin average around 8°C (47°F), and Sorrento fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Dublin often gets less sunshine than Sorrento. Dublin gets 157 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sorrento receives 189 hours of full sun.

Dublin usually gets less rain in April than Sorrento. Dublin gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Sorrento receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Sorrento and Dublin