Whether Sorrento or Capri is "better" depends on whether you value accessibility and value or exclusive glamour. Sorrento is widely considered the best "base" for exploring the region; it is much more affordable than the islands, offers excellent train and bus links to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast, and has a vibrant "real world" feel with hundreds of shops and restaurants. It is a town built on a cliff with stunning views of Mt. Vesuvius, though it lacks true sandy beaches. Capri, on the other hand, is a high-fashion, "see and be seen" island paradise. It is significantly more expensive and can feel overwhelmingly crowded with day-trippers during the afternoon. However, Capri "shines" in the evening after the last ferries leave, offering a magical, upscale atmosphere in the "Piazzetta" and world-class natural beauty like the Blue Grotto and the Faraglioni rocks. Most travelers find the best balance is to stay in Sorrento for the convenience and lower prices while taking a dedicated full-day trip to Capri to enjoy its scenery and luxury shopping without the "island-locked" price tag for an entire week.