Sorrento or Venice?

We did both last December. Whilst I really enjoyed both, if I had to choose I'd go back to Venice. I come from a very tropical climate, but coped well in Venice, with the appropriate clothing.

If they haven't been to Venice, I'd say go there only because when people say "Oh! You have been to Italy. Did you go to Venice?" On the other hand, Sorrento's advantage is that the range of top items to see as day trips is much better. So if you have three days (four nights) in Venice, you will run out of variety and fun more quickly. On the other hand, for one day (two nights), it wins hands down. Remember, nearly all of Sorrento's things (Pompeii, Erculano, Positano, Amalfi, Capri, Napoli) involve outdoors whereas Venice can mean indoors during rain and 5 minutes later outdoors when it stops.

Remember, the Amafli coast, Capri, etc. are summer resort areas. In December hours will be short and many shops and restaurants shuttered.

Venice is one of the greatest sights in the world. Yes, in the winter they may experience temporary flooding due to tides but Venice has an efficient system to work around them.

Frankly, these are such contrasting alternatives I may not be able to grasp the factors for deciding. To choose against Venice because Sorrento is "warmer" in December leads me to ask about their purpose in wanting to go to Italy. What do they hope to see and experience?

Doug (post immediately above) makes good points. Amalfi coast in December? If it were me, I would want to carefully consider the "big picture" points he makes.

Thanks everyone for your comments - my wife and daughter have never been to Italy and understanding their expectations has been challenging. More and more, I am sensing Venice would be a wonderful "best taste of Italy" and reserve more explorations for a longer trip in the future.
Again, thanks!
Richard