A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Annecy vs. Cinque Terre for Food, Old Town, Hiking, and Couples

Should you visit Annecy or Cinque Terre?

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 Annecy and Cinque Terre can help you decide which place is right for you.

Annecy

Annecy is a charming, stunning, and breathtaking alpine town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a stunning, traditional, and charming coastal region. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the hiking, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Annecy and Cinque Terre: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Annecy or Cinque Terre?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cinque Terre. Although Annecy and Cinque Terre are both popular with visitors, Cinque Terre has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cinque Terre is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and quaint atmosphere, while Annecy is known for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Annecy is popular for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. Cinque Terre is popular for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail. It is also home to Vernazza Harbor.

Vernazza Harbor

How is Annecy different from Cinque Terre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Annecy or Cinque Terre?

Annecy is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Annecy. The old town and lakefront setting is what brings the tourists, but there are several unique landmarks around town as well. Palais de l'Île is the most photographed spot in the old town. Also worth visiting are Musée-Château d'Annecy, Eglise Saint-Maurice, and Cathédrale Saint-Pierre.

Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Annecy or Cinque Terre? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at terrific restaurants in both Annecy and Cinque Terre.

Annecy has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Fresh caught fish and local French specialties make this town a wonderful culinary destination. The old town is filled with restaurants, cafes, and markets where you can enjoy local ingredients. There are many local dishes to try with some of the most popular being Tartiflette, Raclette, and Gratin de crozets. Fondue is also popular. You'll find cheese is a common component in many dishes.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Cinque Terre is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Like much of Italy, the area focuses on local flavors that include lots of seafood, as well as local fruits, vegetables, and herbs. The towns are known for their focaccia, which actually originated in nearby Genoa. Anchovies are a favorite here as well, and don't be turned off by your experience with anchovies outside of Italy. They don't compare. Also make sure you sample the pesto, mussels, and any fresh caught seafood.

Is Annecy or Cinque Terre Better for Nightlife?

Annecy is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Cinque Terre is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Annecy. There are bars and pubs to visit with one of the most popular bar-hopping streets being Rue Sainte-Claire.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Cinque Terre. The whole point of a trip to the area is to soak up the quiet village atmosphere. There is basically no nightlife in most of the towns, but you will find a few bars in Monterosso.

Is Annecy or Cinque Terre Better for Resorts?

Cinque Terre is mediocre for its luxury resorts. However, Annecy is not a resort destination.

There isn't the widest selection of resorts in Cinque Terre, but you'll find a few options to choose from. Most people stay in apartments or rooms in local hotels or family homes. There aren't many resorts in the traditional sense, but again, that's part of the charm of the area.

Annecy is not a resort destination.

Is Annecy or Cinque Terre Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cinque Terre is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Annecy is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Cinque Terre. The surrounding waters are part of the of the Pelagos Sanctuary. The area has many rocky coves which are fun to explore with a mask and snorkel. There are also boat excursions available that may let you stop to snorkel, as well as a few dive spots in the area.

Annecy is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Annecy or Cinque Terre Better for Beaches?

Cinque Terre is very good for the beache. However, Annecy is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Cinque Terre to enjoy the beach. The area is more about the towns than the beaches. The most typical beach setting is in the newer part of Monterosso. There's a long sandy beach with chairs and umbrellas available. There's also a beach near the town's old town. Several of the other towns have swimming areas, including a small stretch of pebbly sand in Vernazza. It's fun to swim between the months of May and October, when the water temperatures are fairly warm.

Annecy is not a beach destination.

Is Annecy or Cinque Terre Better for its Old Town?

Annecy and Cinque Terre are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

The old town of Annecy is one of the most recognized in the world. This is among the most beautiful old towns in Europe. It sits along the banks of Lake Annecy and the water integrates beautifully into the setting.

Cinque Terre offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Each of the five towns have their own charming old town which have restaurants and local boutique shops.

Is Annecy or Cinque Terre Better for Hiking?

Cinque Terre is renowned for hiking. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Cinque Terre specifically for its hiking. The five towns are part of Cinque Terre National Park and there are 120 kilometers of hiking trails in the park. Most people hike along the trails that follow the coastline and connect the towns. There are fees for the most popular stretch of trails which connect Monterosso to Vernazza and then go from Vernazza to Corniglia. All other hiking is free in the area.

Annecy is a popular spot for hiking. There are a range of hikes just out of town that cover all ability levels. There are flat, waterfront strolls as well as more strenuous mountain treks. La Tournette is one of the most famous hikes in the area. Other options include Circuit des 3 Croix de Sevrier and Gorges du Fier.

Is the Shopping Better in Annecy or Cinque Terre?

Annecy is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Cinque Terre is lacking in good options for shopping.

Annecy has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Cinque Terre is a good destination for shopping. The towns are more about the atmosphere than the shops, but the best shopping can be found in the largest town of Monterosso. You'll find jewelry, clothing, and local food items that are fun to take home as souvenirs.

Is Annecy or Cinque Terre Better for Families?

Annecy is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cinque Terre is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Annecy. Families can enjoy getting out on the lake by renting a boat or going for a swim. Check out Wibit Water Park or let the kids play at Leisure Center Orange Montisel. There's also a great playground for kids right by the waterfront. Hiking and exploring are also fun for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cinque Terre. The five towns are all about exploring on foot, so if that's your kid's thing, then they're in for a treat. The hilly terrain can be a bit tricky, particularly for the little ones, but for older kids this area offers the perfect amount of challenge. There are also a couple of beaches and swimming spots as well as a playground or two around. Food, like most of Italy, is very kid-friendly.

Is Annecy or Cinque Terre Better for Couples?

Both Annecy and Cinque Terre are terrific destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Annecy has plenty to offer. It's a romantic French mountain town with beautiful scenery and a wonderful lake. Couples can enjoy outdoor activities or wandering through one of the best old towns in the region. The beauty and natural setting make this a wonderful couples destination.

Cinque Terre has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. These stunning five Italian villages are perched precariously on the water's edge. They're surrounded by beautiful vineyards and connected by impressive hiking trails. This area is truly a dream honeymoon destination and it is sure to make a memorable vacation for any couple who enjoys exploring charming village.

Is Annecy or Cinque Terre Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Annecy and Cinque Terre are good places to visit.

Annecy is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's a world class mountain destination that attracts families and vacationers, but there aren't as many hostels around town as backpackers would like.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cinque Terre. There are a number of rooms available in the towns and there are even a couple of hostels including one in Riomaggiore and one in Corniglia. It's possible to find affordable food and accommodation, and your entertainment is simply wandering the area, which is perfect for budget travelers.

Is Annecy or Cinque Terre Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Annecy and Cinque Terre both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Annecy offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Sibra public transport system offers buses that travel through Annecy and around the lake, stopping at many towns along the way.

Cinque Terre has a few public transit options. Most people arrive by train but there are also ferries available.

Is Annecy or Cinque Terre a more walkable city?

Cinque Terre is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its ease of walking around.

Cinque Terre is a very easy coastal region to get around on foot. Vehicle traffic in the towns are heavily restricted so it's very enjoyable to explore on foot. The terrain is hilly and uneven, but that's part of the charm. There are also hiking trails that connect each of the five towns.

Annecy is a very walkable destination. The old town is filled with pedestrian streets that are perfect to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Annecy Worth Visiting? and Is Cinque Terre Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cinque Terre or Annecy?

How long in Annecy or Cinque Terre?

In either Annecy or Cinque Terre, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cinque Terre than Annecy because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Annecy, and 2-5 days is enough time in Cinque Terre.

Families should spend more time in Annecy than Cinque Terre. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Annecy, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Cinque Terre than Annecy. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cinque Terre that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cinque Terre than Annecy 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 Cinque Terre.

One day in Annecy or Cinque Terre?

Annecy is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food when visiting the quaint small town of Cinque Terre. 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 Annecy or Cinque Terre?

Annecy is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the food. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Cinque Terre is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Annecy or Cinque Terre?

Annecy is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cinque Terre. 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 Annecy or Cinque Terre?

Annecy is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the idyllic small town of Cinque Terre. This coastal region offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Annecy and Cinque Terre, we can see that Annecy is more expensive. And not only is Cinque Terre much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cinque Terre would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cinque Terre 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 Annecy would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Annecy than you might in Cinque Terre.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Annecy Expensive? and Is Cinque Terre Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Annecy or Cinque Terre?

Annecy has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Cinque Terre. When comparing the sizes of Annecy and Cinque Terre, 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 Annecy or Cinque Terre?

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 Annecy or Cinque Terre in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Annecy and Cinque Terre. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Annecy this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cinque Terre for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Annecy is around the same temperature as Cinque Terre. Typically, the summer temperatures in Annecy in July average around 22°C (71°F), and Cinque Terre averages at about 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cinque Terre this time of the year. In Annecy, it's very sunny this time of the year. Annecy usually receives less sunshine than Cinque Terre during summer. Annecy gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Annecy usually receives more rain than Cinque Terre. Annecy gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Annecy or Cinque Terre in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Annecy as well as Cinque Terre. Many travelers come to Annecy for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Cinque Terre in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Annecy is generally cooler than Cinque Terre. Daily temperatures in Annecy average around 14°C (56°F), and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Annecy often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. Annecy gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cinque Terre. Annecy usually gets less rain in October than Cinque Terre. Annecy gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Annecy or Cinque Terre in the Winter?

Both Cinque Terre and Annecy are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Annecy in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Cinque Terre for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Annecy can get quite cold in the winter. Annecy is much colder than Cinque Terre in the winter. The daily temperature in Annecy averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Annecy usually receives less sunshine than Cinque Terre during winter. Annecy gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cinque Terre. In January, Annecy usually receives less rain than Cinque Terre. Annecy gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Annecy or Cinque Terre in the Spring?

Both Cinque Terre and Annecy during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Annecy for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Cinque Terre because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Annecy is cooler than Cinque Terre. Typically, the spring temperatures in Annecy in April average around 11°C (53°F), and Cinque Terre averages at about 14°C (57°F).

In the spring, Annecy often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. Annecy gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 192 hours of full sun.

Annecy usually gets less rain in April than Cinque Terre. Annecy gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cinque Terre and Annecy