A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Auxerre vs. Cinque Terre for Food, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Auxerre 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 Auxerre and Cinque Terre can help you decide which place is right for you.

Auxerre

Auxerre is a undiscovered, authentic, and under-rated town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's also popular because of the food and museums.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a traditional, charming, and picturesque coastal region. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Auxerre and Cinque Terre: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Auxerre or Cinque Terre?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cinque Terre. Although Auxerre and Cinque Terre are popular destinations, Cinque Terre has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cinque Terre is very popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Auxerre attracts visitors for its museums and nightlife. Cinque Terre is more touristy than Auxerre and is known for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail. It is also well known for Vernazza Harbor. Auxerre is famous for its food, wine, and art history.

Vernazza Harbor

How is Auxerre different from Cinque Terre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Auxerre 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 Auxerre. Although the town is often overlooked by tourists, there are many nice cathedrals and churches around town.

Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Cinque Terre is an amazing coastal region to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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

Auxerre offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The town is a the heart of the wine industry, so you'll find many great restaurants where you can enjoy local food and wine.

Is Auxerre or Cinque Terre Better for Nightlife?

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

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Auxerre. It has a quiet nightlife with some nice bars and pubs.

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 Auxerre or Cinque Terre Better for Resorts?

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

Not known for its high-end resorts, Cinque Terre offers a few options. 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.

Auxerre is not a resort destination.

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

Cinque Terre is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Auxerre 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.

Auxerre is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Auxerre or Cinque Terre Better for Beaches?

Cinque Terre is very good for the beach. However, Auxerre 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.

Auxerre is not a beach destination.

Is Auxerre or Cinque Terre Better for its Old Town?

Cinque Terre is an amazing coastal region to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Auxerre does not have a historic old town.

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.

Auxerre does not have a historic old town.

Is Auxerre or Cinque Terre Better for Hiking?

Cinque Terre is an amazing coastal region to visit for hiking. However, Auxerre is not a hiking destination.

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.

Auxerre is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Auxerre or Cinque Terre?

Cinque Terre is adequate for its shopping areas. However, Auxerre is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Cinque Terre has some good spots for those that want to go 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.

Auxerre is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Auxerre or Cinque Terre Better for Families?

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Auxerre or Cinque Terre.

Auxerre offers lots of family activities. There's the Zoo de La Fleche and the Aquarium de Touraine. You can also wander through Musee de l'Avallon or des Plantes.

Cinque Terre is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Auxerre or Cinque Terre Better for Couples?

Cinque Terre is an amazing coastal region to visit for couples. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Cinque Terre has plenty to offer. 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.

Auxerre is a nice destination for couples. There are many great eateries as well nice architecture and, of course, excellent wine.

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

Cinque Terre is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for backpackers.

Cinque Terre is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Auxerre is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular stop off on the backpacker circuit, but you will find some affordable accommodation options.

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

Auxerre and Cinque Terre both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Auxerre offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses around town.

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

Is Auxerre or Cinque Terre a more walkable city?

Cinque Terre is an amazing coastal region to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

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.

Auxerre is somewhat walkable. The center is walkable but it is a bit more difficult to navigate than some nearby towns.

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

Should I spend more time in Cinque Terre or Auxerre?

How long in Auxerre or Cinque Terre?

In either Auxerre or Cinque Terre, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cinque Terre than Auxerre because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Auxerre, and 2-5 days is enough time in Cinque Terre.

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

Couples should spend more time in Cinque Terre than Auxerre. 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 Auxerre 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 Auxerre or Cinque Terre?

In Auxerre, many people enjoy the museums and food that this authentic town offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Cinque Terre is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This coastal region offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Auxerre or Cinque Terre?

Auxerre is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Cinque Terre might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cinque Terre has to offer.

Five days in Auxerre or Cinque Terre?

You'll find museums and food around the authentic destination of Auxerre. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Cinque Terre is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cinque Terre has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Auxerre or Cinque Terre?

Auxerre is a popular place to visit. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cinque Terre. Since Cinque Terre is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, The Best 2-Week 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 Auxerre and Cinque Terre, we can see that Cinque Terre is more expensive. And not only is Auxerre much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Auxerre would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Auxerre 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 Cinque Terre would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cinque Terre than you might in Auxerre.

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

Which is Bigger, Auxerre or Cinque Terre?

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

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

Auxerre is cooler than Cinque Terre in the summer. The daily temperature in Auxerre averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cinque Terre this time of the year. In Auxerre, it's very sunny this time of the year. Auxerre usually receives less sunshine than Cinque Terre during summer. Auxerre gets 255 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Auxerre usually receives more rain than Cinque Terre. Auxerre gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Auxerre or Cinque Terre in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Auxerre as well as Cinque Terre. Many travelers come to Auxerre for the small town atmosphere. Additionally, 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 the autumn, Auxerre is cooler than Cinque Terre. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Auxerre in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Cinque Terre averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Auxerre often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. Auxerre gets 126 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cinque Terre. Auxerre usually gets less rain in October than Cinque Terre. Auxerre gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Auxerre or Cinque Terre in the Winter?

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

Auxerre can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Auxerre is generally much colder than Cinque Terre. Daily temperatures in Auxerre average around 3°C (37°F), and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Auxerre usually receives less sunshine than Cinque Terre during winter. Auxerre gets 53 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, Auxerre usually receives less rain than Cinque Terre. Auxerre gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Auxerre or Cinque Terre in the Spring?

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

Auxerre is cooler than Cinque Terre in the spring. The daily temperature in Auxerre averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the spring, Auxerre often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. Auxerre gets 167 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 192 hours of full sun.

Auxerre usually gets less rain in April than Cinque Terre. Auxerre gets 50 mm (2 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 Auxerre