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

Should you visit Belfast or Cinque Terre?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Belfast or Cinque Terre, 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.

Belfast

Belfast is a authentic, affordable, and under-rated city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the nightlife and shopping.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a idyllic, quaint, and seaside coastal region. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Belfast and Cinque Terre: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Belfast or Cinque Terre?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cinque Terre than Belfast, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cinque Terre is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Belfast is more popular for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities. Cinque Terre is more touristy than Belfast and is popular for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail. Also, Cinque Terre is famous for Vernazza Harbor. Belfast is well known for being the birthplace of the Titanic and the location of the era of the "Troubles".

Vernazza Harbor

How is Belfast different from Cinque Terre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cinque Terre is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Belfast is not a good city for its restaurants.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Belfast. While many restaurants have moved towards more modern cuisines, there are still places that hold tight to the traditions of the area. Traditional dishes include pasties, full Irish breakfasts, and oysters.

Is Belfast or Cinque Terre Better for Nightlife?

Belfast 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 Belfast. The city has a number of bars and clubs with local DJs or musicians.

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 Belfast or Cinque Terre Better for Resorts?

Cinque Terre is not a good place to visit for its resorts. However, Belfast is not a resort destination.

While Cinque Terre is not known as a resort destination, there are some nice places to stay. 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.

Belfast is not a resort destination.

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

Cinque Terre is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Belfast is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Cinque Terre has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Belfast is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Belfast or Cinque Terre Better for Beaches?

Cinque Terre is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Belfast is not a beach destination.

Cinque Terre has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Belfast is not a beach destination.

Is Belfast or Cinque Terre Better for its Old Town?

Cinque Terre is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Belfast does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Cinque Terre offers plenty to see. Each of the five towns have their own charming old town which have restaurants and local boutique shops.

Belfast does not have a historic old town.

Is Belfast or Cinque Terre Better for Hiking?

Cinque Terre is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. However, Belfast is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Cinque Terre draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Belfast is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Belfast or Cinque Terre?

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

Belfast has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The main shopping areas in the city are Victoria Square Shopping Centre and CastleCourt.

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 Belfast or Cinque Terre Better for Families?

Belfast and Cinque Terre are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Belfast is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has several great kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and a few indoor or outdoor activity centers where you can let kids play and explore.

Cinque Terre is a family-friendly city. 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 Belfast or Cinque Terre Better for Couples?

Cinque Terre is an unbeatable place for romance. However, Belfast is not a good city for its romantic activities.

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.

Most people don't think of Belfast as a couple's destination. There are gardens and parks to explore, several nice hotels with spas, and an Observatory on the 23rd floor of the Grand Central Hotel.

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

Cinque Terre is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Belfast is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Belfast is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a reasonably affordable destination with a few hostels to choose from, but most backpackers don't make their way to this city.

Is Belfast or Cinque Terre Better for Students?

Belfast is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Cinque Terre is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Belfast. The city's affordability has made it a popular option for international students headed to the area.

Cinque Terre is not popular with students.

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

Cinque Terre is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Belfast is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Belfast. There is a bus service in the city.

Is Belfast or Cinque Terre a more walkable city?

Cinque Terre is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Cinque Terre 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.

Belfast is a somewhat walkable place.

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

Should I spend more time in Cinque Terre or Belfast?

How long in Belfast or Cinque Terre?

In either Belfast or Cinque Terre, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cinque Terre than Belfast because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Belfast, and 2-5 days is enough time in Cinque Terre.

Families should spend more time in Cinque Terre than Belfast. 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 Belfast. 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 Belfast 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 Belfast or Cinque Terre?

In Belfast, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this authentic city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

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 Belfast or Cinque Terre?

Belfast 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 Belfast or Cinque Terre?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the under-rated destination of Belfast. 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 Belfast or Cinque Terre?

Belfast 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 Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Belfast and Cinque Terre, we can see that Belfast 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 Belfast Expensive? and Is Cinque Terre Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Belfast or Cinque Terre?

Belfast has a larger population, and is about 170 times larger than the population of Cinque Terre. When comparing the sizes of Belfast 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 Belfast or Cinque Terre?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Belfast or Cinque Terre in the Summer?

Both Cinque Terre and Belfast during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Belfast because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cinque Terre this time of year.

In July, Belfast is generally much colder than Cinque Terre. Daily temperatures in Belfast average around 15°C (59°F), and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In Cinque Terre, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Belfast often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. Belfast gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 316 hours of full sun.

Belfast usually gets more rain in July than Cinque Terre. Belfast gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Belfast or Cinque Terre in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Belfast and Cinque Terre. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Belfast this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cinque Terre for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Belfast is much colder than Cinque Terre in the autumn. The daily temperature in Belfast averages around 9°C (48°F) in October, and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Belfast usually receives less sunshine than Cinque Terre during autumn. Belfast gets 92 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Cinque Terre receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Belfast usually receives less rain than Cinque Terre. Belfast gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Belfast or Cinque Terre in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Belfast as well as Cinque Terre. Many travelers come to Belfast for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Cinque Terre in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Belfast. In the winter, Belfast is much colder than Cinque Terre. Typically, the winter temperatures in Belfast in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Cinque Terre averages at about 8°C (46°F).

In the winter, Belfast often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. Belfast gets 50 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 105 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cinque Terre. Belfast usually gets less rain in January than Cinque Terre. Belfast gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Belfast or Cinque Terre in the Spring?

Both Cinque Terre and Belfast are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Belfast in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Cinque Terre for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Belfast is generally much colder than Cinque Terre. Daily temperatures in Belfast average around 8°C (46°F), and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Belfast usually receives less sunshine than Cinque Terre during spring. Belfast gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Belfast usually receives less rain than Cinque Terre. Belfast gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cinque Terre and Belfast