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

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

Birmingham

Birmingham is a historic, vibrant, and fun-filled city. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a traditional, charming, and picturesque coastal region. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include hiking, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Birmingham and Cinque Terre: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Birmingham or Cinque Terre?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cinque Terre than Birmingham, 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 Birmingham is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, and shopping. Cinque Terre is more touristy than Birmingham and is known for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail. Also, Cinque Terre is famous for Vernazza Harbor. Birmingham is well known for its strong musical routes and its very livable atmosphere.

Vernazza Harbor

How is Birmingham different from Cinque Terre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Birmingham is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Birmingham can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights include the Museum & Art Gallery, Thinktank, and St. Philip's Cathedral.

Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Birmingham or Cinque Terre Better for Theater?

Birmingham is a very popular place for its shows and theatre. However, Cinque Terre is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Birmingham. The impressive theater scene includes Broadway shows and musicals. Birmingham Hippodrome is a major theater in town.

Cinque Terre is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Birmingham 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, Birmingham is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Birmingham. Food reviews are mixed around town. The city has its share of award-winning restaurants, but there are also popular dishes that are more of an acquired taste. Local flavors include pork scratching, Birmingham soup, and brummie bacon cakes.

Is Birmingham or Cinque Terre Better for Nightlife?

Birmingham is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Cinque Terre is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Birmingham has a large number of nightlife venues. With tons of students and young people looking to party, there is plenty to do in the evening. You'll find no shortage of pubs, clubs, and music venues around town.

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 Birmingham or Cinque Terre Better for Music?

Birmingham is renowned for its music scene. However, Cinque Terre is not a live music destination.

Birmingham has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city has long been a haven for musical creativity, and its influence over the global music scene is apparent. Popular music venues around town include Ghetto Golf, Digbeth Dining Club, and the Sunflower Lounge.

Cinque Terre is not a live music destination.

Is Birmingham or Cinque Terre Better for Resorts?

Cinque Terre is mediocre for its luxury resorts. However, Birmingham 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.

Birmingham is not a resort destination.

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

Cinque Terre is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Birmingham 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.

Birmingham is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Birmingham or Cinque Terre Better for Beaches?

Cinque Terre is very good for its beaches. However, Birmingham 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.

Birmingham is not a beach destination.

Is Birmingham or Cinque Terre Better for its Old Town?

Cinque Terre is an amazing coastal region to visit for its historic old town. However, Birmingham 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.

Birmingham does not have a historic old town.

Is Birmingham or Cinque Terre Better for Hiking?

Cinque Terre is an amazing coastal region to visit for hiking. However, Birmingham 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.

Birmingham is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Birmingham or Cinque Terre?

Birmingham is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Cinque Terre is lacking in good options for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Birmingham. The city offers everything from large department stores to smaller local shops. There are several good shopping streets around town as well as large markets and even a jewelry quarter.

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 Birmingham or Cinque Terre Better for Families?

Birmingham 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 Birmingham. The city has put effort into making sure there are plenty of family-friendly activities around. You can visit a chocolate factory, explore an aquarium, enjoy an animal safari, or explore one of the hands-on museums.

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 Birmingham or Cinque Terre Better for Couples?

Cinque Terre is an amazing coastal region to visit for romance. Also, Birmingham is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

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.

Birmingham is a very popular place to visit for couples. Romantic activities around town include taking a beautiful stroll through town, wandering around a park or garden, or seeing the ballet.

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

Cinque Terre is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Birmingham 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.

Birmingham is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not the most popular destination for backpackers, but there's at least one affordable hostel in town.

Is Birmingham or Cinque Terre Better for Students?

Birmingham is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Cinque Terre is not popular with students.

Birmingham is a great destination for students. With world class academic institutions and a very diverse and international population, this is a popular place for international students to study.

Cinque Terre is not popular with students.

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

Birmingham and Cinque Terre both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Birmingham offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a reasonably comprehensive bus system.

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

Is Birmingham or Cinque Terre a more walkable city?

Cinque Terre is an amazing coastal region to visit for its walkability. Also, Birmingham is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of 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.

Birmingham is a very walkable city. Many parts of the city are very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Cinque Terre or Birmingham?

How long in Birmingham or Cinque Terre?

In either Birmingham or Cinque Terre, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Cinque Terre has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Cinque Terre than Birmingham. In general, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Birmingham, and 2-5 days is enough time in Cinque Terre.

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

In Birmingham, many people enjoy the live music and food that this historic 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 might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Birmingham or Cinque Terre?

Birmingham 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. Lots of people come for the live music. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Even though Cinque Terre is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this coastal region.

Five days in Birmingham or Cinque Terre?

In Birmingham, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this vibrant destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the live music. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Cinque Terre, a popular coastal region, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastal region. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Birmingham or Cinque Terre?

Birmingham 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.

Cinque Terre is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Birmingham or Cinque Terre?

Birmingham has a larger population, and is about 630 times larger than the population of Cinque Terre. When comparing the sizes of Birmingham 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 Birmingham 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 Birmingham or Cinque Terre in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Birmingham and Cinque Terre. The music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Birmingham 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.

In July, Birmingham is generally cooler than Cinque Terre. Daily temperatures in Birmingham average around 17°C (63°F), 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. Birmingham usually receives less sunshine than Cinque Terre during summer. Birmingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Birmingham usually receives more rain than Cinque Terre. Birmingham gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Birmingham or Cinque Terre in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Birmingham as well as Cinque Terre. Many travelers come to Birmingham for the shopping scene and the music scene. 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.

Birmingham is much colder than Cinque Terre in the autumn. The daily temperature in Birmingham averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Birmingham often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. Birmingham gets 103 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cinque Terre. Birmingham usually gets less rain in October than Cinque Terre. Birmingham gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Birmingham or Cinque Terre in the Winter?

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

Birmingham can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Birmingham is much colder than Cinque Terre. Typically, the winter temperatures in Birmingham in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Cinque Terre averages at about 8°C (46°F).

Birmingham usually receives less sunshine than Cinque Terre during winter. Birmingham gets 58 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, Birmingham usually receives less rain than Cinque Terre. Birmingham gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Birmingham or Cinque Terre in the Spring?

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

In April, Birmingham is generally much colder than Cinque Terre. Daily temperatures in Birmingham average around 9°C (48°F), and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the spring, Birmingham often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. Birmingham gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 192 hours of full sun.

Birmingham usually gets less rain in April than Cinque Terre. Birmingham gets 44 mm (1.7 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 Birmingham