A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cape Sounion vs. Cinque Terre for Food, Couples, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Cape Sounion or Cinque Terre?

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

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Cinque Terre? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion is a impressive, spectacular, and iconic destination. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a charming, picturesque, and idyllic coastal region. 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. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Cape Sounion and Cinque Terre: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cape Sounion or Cinque Terre?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cinque Terre. Although Cape Sounion 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, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Cape Sounion attracts visitors for its museums and nightlife. Cinque Terre is more touristy than Cape Sounion and is known for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail. It is also well known for Vernazza Harbor. Cape Sounion is famous for its link to Greek mythology and its stunningly beautiful sunsets.

Vernazza Harbor

How is Cape Sounion different from Cinque Terre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cape Sounion is renowned for its museums and history. However, Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Cape Sounion has many famous sights for visitors. The Temple of Poseidon is the main attraction here, but also nearby you'll find the Temple of Athena. The views, history, and connection to mythology fascinates most visitors who consider this to be a spectacular sight.

Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Cinque Terre is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Cinque Terre is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Cape Sounion offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are cafes as well as fine dining restaurants which are mostly located in hotels. Seafood is the cuisine of choice with many delicious Greek dishes available.

Is Cape Sounion or Cinque Terre Better for Nightlife?

Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion. There are some bars and lounges that are connected to hotels. If you're spending the night, these are nice places to enjoy a drink in a beautiful setting.

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 Cape Sounion or Cinque Terre Better for Resorts?

Cinque Terre is not a good area for its luxury resorts. However, Cape Sounion 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.

Cape Sounion is not a resort destination.

Is Cape Sounion or Cinque Terre Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cinque Terre is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Cape Sounion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Cinque Terre has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Cape Sounion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cape Sounion or Cinque Terre Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Cape Sounion and Cinque Terre are nice choices.

Cape Sounion is a good option for a beach vacation. If you allow enough time, there are a couple of beaches where you can swim while enjoying views of the temple.

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.

Is Cape Sounion or Cinque Terre Better for its Old Town?

Cinque Terre is very popular for its historic old town charm. However, Cape Sounion does not have a historic old town.

Cinque Terre has a world-famous historical area. Each of the five towns have their own charming old town which have restaurants and local boutique shops.

Cape Sounion does not have a historic old town.

Is Cape Sounion or Cinque Terre Better for Hiking?

Cinque Terre is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Cape Sounion is not a hiking destination.

People visit Cinque Terre specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Cape Sounion is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Sounion or Cinque Terre?

Cinque Terre is a decent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Cape Sounion 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.

Cape Sounion is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cape Sounion or Cinque Terre Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cape Sounion or Cinque Terre.

Cape Sounion is a family-friendly destination. Kids who like mythology will appreciated a trip to the famed Temple of Poseidon. It dates back to the 5th century and is dedicated to the God of the Sea. Also nearby is the Temple of Athena.

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 Cape Sounion or Cinque Terre Better for Couples?

Cinque Terre is very popular for couples. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Cinque Terre makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Cape Sounion is a nice destination for couples. Couples should definitely stay for the stunning sunset which provides dramatic oranges, pinks, and reds at the sun dips below the horizon.

Is Cape Sounion or Cinque Terre Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cape Sounion and Cinque Terre are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Cape Sounion. The Temple of Poseidon is an iconic site about an hour and a half outside of Athens. It appeals to all types of travelers, including backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Cape Sounion and Cinque Terre.

Cape Sounion has some public transit options. There are local buses that travel from Athens to Cape Sounion and take between 2 and 3 hours.

You'll find some public transit in Cinque Terre, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Most people arrive by train but there are also ferries available.

Is Cape Sounion or Cinque Terre a more walkable city?

Cinque Terre is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Cinque Terre. 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.

Cape Sounion is somewhat walkable. You can walk around the archeological site and the bus stops close enough that it is accessible.

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

Should I spend more time in Cinque Terre or Cape Sounion?

How long in Cape Sounion or Cinque Terre?

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

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

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

Cinque Terre is a small town where visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food. 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.

A weekend in Cape Sounion or Cinque Terre?

Cape Sounion 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 museums. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Cinque Terre 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. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Cape Sounion or Cinque Terre?

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

Cinque Terre might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Cape Sounion or Cinque Terre?

Cape Sounion 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 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Adventure Tours to Greece, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Cape Sounion or Cinque Terre?

Cinque Terre has a larger population, and is about 57% larger than the population of Cape Sounion. When comparing the sizes of Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion or Cinque Terre in the Summer?

Both Cinque Terre and Cape Sounion are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cape Sounion for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Cinque Terre in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Cape Sounion is a little warmer than Cinque Terre in the summer. The daily temperature in Cape Sounion averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Cinque Terre. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cape Sounion. Cape Sounion usually receives more sunshine than Cinque Terre during summer. Cape Sounion gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cape Sounion usually receives less rain than Cinque Terre. Cape Sounion gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Cinque Terre in the Autumn?

Both Cinque Terre and Cape Sounion during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cape Sounion in the autumn for the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Cinque Terre for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Cape Sounion is a little warmer than Cinque Terre. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cape Sounion in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Cinque Terre averages at about 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Cape Sounion. In the autumn, Cape Sounion often gets more sunshine than Cinque Terre. Cape Sounion gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 177 hours of full sun.

Cinque Terre gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cape Sounion usually gets less rain in October than Cinque Terre. Cape Sounion gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Cinque Terre in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Sounion and Cinque Terre. Most visitors come to Cape Sounion for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Cinque Terre because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Cape Sounion is generally a little warmer than Cinque Terre. Daily temperatures in Cape Sounion average around 10°C (51°F), and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Cape Sounion usually receives more sunshine than Cinque Terre during winter. Cape Sounion gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

Cinque Terre receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Cape Sounion usually receives less rain than Cinque Terre. Cape Sounion gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Cinque Terre in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cape Sounion as well as Cinque Terre. The spring months attract visitors to Cape Sounion because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cinque Terre this time of year.

Cape Sounion is a little warmer than Cinque Terre in the spring. The daily temperature in Cape Sounion averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cape Sounion this time of the year. In the spring, Cape Sounion often gets more sunshine than Cinque Terre. Cape Sounion gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 192 hours of full sun.

Cape Sounion usually gets less rain in April than Cinque Terre. Cape Sounion gets 25 mm (1 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 Cape Sounion