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

Should you visit Carcassonne or Cinque Terre?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Carcassonne and Cinque Terre. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a fairytale, medieval, and historical town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food and museums.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a charming, picturesque, and idyllic coastal region. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Carcassonne and Cinque Terre: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Carcassonne or Cinque Terre?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cinque Terre than Carcassonne, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cinque Terre is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Carcassonne is more popular for its museums. Cinque Terre is more touristy than Carcassonne and is known for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail. Also, Cinque Terre is famous for Vernazza Harbor. Carcassonne is well known for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle.

Vernazza Harbor

How is Carcassonne different from Cinque Terre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne can be an interesting and educational experience. The town is filled with medieval sights including the Château Comtal, the Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus, and the Carcassonne Cathedral.

Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Eat your way through Cinque Terre, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Carcassonne. There are a number of local restaurants that serve regional specialties such as cassoulet. You can spend a few hours exploring the castle and then grab a delicious bite to eat.

Is Carcassonne or Cinque Terre Better for Nightlife?

Cinque Terre is not a good area for nightlife. However, Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Cinque Terre doesn't offer many options. 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.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Carcassonne or Cinque Terre Better for Resorts?

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

Carcassonne is not a resort destination.

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

Cinque Terre is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Carcassonne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Carcassonne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Carcassonne or Cinque Terre Better for Beaches?

Cinque Terre is a good destination for its beaches. However, Carcassonne is not a beach destination.

Cinque Terre offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Carcassonne is not a beach destination.

Is Carcassonne or Cinque Terre Better for its Old Town?

Cinque Terre is very popular for its historic old town. Also, Carcassonne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

Many people head to Carcassonne to see the old town. The medieval walled city is seeped in history and filled with atmosphere. Cars are not allowed in town.

Is Carcassonne or Cinque Terre Better for Hiking?

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

Cinque Terre is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Carcassonne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Carcassonne or Cinque Terre?

Cinque Terre is a decent place to visit for shopping. However, Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Carcassonne or Cinque Terre Better for Families?

Both Carcassonne and Cinque Terre are notable family-friendly destinations.

Carcassonne is a family-friendly town. Kids who love castles will enjoy wandering the maze of rooms and getting lost in the medieval atmosphere.

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 Carcassonne or Cinque Terre Better for Couples?

Cinque Terre is very popular for romance. Also, Carcassonne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Cinque Terre is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Carcassonne makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a medieval city with an impressive castle and walled fortifications. It's a uniquely European sight that is great for couples who enjoy history.

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

Carcassonne is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cinque Terre is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Carcassonne. There are interesting hostels in the area including a converted 17th century convent.

Cinque Terre is a good town to visit for backpackers. 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 Carcassonne or Cinque Terre Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Carcassonne and Cinque Terre.

Carcassonne has some public transit options. You can reach the town by train from Dijon, Lyon, Marseille, Toulouse, or Bordeaux and many people visit the town as a day trip.

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 Carcassonne or Cinque Terre a more walkable city?

Carcassonne and Cinque Terre are world-class when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Carcassonne. Cars aren't allowed in the medieval city so it's best to explore on foot.

Getting around Cinque Terre on foot is easy. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Cinque Terre or Carcassonne?

How long in Carcassonne or Cinque Terre?

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

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

In Carcassonne, many people enjoy the museums and food that this historical 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. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Carcassonne or Cinque Terre?

Carcassonne 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. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This coastal region offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Carcassonne or Cinque Terre?

You'll find museums and food around the medieval destination of Carcassonne. 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.

Even though Cinque Terre is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Carcassonne or Cinque Terre?

Carcassonne 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.

Since Cinque Terre is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, The Best Historical 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 Carcassonne and Cinque Terre, we can see that Cinque Terre is more expensive. And not only is Carcassonne much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Carcassonne would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne.

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

Which is Bigger, Carcassonne or Cinque Terre?

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

Both Cinque Terre and Carcassonne are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Carcassonne in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Cinque Terre for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Carcassonne is generally around the same temperature as Cinque Terre. Daily temperatures in Carcassonne average around 24°C (75°F), 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 Carcassonne. Carcassonne usually receives less sunshine than Cinque Terre during summer. Carcassonne gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Carcassonne usually receives less rain than Cinque Terre. Carcassonne gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Carcassonne or Cinque Terre in the Autumn?

Both Cinque Terre and Carcassonne during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Carcassonne for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Cinque Terre because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Carcassonne is around the same temperature as Cinque Terre in the autumn. The daily temperature in Carcassonne averages around 17°C (62°F) in October, and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Carcassonne often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. Carcassonne gets 161 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. Carcassonne usually gets less rain in October than Cinque Terre. Carcassonne gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Carcassonne or Cinque Terre in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Carcassonne and Cinque Terre. The winter months attract visitors to Carcassonne because of the museums and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Cinque Terre this time of year.

In the winter, Carcassonne is around the same temperature as Cinque Terre. Typically, the winter temperatures in Carcassonne in January average around 8°C (47°F), and Cinque Terre averages at about 8°C (46°F).

Carcassonne usually receives less sunshine than Cinque Terre during winter. Carcassonne gets 88 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, Carcassonne usually receives less rain than Cinque Terre. Carcassonne gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Carcassonne or Cinque Terre in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Carcassonne as well as Cinque Terre. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Carcassonne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cinque Terre for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Carcassonne is generally around the same temperature as Cinque Terre. Daily temperatures in Carcassonne average around 14°C (56°F), and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the spring, Carcassonne often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. Carcassonne gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 192 hours of full sun.

Carcassonne usually gets less rain in April than Cinque Terre. Carcassonne gets 56 mm (2.2 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 Carcassonne